Commission recommends tax rebate and matching grant for 213 South Clay Street after preservation plan

The Hinsdale Historic Preservation Commission on April 14 approved a preservation incentive application for 213 South Clay Street and recommended a property tax rebate and matching grant to the Village Board.

Owners Maria ("Marie") Ivanova and her husband presented the proposal with architect Randy King, saying they purchased the house intending to preserve its 19th-century core and extend its useful life through sensitive remodeling. The commission praised the applicants and staff for early coordination that helped avoid demolition risk for the property, which the applicant said dates to the 1870s and was substantially remodeled in the late 20th century.

Commissioners approved alternative bulk zoning relief, a building permit fee waiver and expedited processing at the commission level. A separate motion to recommend a property tax rebate and a matching grant to the Village Board carried on roll call. Commissioners Gonzales, Harlow, Olsen and Chairman Bonin recorded votes of “aye.”

Commissioners and staff emphasized the role of the village incentive program and pre-purchase outreach by staff in enabling preservation. Staff said the structure of the incentive program encourages buyers who commit to restoring historically significant properties and that the tax-rebate/matching-grant request requires Village Board action.

The commission congratulated the owners and said staff will follow up on permit and Village Board submittal steps.