Plan Commission allows white replacement windows at 131 North Main Street despite downtown guidance favoring dark frames

On March 11 the Fort Atkinson Plan Commission approved a special area design review permitting the replacement of remaining windows at 131 North Main Street to match white windows already installed on portions of the building.

Staff said the downtown window‑replacement ordinance generally requires dark frames (for example, dark bronze) for storefronts and historically sensitive facades, but staff recommended allowing the owner to proceed with white frames because earlier replacements on the building had already been installed in white and the current proposal will retain original opening sizes. Planner Jed Draeger noted the proposal is partly retroactive: second‑story and some rear windows have already been replaced; the remaining third‑story and other facades would be completed to match the newer white windows.

The historic preservation commission reviewed only the front facade and provided input that the window size and original openings should be maintained; staff said the building is not on the historical register but the historic preservation liaison and museum director (Marilee) agreed preserving original window openings is an important criterion. Draeger emphasized the replacement will keep original opening sizes and will use double‑hung units with a transom to match the second‑story appearance.

A commissioner requested additional photos of the north elevation (which includes a mural) so staff and commissioners can visualize the effect across all facades; staff agreed to provide those images for administrative review. The commission voted to approve the replacement of the remaining windows to match the previously installed white windows for the entire building.