The commission treated the reconstruction of a previously demolished carriage house at 422 North Hamilton as a study item Sept. 9 after the owner removed the structure without permit earlier this year. The owner and project team reported that they have exchanged material and cost information with staff but have not yet finalized drawings or a complete application packet.

Carrie, the city’s preservation staff member, said the owner filed an application but staff had not received required materials or the permit fee and therefore the item remained a study. In staff’s review the submitted drawings lacked sufficient detail and did not appear to reflect historic photographs and measured profiles needed to match surviving clapboard siding, trim profiles and other character‑defining elements. Staff recommended the project team work closely with the city planner for zoning compliance and with preservation staff to develop a more complete submittal.

William (the property representative) told the commission the project’s current cost estimate had escalated — the owner indicated a quoted rebuild figure approaching six figures in the materials the team received — and that the project team was seeking to pare some nonessential items to lower cost. The project team and several commissioners discussed the need to inventory remaining original materials, protect them on site to prevent further deterioration, and include a materials reuse plan in the application so the commission can consider reconstruction that reuses remaining historic fabric where feasible.

Commissioners also discussed the possibility of proposing an alternate infill or interpretive structure in lieu of a like‑for‑like reconstruction, but staff emphasized that any alternate design should tell a clear, documented design story demonstrating compatibility with the district and the demolition‑replacement standards the commission applies. Commissioners encouraged the applicant to consult with a preservation architect or designer and return with complete drawings, measured details, an inventory of salvageable materials and a clearer cost breakdown before the October application deadline.

No vote or directive to approve construction was taken; the commission will consider a completed application when submitted.