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Commission discusses Thompson House repairs; town ownership means building permit required, staff to seek reappropriation
Summary
The commission reviewed repair needs at the Thompson House, discussed temporary stabilization, and clarified that because the town owns the National Register property, a building permit process is required for fence/gate repairs; staff will check budget reappropriation for 2026.
Commissioners raised concerns about the Thompson House during the Sept. 4 meeting, noting at least one missing window and a gate on the west patio that will not close. Commission members said the historical society is worried about weather damage to exposed openings and asked the commission to pursue repairs.
Staff advised that the Thompson House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places but is town-owned. Staff said that, because no federal or state grant funding is currently involved, the town can carry out repairs but must follow town building-permit procedures. For fence or gate repair, staff said a fence permit application and supporting drawings are required and that the owning department (the Town of Carbondale) should submit the application.
Commissioners asked whether funds earmarked for Thompson House work would roll into the next fiscal year. Staff said unspent funds typically revert to the general fund and advised commissioners to check with Jared (town finance) about reappropriating the money for 2026. Staff also said they would reapply if necessary.
For immediate protection, commissioners discussed temporary stabilization options — plywood or cut plexiglass for missing windows — and said local volunteers had already done some temporary work. Commissioners discussed seeking qualified contractors experienced with historic properties for permanent repairs and noted the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) can provide lists of qualified contractors when grants are involved.
No formal motion to allocate funds for Thompson House repairs was recorded. Commissioners directed staff to coordinate with the historical society, consult with finance (Jared) about reappropriation, and prepare the documentation needed for a building-permit application should the town proceed with repairs.
The commission also discussed whether minor gate repairs could proceed locally, but staff reiterated that even local repairs should follow permit protocol and be done by qualified contractors to avoid further damage to historic fabric.
