Historic district approves window replacement at 1408 Sixth Street

The Bay City Historic District Commission unanimously approved a certificate of appropriateness for window replacement at 1408 Sixth Street (case HDC 25‑16). Owner Michael Byrne told the commission the project completes a two‑phase plan begun in February 2022, replacing first‑floor windows to match the upstairs replacements and to eliminate storm shutters the owner said were likely not original to the house.

Byrne said the work will replace 18 windows on the first floor and that three special windows on the north (front) elevation will be custom made; he told the commission those three windows represent about 23 percent of the project’s total cost. Byrne said the proposal will keep decorative elements currently over the front window unchanged and will not alter the stained‑glass closet window that sits under the staircase.

Commissioners confirmed the new windows will match existing muntin patterns and shapes; the applicant clarified that the center lower front opening is fixed glass while flanking openings are double‑hung. Staff and commissioners noted siding and other decorative trim will remain unchanged. There was no public comment on the application.

A motion to approve the certificate of appropriateness cited compliance with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation (standards 1–6 and 9) and section 64‑11(c) of the city’s historic preservation district regulations; the motion carried unanimously. Commissioners told Byrne he may follow up with city staff member Mr. Dyer for further details.

No public funds or permits were discussed during the hearing; building permits and final inspections will follow normal staff review.