The Mendel Historic Zoning Commission approved certificates of appropriateness for exterior renovations and amenity upgrades at 200 West College Street, the property identified as the Sacred Court Apartment Complex, after the applicant described tenant retention and planned improvements.

The applicant, identified in the meeting as Mr. Smith (Phil), said he purchased the complex in October and has been working with tenants to retain occupancy. He told the commission the project has retained roughly 80% of tenants and intends to keep rents modest to retain many existing residents. “I would say that our building is eyesore, might be a good, good description of it,” he said, arguing that renovations are needed to make the property safer and more marketable.

The scope of work includes replacing old windows with casement-style windows intended to match the building’s early-20th-century character, installing keypad locks for improved security, designating two side exits as fire exits, adding security and accent lighting, and constructing a second-floor balcony accessible from the upper level to provide a resident amenity. The applicant also said he plans to renovate a small recreational area with seating, fire pits (subject to code), concrete planters and new surfacing and that retaining-wall signage treatments will be returned to the commission for review.

Staff recommended approval with minor adjustments related to egress details and material choices; the commission voted to approve the COAs as submitted. Commissioners encouraged the applicant to document tenant protections and any recorded restrictions so future owners follow the same rules. The applicant said he is working with a real-estate attorney to record restrictions that would travel with the property if it is sold.