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Commission denies wholesale window replacement but approves historic tax certification for West Kings Highway house
Summary
The commission voted to follow staff recommendations: deny wholesale replacement of all wood windows on the West Kings Highway property (replacement allowed on a window-by-window basis if a window is determined beyond repair) and approve historic tax certification and administrative approvals for other work.
The Historic Design and Review Commission on Wednesday voted to adopt staff recommendations on an application for tax certification and window work at 1914 West Kings Highway, declining the applicant’s request for wholesale replacement of all wood windows while approving historic tax certification and administrative pathways for specific replacements.
Property owners Zachary Fisher and a co-owner presented photos and a contractor quote arguing many of the property’s wood windows are in poor condition; the owners said a 2021 repair quote for full restoration was about $41,000 and that 13 of the 15 (the applicant’s materials also referenced 16 in a later quote) windows appeared to have substantial damage. The Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) staff told the commission they had administratively approved removal of certain nonconforming siding (vinyl and asbestos tile) and that exploratory removal would allow staff to determine whether siding and door replacements could be approved administratively. Staff continued to recommend repair of existing wood windows in kind and said that replacement is eligible only on a window-by-window basis when a window assembly is found to be irreparable.
Commissioners discussed options including a site visit to verify conditions, the benefit of repairing original wood windows where possible, and phased approaches that use the six-month life of a COA to allow staged work. Commissioners also discussed existing wooden screens, noting the screens protect windows and that retention or on-site storage is preferable if owners remove them. Several commissioners suggested the applicant pursue high-quality wood replacement windows (Marvin-style was referenced in discussion) if replacement is necessary.
A motion to accept staff recommendations—disapproval of wholesale wholesale replacement and approval of the historic tax certification and administrative approvals where applicable—passed by roll call. Two commissioners voted no; the motion carried. Staff will work with the applicants on next steps and any additional documentation required for administratively approved replacements or for individual window replacements found beyond repair.
