Irvington owner asks commission to authorize work done without approval; staff recommends corrections, commission continues case

Darryl Gunion asked the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission in June to authorize exterior work he completed at 5814 Beechwood Avenue in Irvington, saying he used “the best commercially available materials” and that removing his work would cause financial ruin. “If you rule against me, the things like tearing the things off and replacing them could be over $100,000,” Gunion said.

Gunion described replacing windows, installing new doors after a burglary, demolishing a greenhouse and constructing a framed sun porch with lap siding, repurposed hardwood floors and a painted brick interior wall. He said he consulted the city permits office and believed a permit was unnecessary because the foundation was not enlarged.

Neighbors and local supporters spoke in favor of Gunion’s work, submitting multiple letters and offering oral testimony that the house looked improved and that preservation of a maintained home is preferable to a vacant or deteriorating property. Andy Nielsen, the district…