HLC orders removal or relocation of metal carport, requires turf correction at 2147 King James Place

The El Paso Historic Landmark Commission on Dec. 4 ordered the homeowner at 2147 King James Place to remove or relocate a metal driveway structure that was installed without prior approval and to correct front-yard artificial-turf violations within 60 days. The item concerned a non-contributing property in the Austin Terrace Historic District built in 1995.

Staff presented photographs and site plans and recommended approval with modifications: relocate the metal structure to the rear of the property where possible, remove artificial turf in the front yard or alter landscaping so at least 50% of the front-yard square footage is living ground cover, correct identified violations within the compliance period, and bar new permits until the property is brought into compliance.

Owner Lydia Cordova told the commission she did not realize a permit was required, described efforts since August to secure a permit, and said her contractor had agreed to move the structure and reduce its height. Cordova said her contractor advised a different placement and later told her the work could be done; she also said a judge had pushed an associated citation out 60 days. Staff and commissioners advised she review her contract with the contractor and noted that an appeal to the city council is an available option.

Commission discussion focused on compatibility with the district and the risk that visible carports and pervasive artificial turf would create a cascade of noncompliant alterations. Some commissioners indicated they would consider a lowered or shortened structure acceptable if materials and placement were improved; others said the structure and turf are out of character and recommended removal. The commission voted to accept staff recommendations and later amended the compliance window to 60 days to align with a judicial scheduling matter the owner cited.

The commission instructed staff that no new permits will be approved for the property until violations are corrected. Staff offered to walk the owner through the appeals process and recommended the owner check her contract for remedies against the contractor.

Next steps: the homeowner must correct violations—and either remove or relocate the metal structure—within 60 days or pursue an appeal to city council.