Historic Preservation Board approves COA for 427 Means Court, requires windows to avoid blank facade

On May 26, 2026, the Fort Pierce Historic Preservation Board approved PZCOA‑2026‑00035, a certificate of appropriateness to construct an approximately 1,352‑square‑foot single‑family home at 427 Means Court in the Lincoln Park historic district, subject to two conditions: that all mechanical equipment meet setback requirements and that a minimum of two windows be incorporated on the southern elevation to avoid a blank facade and better comport with the district’s character.

City planning staff described the parcel (parcel ID noted in the record) and recommended approval while calling out two conditions intended to preserve architectural rhythm and avoid blank walls along the creek side. "A minimum of 2 windows on the southern elevation be incorporated into the final design to better comport with the character of the historic district," staff said.

Applicant Jonathan Topas told the board the design changes would be incorporated into final plans: he said the team would add a small kitchen window, move the master window to the side and add a transom to increase light while preserving furniture layouts. When asked about cost and resilience, the applicant said windows are impact‑grade and that "windows are $5,600 a window," and confirmed plans for a fence and impact windows prior to sale or rental.

Board members asked whether the blank southern elevation left adequate egress and whether the proposed window changes would functionally address both safety and character concerns; applicant and staff confirmed revised window placements and that the applicant would submit updated plans. A committee member moved to approve the COA with the two staff‑recommended conditions; the motion passed on roll call.

The approval requires the applicant to submit final, stamped plans showing the required windows and mechanical setback compliance before permits proceed.