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Panel tables decision on after‑the‑fact window replacements at 305 West Conger
Summary
A city design‑review panel found windows at 305 West Conger were replaced without permits and tabled the application, directing the contractor to return with a restoration plan that conforms to the design review standards.
The city design‑review panel on Oct. 16 tabled an application related to after‑the‑fact window replacements at 305 West Conger Street, instructing the applicant to return with a plan that complies with the city's design review standards.
Staff member James told the panel the building — described as an Italianate‑influenced, late‑19th‑century contributing structure in the downtown historic overlay — had several windows removed and replaced without review sometime between 2021 and 2024. "The windows which were illegally removed were one of the few remaining historical facets of the structure," James said during the staff report.
A contractor who identified himself as the applicant's representative said he was stepping in to correct earlier work done without permits and described installation problems, including missing flashing and gaps. "They put the windows in like over on the studs and they put like this white vinyl border and they didn't seal anything," the contractor said, adding he was prepared to fix the work to pass inspection.
Board members pressed staff and the contractor for details on how many windows were altered and where. Estimates in the discussion ranged from roughly nine windows in the front bay plus several on the sides and rear; a board member summarized the concern by saying the removed colonial divided‑light windows were among the last historic features and should be reinstated.
The panel discussed acceptable materials and compliance steps and emphasized that windows restored within the historic overlay should be wood, with authentic divided lights rather than simulated grills. Staff agreed to provide links to the design review standards and offered to help interpret the requirements for the applicant.
The panel voted to table the matter and direct the applicant to submit a plan showing how the windows will be restored consistent with the design review standards; the application will return for public hearing once a compliant proposal is submitted.
