The Prattville Historic Preservation Commission approved a set of exterior alterations proposed for 342 South Northington by homeowners Mike and Letha Coates during its combined November/December meeting.

Commissioners first agreed to separate the petition into four distinct items so each change could be considered on its merits. For the storage-building addition at the rear of the property, the commission approved the plan on the condition that the new roof match the existing metal roof on the shed, preserving continuity with the existing structure’s roof material. The motion carried unanimously.

The commission also approved decorative shutters as submitted. Staff noted the proposed shutters are nonfunctional vertical boards with cross boards at top and bottom, approximately 10 inches wide, and commissioners referenced prior minutes requiring shutters be secured to the window frame.

On the front entry the applicants requested a 16-foot-wide deck to address a safety and accessibility need. The applicants said the deck would be pressure-treated pine (they also discussed Trex composite as an option) and that the width was necessary because one resident has mobility and vision issues; commissioners approved a deck that matches the building’s color and appearance.

Finally, after revisiting earlier history about a limewash applied by a previous owner, the commission voted on the request to paint the brick a light gray and retain the upper vinyl as-is. Commissioners discussed the precedent of painting brick and concerns about setting examples for other properties; the tally was recorded as four in favor and two opposed, and the painting motion carried.

The applicants were present to answer questions and said they will work with staff on final material details. The commission’s approvals were limited to design and compatibility under the city’s preservation guidelines; the panel noted that other regulatory approvals (for example, a liquor license) fall to other bodies.