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Planning commission approves local landmark nomination for 1135–1137 Ellis Blvd. NW
Summary
The Planning Commission voted to forward a local landmark nomination for 1135–1137 Ellis Blvd. NW to city council after staff and the Historic Preservation Commission recommended designation based on the building’s 1921 vernacular Craftsman architecture and ties to Czech‑Slovak immigration. The nomination will go to council for a June 24 public hearing.
The Cedar Rapids Planning Commission voted to forward a local landmark nomination for 1135–1137 Ellis Boulevard NW to the City Council. Staff said the building — originally the Charles H. Sassera pharmacy and associated storefronts built in 1921 — is significant for its association with early Czech‑Slovak immigration and the historic fabric of the Northwest neighborhood.
Jeff Rosencraft, Community Development, told commissioners the Historic Preservation Commission approved the nomination at its recent meeting and staff finds the application consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan and the adopted Historic Preservation Plan. Rosencraft said the period of significance runs from 1920 to 1964 and the structure reflects neighborhood commercial character that is now rare in the city.
Cindy Haddish, representing nonprofit Save Sierra Heritage, said the organization filed the application and that it seeks to “save historic places.” Rosencraft also confirmed that the property lies within the city’s flood plain but on the dry side of the flood‑control system and that improvements will be coordinated with the flood‑plain administrator to meet the flood‑plain ordinance.
A commissioner moved to approve the nomination for transmittal to council; the commission approved the motion by voice vote. The item will be considered by the City Council at a public hearing on June 24 with potential ordinance readings on July 8.
The commission’s action is advisory; final designation would be accomplished by city council and amendment to Chapter 18 of the municipal code.
