Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Façade Repair topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Lancaster storefront owner reports $43,000 in storm damage and seeks matching historic-minded repairs
Summary
Anna, owner of Fruit Passions, told the Historic Lancaster Commission that storm damage to her storefront totaled about $43,000 while insurance would cover $22,000; the commission cautioned that the proposed poly stone veneer may not match the building's historic sandstone.
Anna, the owner of Fruit Passions, told the Historic Lancaster Commission on May 21 that storm damage to her downtown storefront — including the roof, signage and façade — amounts to about $43,000, and that insurance would cover roughly $22,000.
River Valley Restoration representative Brent Odson presented a stone marbling vault veneer system described as a poly, weather‑resistant material to replace damaged elements "from the ledger up." Brent confirmed the fallen sandstone had been destroyed, and commissioners raised concerns that the proposed replacement material would not match the size and appearance of the original sandstone. Chair Bryan Everitt noted the commission may hesitate to approve materials that do not visually match the historic fabric and reminded the applicant that additional permits and approvals outside the Historic Lancaster Commission may be required.
Anna also expressed interest in replacing an old flag‑style sign with a flat‑mount sign consistent with other downtown businesses; she requested affordable materials that visually approximate the original storefront elements. Commissioners asked about alternate coverings for the damaged sandstone and discussed the commission's guidelines for substitute materials and considerations of economic hardship.
No formal action was taken on the Fruit Passions matter during the meeting; the applicant indicated she will submit a formal application for commission review at a future meeting.
