Item 5- 2024-12-04-Letter-Austin_PT — original pdf

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December 4, 2024 The Hon. Kirk Watson, Mayor Austin City Hall 301 W. Second Street, Austin, TX Re: Zoning Change Review, Case Number: PR-2024-064274; GF-2024-073040 Dear Mayor Watson and Council Members: We are writing to endorse the efforts of the Austin Historic Landmark Commission to recognize one of East Austin's oldest buildings, Eisenbeiser's East End Saloon, located at 1500 E. 12th Street, as a local historic landmark. We support the application of historic zoning to the property because it clearly meets the criteria required to be eligible for local landmark listing. The building is architecturally significant as a rare example of a vernacular commercial building in Austin, and has historical significance as an important example of the diverse economic and social history of East Austin. The 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey recognizes the property's significance due to its association with prominent German grocers and African-American business owners. The property is also noted for its unique contribution to the neighborhood's cultural identity, having served as a popular gathering place in East Austin. Furthermore, it is part of a historically important urban cultural landscape at the intersection at 12th and Comal Streets, situated across from two other notable African-American landmarks. The rehabilitation of the building is feasible. Across Austin and Texas, we've seen historic buildings in a similar condition successfully restored and adapted for modern use while preserving their integrity and character. The city has a wealth of preservation architects, consultants, and contractors capable of expertly restoring such structures, demonstrating that no building's condition is beyond revival. Also, the State of Texas and federal government provide historic tax credit incentives of up to 45% of project costs for income-producing historic properties if the building were to be designated at the state or federal level as well. The East End Saloon deserves recognition and preservation, not only for East Austin but for all Texans who value landmarks that narrate our state's history. As the statewide advocate for historic preservation, we are committed to collaborating with you and the residents of Austin to secure the future of this historic site. Sincerely, Evan R. Thompson Executive Director