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Commission approves partial window replacement at historic home after split vote
Summary
The commission allowed replacement of windows found to be irreparable at a historic property, with staff to coordinate phased work and possible site visits; the motion passed with two commissioners voting no.
The San Antonio Historic Commission on May 21 approved a request to replace windows determined to be irreparable at a historic property on King's Highway, allowing phased replacements and directing the applicant to work closely with staff on documentation and timing.
Staff recommended approval for window replacements that are demonstrably irreparable and noted the certificate of appropriateness (COA) process allows replacement of individual windows where repair is not feasible. Property owner Sacchary Fisher and representatives provided photographs, a contractor assessment and a contractor estimate that identified approximately 15 of about 50 windows with extensive damage.
The applicant's representative described prior storm and water damage and submitted a contractor quote for restoration. Neighbor Bianca Maldonado, president of the Montechelo Neighborhood Association, testified that the application lacked sufficient documentation to approve wholesale replacement and urged adherence to historic‑district guidelines. The owner said many windows are in poor condition and that past estimates indicated high cost for full restoration.
Commissioners debated whether to require a site visit and whether to require staged replacement under staff oversight. Commissioner Fetzer noted that in some cases modern wood windows with improved glazing are an acceptable long‑term solution; Commissioner Velázquez voted no, expressing concern that replacement should not proceed without more complete documentation. Commissioner Cervantes also voted no. A roll‑call vote recorded the motion carrying with six yes votes and two no votes.
Staff told the owner the COA is valid for six months and may be renewed; staff also said the owner may submit additional replacements for consideration over time. The commission directed staff to work with the applicant on the next steps, documentation, and possible site visit before finalizing the replacement schedule.
