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Commission approves repairs at 535 W. Harvey but delays chimney removal pending structural report
Summary
For a contributing 1919 home at 535 West Harvey Avenue, the commission approved porch, roof and siding repairs but required a professional structural assessment before deciding whether to allow permanent chimney removal.
The Gastonia Historic District Commission approved several repair items for a circa‑1919 contributing house at 535 West Harvey Ave on May 28, but continued the applicant’s request to remove the exterior chimney so the applicant can provide a documented structural assessment.
Staff described five requests in file PLCA202600152: remove the chimney, replace a structural porch beam, replace 3‑tab shingles with architectural shingles, replace siding and rebuild the roof/dormer. Owner Wesley Forbus said a contractor backed out and he was seeking a replacement; he explained that water intrusion around the chimney and flashing contributed to interior damage.
Commission members on the subcommittee had previously recommended documentation to support a claim that the chimney cannot be repaired. Commissioner Ben Pruitt and others said photos show mortar deterioration and paint issues but do not clearly establish that the chimney is beyond repair. Commissioners said a mason or structural‑engineer report, including exploratory documentation if demolition is proposed, is necessary for a decision to remove a contributing chimney.
After discussion, the commission voted to approve the porch‑beam replacement, roof/dormer rebuild and siding and shingle work (requests 2, 3, 4 and 5). The commission continued request 1 (chimney removal) and required the applicant to provide a professional report documenting the chimney’s structural condition before the commission will consider permanent removal.
Commissioners emphasized the importance of following the design standards and preserving character‑defining elements where feasible.
