Landmarks Commission approves pitched roof for Elmwood accessory structure

The Abilene Landmarks Commission voted to approve case CA202604, allowing the owner of the Kirkendyle Stevens House to add a pitched, hip roof to an accessory garage and pool house that currently has a flat roof. Planner Carol Velois told the commission the proposal "meets the Secretary of the Interior standards for the rehabilitation of historic buildings," and staff recommended approval.

Owner Tyler Sites, who identified himself as residing at 1134 Elmwood Drive, said the accessory structure was added around the mid-1970s and that the flat roof currently retains "probably around 500 plus gallons" of water after rains and has begun to sag. He said he submitted a sketch and rendering in the meeting packet and intends the new roof to match the slope and shingles of the main house.

Commission discussion focused on visibility from the street, compatibility with the main house and practical concerns about roofing materials and drainage. Commissioners noted the change would be "minimal" from the street and praised the owner for visualizing the improvement. A motion to approve CA202604 was moved, seconded and passed by voice/roll call; the motion carried.

The commission’s approval is a certificate of appropriateness only. The decision can be appealed under the commission's published procedures; staff noted that certificate decisions may be appealed to the Planning and Zoning Commission within the prescribed appeal period.