Historic landmark commission approves after-the-fact window replacements at 1411 Fuel Street with conditions

The El Paso Historic Landmark Commission approved an after-the-fact certificate of appropriateness for replacement windows at 1411 Fuel Street in the Sunset Heights Historic District, subject to conditions that the new windows match the historic appearance and that the property owner obtain all required permits.

Historic Preservation Office staff presented photos showing that several secondary-elevation windows had been replaced without prior approval or permits. Staff said the building is a contributing property constructed in 1926 and that the district’s design guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards favor repair over replacement of original doors and windows.

An owner’s representative, who identified herself as speaking on behalf of owner Liana Archuleta, said the family replaced the windows because of persistent drafts, dust and health concerns for a child and had paid about $8,000 for the work rather than delaying repairs. She acknowledged that a permit was not obtained and said she bought and installed windows sized to the existing openings.

Commissioners and staff reviewed photographic evidence and agreed most replacements appeared sized to existing openings and were compatible in operation and appearance with the original one-over-one sash windows on the primary façade; staff noted the secondary elevation included at least three window types and that some small front windows remained original. Staff also said code enforcement had been notified about the unpermitted work.

A motion to approve the after-the-fact certificate of appropriateness, with modifications requiring the windows match the historic windows and that no other approvals be granted until the property is brought into compliance, passed by voice vote. The motion did not record individual roll-call votes in the meeting transcript.

Staff reminded the owner that separate permits are required for other work (painting, porch replacement) and asked that color samples and landscaping sketches be submitted to the Historic Preservation Office. Staff also noted that the district’s landscaping guidance requires roughly half of the yard to be living ground cover (artificial turf does not qualify). The owner said she will hire a contractor to obtain the remaining permits.

The commission’s action resolves the immediate question of the installed windows but leaves outstanding permitting requirements and follow-up inspections to ensure compliance.