Commission approves window replacements, roof change at 711 Fourteenth Street with condition amended

The Galveston Landmark Commission on Sept. 15 approved a certificate of appropriateness allowing the replacement of windows and a roof material change at 711 Fourteenth Street, with the commission striking one staff condition that had favored repair over replacement of window units.

Staff reported the property has been before the commission multiple times and said five public notices were sent and returned. Staff said the applicant proposes to replace existing six-over-six wood windows with new wood windows of the same style, appearance and dimensions, and to replace an existing non-original roof covering with standing-seam metal. Staff noted that preservation of existing historic windows is preferable but that it was unknown whether the existing windows are historic or salvageable; staff therefore recommended repair where possible but did not object to in-kind replacement when preservation is impractical.

Applicant representative Shelby Gonzales told the commission the current windows are not believed to be original and that builders declined to repair them: “The windows right now, we don't believe they're original because the divisions in in them are so small.” Gonzales said the proposed windows are Colby brand and are intended to match the existing proportions and divisions. Gonzales also described the roof as having a mix of materials, with tile on the porch awning and other materials on the main roof.

A commissioner moved to approve the request per staff recommendation but to strike staff condition 1a (which called for repairing and rebuilding windows where feasible). Ex officio Council member Sharon Lewis seconded the motion. The commission voted to approve. The staff report and displayed exhibits detail the proposed window drawings and photos of the property, and the commission’s approval is conditioned on the remaining standard conditions in the staff report and any required building permits.