Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Historic Preservation Commission approves roof repairs and security cameras at Conservatory of Flowers
Summary
The commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for the Conservatory of Flowers to repair deteriorating glazing putty with removable silicone mullion caps and to install off-structure security cameras; Commissioner Hyland recused from the item because of business ties to the project consultant.
The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the Conservatory of Flowers that will allow roof repairs using removable silicone mullion caps and the installation of up to nine security cameras on surrounding support structures.
Shelley Caltagroni, preservation staff, told the commission staff’s recommendation was to approve the work with conditions, including a five-year review of the silicone treatment, roof‑cleaning specifications before building permit issuance, and a requirement that the project sponsor test a proposed biocide treatment in an unobtrusive area before widespread application. “The mutton cap solution will retain the distinctive roof design without compromising its historic character,” Caltagroni said.
Project representatives described the technical approach. David Wessel of Architectural Resources Group said the proposed silicone extrusion would sit over existing putty, be removable and not attach to the original wood mullions. Wessel noted prior uses of the system and warranty possibilities: “With the right applicator, we can get a 20 [year] warranty,” he said.
Chokes Ajike, project manager with the Recreation and Parks Department, said the camera plan places equipment on support buildings around the Conservatory — not on the Conservatory structure itself — to deter repeated vandalism in the park. Ajike cited recent vandalism in Golden Gate Park and told commissioners that last summer’s vandalism caused “over $500,000 of damage to the National Memorial AIDS Grove.”
Commissioner Hyland recused herself from the Conservatory item because of business relationships with Architectural Resources Group; the commission’s recusal motion passed 6 to 0 before the substantive vote. The substantive approval passed 5 to 0 with Hyland absent from the item.
The commission’s approval is conditional; staff will require the sponsor to submit the specified materials and test results before building permits are issued. No timeline for construction was specified at the hearing.
