Commission approves storefront folding doors and small roaster stack on Duval Street

Applicant Jonathan Tavares described plans to restore an original folding-door storefront system and to add a small roof stack for a coffee roaster, placing the stack more than 15 feet back and largely concealed by an existing parapet. Staff found the building is non-contributing and that the proposed changes would not be highly visible from the street.

Commissioners asked about egress and how the folding doors would operate; Tavares explained there would be one operable door for emergency egress and the fold-back system would open onto the street for regular use. Commissioner Moody moved to approve the alterations and the motion passed by roll call.

Public commenter Leon Moyer urged the commission to adhere to Robert's Rules of Order and cautioned against commissioners trying to design for applicants, saying that extensive direction "could be structural posts removed" and may exceed the commission’s intended role.

What happens next: Staff will process permits and monitor the installation of the folding doors and the roaster stack for compliance with the approved elevations and the commission’s conditions.