Webster Groves commission approves demolition of garage at 734 Yeatman Avenue

The Webster Groves Historic Preservation Commission approved a demolition request for a detached garage at 734 Yeatman Avenue after the property owner described structural and safety problems, commissioners said during their Oct. 14 meeting.

The application was presented by Adam Spencer, who identified himself as the property owner and said the garage lacks gutters, has exposed wiring and appears to be pushing the foundation. He told commissioners he planned to replace the structure with a similar-size building.

Commission members discussed the condition of the garage briefly and then moved to vote. "All those in favor. Aye. Aye. Aye," the record shows; the chair announced the demolition request was approved. The transcript does not list an individual roll-call of yes or no votes.

Why it matters: Demolition approvals remove historically extant fabric from the city—s neighborhoods and can affect whether properties later qualify for local landmark designation. The commission recorded only the outcome and basic applicant statements; no staff building-inspection report was available at the time of the vote.

What commissioners recorded: The city record included a building-permit history that showed the house on the lot dates to 1929 and a garage permit in 1930; commissioners noted the garage appears to be part of the original parcel layout and sits on a separate lot within the Brook Subdivision.

Next steps: The commission file will reflect the approved demolition application and the applicant—s statement that a similarly sized garage is planned as a replacement. Any replacement structure will be subject to future permit review.