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Historic Resource Commission upgrades Halsall House on Oakmont to landmark and approves Mills Act recommendation
Summary
The commission voted unanimously to add the Halsall House (2424 N. Oakmont Ave.) to the Santa Ana Register with a key/landmark categorization, agreed to hyphenate the historic name to recognize a later notable owner, and recommended a Mills Act preservation agreement; neighbors and owners spoke in support.
The City of Santa Ana Historic Resource Commission voted unanimously to approve listing the Halsall House at 2424 North Oakmont Avenue on the local historic register with a “key” (landmark) categorization and recommended that the City Council authorize a historic property preservation agreement under the Mills Act. Commissioners also approved an amendment to hyphenate the property name to recognize Gordon Bricken’s association.
Planning staff member James Williams presented the nomination and described the two-story colonial revival residence’s character-defining features — including original wood-sash windows, stucco and wood plank cladding, classically inspired entry surround and other period details — and traced ownership history from original owner Oliver Halsall (permit dated 05/25/1937) to later occupant Gordon Bricken, a former mayor and local official.
Commissioners discussed documentation details: one commissioner asked that the property’s ribbon (Hollywood) driveway and photographic documentation be included in the Mills Act application and DPR forms; staff agreed to ensure the driveway and window features were photographed and reflected in the application materials. Several commissioners debated whether to elevate the property to landmark status now or wait 50 years to evaluate historical significance; staff noted National Register/Department of Interior guidelines and precedent were factors.
During the public hearing, owner Tilly Germin said her family moved from the East Coast and wished to be long-term stewards of the house. Neighbor Mike Wood called in to express 40 years of residency on Oakmont and support for the nomination. Commissioner Amador moved to amend the nomination to hyphenate the name (Halsall–Bricken) and upgrade the classification to landmark; Commissioner Howergy seconded and the roll call vote passed unanimously with Vice Chair Christie absent.
Staff recommended the commission adopt resolution HRCA-2024-11 and HRC-2024-09 and recommend City Council authorize HPPA-2024-13; the commission’s action forwards that recommendation and directs staff to incorporate the photo documentation and work-plan items identified during the hearing. The commission noted that formal action will become effective following the standard appeal period unless City Council holds a hearing.
