Galveston planners approve historic landmark designation for 2210 31st Street

The Galveston Planning Commission unanimously approved a staff recommendation to designate a craftsman-style bungalow at 2210 31st Street as a Galveston historic landmark.

Daniel, a planning staff member who presented the case, told the commission the house is one of several nearly identical bungalows built around 1914 by Alexander McClellan and that 32 public notices were sent for the nomination with none returned. Daniel said the property is not inside a historic district but is eligible for financial incentives for historic properties and that the Landmark Commission recommended approval at its Dec. 15, 2025 meeting. "This concludes staff's report," he said.

The applicant, joining the meeting remotely, said she is representing the owners and that the designation would be "a really thoughtful gift for my dad for Christmas," noting the house has remained in the same family for generations. She credited Jamie Durham with much of the research and said she was available to answer questions.

A commissioner asked whether landmark designation would prevent elevating the structure if that later became necessary; Daniel replied that elevation is permitted and that staff occasionally sees elevated houses in historic districts.

A commissioner moved to approve the designation "as presented by staff," the motion received a second, and the commission voted unanimously to approve case 2025p-052. The chair noted the item will go to City Council for final consideration at its Jan. 22, 2026 meeting.

The applicant and commissioners exchanged brief holiday greetings after the vote.