Historic Landmark Commission recommends limited historic zoning for 907 E. 13th despite owner opposition

The Historic Landmark Commission voted unanimously to recommend local historic zoning for the front portion of the property at 907 East 13th Street, an owner‑opposed, commission‑initiated case that had previously appeared before the body. Staff recommended designation limited to the original front two rooms and an adjoining lean‑to, allowing nonhistoric rear additions to be removed to accommodate new construction behind the preserved front rooms.

Neighborhood groups, former owners and preservation advocates urged the commission to protect the contributing structure, citing the East Austin 2016 Historic Resources Survey and the house’s role in neighborhood history. River Deliano, a former owner, and neighborhood groups described long community ties and a design approach that would allow new construction behind preserved historic fabric. Several commissioners expressed skepticism about an engineer report presented by the owner and emphasized that portions of the building recommended for protection retain sufficient integrity.

Action and next steps: Commissioner Cook moved to recommend designation for the front two rooms based on architecture and historic associations; Commissioner LaRoche seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The recommendation will be forwarded to Planning Commission and City Council as required for an owner‑opposed case.

Context: Staff noted the application previously appeared on the agenda, inspections and permit history show multiple alterations, and the recommendation limits zoning to the portion staff found to retain historic integrity.