Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Board recommends part 1 ad valorem tax-exemption for landmark at 2708 North 18th Street
Summary
The City of Tampa historic preservation board recommended approval of a part 1 ad valorem tax‑exemption application for the newly designated local landmark at 2708 North 18th Street, finding the plans consistent with the Secretary of the Interior standards; applicant will return with a part 2 application.
The City of Tampa's Historic Preservation board recommended approval of a part 1 ad valorem tax‑exemption application for the local landmark at 2708 North 18th Street, known as the Nieto Fuente Buckeye.
Heather Barnes, the board's historic preservation specialist, told the board the property sits just outside the Ybor Local Historic District and contributes to the National Register district; staff found the rehabilitation plans dated Feb. 17 are consistent with the Secretary of the Interior standards for rehabilitation. "This program is the only program that you actually get to review interior as well," Barnes said, describing why the part 2 submission will allow a later interior review.
Applicant Andy Donlon of Mancini Architecture presented elevations, historic photographs and a rehabilitation plan that preserves original elements where possible. "The building is in pretty big disrepair, so we are gonna be systematically replacing the siding as I go through this," Donlon said, outlining window restoration (wood windows in original frame walls, aluminum in later block walls), porch work and retention of wood columns that will be fire treated.
Owner representative Liana Fuente, speaking during public comment, thanked the board and characterized the filing as the end of a long process. "I'm just happy to be here and showcase our little piece of the world with you guys and share it with the city," she said.
After brief board questions about window types and siding preservation, a board member moved to recommend approval of the part 1 application for ARC‑Tax‑26‑00001, citing consistency with the Secretary of the Interior standards for rehabilitation; the motion received a second and the board voiced approval. The board's recommendation does not itself grant the tax exemption: staff explained the part 2 recommendation, including interior features, will be submitted to City Council for final action.
The board closed the public hearing and instructed staff to notify the applicant to submit a part 2 application when the rehabilitation work is complete.
