The El Paso Historic Landmark Commission voted to adopt staff recommendations for a certificate of appropriateness at 4636 Capel Circle in the Austin Terrace Historic District, contingent on correcting multiple unpermitted alterations to the property.

Staff reported the house is a contributing property (R-4-H, 1939) and that significant work had been done without permits: casement windows had been replaced with sliders in many locations, several window openings had been infilled, and interior work (plumbing and electrical) appeared to be completed without permit records. Staff said the proposed rear addition itself is modest and located where additions are typically acceptable, but recommended approval only if the infilled windows are reopened and replaced with historically accurate windows, all violations are corrected within 90 days, and accurate drawings are submitted prior to permitting.

Luis Salcedo, the building designer representing the owner, told the commission some closures were made to increase usable counter and wall space in kitchens and bedrooms and to improve privacy; he offered options for replacing windows and suggested less costly approaches to reinstate historic window patterns. Commissioners and staff emphasized that window permits and building permits are required and that unpermitted alterations have a tendency to spread through neighborhoods if left unaddressed.

After discussion the commission voted to adopt staff’s recommended modifications: replace windows with historically appropriate units, reopen infilled openings, correct violations within 90 days, and withhold permits until the property is brought into compliance. The motion was seconded and approved with no recorded opposition. Staff said the owner will receive a letter documenting the required corrective actions and the timeline.

Next steps: staff will withhold permits until compliance is achieved, issue a compliance letter to the owner, and expect corrected drawings and physical remediation within the 90-day window.