Waukesha Landmarks Commission approves multiple COAs and paint-and-repair grants, awards $500 and $3,000 grants

The Waukesha Landmarks Commission approved several certificates of appropriateness and paint‑and‑repair grants at its meeting, voting unanimously on each item.

Staff reported the commission has $25,000 allocated for paint and repair grants this year and usually approves awards at roughly 15% of the project cost up to a $3,000 cap, subject to Waukesha County and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) compliance. "We had $25,000 was allocated for paint and repair grant funds," Charlie said.

An owner at 225 West Laflin Avenue (Nina and Richard Roberts house, c.1920) described water intrusion requiring about $10,000 of waterproofing and said painting has been deferred as other repairs take priority. "We've been trying to get this house repaired for a while ... it's gonna be about $10,000 to get it all waterproofed again," homeowner Matthew Lane said. The commission approved the COA for roof and paint work and approved the standard 15% grant for the project (15% of the estimated $16,573 paintwork = $2,485.95).

The commission approved a COA for 127 Randall Street (Gustave Gherke House, 1888) for gutter replacement, vent relocation and limited wood repairs, and approved a materials‑only paint grant for 127 Bridal Street. Staff estimated materials at $2,492.74 (15% = $373.91); the commission voted to award $500 for that project.

For 215 North Charles Street (roof replacement and repainting), staff estimated a total project cost of $36,300, making a 15% grant $5,445 — above the commission's informal per‑project ceiling. Commissioners debated and then approved a $3,000 grant for that project "subject to the approval, finally saying that Waukesha County and SHPO compliance," a commissioner said during the discussion.

The commission also approved a COA to remove a non‑functioning rear chimney at the William P. Sloan House (912 N. Barstow); staff said the chimney is in poor condition and has limited public visibility.

Votes at a glance: - COA 2603189 (225 West Laflin Ave): COA approved; grant 15% = $2,485.95; outcome: approved unanimously. - COA 2603483 (William P. Sloan House, 912 N Barstow): chimney removal approved unanimously. - COA 2603501 (127 Randall Street): COA approved unanimously. - Grant ID2603503 (127 Bridal): $500 awarded; approved unanimously. - Grant ID2603564 (215 North Charles): $3,000 awarded (subject to Waukesha County and SHPO compliance); approved unanimously.

Next steps: Grants will be processed by staff once required Waukesha County and SHPO clearances are confirmed.