Historical Landmark Commission conditionally approves façade and material changes at 496 Buford Road

The Socorro City Historical Landmark Commission on Feb. 18 granted conditional approval for exterior repairs and a new façade at 496 Buford Road, after staff said work had been stopped for noncompliant materials.

City staff told the commission the applicant had been issued a notice of violation for using sheet metal on an alfalfa shed and recommended approval of the applicant’s remediation plan, which replaces the metal with plywood/wood and adds a Spanish‑mission style façade. “We are recommending approval, for them to continue with their plans and as they have also approved material and design in their request,” a city staff member said during the presentation.

Applicant Ricardo Herrera acknowledged the work began without a permit while he was recovering from an injury, explained that his son had covered the shed to prevent damage and that he has begun demo work to remove metal decking. “I got injured, so I had to go to the hospital. … My son started doing it without getting a permit. I understand, and I apologize. I’m willing to do whatever I have to do,” Herrera said.

Commissioners asked technical questions about whether the sheet metal would be removed or covered, what the new roofing material would be and how any new wall framing would attach to the existing structure. Staff clarified the laminate roof was not approved and that the plan called for wood decking with shingle roofing and a front‑facing Spanish style façade; framing would be attached to the metal structure (not set directly on a cinder block wall).

After discussion the commission moved for conditional approval of the items presented at the meeting, with the condition that the applicant return for approval of any additional modifications after completing the work. The motion was recorded as made by Ricardo Rocha and seconded by Elizabeth Ponceilu. The roll call as read by the recorder recorded the following votes: Rafael Padilla — Aye; Elizabeth Ponceilu — Aye; Aboraygo — Abstain (on the earlier minutes vote only); David Estrada — Aye; Ricardo Rocha — Aye; Jesse Montelongo — Aye. The motion carried.

Staff noted that planning and zoning has separate inspections and permitting requirements the applicant must satisfy before final acceptance and that the commission’s authority is limited to materials and design. The applicant indicated he is willing to pay any fines and to bring completed work back for final approval.

Next steps: the applicant will complete the demo and installation per the approved plan, satisfy city planning and zoning inspections, and return to the commission if any further modifications to the exterior are proposed.