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Historical Preservation Board approves after‑the‑fact COA for handicap ramp at 501 Kirby Street
Summary
The Palatka Historical Preservation Board approved an after‑the‑fact certificate of appropriateness for a wooden handicap ramp installed at 501 Kirby Street, citing the owner’s hospitalization and extenuating circumstances and advising safety improvements to the ramp’s railings.
The Palatka Historical Preservation Board on Monday approved an after‑the‑fact certificate of appropriateness for a wooden handicap ramp installed at 501 Kirby Street in the South Historic District.
City staff said the structure is a locally significant Victorian frame vernacular house built between about 1892 and 1897, and that the ramp had been installed while the homeowner was hospitalized. Kenneth Goodmaul, city staff, described the ramp’s wooden decking and railings and provided photographs showing its placement at the front door.
The homeowner, who told the board he had been in hospital care when the ramp was installed, said he was not involved in the work and had only recently returned to the property. A caregiver and a representative were present to answer questions.
Board members said they welcomed efforts to improve accessibility but raised safety concerns about the thin top rails and the structure’s overall sturdiness. Member S4 said the rails “look kind of thin” and suggested the applicant check with the church that assisted with construction about reinforcing the rails. The board asked staff and the applicant to ensure fastening and structural security.
After discussion, a member moved to approve the after‑the‑fact COA based on the extenuating circumstances; another member seconded. The motion carried with the assembled board voting in favor. The board thanked the homeowner for his service and encouraged him to follow up on rail improvements.
The board’s approval covers the installed ramp as presented; members noted that applicants seeking future exterior work should consult the board before beginning construction so permits and a COA can be processed in advance.
