HDC approves radon mitigation at 415 West William with paint condition

The Ann Arbor Historic District Commission on Jan. 9 approved a certificate of appropriateness for a radon mitigation system at 415 West William Street, allowing the unit to be installed at the building’s northeast corner on the condition that the fan and visible equipment be painted to match the home’s exterior.

The item was before the commission because staff and the review committee concluded the proposed location was highly visible from the street and therefore did not meet the Historic District design guidelines, but the applicant and staff told commissioners they had explored other locations and that the chosen placement was the only feasible option without extensive structural work. The commission approved the application after a motion by Commissioner Smith and a second from Commissioner Calderon.

Planning staff described the house and the proposal, saying long-term testing indicated a mitigation system was necessary on site and that the applicant…