Knoll Creek Builders representative Greg Dvorak presented replacement and modest expansion plans for the front porch at 125 South Margin Street during the Franklin City Design Review Committee meeting on Jan. (date not specified). The owner, Lisa Biggers, asked to remove an existing ramp and extend the porch symmetrically across the facade; the applicant also proposed composite decking samples for the new surface.

Elizabeth, historic-preservation staff, said the building is a historic commercial property noted in the National Register listing for having a partial-width porch, wood floor and metal shed roof. Staff told the committee that the Historic District Design Guidelines "recommend preserving original elements and materials such as columns, flooring, railing, and decorative trim" and that replacing wood with composite decking "would not be supported by the guidelines." Staff also noted that the porch expansion would change the building’s footprint and be highly visible on the front facade, making a COA from the commission necessary for anything beyond in-kind repairs.

Committee members generally supported in-kind repairs and noted the practical reasons the owner wants more usable porch space. Several members said pressure-treated wood would likely be acceptable if the applicant replaced decking in kind. Some members were open to extending the porch only to the edge of the existing shed roof so it would remain beneath the overhang. Commissioners also discussed whether removing the ramp would trigger requirements for new railings or fire/ADA considerations; staff and a code representative reminded the group that railing thresholds and ramp standards may differ and that the city’s building and fire departments should be consulted before any final decision.

No final action or COA was issued at the meeting. Staff told the applicant that in-kind repairs to the front porch could be eligible for administrative approval, but because the porch is on the building’s primary facade, in-kind front-facade repairs have typically been reviewed by the commission; the applicant was instructed to supply closer photos of deteriorated elements and to coordinate with staff about whether the existing ramp is historic or a later addition. The next Historic Zoning Commission meeting schedule and application deadline were provided: Feb. 10 (meeting), application deadline Jan. 24, and the commission meeting location noted as Eastern Flank event facility.