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Commission approves demolitions and allows larger replacement garages with conditions at two addresses
Summary
The commission approved demolition of structurally compromised accessory buildings at 2241 NW 28th and 627 NW 15th and allowed replacement garages larger than standard guidelines in both cases, citing unique circumstances such as severe structural issues, corner‑lot placement and surrounding massing. Motions included conditions on materials and additional documentation.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted to approve demolition of compromised accessory structures at 2241 NW 28th and 627 NW 15th after hearing structural documentation and neighborhood comment. For 2241 NW 28th (Shepherd, Ward 2) the commission approved demolition and continued design items to the March 4 meeting; for 627 NW 15th (Heritage Hills, Ward 6) the commission approved demolition and later approved a larger replacement footprint with findings of unique circumstances and conditions requiring additional materials documentation.
Applicant John Reinke presented engineering findings and argued the buildings are structurally deficient and that replacement is necessary to meet functional needs; he said the plans aimed to minimize footprint while remaining usable. Neighbor association representative Randy Ice urged caution on accepting owner‑commissioned engineering reports in general but said this case appeared to show significant deterioration: "Termites come up from the ground...we do not accept that [engineering reports are always reliable]," he said, while nonetheless agreeing this seemed different.
Commissioners asked for refinements to garage door widths, window spacing, roof form and materials; staff suggested limiting door widths (16 feet where double doors are proposed) and stressed the need for historic‑appropriate materials. The approved motions included conditions that the applicant submit additional documentation and adjust materials to meet guideline standards; staff will work with applicants administratively on those revisions before permit issuance. The commission set follow‑up dates for continued items and confirmed demolition approvals could proceed as recorded.
