Boerne commission approves window replacements for historic schoolhouse at 402 East Blanco Road

The Boerne Historical Landmark Commission on Feb. 3 approved a certificate of appropriateness for exterior improvements at 402 East Blanco Road, allowing the replacement of windows on two contributing historic structures.

Ben Simmons, a member of the planning department, told commissioners the owner, Johnny Leach, is seeking a permit to replace windows on the main building (built about 1910) and an older, two-room secondary structure behind it. "The applicant is proposing to replace 48 windows with 32 being in the main building and 16 being replaced in the secondary building," Simmons said, and added staff’s review found the proposed replacements "match the original size and configuration" and that materials and finishes are compatible with the building’s character.

The commission’s review focused on whether the work meets Boerne’s unified development code and the historic-district guidelines. Simmons said staff’s analysis concluded the proposed exterior improvements "meet Boerne's UDC regulations as well as the historic district guidelines." Commissioners asked for clarifications about which windows were highlighted for replacement and about paint color; staff said the metal trim, sash and frame will be beige to revert to the building’s original trim color rather than the red applied during a 1987 remodel.

Owner Johnny Leach described the property’s history, saying "the original schoolhouse in the back was white" and explaining that the red paint was added by the city during a 1987 remodel. Leach told the commission he and his wife intend to restore and reuse the buildings and later add a small chapel and gathering center.

A commissioner asked whether the historic-preservation grant program could be applied retroactively. Staff answered that a rule of the grant is that "the approval from this body has to happen before any work begins," but noted the owner had not started work and therefore could still apply provided the application is not changed.

Commissioner Nichols moved to approve the certificate of appropriateness "as presented," and Commissioner Means seconded. A technical difficulty briefly interrupted voting; after the meeting audio/stream was restarted the chair confirmed the motion passed and directed Leach to coordinate with staff on the grant application.

The commission’s approval permits the owner to proceed with the specified exterior window replacements as presented to staff. Commissioners and staff encouraged the owner to pursue available grant funding and to coordinate final details with planning staff.

Next steps: Leach will work with planning staff on grant application options; the commission will continue to oversee work for compatibility with the historic-district standards.