Commission approves porch restoration but denies new stained‑glass opening at Norhill house

The commission approved most proposed alterations at 927 West Cottage Street on Oct. 10 — including restoring porch elements, reorienting steps to face the street and returning cedar shake siding — but refused to authorize a new stained‑glass opening in the front gable.

Staff reported evidence the house once had a different porch configuration and that later‑added side steps were not original; staff recommended approving the siding and porch work but not approving a new ornamental stained‑glass opening because there was no historic opening in that gable. Homeowner Lawrence Febo and agent Rod Frago argued the 100‑year‑old stained‑glass panel they found and wish to install is compatible with nearby examples and reversible. Neighbors (Norhill Neighbors Association) submitted a letter opposing the stained‑glass window while supporting other proposed work.

After public comment and discussion, the commission voted to approve staff’s recommendation to allow the siding and porch changes but not to allow the creation of a new front‑gable stained‑glass opening that did not historically exist. Commissioners asked staff to ensure the restored front steps align with original brick columns and to document the scope of the porch work for administrative follow‑through.

What’s next: Staff will process the approved porch/siding COA and issue the denial for the stained‑glass opening; the homeowner was invited to pursue reversible display options or revisit the proposal with further supporting historic evidence if available.