Historic board approves rear deck at 203 N. Clark but requires new roof material

The Rockwall Historic Preservation Advisory Board voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness for exterior alterations at 203 North Clark Street, but conditioned the approval on replacing a polycarbonate patio roof with a material that meets the district guidelines.

Staff described the property as a non‑contributing 1950s house of roughly 1,219 square feet located within 200 feet of contributing historic buildings in the Old Town Rockwall Historic District. The applicant requested permission to add a front deck with railing and a covered rear deck, and the staff presentation noted that some work began before the COA was requested.

Resident Robert McDonald, who lives across the street at 206 North Clark Street, told the board he supports the project, saying, "I think it looks great," and that the improvements "blend with the neighborhood." Applicant Bridal Edwards confirmed the house has wood siding and presented receipts showing the patio cover material; staff said the visible material appears polycarbonate and told the board that "the polycarbonate is not something we allow," citing district guidelines requiring materials more in keeping with historic character.

Committee member (Speaker 4) moved to approve the COA for the rear deck "like and kind" to the front deck with a condition that the polycarbonate roof be replaced with an approved material (asphalt shingle or standing seam). Committee member (Speaker 5) seconded the motion, and the board voted to pass the motion.

Staff also noted that 21 notices were mailed on Aug. 1, 2024, and no responses were received. With the condition in place, the applicant may proceed in the building permit process once the roofing material is changed to an approved type.