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Owner says East Washington Street house has structural issues; HLC urges salvage and careful demolition planning
Summary
Alexander Saldabo told the Charles Town Historic Landmarks Commission that repeated structural problems and foundation issues at his East Washington Street property make repair impractical; he said he plans to pursue demolition and rebuild while attempting to salvage front windows and maintain a similar façade. Commissioners urged careful salvage and said a formal COA for demolition will be required.
Alexander Saldabo presented to the Charles Town Historic Landmarks Commission July 13 about a troubled property at 307 East Washington Street that he said has recurring foundation issues and is nearing the end of feasible repair. He said multiple visits by a structural engineer found the building difficult to repair and that he is considering demolition and replacement while keeping the front façade as historically consistent as possible.
Saldabo said he hired a structural engineer who repeatedly advised that the building’s condition makes a long-term repair impractical and that demolition by hand in sensitive areas may be necessary to protect adjacent structures. He told commissioners he intends to salvage the front windows where feasible and to reuse the façade appearance, saying he would "keep the facade on the exterior pretty much looking the same," while using more durable modern materials behind the face. Commissioners and residents who spoke during the presentation described the house as a long-standing eyesore and encouraged preservation of salvageable historic elements. Saldabo noted the potential for asbestos-containing materials in glazed windows and said he would test and handle any hazardous materials as part of the demolition process.
Why this matters: The property fronts a main road in the historic district and has drawn community attention for decades. Commissioners framed the presentation as outreach and pre-application dialogue; staff advised the applicant to submit a formal COA for demolition and to coordinate with building inspection and other city staff on setbacks, salvage, and safe demolition procedures.
What’s next: The applicant expects to file a formal demolition COA and will work with James and building inspectors to define safe demolition methods and any salvage plan. The commission did not take formal action at this meeting.
