Historic Landmark Commission Applications under Review for July 3, 2024 Meeting This list does not constitute a formal agenda and is subject to change. A final agenda will be posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. Briefings 2. Briefing on community outreach and engagement for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan – Cara Bertron and Gregory Farrar Historic landmark and historic district applications National Register district permit applications 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 801 Lydia Street – Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District – Total demolition. 1807 E Cesar Chavez Street – Berner-Clark-Mercado House - Repair/replace deck and rails, paint exterior. 1003 E 9th Street – Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District – Partial demolition/addition/remodel/new construction accessory dwelling unit. 611 E 6th Street – Sixth Street National Register Historic District – New construction. 1519 Alameda Drive – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – New construction. 2100 Travis Heights Boulevard – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Partial demolition/addition. 900 Spence Street – Willow-Spence National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1409 Alta Vista Avenue – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1607 Kenwood Avenue – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Addition. 1701 W 32nd Street – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – Total demolition and new construction. 4200 Wilshire Parkway – Wilshire Wood National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1205 W 10th Street – West Line National Register Historic District – Replace windows/doors, replace stone, repaint. Demolition and relocation permit applications (all total demolitions unless otherwise noted) 7304 Knox Lane – Relocation – 78731 1205 Cotton Street – 78702 10413 S IH 35 SVRD NB – 78747 4700 S Congress Avenue #10 – 78745 1702 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard – 78702 1704 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard – 78702 3711 Gilbert Street – 78703 4704 S Congress Avenue #16 – Relocation – 78745 4704 S Congress Avenue #15 – Relocation – 78745 …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, July 3rd, 2024 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, Chair Witt Featherston, Vice Chair Kevin Koch Carl Larosche Trey McWhorter Harmony Grogan Jaime Alvarez Roxanne Evans Raymond Castillo JuanRaymon Rubio Tara Dudley AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. June 5, 2024 – Offered for consent approval. 1 BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing on community outreach and engagement for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Presenter: Cara Bertron and Gregory Farrar PUBLIC HEARINGS/DISCUSSION AND ACTION Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 3. PR-2024-014961 – 801 Lydia St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Total demolition. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: Jennifer Hanlen City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Deny the demolition request. 4. HR-2024-040291– 1807 E Cesar Chavez St. Berner-Clark-Mercado House Council District 3 Proposal: Repair/replace deck and rails, paint exterior. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: David Rudick City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to August 7, 2024 to allow time to implement Committee feedback. 5. HR-2024-051579 – 1003 E 9th St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Partial demolition/addition/remodel/build new construction accessory dwelling unit. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: Joshua Mackley City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Strongly encourage the applicant to reduce the addition’s height further to enhance compatibility with the design standards, but approve the application, as the applicant has amended the design to better enhance compatibility per Committee feedback. National Register District Permit Applications 6. HR-2024-044761 – 611 …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, June 5th, 2024 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, Chair x Witt Featherston, Vice Chair x Kevin Koch x Carl Larosche x Trey McWhorter x Harmony Grogan x x x x x ab Jaime Alvarez Roxanne Evans Raymond Castillo JuanRaymon Rubio Tara Dudley DRAFT MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Eric Standridge spoke on 1500 E 12th Street. Tommy Siragusa spoke on 2100 Travis Heights Boulevard. Andrea Hill spoke on 900 Spence Street. Meghan King spoke on Preservation Austin updates. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. May 1, 2024 – Offered for consent approval. MOTION: Approve the minutes per passage of the consent agenda on a motion by Commissioner Featherston. Commissioner Larosche seconded the motion. Vote: 10-0. The motion passed. BRIEFINGS 2. Presentation on Code Department and Building Standards Commission processes 3. Briefing on outreach, engagement, and next steps for the Equity-Based Preservation Presenter: Robert Moore Plan Presenter: Cara Bertron CONSENT/CONSENT POSTPONEMENT AGENDA Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 4. HR-2024-025501 – 1000 Blanco St. – Application withdrawn, no action required. West Austin Fire Station Council District 9 5. PR-2024-014961 – 801 Lydia St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Total demolition. (Postponed May 1, 2024) Applicant: Jennifer Hanlen City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s postponement request to the July 3, 2024 meeting. MOTION: Postpone the public hearing to July 3, 2024, per passage of the consent postponement agenda, on a motion by Commissioner Featherston. Commissioner Larosche seconded the motion. Vote: 10-0. The motion passed. 6. HR-2024-040291– 1807 E Cesar Chavez …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2023-043027 TRAVIS HEIGHTS-FAIRVIEW PARK NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 1409 ALTA VISTA AVENUE 10 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1926 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH One-story Craftsman with horizontal wood siding, screened wood windows, decorative shutters, a hooded entryway with decorative brackets, and a clipped-gable roof. The house at 1409 Alta Vista Avenue was built around 1926. Until 1947, its occupants were mostly short-term owners and renters, including an engineer, a state highway inspector, an office manager, and a mechanic. The home was then purchased by Frank and Lura Connolly. Frank Connolly was the editor, owner, and publisher of the Texas Tax Journal, while Lura worked both at the journal and as a Red Cross nurse. The Connollys sold the home in the late 1950s to Anna and William Duncum. William Duncum worked as a public school teacher. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of modest Craftsman architecture in Travis Heights. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not appear to possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property does not appear to be a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Strongly encourage adaptive reuse and rehabilitation, then relocation over demolition, but release the demolition permit upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. The Historic Landmark Commission must review plans for new construction in National Register Historic Districts before the demolition permit is released. LOCATION MAP 10 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 10 – 3 10 – 4 Application, 2023 1952 Frank R. & Lura J. Connolly – Texas Tax Journal Publication Co., Littlefield Bldg. Occupancy History …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Russell Korte Historic Preservation Office district9@austin.texas.gov; Beeler, Melissa; Qadri, Zo; Fahnestock, Sam; Adrian, Leah; kalan.cotreras@austintexas.gov; Heimsath, Ben - BC; Dudley, Tara - BC Concerns Regarding 1409 Alta Vista Demolition Tuesday, June 11, 2024 9:03:44 AM City Arborist; Some people who received this message don't often get email from important . Learn why this is External Email - Exercise Caution Hello -- I am writing regarding the planned demolition of 1409 Alta Vista Avenue. I am a proponent of new development within our city, but without careful planning and consideration, this project could be an imminent danger to heritage trees on the property, negatively impact the neighborhood and Alta Vista Avenue, and set the wrong precedent for development under updated building codes. I am urging a postponement of the demolition approval until a full development plan is shared and neighborhood concerns are addressed. I observed at the June 5, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission meeting that the owner of this property intends to carry out a full demolition followed by the construction of a triplex. The owner, however, has not attempted to contact or make clear his plans with immediate neighbors or the neighborhood association. As the owner and resident of the house next door, 1407 Alta Vista, I am greatly concerned about the impact of this project on the neighborhood, Alta Vista Avenue, and my property. While I support the creation of additional affordable housing units in our city, I have concerns about approving the demolition of this original structure without a clear understanding of the triplex plans for this lot. My specific concerns include: Preservation of Heritage Trees: There are seven heritage trees documented on the demolition permit. How will the project address the preservation of the beautiful heritage oak trees on the property? How do we ensure that the developer does not willfully violate tree preservation rules? Maintaining Existing Feel and Setbacks How will the project ensure the preservation of existing street's feel? The setbacks create a sense of openness and greenery that is unique and core to the identity of Travis Heights Street and Alley Access and Parking: How will access and parking be managed for three units on this lot? I urge the Historic Landmark Commission, and the city, to hold off on approving the demolition of the existing structure until there is a comprehensive review of the proposed plans to ensure …
From: To: Subject: Date: Hillary Bilheimer Historic Preservation Office Tree Ordinance Review Sunday, June 9, 2024 9:53:41 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello I am writing about 1409 Alta Vista Av 78704 and the proposed development that is being permitted at that location. The developer has submitted plans for demolition of existing and building 3 new structures on the property. With seven heritage trees on the site, I am curious how this will happen. I am very much in support of keeping existing trees and setbacks in this neighborhood (I am an Alta Vista resident, myself). I do not support the current CoA loophole of essentially allowing developers to remove trees by paying a fine. This allows developers to merely absorb the fine in the case where they will turn around and sell whatever they are building at extremely inflated prices. It does nothing to actually preserve our heritage trees. In this particular case, both the developer and architect are from outside of Austin and can be assumed to only see the trees as a nuisance and not as the habitat-providing, shade-providing members of our urban forest that they are. Please let me know what is being done and what can still be done at this stage in order to protect these trees. Thank you Hillary Bilheimer 1802 Alta Vista Av CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
11 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-055618 TRAVIS HEIGHTS-FAIRVIEW PARK NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 1607 KENWOOD AVENUE PROPOSAL Construct a side addition to a ca. 1940 house, enclosing a detached studio building. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Combine 1-story, single-family house and detached studio building. The extended front wall will be flush with the original house, extending to the footprint of the patio at the side and the studio at the rear. The proposed design changes the house from a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom to a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom. 2) Partially demolish roofs of both structures and build new roof connecting them and over new construction. The side gable at the front of the house will be extended with matching dimensions, with two gables projecting to the rear at the existing house and remainder of the studio roof system. 3) Remove front window and door & install new fixtures. 4) Move driveway & install a new path to front entry. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register nomination describes the house as an intact, contributing example of the Minimal Traditional style built in a rectangular plan. The front elevation features a door at center, with a 1/1 window on either side. A side gable roof is present, with a front gable projecting outwards, covering the front entryway. To the southeast of the main house is a small, detached studio space with a front gable roof extending towards the front of the property. The southwest corner of the property is enclosed by a wood fence that forms a patio space behind it. The house at 1607 Kenwood Avenue was constructed around 1938, and was advertised as a 5-room bungalow rental for $32.50 a month. No records are present indicating who occupied the property until 1941, when it housed Roy & Ruth Krezdorn. Mr. Krezdorn worked as an electrical engineer at the Lower Colorado River Authority at this time, and Mrs. Krezdorn was active in Austin social groups, including Junior Helping Hand and St. Martin’s Lutheran Church. Later Roy worked in a managerial role, as well as an adjunct professor for engineering, and Ruth gave birth to three children. By this time they were no longer listed as residing at the modest bungalow on Kenwood Avenue, and listings had the Curtis family occupying the space, who would later appear on a notice for delinquent taxes. At some point …
12 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-071983; PR-2024-071554, GF-2024-073577 OLD WEST AUSTIN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 1701 WEST 32ND STREET PROPOSAL garage. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Demolish a c. 1949 contributing structure, replace with a new single-family house. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Demolish the exiting, fire-damaged house, which contributes to the National Register district. Retain existing detached 2) Construct a new one-story, single-family residence, with a larger footprint. House will feature front, rear, and side deck. Proposed house will feature an asymmetric gable roof and covered porch with minor similarity to the historic. Asymmetrical double-front gable, single family house with two sets of paired 1/1 replacement windows at the front elevation. A front porch extends across the smaller front gable, about half the width of the house. The building extends back along Jefferson Street with numerous windows of different sizes and a cross gable at the rear. A porch with pergola is present at the rear. Fire damage is present at several areas of the house, notably the attic and roof. The early occupant of the house at 1701 West 32nd Street was Arthur Anthony Shipley, a veteran of World War II. After the war ended, he attended the University of Texas and was involved with athletics and coaching. Upon graduation, he owned and operated the Varsity Shop on Guadalupe Street and rented the house on West 32nd Street. He was noted in the local news as an ardent supporter of the university’s sports teams. He suffered a heart attack and died while attending a UT football game in 1959 at the age of 52. The house appears to have continued operating as a rental after this. DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Residential new construction 1. Location The proposed new construction is set back the required 25 feet from the front of the property, which is similar to the existing building and surrounding houses, in keeping with Standard 1.1. Rear detached garage is proposed to be retained. 2. Orientation Orientation is consistent with the historic building and other houses on the street. 3. Scale, massing, and height The proposed design is one story, consistent with the existing building. However, …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-064449; GF-2024-073048 WILSHIRE WOOD NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAY 13 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1947 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH One-story cross-gabled house clad in siding and cut-stone veneer, with multilight steel casement windows and a front-facing garage. The house at 4200 Wilshire Parkway was built in 1947 by developers Bradfield and Brush. Its earliest occupants were William and Rachel Willis. William Willis worked at the Bireley’s Beverages bottling plant on Fifth Street. By the late 1950s, the Willises had sold the property to Charles L. and Bessie Simonsen. The Simonsens, a retired couple, had moved from Pittsburgh to be closer to their son, who taught chemistry at the University of Texas. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Wilshire Wood National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building does not appear to convey architectural significance. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property is not a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Encourage rehabilitation and adaptive reuse, then relocation or deconstruction over demolition, but release the demolition permit upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. The Historic Landmark Commission must review plans for new construction prior to release of the demolition permit within National Register districts. LOCATION MAP 13 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 13 – 3 13 – 4 Demolition permit application, 2024 Occupancy History City Directory Research, June 2024 1959 1952 1949 Address not listed Historical Information Charles L. and Bessie Simonsen, owners William F. and Rachel Willis, owners –Bireley’s Beverages (bottling plant) The Austin American (1914-1973); Austin, Tex.. 21 Sep 1952: A27. 13 – …
City of Austin Development Services Department Land Status Determination 1995 Rule Platting Exception June 13, 2024 File Number: C8I-2024-0092 Address: 4200 WILSHIRE PKWY Tax Parcel I.D.# 0218110524 Tax Map Date: 06/13/2024 The Development Services Department Review has determined that this parcel, as described in the attached description and map, IS EXCEPTED FROM THE REQUIREMENT TO PLAT in accordance with the Land Development Code, Section 25-4-2(C), and is eligible to receive utility service. The parcel of land consists of five acres or less, and is described as being LOT 4, LESS N5FT & SE TRI, WILSHIRE PARK; LOT 3, BLOCK 4, S CEN E PART OF WILSHIRE WOOD, SEC 3, Travis County, Texas in the current deed, recorded on Mar 30, 2007, in Document #2007057101, Travis County Deed Records. This parcel existed in its current configuration on January 1,1995, as evidenced by a deed recorded on Jun 26, 1984, in Volume 8668, Page 591, Travis County Deed Records. The parcel was lawfully receiving utility service, as defined in Section 212.012 of the Texas Local Government Code, on January 1, 1995, as evidenced by water service on Sep 24, 1947. The parcel meets the requirements of the Land Development Code for roadway frontage and is located on an existing street. Additional Notes/Conditions: NONE This determination of the status of the property is based on the application of Chapter 212, Municipal Regulation of Subdivisions and Property Development, Texas Local Government Code; and the City of Austin Land Development Code, Chapter 25-4, Subdivision. Recognition hereby does not imply approval of any other portion of the City Code or any other regulation. By: _Patrick Collins_____________________________________ Patrick Collins, Representative of the Director Development Services Department Tax Parcel I.D.# 0218110524 Tax Map Date: 06/13/2024
Hallmark Inspections, LLC INSPECTED FOR Meghan Hughes 4200 Wilshire Pkwy Austin, TX 78722 May 21, 2024 Hallmark Inspections, LLC 1805 Sanchez St Austin, TX 78702 Phone 512-660-7061 aaronwedemeyer@gmail.com SOLD TO: Meghan Hughes TX INVOICE INVOICE NUMBER 20240521-01 INVOICE DATE 05/21/2024 LOCATION 4200 Wilshire Pkwy REALTOR DESCRIPTION PRICE AMOUNT SUBTOTAL TAX TOTAL BALANCE DUE $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS! PROPERTY INSPECTION REPORT FORM Meghan Hughes Name of Client 4200 Wilshire Pkwy, Austin, TX 78722 Address of Inspected Property Aaron Wedemeyer Name of Inspector Name of Sponsor (if applicable) 05/21/2024 Date of Inspection 26252 TREC License # TREC License # PURPOSE OF INSPECTION A real estate inspection is a visual survey of a structure and a basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building. It provides information regarding the general condition of a residence at the time the inspection was conducted. It is important that you carefully read ALL of this information. Ask the inspector to clarify any items or comments that are unclear. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSPECTOR This inspection is governed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice (SOPs), which dictates the minimum requirements for a real estate inspection. The inspector IS required to: use this Property Inspection Report form for the inspection; inspect only those components and conditions that are present, visible, and accessible at the time of the inspection; indicate whether each item was inspected, not inspected, or not present; indicate an item as Deficient (D) if a condition exists that adversely and materially affects the performance of a system or component OR constitutes a hazard to life, limb or property as specified by the SOPs; and explain the inspector’s findings in the corresponding section in the body of the report form. The inspector IS NOT required to: identify all potential hazards; turn on decommissioned equipment, systems, utilities, or apply an open flame or light a pilot to operate any appliance; climb over obstacles, move furnishings or stored items; prioritize or emphasize the importance of one deficiency over another; provide follow-up services to verify that proper repairs have been made; or inspect system or component listed under the optional section of the SOPs (22 TAC 535.233). RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT While items identified as Deficient (D) in an inspection report DO NOT obligate any party to make repairs or take other actions, in the event that any further evaluations …
To Whom It May Concern: We have been hired as the general contractor for Meghan Hughes home at 4200 Wilshire Parkway. We specialize in both new construction and remodeling of residential and commercial projects. In our experience, we have found new construction of most homes to be more efficient in both time and cost. New construction also allows us to properly install adequate water proofing methods and energy efficient insulation and heating and cooling systems. The existing construction of Meghan’s home will not allow for proper exterior wall and roof insulation, or adequate vapor barriers. This combination can lead to potential issues with moisture build up and possibly mold in the future. It is also our experience in remodels of homes from the 1940s, that if the owner does desire to install proper insulation and vapor barrier systems, that very little of the existing home is actually remaining at the completion of the project. Thank you for your consideration for this project. Please let us know if you need any additional information from our team at Archive Properties. Sincerely, Ken Dineen Owner - Archive Properties
Water/Wastewater Service Plan Verification Form (WWWSPV) 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive | 512-972-1000 Option 3 | AWTaps@austintexas.gov Service Address: Lot: ALL FIELDS ARE REQUIRED Block: Subdivision: Will the dwelling units be demolished? Are there multiple dwelling units on the lot? Land Status or re-subdivision? Original Address: Are new dwelling units being built? Is this a corner lot? Existing Lot Use: Proposed Use: If SFR, sq ft: If Proposed Use is Other, describe the structure to be built: Existing Bath Count: Additional Bath Count: Proposed Bath Count Meter #1: Meter #2: Existing protected trees to remain on lot? Refer to the City Arborist website for required levels of tree protection. Water meters and wastewater cleanouts are not permitted in sidewalks or driveways Relocation of services from sidewalks or driveways shall be performed at the applicant's expense. The applicant listed below attests that the information provided is deemed accurate and complete based on available records. The applicant is responsible to confirm the location and suitability of existing water and wastewater services. The applicant may be responsible for costs associated to corrections due to incomplete or invalid information provided. Applicant Name Date Applicant Phone Applicant Email Submit this form along with plot plan, site plan or building plan to AWTaps@austintexas.gov. Plans must clearly mark all utilities and any tree critical root zones. Failure to comply may result in this form being rejected. Austin Water Use Only - Submit supporting documentation to Applicant when responding Water main size: Water service size: Water service material: Existing water service line/meter location: Existing Meter #s: Shared service? Proposed new meter size(s): Existing meter size(s): If Yes, meter #/size/address: Wastewater main size: WW service size: Clean-out location: WO denoting WW service line work: Water or wastewater main located on property? REQUIRED ACTIONS Secondary Address Needed? Land Status Determination Needed? Meter Purchase Required? Utility Plan Required? Comments Taps Permitting Office Staff Signature Date of Signature Stamp WWWSPV Form - revised 10/2/2023 116 118 117 103 101 104 102 112 110 111 106 107 105 108 109 113 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 116 117 118 TREE TABLE TREE TAG NO. TREE TYPE 15.5" CEDAR ELM 14" CEDAR ELM 13.5" CEDAR ELM 11.5" CEDAR ELM 19" CEDAR ELM 18" CEDAR ELM 14.5" CEDAR ELM 15" CEDAR ELM 16" CEDAR ELM 10" CEDAR ELM 18" CEDAR ELM 19.5" CEDAR ELM 10" CEDAR ELM 19" …
June 20, 2024 Meghan Hughes 4200 Wilshire Parkway Austin, Texas 78722 Re: Structural Observations of Existing Single-Family Residence 4200 Wilshire Parkway Austin, Texas 78722 Dear Meghan, As per your request, a representative of Fort Structures has reviewed the conditions of the existing residence that was built in approximately 1948. A home inspection report was issued on May 21, 2024 by Hallmark Inspections. The existing foundation is a concrete slab on grade with shallow perimeter grade beams. The inspection report points out sheetrock cracks, foundation cracks, and exterior veneer cracks, which are indicative of foundation movement. There are many cracked floor finishes, and cracks are visible at the garage floor. This property is located in an Erosion Hazard Zone (EHZ). An EHZ Analysis was done by Capital Geotechnical Services PLLC on April 18, 2024. The 4:1 incision slope analyzed in the report encompasses the back of the existing house. In the event of a substantial flood, the back of the house would be at risk of being undermined, and could fail. We recommend that any new construction be built on a deep foundation system designed to withstand a potential flood event. Additionally, there is a vast amount of rotting wood cladding that likely extends into the walls of the structure. Extensive water damage is present in various parts of the ceiling, walls, and floor finishes. The anticipated lifespan of a single-family residence is 50 years, and this structure has surpassed that by one and a half times. Making repairs to the existing structure would be cumbersome and expensive, and nearly the entire home would end up being rebuilt. Based on the current condition and the proximity to the EHZ, we recommend building a new structure. If you have any questions regarding the information in this report, please feel free to contact me at 512-817- 9264, or Thank you for your business. Sincerely, FORT Structures, Inc By: Samuel Covey, P.E. Its: Principal, TX Reg# 123,796 FORT Structures, Inc. TBPE Firm# 18034 June 20, 2024 June 20, 2024 4200 Wilshire Structural Observation Letter PG 1 of 1
Dear City of Austin & Historic Landmark Commission, My name is Meghan Hughes, and I am writing to express the utmost importance of demolishing my current home that I own at 4200 Wilshire Parkway. My goal is to create a safe and beautifully designed dwelling, utilizing long-time Austin locals - Engineers, Contractors, and Architects. For over 17 years I’ve been a resident of 4200 Wilshire Parkway, I am very active in my community. I volunteer with the neighborhood association and have adopted Boggy Creek @ Airport Blvd. , and regularly clean the creek with my neighbors. I walk my dog everyday in the neighborhood and am engaged with the residents of Cherrywood. Prior to submitting the demolition application I went out of my way to inform my neighbors of my intentions, making my home plans available, and having the team available for questions. At the time of writing this letter, I am planning to host an open-house with the design and construction team as a courtesy to the neighborhood. My team is working to design and build a high-quality personal residence, not a speculative development for sale, that is sensitive to the neighboring context, trees, and the character of the neighborhood. This home was built in 1947 and has old inefficient windows, little insulation, rotten siding, doors that don’t fully lock (in fact an intruder broke into my bedroom two summers ago because of this issue), an HVAC system and ductwork that are over 30 years past their life expectancy with mold throughout the ducts, and a foundation that is in literal shambles, and doesn’t use best practices that we now have in 2024. A renovation of this home would be a significant and unreasonable hardship, resulting in too great of a financial burden to bare for a compromised end result, as there is a lack of valuable or potentially reusable materials, assemblies, and systems in the house, and due to obsolete building standards and construction practices that were utilized in 1947. A new home would greatly improve the existing conditions of the property, as well as improve my own health, safety, and welfare for years to come. The City of Austin has just completed a gorgeous improvement of the Pharr Tennis Center at Patterson Park, across the street from my home. I believe the improvements proposed at my property, supplemented by the recent improvements of the Pharr Tennis Facility, …
4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAYDEMOLITION PERMIT APPLICATIONHISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSIONJULY 3, 2024www.emadiarch.comemadi MEET THE TEAM: OWNER: Meghan Hughes PROPOSAL FOR TOTAL DEMOLITION FOR THE CONSIDERATION OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION: Please consider the approval for total demolition of the existing failing single-story, single-family home at 4200 Wilshire Parkway that is well beyond its reasonable lifecycle and to allow the design and construction of a new single-story, single-family home for the current resident, Meghan Hughes. This is not a speculative design to be built and sold, nor is it a rental or STR cash-flow property - it is a dream home. As evidenced by the numerous support letters provided as backup, Meghan has gone out of her way to openly inform the neighborhood of her intentions, and introduce the proposed improvements and team to her neighbors. A resident at 4200 Wilshire for over 17 years, Meghan intends to build a sensible new home keeping with the neighborhood’s charm, character, and qualities that drew her to it in the first place. The team is a collection of local, award-winning professionals, many of which are UT Austin graduates, long-time Austin residents, or native Austinites with extensive experience designing, engineering, and building thoughtful, considerate, and appropriate projects in Austin. The team is familiar with design, engineering, and construction in residential settings benefitted by large trees and nearby bodies of water. As part of the proposed demolition process, we will be reclaiming as much of the existing limestone as possible, to be elegantly reincorporated into the new home’s design. Additionally, we have coordinated with the Austin Fire Department and nearby Station #14 to donate the home for controlled training prior to demolition. This training opportunity will include new, advanced life-saving technology for AFD’s consideration. From AFD: “We want to thank you for working with the Austin Fire Department to provide an acquired structure for training. The work we can do in a real building is invaluable and prepares us to face the challenges of an active structure fire in the city.” The neighborhood was invited by Meghan to open-house that occurred on June 20, 2024 with this presentation and the Architect available. INTERIOR DESIGNER: Natalie Ammirato ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGNER: EMADI - Ian Ellis, AIA, NCARB, RID & Jessica McCarty STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Fort Structures - Sam Covey, PE & Paula Wright, PE GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Archive Properties - Ken Dineen & Jordan Sheftel TEAM INFORMATION emadi4200 WILSHIRE PARKWAYHistoric Landmark …
Libby Chennell 4113 Lullwood Rd Austin, TX 78722 To the neighbors, friends, and stewards of our community, Austin has been rapidly changing; everywhere you look there are single family homes being subdivided into multi-dwelling lots and developers tearing down heritage properties in favor of monotonous modern boxes focused more on the bottom line than the integrity of the neighborhood. It can be frustrating to imagine the impact this can have on our wonderful, diverse, and welcoming area. In renovating and adding to her home at 4200 Wilshire Parkway, Meghan Hughes, a member of the community for nearly 20 years, is thoughtfully preserving the beauty and integrity of the houses in our historic mid-century neighborhood. She has ensured that her design preserves the limestone masonry found afront most original Wilshirewood/Delwood 2 homes and is taking steps to ensure that the project benefits the surrounding area by allowing the nearby Airport Rd. fire station to utilize her pre-renovation home for training. Meghan is a great example of what makes our community so special, taking an active role in cleaning up our local public greenspace (which is how I came to know her), and helping so many of her neighbors in times of need. I so appreciate having her here and look forward to how her home renovation adds to our ever-changing bit of Austin. Sincerely, Libby Chennell
Lisa Laratta 4008 Cherrywood Rd Austin, TX 78722 Tuesday June 4, 2024 To whom it may concern, Thank you, Lisa Laratta I am writing this letter in enthusiastic support of the complete demolition of the current home of Meghan Hughes at 4200 Wilshire Pkwy and the subsequent build by emadi architects. I have been Meghan’s neighbor for over a decade and I am aware of the problems the current aging home poses to her comfort, lifestyle and finances. I know that she will proceed with the new building plans with integrity and care for the property and her neighbors, bringing value and beauty to our neighborhood. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.
Neighbor support letter - 4200 Wilshire Pkwy, 78722 1 message Meghan Hughes < To: Ian Ellis < >, Jessica McCarty < > > Sat, Jun 8, 2024 at 12:40 PM Ian Ellis > Meghan Hughes Realtor @ propertie’s | Christie’s International 303.263.0904 ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Grace Tsao < Date: Fri, Jun 7, 2024 at 6:33 AM Subject: 4200 Wilshire Pkwy, 78722 To: < > > In reference to Meghan Hughes address: 4200 Wilshire Pkwy, 78722 Cheers, Grace Tsao 1510 Wilshire Blvd, Austin, TX 78722 I support Meghan Hughes's new home plans. I have lived next door to Meghan for years and know that this home will be a lovely addition to our neighborhood.
I am writing in regards to Meghan Hughe’s application for a demolition permit at 4200 Wilshire Pkwy. As someone who has volunteered alongside Meghan Hughes in various neighborhood initiatives, I have seen her dedication to our community firsthand. The plans for their new house reflect a deep understanding of our neighborhood’s character and an admirable vision for its future. The design respects the spirit of our area, while tastefully enhancing its aesthetic. This thoughtful approach will seamlessly integrate the new construction with the existing homes, maintaining the neighborhood’s cohesive charm. June 9, 2024 Thanks, Kevin Sullivan Kevin Sullivan 1309 Crestwood Rd Austin, TX 78722
To whom it may concern, I would like to express my enthusiastic support for Meghan Hughes in her application for a demolition permit at 4200 Wilshire Pkwy. As an architectural designer and a fellow resident, I am impressed with the proposed plans for the new house. The design is an excellent blend of old and new, capturing the historical essence of our neighborhood while introduc- ing contemporary elements that enhance its overall aesthetic. This balance ensures that the new construction will not only respect but also enrich the character of our community. It is a thoughtful vision that preserves our heritage while thoughtfully integrating modern touches. June 12, 2024 Best, Frances Peterson Frances Peterson 1409 Crestwood Rd Austin, TX 78722
Dear Members of the Historic Preservation Committee, I am writing to support my neighbor, Meghan Hughes, in her application for a demolition permit at 4200 Wilshire Pkwy. The proposed plans for her new house are done with great sensitivity to our neighborhood’s existing charac- ter. The design preserves the spirit and scale we all value, while adding a tasteful enhancement to our area. This thoughtful approach ensures that the new construction will blend seamlessly with the surrounding homes, maintaining the aesthetic harmony of our neighborhood. I believe approving this permit will not only benefit Meghan but also help sustain the cohesiveness and appeal of our community. Thank you for considering my support. Sincerely, Matthew Peterson 4106 Lullwood Rd Austin, TX 78722 06-14-2024
From: To: Subject: Date: Dan Brotman Historic Preservation Office 4200 Wilshire Parkway GF 24-073048 Monday, June 24, 2024 2:21:07 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern on the historic landmark commission: I wish to voice my opposition to the demolition of 4200 Wilshire Parkway. The "hearing" the committee set for this project is at a really inconvenient time for most.Why would you schedule a hearing at 6 pm on the night before a national holiday weekend. Was it so that no one could oppose the demo? 6pm at City Hall on JUly 3rd? Is this a joke? Last year the commission allowed Richard Lent to build at 4206 Wilshire Parkway. I opposed the demo and rebuild because the house in no way keeps with the historic designation of this street. His "one story" house (that is tall as many two story buildings) made up of cheap modular materials is an eyesore and immediately has an effect on my house at 4204 Wilshire Pkwy, Austin, TX 78722. The owners have installed cameras directly pointed at my property. They have installed landscaping that makes it virtually impossible for me to back up out of my driveway safely Materials and Height of property are extremely inconsistent with the historical house on this street. In short, just a big mobile home on 3 foot piers that towers over my original 1948 home. Is that what they are going to build at 4200 Wilshire? Wilshire Parkway used to be a tight knit street and now houses are being demolished one after the other. One individual demoed a house at 4208 just so they could have a bigger yard. At 4201 you allowed Mary Wilson to build a VERY dangerous fence that blocks off site around the corner so that an accident is bound to happen. You allowed her to build a pool in her front yard. Is that is line with historical homes from the 1940s. All these changes have changed Wilshire Parkway into a street most likely seen in California. Do you really want the older long term owners and renters on this street to be pushed out in favor of these homes? Please contact me at 512 587 3770. Regards, Dan Brotman Owner of 4204 Wilshire Parkway since 2010 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-074315 WEST LINE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 1205 WEST 10TH STREET 14 – 1 PROPOSAL Remodel a ca. 1929 house. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS 1) Replace windows and doors. The proposed new windows are aluminum-clad wood 1:1 double-hungs at the main elevation, and divided-lite casements at secondary elevations. No changes to openings are proposed within 15’ of the front of the house. The proposed new door is a half-lite door matching the existing size and placement. The secondary door will be replaced with a window of the same head-height as the existing door. 2) Replace stone veneer at secondary elevations with brick. 3) Repaint existing siding and trim. ARCHITECTURE One-story house with basement. The house is front-gabled with a partial-width porch and wood windows with 1:1 screens. The corrugated metal roof, with exposed rafter tails and triangular brackets at eaves, is supported at the main elevation by wrought metal columns. The porch gable features decorative bargeboards. The house is clad in horizontal wood siding, with masonry skirting at basement level. The house at 1205 W. 10th Street was constructed around 1929. Its first occupants were Ray and Elsie Glenn. Ray Glenn worked as a hoseman with Engine No. 2 at the Austin Fire Department. By the early 1940s, Frank and Elvira E. Cerniglia had purchased the home, remaining there until at least 1959. Frank Cerniglia worked as a painter and was employed by Seton Hospital during the late 1940s and ‘50s. RESEARCH DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Repair and alterations 1. General standards The proposed project removes historic windows from the building and replaces them without changing openings. It fills an existing door with a window and removes non-original historic-age stone veneer from secondary elevations. The applicant has amended the design to include Committee feedback. 2. Foundations The proposed project removes and replaces the foundation skirting at secondary elevations. 5. Windows, doors, and screens The proposed changes are compatible. The applicant has amended the design to implement Committee feedback. Summary The project meets the applicable standards. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the West Line National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is …
OWNER INFORMATION INDEX OF DRAWINGS G1.0 G1.1 G3.0 D1.0 A0.0 A1.0 A2.0 A2.1 COVER SHEET PROJECT INFORMATION AND GENERAL NOTES SCHEDULES DEMOLITION PLANS SITE PLAN FLOOR PLANS EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS Rymer Residence 1205 W. 10th St. Austin, TX 78703 ARCHITECT: Norma Yancey, AIA SIDETRACKED STUDIO, PLLC 6521 Burnet Ln. Ste. 105 Austin, Texas 78703 phone: 870.219.6942 norma@sidetracked-studio.com Andrew Rymer 1205 W.10th St. Austin, TX 78703 LEGAL DESCRIPTION 41.86 X 99.33 FT AV OLT 4 DIVISION Z ZONING INFORMATION SF-3-NP SQUARE FOOTAGE INTERIOR REMODEL MAIN LEVEL: LOWER LEVEL: TOTAL IMPROVEMENTS: 1114 SF 977 SF 2091 SF Sidetracked Studio 6521 Burnet Ln. Ste.105 Austin, Texas 78757 870 219 6942 06.07.24 FIELD INSPECTION REQUIRED Prior to performing any bidding, new construction, and/or repairs, general contractor shall visit the site, inspect all existing conditions, and report any discrepancies to the architect. e c n e d s e R i r e m y R . t S h t 0 1 . W 5 0 2 1 3 0 7 8 7 X T , n i t s u A DATE ISSUED FOR 06.07.24 FOR PERMIT PROJECT NUMBER: 0000 COVER SHEET G1.0 GENERAL NOTES 1. THESE CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS CONSIST OF ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED ON SHEET G1.0 AND THE INFORMATION ENCLOSED WITHIN. 13. CONTRACTOR TO COORDINATE STAGING AREA LOCATION AND ACCESS ROUTE WITH OWNER IN PRECONSTRUCTION MEETING. 2. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROTECTING ALL COMPLETED WORK. CONTRACTOR SHALL REPLACE AND/OR RESTORE ALL MATERIALS STORED OR INSTALLED ON THE SITE SUBJECT TO DAMAGE OR THEFT. 3. CONTRACTOR SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSTRUCTING THE PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL PROVISIONS OF ADOPTED CODES, LOCAL AMENDMENTS/RULES, AND STATE REGULATIONS. 4. CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY AND CORRELATE ALL DIMENSIONS ON THE JOB SITE. USE DIMENSIONS INDICATED. DO NOT SCALE DRAWINGS. 5. ALL PROPOSALS SHALL TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ALL SITE CONDITIONS AFFECTING WORK UNDER THIS CONTRACT. 6. IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE ARCHITECT OF ANY DISCREPANCIES IN THE DRAWINGS, OR ACTUAL JOB CONDITIONS WHICH WILL AFFECT THE EXECUTION OF THE WORK AS INTENDED. 7. CONTRACTOR SHALL SUPPLY ALL NECESSARY LABOR AND MATERIAL NECESSARY TO COMPLETE THE WORK DESCRIBED HEREWITHIN. 8. PROVIDE FIRST AID AND FIRE PROTECTION AS REQUIRED BY OSHA. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH NFPA 10 AND LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS. 9. CONTRACTOR SHALL COORDINATE MECHANICAL, PLUMBING, AND ELECTRICAL DIVISIONS WITH OTHER TRADES AFFECTING OR AFFECTED BY SAME. 10. ANY NECESSARY FIRE ALARM SYSTEM WORK SHALL BE …
OWNER INFORMATION INDEX OF DRAWINGS G1.0 G1.1 D1.0 A0.0 A1.0 A2.0 A2.1 COVER SHEET PROJECT INFORMATION AND GENERAL NOTES DEMOLITION PLANS SITE PLAN FLOOR PLANS EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS Rymer Residence 1205 W. 10th St. Austin, TX 78703 ARCHITECT: Norma Yancey, AIA SIDETRACKED STUDIO, PLLC 6521 Burnet Ln. Ste. 105 Austin, Texas 78703 phone: 870.219.6942 norma@sidetracked-studio.com Andrew Rymer 1205 W.10th St. Austin, TX 78703 LEGAL DESCRIPTION 41.86 X 99.33 FT AV OLT 4 DIVISION Z ZONING INFORMATION SF-3-NP SQUARE FOOTAGE INTERIOR REMODEL MAIN LEVEL: LOWER LEVEL: TOTAL IMPROVEMENTS: 1114 SF 883 SF 1997 SF 1 Sidetracked Studio 6521 Burnet Ln. Ste.105 Austin, Texas 78757 870 219 6942 06.25.24 FIELD INSPECTION REQUIRED Prior to performing any bidding, new construction, and/or repairs, general contractor shall visit the site, inspect all existing conditions, and report any discrepancies to the architect. e c n e d s e R i r e m y R . t S h t 0 1 . W 5 0 2 1 3 0 7 8 7 X T , n i t s u A DATE ISSUED FOR 06.07.24 FOR PERMIT 06.25.24 PERMIT RESUBMIT 1 PROJECT NUMBER: 0000 COVER SHEET G1.0 GENERAL NOTES 1. THESE CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS CONSIST OF ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED ON SHEET G1.0 AND THE INFORMATION ENCLOSED WITHIN. 13. CONTRACTOR TO COORDINATE STAGING AREA LOCATION AND ACCESS ROUTE WITH OWNER IN PRECONSTRUCTION MEETING. 2. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROTECTING ALL COMPLETED WORK. CONTRACTOR SHALL REPLACE AND/OR RESTORE ALL MATERIALS STORED OR INSTALLED ON THE SITE SUBJECT TO DAMAGE OR THEFT. 3. CONTRACTOR SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSTRUCTING THE PROJECT IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL PROVISIONS OF ADOPTED CODES, LOCAL AMENDMENTS/RULES, AND STATE REGULATIONS. 4. CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY AND CORRELATE ALL DIMENSIONS ON THE JOB SITE. USE DIMENSIONS INDICATED. DO NOT SCALE DRAWINGS. 5. ALL PROPOSALS SHALL TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ALL SITE CONDITIONS AFFECTING WORK UNDER THIS CONTRACT. 6. IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE ARCHITECT OF ANY DISCREPANCIES IN THE DRAWINGS, OR ACTUAL JOB CONDITIONS WHICH WILL AFFECT THE EXECUTION OF THE WORK AS INTENDED. 7. CONTRACTOR SHALL SUPPLY ALL NECESSARY LABOR AND MATERIAL NECESSARY TO COMPLETE THE WORK DESCRIBED HEREWITHIN. 8. PROVIDE FIRST AID AND FIRE PROTECTION AS REQUIRED BY OSHA. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH NFPA 10 AND LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS. 9. CONTRACTOR SHALL COORDINATE MECHANICAL, PLUMBING, AND ELECTRICAL DIVISIONS WITH OTHER TRADES AFFECTING OR AFFECTED BY SAME. 10. ANY NECESSARY FIRE ALARM SYSTEM …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 7, 2024 PR-2024-021145; GF-2024-043942 7304-06 KNOX LANE 15 – 1 PROPOSAL Relocate an early twentieth century house with 1940s vernacular additions to a lot outside the city limits. ARCHITECTURE The building at 7304 Knox Lane is an eclectic house with early Ranch and vernacular stylistic influences applied to what appears to be an early-twentieth-century vernacular farmhouse. It is one and one-half stories in height, with an L-shaped plan and intersecting partial-width porches. Its compound roofline features deep eaves with cedar shakes at gable ends. Fenestration includes 8:8 wood windows of varying dimensions. RESEARCH The house at Knox Lane and Running Rope Lane, known as 7304 or 7306 Knox, was constructed in the early twentieth century and augmented by the Knox family in the 1940s. The land was purchased in the 1930s by Mary Lou and Warren Penn Knox. W. P. Knox, the district commissioner for the Boy Scouts of America, turned the property into a day camp for boys called Running Rope Ranch. Knox was a Vermont native who moved to Austin after World War I. After serving as an Army captain in World War II, he became involved in Central Texas outdoor youth activities, including work as the official operator of the Arrowhead Ranch Camp in Kerrville, before opening Running Rope Ranch in the 1940s. The ranch offered riding lessons, hiking and survival training, swimming in the spring-fed pool—the land boasted seven natural springs, which were later identified by Margaret Thomas Knox as a habitat of the threatened Jollyville Plateau salamander1—and other outdoorsmanship training. From 1959 to 1966, legendary Austin horsewoman Ginger Pool taught at the ranch.2 The Knox family operated the day camp for ten years. Knox, noted as “larger than life” in posthumous publications, had eclectic interests. He entertained his pupils by showcasing rope tricks he learned as a rodeo performer after WWI. He was a life member of the Marshall Ford Game Protective Association, volunteered on the Council of the Texas Confederate Home for Men, and taught Sunday school at University United Methodist Church. In later years, James and Margaret Thomas Knox and their children moved to the property. Margaret Knox, Captain W. P. Knox’s daughter-in-law, was the daughter of famed Austin architect Roy L. Thomas. She married aviator and P.O.W. James Knox in 1944. After he retired from the military, the couple moved back to his family …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Jack Richards Fahnestock, Sam RE: Knox Ranch Development in NW Hills Monday, June 24, 2024 3:35:06 PM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Mr. Fahnestock- sign up for this? 1. Is there an upcoming hearing re this project? If so, I would like to attend by phone. Where can I 2. I would like my slightly amended comments to be substituted for my earlier email if possible. Please see below for the amended comments. 3. Will you discuss these questions with me? Possibly what I’m asking for is groundless. Possibly not. I would like the City of Austin to help me rather than a developer explaining the law to me, who obviously has a conflict of interest/is adverse to me on this issue. 4. Is the development plan approved, regardless of whether the home is designated “historic”? I was not given notice of this, or at least it’s been years since I received any notice. Thanks, Jack Richards Jack Richards | Shareholder | Trop, Pruner & Hu, P.C. | 512.517.6051 Patent Procurement, Litigation, and Counseling From: Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 10:52 AM > To: Jack Richards < Cc: Subject: RE: Knox Ranch Development in NW Hills Hi Mr. Richards, Thank you for writing in – I understand your concerns. I will add your comments to backup for the case so the Commission may review them ahead of the next meeting, and they can take them into consideration when making their decision. You may wish to call the applicant to address your questions. You should have received a notice in the mail about the relocation of the house on the property if you live within 500 feet, which has their contact information on it, but here it is just in case: Ricca Keepers (512) 550-6508 Ricca is just the one relocating the existing house, but she may be able to put you in contact with the developer. I do not have their information, unfortunately, but I hope you’re able to get in contact with the right people to address these issues! Thank you, Sam Fahnestock Planner II | he/him City of Austin | Planning Department P: (512) 974-3393 E: sam.fahnestock@austintexas.gov 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas > From: Jack Richards < Sent: Monday, June 24, 2024 8:50 AM To: Fahnestock, Sam …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Champe Fitzhugh Historic Preservation Office; Fahnestock, Sam Jack Richards; Knox Lane Development: July 3 Meeting Wednesday, June 26, 2024 1:38:18 PM Betsy Clements Some people who received this message don't often get email from is important . Learn why this External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: My name is Champe Fitzhugh, and I live with my wife and our 3 boys at 7221 Running Rope. We are directly across the street from the entrance to the short Knox Lane cul-de- sac which ends at the Knox property. At the July 3 meeting, it is my understanding that Mr. Jimmy Nassour intends to speak. Apparently Mr. Nassour represented that he has had several meetings with nearby residents regarding his plan to redevelop the historic Knox property. If that is the case, and I do not believe it is, those meetings did not involve us, despite our being directly impacted by the proposed plans. The development “plans” continue to experience mission creep. Mr. Nassour now apparently proposes 20 ADUs rather than the original single-family home project. Of course all of his plans have a single entrance and exit, one that involves traffic aimed directly at our home. There is no infrastructure to support the number of vehicles that would involve. There is no accounting for the environmental devastation such a development would entail. This is just a developer, with no regard for anything but his pocketbook, trying to take advantage of a situation. The Knox property is a historical feature of our neighborhood. It is a scarce natural water source for wildlife. It is a singular property in the City of Austin. Allowing someone to callously destroy that, with an indefinite plan, a single entrance and exit onto a quiet residential street (one that would have to provide for, conservatively, the comings and goings of 40 new vehicles) would be to completely disregard the neighborhoods, the citizens, and the many, many children who regularly ride their bikes up and down Running Rope, use it to walk to school (we have a group of about 9 children who walk to Doss every morning), and to permit the creation of health and safety hazards while allowing the destruction of natural resources. No one would benefit from this plan except for Mr. Nassour and his wealthy investors. There have not been ANY meetings regarding 20 ADUs. …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Fahnestock, Sam " " Knox Lane -- Relocation Permit--July 3 Thursday, June 27, 2024 10:34:44 AM ; External Email - Exercise Caution Mr. Fahnestock, Below are my comments for inclusion in the July 3rd Commissioner packet. Also I wish to register to speak by phone. The pertinent registration information is at the end of this email. Dear Members, I object to the proposed relocation permit for the property at 7304 Knox Lane. James E. Jarrett 7301 Running Rope Austin, TX 78731 Comments: My objections about relocation of the Knox house are four-fold. 1. Relocation does not preserve the house which has been the centerpiece of a large part of the nearby Northwest Hills land. This house has been a major landmark for several generations of Northwest Hills families. As a homeowner that can see the dwelling from my property, I can attest that for at least 32 years it has been decorated during the holidays as a gingerbread house. Not only have nearby families come by on foot to view the spectacle but cars often were parked on Knox Lane so that children and their parents could view this special structure. 2. Communication by the developer and his team with neighbors has been abysmal. I know of only two meetings that have occurred: February 2013 and July 2015. Nothing has been shared in 9 years. And while the postponement from the June 5th meeting to this July 3rd meeting supposedly was to allow time for providing residents an opportunity to meet with the developer, he has not reached out to schedule anything with us on Running Rope, the street that will be most affected. At the May 1 Commission meeting, the developer mentioned he had met with someone from the Northwest Austin Civic Association (NWACA). No date was given. Besides this obvious omission, Commission members should know that NWACA traditionally has never become involved as either a proponent or an opponent of proposed new developments in Northwest Hills. 3. 20 ADUs—Nothing has been communicated by either the developer or the City of Austin about this to my knowledge. We do not know if they have been approved, if these 20 ADUs would be in lieu of, or in addition to, the original 13 single family homes proposed. 4. The traffic situation from the original 13 proposed homes would be bad enough. (There are no sidewalks …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 7, 2024 PR-2024-042274; GF-2024-043970 1205 COTTON STREET 16 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1923 house. ARCHITECTURE One-story Craftsman bungalow with horizontal siding, 1:1 wood windows, and a partial-width porch supported by tapered posts atop stucco piers. It features exposed rafter tails beneath the gabled roof’s deep eaves. RESEARCH The house at 1205 Cotton Street was likely constructed around 1920, though the property’s longest-term occupants purchased the lot several years before. Henry Peter sold the property to Edward “Eddie” T. and Effie Esler White Yerwood in December of 1912. The Yerwoods, newlyweds, were both educators: Professor E. T. Yerwood was the principal of the West Austin School and district superintendent of the Sunday School convention of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Effie E. Yerwood was a teacher of history at L. C. Anderson High School. Professor Yerwood died on March 1, 1917. Between 1922 and 1935, Effie Yerwood either remodeled the existing house extensively or constructed a new house at the same place on the lot. Mrs. Effie Esler White Yerwood completed teaching coursework at Guadalupe College and Texas College in Seguin and Tyler. She attended Tillotson College and received her B.A. from Samuel Huston College shortly thereafter. Because Black teachers could not earn teaching certificates in Texas at the time1, she also studied at the University of Colorado and the University of California.2 After beginning her teaching career in 1910, Effie E. Yerwood taught at L. C. Anderson from 1917 until 1954. In a 1971 retrospective on her years of service with Anderson High with home economics dean Mattie Durden (who eventually became President of the Community Welfare Association and trustee of Huston Tillotson College3), Yerwood recounts the disparity between Black and white schools during the era of segregation: “[Anderson was] lacking a whole lot…the only equipment [Yerwood] remembers having was an old Bunsen burner, some rocks, and a tuning fork.”4 Yerwood and Durden also recalled the significant discrepancy between white teachers’ pay and their own, and how school administration explained away this injustice by stating that Black teachers had a lower cost of living than white ones. “I would tell them that just because you are a Negro doesn’t mean that you get discounts at stores,”5 Yerwood told the Austin American-Statesman. During the 1950s, as she neared retirement, Yerwood purchased the house next door and moved it onto the rear …
18– 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-022957; GF-2024-043958 4700 SOUTH CONGRESS AVENUE #10 PROPOSAL Relocate a ca. 1930 Calcasieu cottage moved onto the lot between 1940 and 1958. ARCHITECTURE One-story Tudor Revival Calcasieu cottage with large side addition styled to match. These cottages were designed and built by the Calcasieu Lumber Company of Austin in the late 1920s and 1930s. The cottage is a small, one-story, rectangular- plan frame structure with signature steeply pitched hipped roofs and an ornamental, flared front-gabled section at the doorway with false half-timbering in the tympanum of the gable.1 A non-historic addition has obscured its original shape. RESEARCH Merle Goodnight opened the Goodnight Tourist Courts in 1941 to capitalize on the increasing tourist traffic in the corridor from Austin to San Antonio, a section of pre-Interstate road known as the Meridian Highway. In the Winter 2017 edition of Preservation Austin’s quarterly newsletter, TxDOT architectural historian Rebekah Dobrasko writes: Although no remnants of the original road itself remain in Austin, there are small pockets of roadside businesses that still tell the story of the Meridian Highway through our city… Early motels typically took the form of motor courts, with an office out front and individual buildings accommodating travelers needing a bed. As demand rose, these tourist courts morphed into motel styles more typical of today. Some motels along the Meridian Highway in Austin include …the Austin Motel “Tourist Court” (c. 1940, 1220 S. Congress Avenue) …and Hill’s Café (1941, 4700 S. Congress Avenue).2 Building 10 appears to be a Calcasieu cottage and addition combined to form an L-plan structure, located directly behind the former Hill’s Café building. The cottage was moved onto the lot shortly after the construction of Hill’s, according to aerial photographs, and appears to have been used as support structures and storage for the popular dining spot. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain moderate integrity. Though the building retains its original detailing, the addition of a second cottage reduces its integrity; however, this modification appears to have taken place during the historic period. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of Calcasieu cottage detailing …
8 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 4 4 3 3 2 2 WW-68 H H MATERIAL LIST A SERVICE CLAMP REQUIRED ON ALL PLASTIC AND ASBESTOS CEMENT PIPE AND ON ALL IRON PIPE 300mm (12") AND SMALLER. B 38mm (1-12") CORPORATION STOP-SERVICE PIPE OUTLET. SPL C 38mm (1-12") SERVICE PIPE D 38mm (1-12") COUPLING: SERVICE PIPE TO MALE I.P.T. (COMPRESSION FITTING) E 38mm (1-12") BALL VALVE. SEE SPL WW -275 F BRONZE BUSHING, 38mm x 25mm (1-12"x1") I.P. THREADS G 25mm (1") COUPLING: SERVICE PIPE TO MALE .P.T. (COMPRESSION FITTING). H 25mm (1") SERVICE PIPE PER SPL-WW-65. I ANGLE METER STOP: SERVICE PIPE INLET x SWIVEL COUPLING NUT OUTLET AND BRASS BUSHING: -FOR 16mm AND 19mm (58" AND 34") METERS: 25mm x 19mm (1"x34") BRASS METER BUSHING. -FOR 25mm (1") METERS: BRASS METER BUSHING NOT REQD. -FOR ALL, SEE SPL WW-68. J WATER METER COUPLING: MALE I.P.T. x SWIVEL COUPLING NUT: -FOR 16mm AND 19mm (58" AND 34") METERS: 19mm x 213mm (34"x8-12") LONG -FOR 25mm (1") METERS: 25mm x 213mm (1"x8-12") LONG K BALL VALVE. SEE SPL WW-276. 19mm OR 25mm (34" OR 1") (PROPERTY OWNER'S CUT-OFF VALVE) L 19mm or 25mm (34" or 1") PIPE MEETING CITY OF AUSTIN I G PLUMBING CODE REQUIREMENTS. M AMRAMI READY METER BOX AND LID PER SPL WW-145 OR WW-145A N PROPERTY OWNER'S BALL VALVE BOX AND LID, RECTANGULAR G G PLASTIC BOX, DFW D1200 OR EQUAL. PHYSICAL SEPERATION G M 250 mm (10'') N L K J H CITY WATER MAIN A B D C D E F NOTES: 1. ALL MATERIAL WITHIN THE RIGHT OF WAY BETWEEN (BUT NOT INCLUDING) SERVICE COUPLING (D) TO BALL VALVE (K) TO BE REMOVED. 2. IF BALL VALVE COUPLING (E) DOES NOT EXIST, REMOVE MATERIAL UP TO 36" BELOW GRADE. 3. A PHYSICAL SEPERATION SHALL BE PERFORMED BY REMOVING COUPLING (D) BETWEEN THE CORPORATION STOP (B) AND THE MAIN AND SERVICE PIPE (C). THE CORPORATION STOP (B) SHALL BE ABANDONED IN PLACE IN THE "OFF" POSITION. 4. PRIOR TO BACKFILLING, THE CORPORATION STOP (B) AND WATER MAIN (A) SHALL BE WRAPPED WITH 8mm POLYETHYLENE FILM. 5. ALL VOIDS BEHIND BACK OF CURB SHALL BE FILLED WITH SELECT BACKFILL AND 6" OF TOP SOIL AS REQUIRED BY SECTION 510.2 (6) OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS. 6. ALL WORK PERFORMED IN THE RIGHT-OF-WAY SHALL BE IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE CITY OF AUSTIN …
From: To: Subject: Date: Contreras, Kalan Fahnestock, Sam FW: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 Tuesday, June 4, 2024 11:28:28 AM Please post to backup. Thanks! Kalan Contreras MSHP | she/her | Historic Preservation Officer City of Austin Planning Department 512.974.2727 | kalan.contreras@austintexas.gov Please Note: Correspondence and information submitted to the City of Austin are subject to the Texas Public Information Act (Chapter 552) and may be published online. Por Favor Tome En Cuenta: La correspondencia y la información enviada a la Ciudad de Austin está sujeta a la Ley de Información Pública de Texas (Capítulo 552) y puede ser publicada en línea. From: Michele Rogerson Lynch < Sent: Tuesday, June 4, 2024 11:27 AM To: Contreras, Kalan <Kalan.Contreras@austintexas.gov> Subject: FW: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 > External Email - Exercise Caution FYI on what I am sending commissioners for tomorrow… __________________________ Michele Rogerson Lynch Director of Land Use & Entitlements Metcalfe Wolff Stuart & Williams, LLP 221 W. 6th Street, Suite 1300 Austin, Texas 78701 (512) 404-2251 ofc (512) 797-2129 cell (512) 404-2245 fax From: Michele Rogerson Lynch Sent: Tuesday, June 4, 2024 11:18 AM To: bc-juanraymon.rubio@austintexas.gov Subject: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 Hello Commissioner Rubio. I am the applicant for this item. You may recall we were at the Architectural Review Committee back in September looking at the project as a whole and then at HLC in December for demolition of a few of the buildings (#12, #18, #19, #20). We are back tomorrow with the demolition of another building #10 as shown in this survey: https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=429994 During the committee meeting you and others expressed an interest in retaining some of the structures and we are doing that with the cottages (#18 on the second page of the survey). These are the old motel cottage units and we are relocating two of them to a proposed courtyard with the goal to repurpose them as coffee or gift shops, etc. I understand this item to be on consent, but please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thanks, M __________________________ Michele Rogerson Lynch Director of Land Use & Entitlements Metcalfe Wolff Stuart & Williams, LLP 221 W. 6th Street, Suite 1300 Austin, Texas 78701 (512) 404-2251 ofc (512) 797-2129 cell (512) 404-2245 fax CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Contreras, Kalan Michele Rogerson Lynch Fahnestock, Sam RE: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 Wednesday, June 5, 2024 9:22:20 AM Thanks Michele. Sam, please post this as backup so that they have the links for this evening—thanks! Kalan Contreras MSHP | she/her | Historic Preservation Officer City of Austin Planning Department 512.974.2727 | kalan.contreras@austintexas.gov Please Note: Correspondence and information submitted to the City of Austin are subject to the Texas Public Information Act (Chapter 552) and may be published online. Por Favor Tome En Cuenta: La correspondencia y la información enviada a la Ciudad de Austin está sujeta a la Ley de Información Pública de Texas (Capítulo 552) y puede ser publicada en línea. > From: Michele Rogerson Lynch < Sent: Wednesday, June 5, 2024 9:21 AM To: Contreras, Kalan <Kalan.Contreras@austintexas.gov> Cc: Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> Subject: FW: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 Importance: High External Email - Exercise Caution FYI – Perhaps you are already hearing about this but there’s some confusion with what cottages we were proposing to keep. I also received similar input from Rubio that makes me think they are going to pull for discussion. I provided the updated information below from the Dec 13th agenda last year in an effort to help clarify that these are the cottages we intended to keep. Please help reinforce this as the staff report makes it appear that we were to keep the #10 building on tonight’s agenda as well. __________________________ Michele Rogerson Lynch Director of Land Use & Entitlements Metcalfe Wolff Stuart & Williams, LLP 221 W. 6th Street, Suite 1300 Austin, Texas 78701 (512) 404-2251 ofc (512) 797-2129 cell (512) 404-2245 fax From: Michele Rogerson Lynch Sent: Wednesday, June 5, 2024 9:16 AM To: Koch, Kevin - BC <BC-Kevin.Koch@austintexas.gov> Subject: RE: Item 20 - 4700 South Congress - HLC 6/5 Thank you for the feedback and I agree that the backup could have been more clear. If you look at the backup report from the December 13, 2023, meeting (where we went on consent), you will see the committee direction to “retain 3-4 cottages if possible…” associated with what we call building #18. Those are the original motel cottages: https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=420356 We provided conceptual elevations to demonstrate that we were able to incorporate two of the cottages in the front courtyard along with the signage (which is …
19 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JUNE 5, 2024 PR-2024-043035; GF-2024-058054 1702 EAST MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BOULEVARD PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1916 house and 1942 ADU. ARCHITECTURE One-story National Folk house with pyramidal hipped roof, board-and-batten siding, and inset partial-width porch supported by turned posts. Fenestration includes 1:1 and 4:1 wood windows; one of the original double entry doors has been converted to a window. Two decorative jigsawn brackets remain and two chimneys are present. The back house is a gabled, one-story building with horizontal wood siding and a partial width inset porch. RESEARCH The front house at 1702 East Martin Luther King was constructed around 1916 as a rental property. Its architectural details define it as a “Hofheinz house,” distinctive National Folk houses rented to working-class East Austin families during the early years of the twentieth century by Edmund and Oscar Hofheinz. According to a 2019 Historic Preservation Office report, 11 known and 13 possible Hofheinz houses remain within the East Austin survey area,1 though several have been demolished since then. The East Austin Context Statement notes their impact on development patterns: The first two decades of the 1900s were rampant with development throughout East Austin…residential construction in these new developments reflected evolving trends in domestic designs, as the eclectic tastes of the Victorian era waned and simpler styles…became more widespread…new [working-class] house types began to replace more traditional forms. The linear, one‐ room‐deep plans that featured gabled roofs…gave way to deeper, more box‐like plans and often had hipped or pyramidal roofs with inset porches. The effect created a more vertical emphasis. The rental houses of brothers Edmund (“E. J.”) Hofheinz and Oscar (“O. G.”) Hofheinz exemplified this trend. E. J. Hofheinz (ca. 1870–1949) was a real estate dealer and accountant, while O.G. Hofheinz (ca. 1880–1957) was an insurance salesman and developer. Together, the brothers subdivided land and built houses in East Austin and Clarksville. Real estate transaction articles in the Austin American Statesman indicate that the Hofheinz brothers both speculatively sold the houses that they built and retained them for rental income.2 Though the Hofheinz brothers rented some of their properties to tenants of color, their purchase of smaller lots and homes made property ownership even more difficult for East Austin residents. Even if African American homebuyers could secure a loan large enough to purchase a lot—a difficult feat in the era of …
June 5, 2024 City of Austin Historic Preservation Board To whom it may concern, I am writing to express my strong support for Aisha Gooden-Williams and her family in their request to demolish structures on their property. As a scholar of the African American experience, particularly in Austin, I believe that denying this family the right to manage their property as they see fit, including demolition, would be an affront to the liberties that African Americans have fought tirelessly to secure. The legacy of African Americans in this country is deeply intertwined with issues of property and ownership. Historically, Black people were reduced to property through race-based chattel enslavement, bought, sold, and disposed of at the whims of others. Today, denying a Black family the autonomy to decide the fate of their property echoes these past injustices. The properties in question hold significant historical value. They are not just buildings but symbols of resilience and progress. My grandfather’s sister, Mrs. Winifred Hill Gooden, labored as a domestic worker in the Hoffenhiez residence for decades. As a Black woman born in the early 20th century to tenant farmers in rural Travis and Caldwell Counties, domestic work was one of the few employment opportunities available to her. Through her hard work, she was able to acquire many homes that the Hoffenhiez family reserved for “Colored” renters in the former Negro District of East Austin. This acquisition was a defining moment for Black property ownership in the area, representing a significant step toward economic empowerment for working-class Black families. I recognize and appreciate the City of Austin’s efforts, particularly through the Equity Preservation Plan, to address historical racial injustices. Preserving the histories, experiences, and contributions of African Americans and other marginalized communities is vital. Through my work with Black Austin Tours, I strive to fill the gaps in public consciousness and support programmatic efforts to this end. However, historic preservation should not solely focus on “preserving” the past. It must also consider financial and generational wealth. Equitable historic preservation involves educating and directing resources to historically excluded communities, empowering them to make decisions about their properties. If the Gooden family chooses to demolish a property to benefit from community development, they should be able to do so without impediment. The City of Austin should support their efforts to continue their family’s legacy of property ownership and economic progress. Moreover, this situation presents a …
June 10, 2024 City of Austin Historic Preservation Office Housing & Planning Department P.O. Box 1088 Austin, TX 78767 To whom it may concern, I am writing to wholeheartedly endorse Mrs. Aisha Gooden-Williams and her family's impassioned appeal to safeguard the residential dwellings on their ancestral property. As a resident of Austin, born and raised, it is important to recognize the importance of preserving the rights that African Americans have worked tirelessly to achieve. It would be unjust if this family were denied the chance to exercise their property rights, including the freedom to demolish their property. Appreciating and respecting the rich historical legacy of the African American community that flourished in Central East Austin is crucial. In accordance with its 1928 plan, the City of Austin implemented measures that mandated Black residents to reside within a designated 6-square mile zone, thereby endorsing segregationist policies. This district served as the residence for Black residents, businesses, schools, and churches, and it played a crucial role in influencing the lively heritage and cultural contributions of Austin's African American community. In order to preserve the respected legacy, set forth by the Gooden family in accordance with the 1928 plan, it is of utmost importance that these properties remain undisturbed. This will greatly contribute to the preservation of the past and the development of the future of The District, encompassing the properties owned by the Gooden family. Furthermore, the Gooden properties in question possess significant historical significance. These structures are not merely physical buildings; they serve as powerful symbols of resilience and progress. Sincerely, Shameika N. Brown-Smith
Case No. CL-2024-001905 In the Matter of 1702 E Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Austin, Texas 78702 Before the Building and Standards Commission of the City of Austin, Texas State of Texas County of Travis ORDER OF THE BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS On March 27, 2024, under the authority of Chapters 54 and 214 of the Texas Local Government Code, the Building and Standards Commission (“the Commission”) of the City of Austin, Texas, considered 1702 E Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (“the Property”) and took action as described below. A. ORDER The Commission orders the following: I I II II I pgs 2024036431 1. The Commission ORDERS that the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law for this property be adopted; 2. The Commission ORDERS that the owner complete the following within forty-five (45) days from the date the Order is mailed: a. obtain and finalize all necessary permits; b. demolish all portions of the residential structures, including any accessory structures, and remove as debris, leaving the lot clean and raked; and c. Request inspection from the City of Austin Development Services Department to verify compliance with 2(a) and 2(b) above. 3. The Commission ORDERS on the forty-sixth (46th) day if compliance is not achieved: a. b. the Code Official is authorized to proceed with demolition and to consider all portions of the residential structures, including any items in and around the structures, as debris, and dispose of as such; and the property owner shall be on notice that the Code Official is authorized to assess all expenses incurred against the property unless excepted by the Texas Constitution. A lien for those expenses may be filed by the City of Austin and recorded with Travis County Deed Records. Interest shall accrue at a rate of 10 percent per year from the date of the assessment until paid in full. VALIDITY OF ORDER NOT AFFECTED BY TRANSFER: When a Commission order has been filed in the deed records, the Commission order is valid even if the property is sold or otherwise transferred. A person who acquires an interest in the property after a Commission order is recorded is subject to the requirements of the Commission order. B. FINDINGS OF FACT The Commission makes the following findings of fact: II. III. PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION The property which is the subject of this proceeding is located at 1702 …
AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT Synopsis of Related Events For: 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD Filter by: From: May-22-2004 To: May-22-2024 Role Synopsis Location Event / File Type Report/File # Date FEL ASSLT W/ INJURY-F/V-EPO-NO CONTACT-200 YDS SAO-MAY NOT POSSESS FIR (EXECUTED) 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 ##B VIOLATION OF EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE ORDER - EPO ATTACHED/200YD STAY AWAY (EXECUTED) 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B ASSAULT WITH INJURY FAM VIOL - EPO ATTACHED/200 YD STAY AWAY/BIP (EXECUTED) 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B Warrant Warrant Warrant WT D1DC17300674 Mar-28-2017 WT D1DC08302364 Sep-26-2008 WT D1DC08302363 Sep-26-2008 ENGAGING IN ORGANIZED CRIME General Offense Report GO 2023-5019140 Aug-11-2023 FOUND LICENSE PLATE General Offense Report GO 2023-1951101 Jul-14-2023 ASSAULT BY THREAT FAM/DATING General Offense Report GO 2021-2311207 Aug-19-2021 TERRORISTIC THREAT-FAM/DAT VIO General Offense Report GO 2021-2270759 Aug-15-2021 ASSIST EMS THEFT FAMILY DISTURBANCE FAMILY DISTURBANCE FAMILY DISTURBANCE AGG ASSAULT ASSAULT WITH INJURY General Offense Report GO 2021-1311357 May-11-2021 General Offense Report GO 2021-361009 Feb-05-2021 General Offense Report GO 2020-2940789 Oct-20-2020 General Offense Report GO 2020-2030011 Jul-21-2020 General Offense Report GO 2020-1851175 Jul-03-2020 General Offense Report GO 2019-2682044 Sep-25-2019 General Offense Report GO 2019-2592048 Sep-16-2019 EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE ORDER General Offense Report GO 2019-5043870 Oct-24-2019 AGG ASSAULT FAM/DATE VIOLENCE General Offense Report GO 2019-2920273 Oct-19-2019 AGG ASSAULT FAM/DATE VIOLENCE General Offense Report GO 2019-2390038 Aug-27-2019 ASSAULT W/INJURY-FAM/DATE VIOL General Offense Report GO 2019-1041102 Apr-14-2019 FAMILY DISTURBANCE General Offense Report GO 2018-3151138 Nov-11-2018 FELONY ENHANCEMENT/ASSLT W/INJ General Offense Report GO 2018-2300553 Aug-18-2018 ASSAULT W/INJURY-FAM/DATE VIOL General Offense Report GO 2017-860688 Mar-27-2017 Printed On: Fri May 24 2024 For User: AP7267 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #b 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1702 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1702 E MARTIN …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Bertron, Cara Contreras, Kalan; Lukes, Austin Fahnestock, Sam FW: Seeking Your Guidance on COA Historic Commission Issue - Hofheinz Homes vs. Gooden Family Legacy Monday, June 17, 2024 11:58:03 AM Hi y’all, I’m late on following up on this request from Javier Wallace of Black Austin Tours. It looks like he attended ARC last week. …So y’all may have already heard Javier’s point about Black stewardship of the Hofheinz homes—a cool and important addition to the historical record. It’s not clear how that relates to the family’s demolition request. Cara From: Javier Wallace < Sent: Friday, June 7, 2024 3:23 PM To: Bertron, Cara <Cara.Bertron@austintexas.gov> Subject: Seeking Your Guidance on COA Historic Commission Issue - Hofheinz Homes vs. Gooden Family Legacy > You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Good Afternoon Cara, I hope this email finds you well. Sarah Marshall suggested I reach out to you. I am reaching out because my cousin, Aisha Gooden-Williams, called me about some issues she's having with the COA Historic Commission and the demolition of some structures on a property they own. The homes are located on East MLK and she said her permits for demolition have been denied due to the historic nature of structures, specifically as it relates to them being "Hofheinz homes." I was wondering if you had any insights, ideas, or strategies they could use in their case? I think it's important to note the history of the homes and persons that are much larger than them being "Hofheinz homes." My grandfather's sister, Mrs. Winifred Hill Gooden, labored as a domestic for the Hofheinz family for decades. Upon the death of Mrs. Hofheinz, my aunt inherited all of their rental properties in East Austin, designated for Black renters. Since, the Gooden family has been the steward of those properties and have kept longtime East Austin families in homes. I mention that, as I think it's sorely omitted from the historical narrative currently presented about "Hofheinz homes" in East Austin. Currently, when I read some of the rationale to preserve the homes, it's centered on the Hofheinz family and the architectural design of the structures. I think we should consider more than the traditional elements of historic preservation, which I know the Equity Based Plan is trying to address. I am happy to connect you …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JUNE 5, 2024 PR-2024-043844; GF-2024-058061 1704 EAST MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BOULEVARD 20 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1916 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH One-story L-plan National Folk house with hipped roof, board-and-batten siding, and partial-width front porch supported by turned posts. Fenestration includes 2:2 wood windows; one of the original double entry doors has been converted to a window. The back house is a gabled, one-story building with horizontal wood siding and a partial width inset porch. The front house at 1704 East Martin Luther King, originally addressed as 1304 East 19th Street, was constructed around 1916 as rental property. Its architectural details define it as a “Hofheinz house,” distinctive National Folk houses rented to working-class East Austin families during the early years of the twentieth century by Edmund and Oscar Hofheinz. According to a 2019 Historic Preservation Office report, 11 known and 13 possible Hofheinz houses remain within the East Austin survey area,1 though several have been demolished since then. The East Austin Context Statement notes their impact on development patterns: The first two decades of the 1900s were rampant with development throughout East Austin…residential construction in these new developments reflected evolving trends in domestic designs, as the eclectic tastes of the Victorian era waned and simpler styles…became more widespread…new [working-class] house types began to replace more traditional forms. The linear, one‐ room‐deep plans that featured gabled roofs…gave way to deeper, more box‐like plans and often had hipped or pyramidal roofs with inset porches. The effect created a more vertical emphasis. The rental houses of brothers Edmund (“E. J.”) Hofheinz and Oscar (“O. G.”) Hofheinz exemplified this trend. E. J. Hofheinz (ca. 1870–1949) was a real estate dealer and accountant, while O.G. Hofheinz (ca. 1880–1957) was an insurance salesman and developer. Together, the brothers subdivided land and built houses in East Austin and Clarksville. Real estate transaction articles in the Austin American Statesman indicate that the Hofheinz brothers both speculatively sold the houses that they built and retained them for rental income.2 Though the Hofheinz brothers rented some of their properties to tenants of color, their purchase of smaller lots and homes made property ownership even more difficult for East Austin residents. Even if African American homebuyers could secure a loan large enough to purchase a lot—a difficult feat in the era of segregation and discriminatory loan policies—the continual depletion of the …
Case No. CL-2024-001909 In the Matter of 1704 E Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Austin, Texas 78702 Before the Building and Standards Commission of the City of Austin, Texas State of Texas County of Travis ORDER OF THE BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS On March 27, 2024, under the authority of Chapters 54 and 214 of the Texas Local Government Code, the Building and Standards Commission (“the Commission”) of the City of Austin, Texas, considered 1704 E Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (“the Property”) and took action as described below. A. ORDER The Commission orders the following: IIIIIIHII IIHuH H 4 pgs 2024036432 1. The Commission ORDERS that the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law for this property be adopted; 2. The Commission ORDERS that the owner complete the following within forty-five (45) days from the date the Order is mailed: a. obtain and finalize all necessary permits; b. demolish all portions of the residential structures, including any accessory structures, and remove as debris, leaving the lot clean and raked; and c. Request inspection from the City of Austin Development Services Department to verify compliance with 2(a) and 2(b) above. 3. The Commission ORDERS on the forty-sixth (46th) day if compliance is not achieved: a. the Code Official is authorized to proceed with demolition and to consider all portions of the residential structures, including any items in and around the structures, as debris, and dispose of as sLich; and b. the property owner shall be on notice that the Code Official is authorized to assess all expenses incurred against the property unless excepted by the Texas Constitution. A lien for those expenses may be filed by the City of Austin and recorded with Travis County Deed Records. Interest shall accrue at a rate of 10 percent per year from the date of the assessment until paid in full. VALIDITY OF ORDER NOT AFFECTED BY TRANSFER: When a Commission order has been tiled in the deed records, the Commission order is valid even if the property is sold or otherwise transferred. A person who acquires an interest in the property after a Commission order is recorded is subject to the requirements of the Commission order. B. FINDINGS OF FACT The Commission makes the following findings of fact: II. III. PROPERTY IDENTIFICATION The property which is the subject of this proceeding is located at 1704 E …
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 27, 2024 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, March 27, 2024 The BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 27 March 2024, at the CITY OF AUSTIN PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE, ROOM 1405, in Austin, Texas. CHAIR SADÉ OGUNBODE called the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION (BSC) Meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Chair Sadé Ogunbode, Commissioners: Blaine Campbell, Michael Francis, Luis Osta Lugo, Logan Schugart, Edward Selig. Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Vice Chair Timothy Stostad, Ex Officio Commissioner Chief Stephen Truesdell. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No one appeared before the Commission for Public Communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on February 28, 2024. The minutes the meeting of February 28, 2024 were approved on COMMISSIONER FRANCIS’ motion, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO’s second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER SELIG was off dais. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. from PUBLIC HEARINGS Conduct a public hearing and consider an appeal regarding case number CL 2023-128313; Property address: 2901 Sweeney Lane. 1. 2. COMMISSIONER FRANCIS moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER CAMPBELL’s second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER CAMPBELL moved to 1 BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, March 27, 2024 adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and order 1) that the owner of the property maintain the security of the property until the May 22, 2024 meeting of the Building and Standards Commission; and 2) that the case be continued at the May 22, 2024 meeting of the Building and Standards so that counsel can provide guidance on legal issues affecting the property, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO second. The motion passed on an 7-0 vote. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. Conduct a public hearing and consider case numbers CL 2023-128650; Property address: 7603 Beinville Cove. COMMISSIONER SELIG moved to close the public hearing, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO second, with no objections. COMMISSIONER SELIG moved to adopt the findings of fact, conclusions of law and adopt City staff’s recommendation for repair of the residential structure within 45 days, with a civil penalty of $420 per week beginning on the 46th day from the date the order is mailed and continuing until compliance is achieved, COMMISSIONER OSTA LUGO’s second. The motion carried on a 6-1 vote. COMMISSIONER FRANCIS voted nay. COMMISSIONER BENIGNO was absent. Conduct a public hearing and …
AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT Synopsis of Related Events For: 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD Filter by: From: May-22-2004 To: May-22-2024 Role Synopsis Location Event / File Type Report/File # Date ASSAULT INFORMATION General Offense Report GO 2021-90608 Jan-09-2021 ASSAULT BY CONTACT General Offense Report GO 2014-5022758 May-21-2014 EDP INTERVENTION WITH CONTACT General Offense Report GO 2012-3130973 Nov-08-2012 EDP VOLUNTARY 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR General Offense Report GO 2012-1420421 May-21-2012 EDP INTERVENTION WITH CONTACT General Offense Report GO 2012-1391208 May-18-2012 THEFT General Offense Report GO 2010-5024109 May-11-2010 FAMILY DISTURBANCE General Offense Report GO 2010-581835 Feb-27-2010 THEFT INFORMATION General Offense Report GO 2009-860874 Mar-27-2009 FAMILY DISTURBANCE General Offense Report GO 2008-1751942 Jun-23-2008 CRIMINAL TRESPASS General Offense Report GO 2008-1701165 Jun-18-2008 ROM: Historic Address MARSHALL, SAMONE Dec-24-2023 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD , AUSTIN TX Person Police Call zFOLLOW UP INVESTIGATION Police Call Suspicious Person Police Call xASSAULT BY CONTACT Police Call Check Welfare Urgent Police Call Alarm Burglar Police Call xEDP INTERVENTION Police Call zKIDS CALLING Police Call Hang-up Residence Police Call xEDP VOLUNTARY Printed On: Fri May 24 2024 For User: AP7267 CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CAD Call CP 2022-3200446 Nov-16-2022 CP 2022-3120825 Nov-08-2022 CP 2017-680651 Mar-09-2017 CP 2014-3361178 Dec-02-2014 CP 2013-2370709 Aug-25-2013 CP 2012-3130973 Nov-08-2012 CP 2012-2241419 Aug-11-2012 CP 2012-2241418 Aug-11-2012 CP 2012-1420421 May-21-2012 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B BLVD, 1 #B 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #A 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 #B 1704 E MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD, 1 Page 1 of 2 AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT Synopsis of Related Events For: 1704 …
From: To: Subject: Date: City of Austin Historic Preservation Office 1704 e mlk Wednesday, June 5, 2024 7:33:00 AM This message is from Jennie Davidowitz. [ ] Hi there, I know there is a hearing on these properties tonight. I could not figure out what the approving or dissenting was in regards to, but I do not approve of these 2 properties being historically preserved due to the condition of the buildings currently and no interest in upkeep from the owners. The buildings are rotting away and racoons and cats have taken ownership of the homes.
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-060637; GF-2024-072950 3711 GILBERT STREET 21 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1948 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Single-story flat roof house with modest overhangs, board and batten siding, and two separated, enclosed patios at front. A covered carport to one side is at a half level below grade. The house is generally windowless facing the street, apart from a large picture window that opens to one of the front patios, behind a brick half-wall. A low, wide brick chimney is present towards the rear of the house. An addition was made to the rear in 1971. The house at 3711 Gilbert Street was constructed around 1948 and built in a modern style. It was occupied by several different households in its first ten years, including Archer & Gloria Parr, students at the University of Texas who moved after the 1950 birth of their daughter. It was next occupied by Bert & Gladys Debo, the former of which was an insurance agent for Southland Life Insurance. While Bert Debo was mentioned in newspapers for attending functions relating to the insurance industry, by 1955 they had moved from the house and it was now occupied by Erwin & Elizabeth Feild, who raised two sons there. The couple had previously lived in Beaumont and the general Houston area, where Erwin was a pharmacist. By the late 1950s, he had created the E.G. Feild Physicians and Surgeons Supply Company, where Elizabeth drew on her experience attending classes at business college in Durham to help manage the company. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain medium-to-high integrity. The picture window appears to be intact, and glazing appears to match a clear, colorless single-pane assembly. The full height porch in front of the main entry may have been a later addition, though the brick half-wall adjacent patio is in excellent condition. The flat roof and chimney show some general weathering but are in good condition considering the concerns associated with a lack of slope. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of mid-1940s modernist residential design. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to …
22 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-055712; GF-2024-072968 4704 SOUTH CONGRESS AVENUE, BLDG. #15 PROPOSAL ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Relocate a house moved onto the lot between 1940 and 1958 to the Goodnight property at 5604 S. Congress Ave. One-story cottage with asbestos siding, a Tudor Revival-style steeply pitched roof clad in corrugated metal, and 1:1 wood windows with screens. A carport has been added. Merle Goodnight opened the Goodnight Tourist Courts in 1941 to capitalize on the increasing tourist traffic in the corridor from Austin to San Antonio, a section of pre-Interstate road known as the Meridian Highway. The Goodnight family retained ownership of both the original motel site and the adjacent lots; while some buildings were used as support structures for the tourist courts and Hill’s Café, others were leased to renters and later to small businesses hoping to take advantage of the Meridian Highway traffic. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain moderate integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is an intact example of a vernacular Tudor cottage, likely sold and constructed by b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human the Calcasieu Lumber Company. history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not appear to possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property is not a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. COMMITTEE FEEDBACK Relocate, rather than demolish, the building. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Approve the relocation application upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. The applicant has applied for relocation, rather than demolition, based on Committee feedback. LOCATION MAP 22 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 22 – 3 Google street view, 2022-24 22 – 4 22 – 5 Relocation application, 2024 Occupancy History City Directory Research, 2022 Note: as the area was not originally within the city limits, directory research …
23 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-055712; GF-2024-072968 4704 SOUTH CONGRESS AVENUE, BLDG. #15 PROPOSAL ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Relocate a house moved onto the lot between 1940 and 1958 to the Goodnight property at 5604 S. Congress Ave. One-story cottage with asbestos siding, a Tudor Revival-style steeply pitched roof clad in corrugated metal, and 6:6 windows. Merle Goodnight opened the Goodnight Tourist Courts in 1941 to capitalize on the increasing tourist traffic in the corridor from Austin to San Antonio, a section of pre-Interstate road known as the Meridian Highway. The Goodnight family retained ownership of both the original motel site and the adjacent lots; while some buildings were used as support structures for the tourist courts and Hill’s Café, others were leased to renters and later to small businesses hoping to take advantage of the Meridian Highway traffic. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain moderate integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is an intact example of a vernacular Tudor cottage, likely sold and constructed by b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human the Calcasieu Lumber Company. history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not appear to possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property is not a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. COMMITTEE FEEDBACK Relocate, rather than demolish, the building. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Approve the relocation application upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. The applicant has applied for relocation, rather than demolition, based on Committee feedback. LOCATION MAP 23 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 23 – 3 Google street view, 2022-24 Relocation application, 2024 Note: as the area was not originally within the city limits, directory research is limited. 4706-A: Arthur and Virginia McWhorter, renters – student Occupancy History City Directory Research, 2022 1955 1952 Address not …
16976 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ 19'-0" 9 ' - 6 " THIS PORTION OF THE SITE SHALL NOT BE USED FOR OCCUPANCY OR SEATING 16977 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ EXISTING PAVILION 1,240 SF LIMIT OF CONSTRUCTION THIS PORTION OF THE SITE AND ALL UNUSED AREAS ARE NOT FOR PARKING NEW ACCESSIBLE PAVING 60 SF 40'-6" SEATING AREA 900 SF 29'-6" 2 5 ' - 0 " 1 A D A S p a c e 4 S p a c e s ( 8 . 5 ' x 1 7 . 5 " ) 5 C o m p a c t S p a c e s ( 7 . 5 ' x 1 5 ' ) 7 S p a c e s ( 8 . 5 ' x 1 7 . 5 ' ) NEW ENTRY PORCH NEW ADA RAMP H T G N E L E 8'- 6 " S O 7 A L H T O 2 9 5'-4" T NEW RESTROOMS 240 SF " 0 1 - ' 9 7 RELOCATED COTTAGE FOR RESTAURANT 578 SF FUTURE GREASE INTERCEPTOR PER MEP PLANS 33'-6" 16983 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ 16982 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ TO SANDRA ST. 16981 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ EXISTING WATER SPIGOT PROPOSED NEW 6" DIAMETER SDR-26 WASTEWATER EXTENSION @ 2% EXISTING 6" PVC WASTE LINE TO REMAIN INDUSTRIAL WASTE SAMPLING PORT PER COA STANDARD NO.520-AW-01C 02/27/2024 SCALE: 1" = 20'-0" 0 5 10 20 CRZ 90 16980 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ 16979 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ CRZ 16978 1/4 CRZ 1/2 CRZ W CRZ 5604 S. CONGRESS AVE PROPERTY LINE SoCo Container Restaurant 5604 S. Congress Avenue Site Plan " 0 - ' 5 2 NEW FIRE LANE STRIPING S S E R G N O C . S RELOCATED COTTAGE (TEMPORARY STRUCTURE) 578 SF PROPOSED NEW 1" WATER LINE EXTENSION EXISTING 1" WATER LINE TO REMAIN EXISTING WATER METER PARKING CALCULATIONS RESTAURANT (PROPOSED).......................................................... PAVILION (EXISTING)....................................................................... RESTROOMS (PROPOSED)............................................................ TOTAL SF....................................................................................... 578 SF 900 SF 240 SF 1,718 SF PARKING PROVIDED ................................................................ 11 SPOTS TREE TABLE NO. SPECIES TRUNK DIAMETER 16976 HACKBERRY.............................................18" 16977 HACKBERRY...............................................9" 16978 HACKBERRY.............................................15" 16979 HACKBERRY....................18"/15" (25.5 CRZ) 16980 HACKBERRY..............................................18" 16981 CHINABERRY.............................................15" 16982 CATALPA....................................................13" 16983 HACKBERRY..............................................10" LEGEND PERCEIVED LINE OF EXISTING IMPERVIOUS COVER (12,941 SF) AREA TO BE RE-VEGETATED (5,621 SF) NOT FOR OCCUPANCY, NOT FOR SEATING NEW PAVING OR FLATWORK (60 SF) FOR ACCESSIBILITY …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-063202; GF-2024-072979 4605 CASWELL AVENUE 24 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1938 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH PROPERTY EVALUATION One-story bungalow with horizontal and vertical wood siding, 6:6 wood windows, a partial width inset porch, and a side- gabled roofline. The house at 4605 Caswell Avenue was built in 1938 by E. Jessen, who may have been businesswoman Ella Jessen of the Von Boeckmann-Jones Printing Company. Jessen, however, never lived in the house. Its first residents were T.B. and Alice Phillips, who operated a package store. They sold the house after only a year to Corley F. and Florence B. Smith, co- founders of the Austin Air Conditioner Co. Corley Smith later worked as a loan appraiser for Citizens National Bank.1 The 2021 North Central Austin historic resource survey lists the property as a contributing building in potential local and National Register historic districts. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of a 1930s vernacular structure with Minimal Traditional stylistic elements. to have ever lived there. history or prehistory of the region. b. Historical association. The property was constructed by businesswoman Ella Jessen, though she does not appear c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human d. Community value. The property does not possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property is not a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Encourage rehabilitation and adaptive reuse, then relocation over demolition, but release the demolition permit upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. 1 North Central Austin Historic Resource Survey, 2021. https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Housing_%26_Planning/Historic%20Preservation/Historic%20Surveys/2021_NC A_WestCampus_NUni_Heritage_BrykerWoods_NHydePark/Appendix-C_Survey-Forms-1-page_FINAL_Part-2.pdf LOCATION MAP 24 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 24 – 3 Demolition permit application, 2024 Occupancy History City Directory Research, June 2024 1970 1965 1959 1955 1949 1944 1940 Corley F. and Florence B. Smith, owners – representative, Citizens’ National Bank Corley F. and …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-063913; GF-2024-073037 4620 CRESTWAY DRIVE 25 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca.1958 house. ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH PROPERTY EVALUATION One-story Modern-style house clad in rustic stone and vertical wood siding, with full- and half-height ribbon windows, a low-sloped side-gabled roof with deep eaves, and a monolithic stone chimney. The house at 4620 Crestway Drive was constructed in 1958 for John E. and Mildred Williams Douglas. Dr. John Douglas was an ear, nose, and throat physician with a practice in the Medical Arts Square on Red River Street. Douglas also served as chair of the Mental Health Committee of the Travis County Medical Society and president of the Austin Flight Club. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high to moderate integrity. The building has visible structural damage. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of Mid-century Modern architecture, using expansive glazing, rustic materials and a low-slung form to respond to the topography of the site and its hillside views. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the city, the neighborhood, or a particular demographic group. e. Landscape feature. The property does not appear to retain a significant natural or designed landscape with artistic, aesthetic, cultural, or historical value to the city. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Encourage rehabilitation and adaptive reuse, then relocation over demolition, but release the demolition permit upon completion of a City of Austin Documentation Package. LOCATION MAP 25 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 25 – 3 25 – 4 25 – 5 Demolition permit application, 2024 25 – 6 Google Street View, 2024 https://katehamlin.com/properties/4620-crestway-dr, 2020 Occupancy History City Directory Research, June 2024 1959 John E. and Mildred Douglas, owners Historical Information The Austin American (1914-1973); Austin, Tex.. 13 Mar 1955: C6. 25 – 7 The Austin Statesman (1921-1973); Austin, Tex.. 18 Oct 1963: 30. The Austin …
26 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-064274; GF-2024-073040 1500 EAST 12TH STREET PROPOSAL ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH Demolish a store building constructed between 1889 and 1911. Two-story store building with one-story rear additions. It has a hipped roof with a central hipped dormer at the 12th Street elevation, 1:1 wood and vinyl windows, and horizontal wood siding covered with vinyl siding that has been partially removed. A shallow frame awning shelters the two entry stoops at 12th Street, while the two entrances on Comal Street remain uncovered. The building’s second-floor porch was originally open.1 The building at 1500 East 12th Street, originally addressed as 1400 East 12th Street, is estimated to have been built around 1910 per the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey. However, the building’s earliest occupant—grocer Christian J. Wilhelm—is associated with the address as far back as 1889. Wilhelm, a native of Burnet, lived above his shop and sold groceries and beer; he also bartended briefly on Congress Avenue. Wilhelm was active in politics and ran for several civic roles, including Travis County Commissioner. In 1910, he and his family moved to Houston and sold the property at 1400 East 12th to Dessau merchants Ernest and Louisa Eisenbeiser. The Eisenbeiser store functioned sold produce and dry goods, and also had a saloon and restaurant. The Eisenbeiser family lived above the store and occasionally rented out living space for tenants. During Prohibition, the saloon was closed by City ordinance, though it later reopened. By 1934, it was a popular spot for German food, music, and beer, boasting novelties like a marble beer vault and a resident accordion band. Improvements to the building were made during this time, potentially including the enclosure of the open second-floor porch. After E. F. Eisenbeiser died in 1947, his wife, Louisa, continued to run the business for about two years; by 1950, she had sold the building to African American businessman Buford Johnson and its furnishings to widow E. M. Barton. Johnson primarily owned grocery stores, but by the mid-1950s, the building at 1500 East 12th Street had greatly expanded its offerings to the neighborhood. The Fifteen Hundred Beauty and Barber Shops operated out of the building, along with Club Fifteen Hundred, a bar and music venue. The Gamma Eta Alpha chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity also took up residence there. The oldest fraternity to allow …
From: To: Subject: Date: Eric Standridge Fahnestock, Sam 1500 East 12th street Tuesday, June 4, 2024 9:32:24 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] . Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution Hello Sam, My name is Eric and my am a member of the OCEAN, the planning contact team for central east Austin. I drove by this building today and noticed what appears to be active demolition/deconstruction in progress. Upon looking it up it on the city permit search it appears historic was rejected yesterday. I’ll admit I don’t know what that means, but I have been involved in numerous discussion about this building for years, mostly how it’s a demolition by neglect case study. Along with the IQ Hurdle house across the street and the South Gate Lewis house, this intersection has three eligible buildings which is rare in Austin generally. Surely, a 109 year old building identified as worthy of preservation in the east Austin historic survey would at least get a hearing at the landmark commission. Please call me to discuss. Thank you, -eric standridge 512-947-5766 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov."
27 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-064765; GF-2024-073045 1814 AIROLE WAY PROPOSAL Construct an addition to a ca. 1950 A.D. Stenger house. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH DESIGN STANDARDS 1) Construct a two- and one-half story addition. The proposed addition is clad in horizontal siding and stucco and features a horizontal louvered window above the existing entryway. It has a low-sloped roof and full-height and ribbon windows at secondary elevations. 2) Partially enclose the existing carport with vertical metal screening. 3) Replace existing windows with matching windows in existing openings. One- and one-half story Mid-century Modern house with stone, stucco, and vertical wood cladding, a compound flat and shed roofline, and fixed ribbon and full-height windows. The house at 1814 Airole Way was constructed by notable Austin architect and builder A. D. Stenger. Stenger, who purchased lots and built houses on spec for potential buyers, permitted the house in 1950, though it did not appear in City directories until 1955. The home’s first occupants were James and Claudine Lands. Lands worked as a representative of the Gulf Oil Company. In 1957, the Lands sold the house to William Bollman, who lived there with his family until at least 1970. The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects at potential historic landmarks. Repair and alterations 1. General standards The proposed project removes minimal historic fabric at the main elevation, with more removed from the rear addition. 5. Windows, doors, and screens The proposed replacement windows do not alter existing openings. 8. Attached garages and carports The proposed garage screening appears transparent. Residential additions 1. Location The proposed addition is located at the top, sides, and rear of the existing building. 2. Scale, massing, and height The proposed addition’s scale and massing are somewhat compatible; the impact of the addition at the rear and rear-side of the building is mitigated by the site’s topography. 3. Design and style The proposed design and style appear appropriate. 4. Roofs The proposed roofline appears mostly appropriate. 5. Exterior walls The proposed wall materials are compatible. 27 – 2 6. Windows, screens, and doors Proposed windows are mostly compatible. The applicant has amended the design to incorporate Committee feedback. Summary The project mostly meets the applicable standards. The applicant has amended the …
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28 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION DEMOLITION AND RELOCATION PERMITS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-065928; GF-2024-073054 3310 BOWMAN AVENUE PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1951 house. ARCHITECTURE One- and one-half story eclectic revival house with mansard and flat rooflines, 6:6 symmetrical windows at the main elevation, and a side-entry garage at the basement level. The house is clad in painted stone veneer and shingle siding, with a monolithic chimney and decorative shutters at windows and doors. RESEARCH The house at 3310 Bowman Avenue was designed and built by developer Bob Bowman, advertised as a modern French Provincial residence in the newly platted Tanglewood neighborhood. By 1955, the home had been purchased by Madeleine and Travis LaRue. LaRue, who owned a laundry and dry-cleaning business with his brother, followed in his politically minded father’s footsteps. After serving three terms on the City Council from 1963 to 1969, Travis LaRue was elected mayor of Austin in 1969. He served one term. LaRue’s tenure as mayor and councilman coincided with one of the most turbulent and transformative periods in the twentieth century. He made headlines as a councilmember by opposing a city vote for an improved fair housing ordinance, preferring a longer public process that included realty and development groups in the community outreach process like San Antonio’s similar ordinance. LaRue’s requests for delaying decisions on codification of Civil Rights and push for “voluntary” integration were criticized by Civil Rights activists, but LaRue won the race for mayor in a landslide in 1969. As Mayor, LaRue pledged to lower taxes and run the city more like a business, with efficiency and economy at the forefront. LaRue supported student protests at the University of Texas after the Kent State shootings in 1970 and vowed to end water pollution in the city after his business was cited for releasing dry cleaning effluence into Waller Creek. Despite his 2-1 victory against incumbent Harry Akin in 1969, LaRue lost the mayor’s race in 1971 to school board president and car dealership owner Roy Butler. PROPERTY EVALUATION Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it may meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is an eclectic example of a modest suburban home with French Provincial …
Sam Fahnestock Historic Preservation Office City of Austin May 23, 2024 Subject: Request to consider initiation of historic zoning, Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo/Women in Construction Gazebo (9037 Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail) Dear Mr. Fahnestock, We would like to include the Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo/Women in Construction Gazebo, located at 9037 Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, on the Historic Landmark Commission’s June agenda for consideration of initiation of historic zoning. The owner, the City of Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), has been notified of this request. The gazebo was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2019. Originally known as the Town Lake Gazebo, the Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo was the first public structure built in the effort to beautify the south shore of Town Lake (now Lady Bird Lake). The Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), established in the 1950s for women working in the construction industry, spearheaded and raised funds for the project’s completion. The structure was built from 1969-1970 and features a striking hyperbolic paraboloid roof with folded plate ridges and valleys. Architect J. Sterry Nill designed a community structure that reflected the architectural trends of the 1960s and brought an iconic piece of architecture to the shores of Lady Bird Lake. The gazebo was later named after Fannie Davis, a charter member of the Austin chapter of NAWIC. The gazebo’s Mid-Century Modern design and contributions to the beautification of Town Lake meet the City’s Architecture and Community Value criteria for local landmark designation. It is also eligible for its Historical Associations with the development of the hike and bike trail, and women in construction. Thank you for your consideration and feel free to reach out regarding any questions or concerns. Thank you, JuanRaymon Rubio, Associate AIA Historic Landmark Commissioner, District 2 708.743.8148 BC-JuanRaymon.Rubio@AustinTexas.gov Motioned By: Commissioner Rubio BC-Kevin.Koch@AustinTexas.gov Seconded By: Commissioner Koch Kevin Koch, AIA Historic Landmark Commissioner, District 3
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-014961; GF-2024-030567 ROBERTSON/STUART & MAIR 801 LYDIA STREET 3 – 1 PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1914 contributing building. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STANDARDS One-story bungalow with Craftsman influences, partial width inset porch, horizontal wood siding, and decorative cement stairways. The Robertson/Stuart & Mair Design Standards are used to evaluate projects within the historic district. The following standards apply to the proposed project: 1.2.1.1. Do not alter or remove historic features unless they are deteriorated beyond repair. The proposal demolishes the existing building. Summary The project does not meet the applicable standards. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Robertson/Stuart & Mair Historic District. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Deny the demolition request. LOCATION MAP 3 – 2 PROPERTY INFORMATION Photos 3 – 3 3 – 4 Demolition permit application, 2024 Permits 3 – 5 3 – 6
Sam Fahnestock Historic Preservation Office City of Austin June 27, 2024 Subject: Request to consider initiation of historic zoning, Bethany Cemetery (1300 Springdale Rd) Dear Mr. Fahnestock, We would like to include the Bethany Cemetery, located at 1300 Springdale Road, on the Historic Landmark Commission’s July agenda for consideration of initiation of historic zoning. The owner, the Bethany Cemetery Association, fully supports this request. Bethany Cemetery is a six-acre, private burial ground located in East Austin. The Bethany Cemetery Company was formed in 1893 in response to the needs of the African American community. Bethany Cemetery is considered Austin’s first black cemetery.1 The Cemetery contains graves on site as early as 1871 and is strategically situated along El Camino Real de los Tejas, a 17th/18th- Century Native American and Spanish Colonial trade route. Hundreds of Austinites are buried at Bethany Cemetery, many of which have dedicated their lives to the betterment of African Americans throughout the region. Dozens are associated with local Black churches, benevolent societies, trade unions, lodges, businesses, war veterans, and tragic events such as the Waller and Shoal Creeks Flood of 1915. Bethany Cemetery is a reminder of the development of Austin’s African American Community from the time of slavery and the Civil War through the present. The impact of the site and its interred are felt citywide to this day, as likely remnants of the Camino Real are intact, and Bethany Cemetery Association maintains an active curriculum program for public schools. The Cemetery’s strong community value, historical associations, archeology, and landscape features, more than fulfill the criteria for local landmark designation. Thank you for your consideration and feel free to reach out regarding any questions or concerns. Thank you, JuanRaymon Rubio, Associate AIA Historic Landmark Commissioner, District 2 BC-JuanRaymon.Rubio@AustinTexas.gov Motioned By: Commissioner Rubio Kevin Koch, AIA Historic Landmark Commissioner, District 3 BC-Kevin.Koch@AustinTexas.gov Seconded By: Commissioner Koch 1 Austin’s first public cemetery, Oakwood Cemetery, allowed a designated corner for “colored” Austinites in 1856, and the nearby Plummers Cemetery was established around 1898 (another private African American rural cemetery later purchased by the City of Austin). Evergreen Cemetery, established in 1926 to serve Austin’s African American Community contains the historic Highland Park Cemetery. Highland Park Cemetery was established in 1891 and reportedly served all races from 1891-1893. Oakwood Cemetery was established by the state in 1839 and later transferred to the City of Astin in 1856. Approximately 1,211 …
June 17, 2024 Subject: Bethany Cemetery Historic Designation To: Austin Historic Landmark Commission It has come to our attention that the Bethany Cemetery Association is applying for a city historic designation. Bethany Cemetery is an historic African American Cemetery purchased and developed by John Holland and William Tears in 1893. It contains the burials of many notable persons and has, for the past years, been overlooked and neglected. There is currently concern that development next door to the cemetery may bring unwanted use and potential damage to the site. The Travis County Historical Commission commends Sue Spears and the members of the Bethany Cemetery Association (BCA) in their efforts to protect and document the deep history of the cemetery and help educate the public about the lives of the important people buried there. We believe that a city historic designation will help provide a layer of recognition and protection to this valuable resource. African American historical research and tourism is quickly gathering importance as the community actively seeks information about lost relatives and the lives of people buried in traditional African American cemeteries. For too many years, much of the needed information has been lacking, and it is only recently that these histories have been available to the general public. There has been a strong uptick in interest from the public and preservation organizations (such as our commission) are now regularly contacted about such data. We feel that a City of Austin Historic Designation for Bethany will serve the community and foster African American Heritage Tourism in Austin. We ask that the City of Austin Historic Landmark Commission carefully review and accept the application of the Bethany Cemetery Association for a city designation in its efforts to protect, document and educate the public about this important historical and cultural site. If we can provide any further assistance, please let us know. Respectfully, James Robert “Bob” Ward Chair Travis County Historical Commission
June 25, 2024 Board of Directors Adam Adams Tom Byrd Joyce Conner William Doolittle Miguel Ángel Fernández de Mazarambroz John Kisalus Bob Perkins Dave Regan Jesús Treviño Bob Ward Executive Director Steven Gonzales Contact P.O. Box 41286 Austin, Texas 78704 P: 512-850-9073 F: 512-451-3110 Subject: Bethany Cemetery Historic Designation To the Austin Historic Landmark Commission, The Bethany Cemetery is one of the oldest African American Cemeteries in Austin. Established by John Holland, William Tears, Henderson Rollins and Allen Bradley in 1893, the cemetery has served the community since that time as the resting place for members of the Austin African American population. Before the creation of the cemetery, a section of the El Camino Real ran through the grounds and traces are still visible on the landscape. The El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail Association supports the efforts of the Bethany Cemetery Association in obtaining a local landmark designation for the tract. We feel that the presence of the trail serves to remind us of the historical interconnectedness that links us all together. Recognition from the City of Austin and your commission will help further the narrative of both the cemetery and the trail. Please let us know how we can further this effort and if we can be of additional service, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you, Bob Ward Public Relations Committee www.elcaminotrail.org
4 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-040291 BERNER-CLARK-MERCADO HOUSE 1807 EAST CESAR CHAVEZ STREET PROPOSAL PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS DESIGN STANDARDS Stabilize porch structure by repairing deck, balcony rails, and porch posts. Paint over graffiti. The proposed porch repairs were completed without a permit. Balcony railings, porch supports, and decking have been replaced. Graffiti remediation and new paint are proposed. The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects at historic landmarks. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Repair and alterations 1. General standards Historic materials have been removed from the building; the extent of deterioration prior to removal is not clear. The replacement materials do not look the same as the removed historic materials. 6. Porches Deteriorated porch elements have been removed and replaced with inappropriate new materials. The repaired porch decking appears appropriately constructed. Summary The project mostly does not meet the applicable standards. COMMITTEE FEEDBACK Use the same profiles and designs for all woodwork. Porch columns, balustrades, and bracket detailing should be put back exactly, using historic photographs. Add transparent extensions to railings at original height where required by Code, e.g., a light metal topping rail. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to August 7, 2024 to allow time to implement Committee feedback. LOCATION MAP 4 – 2
5 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS JUNE 5, 2024 HR-2024-051579 ROBERTSON/STUART & MAIR HISTORIC DISTRICT 1003 EAST 9TH STREET PROPOSAL PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS Demolish an existing carport. Partially demolish and construct an addition, replace roof and windows, and construct a rear accessory dwelling unit. 1) Demolish carport at rear of property. 2) Restore exterior walls and replace windows and roofing. 3) Partially demolish the existing building at the rear southeast corner. 4) Construct a new two-story addition. The proposed addition, located immediately above the existing ridgeline, is two stories in height, with an irregular roofline and undivided fenestration. 5) Construct a two-story flat-roofed breezeway with roof deck from the addition to the rear ADU. 6) Construct a new ADU at the rear of the property. The proposed building has a side-gabled roof and is clad in stucco. It has fixed corner windows and a spiral staircase. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STANDARDS One-story Folk Victorian house with partial-width inset porch, jigsawn porch trim, and wing-and-gable plan. The Robertson/Stuart & Mair Design Standards are used to evaluate projects within the historic district. The following standards apply to the proposed project: 1.2.1. Alterations to Contributing Buildings. 1.2.1.1. Do not alter or remove historic features unless they are deteriorated beyond repair. The proposed project removes and replaces existing windows and doors. While the existing windows do not appear to be of historic age and will be replaced in-kind, the existing screen door and front door appear to be from the historic period, though likely not original. 1.2.1.2. If replacing deteriorated historic features, match the original as close as possible. The proposed 2:2 window replacements and partially glazed door replacement appear mostly appropriate; however, the door replacement does not match the existing door. No photos of the original door are available. 1.2.2. Specific Standards 1.2.2.1. Front exterior walls The proposed project restores and refinishes the existing siding and trim at the front of the house. 1.2.2.2. Doors and door openings The proposed project does not alter existing door openings but removes the screen door and replaces the existing door; the replacement appears mostly appropriate. 1.2.2.3. Windows and window openings See 1.2.1.1. The proposed project does not alter the window openings at the front of the house. 1.2.2.4. Roofs and roof features The proposed project extends the existing roof shape past the ridgeline, approximately 14’ 3” from the front wall of the house. …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-044761 SIXTH STREET NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 611 EAST 6TH STREET 6 – 1 PROPOSAL Construct a new commercial mixed-use building. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS The proposed building is six stories in height, with residential units stacked above ground-level commercial space. Materials include brick and stucco with stone accents. Full-height glazing is present on the ground floor, with divided 9-pane fixed windows at residential spaces above. The garage is accessed via Red River Street. The proposed project also includes plantings at East Sixth, Sabine, and Red River Street frontages. DESIGN STANDARDS The design standards established by Ordinance No. 20230720-160 (July 2023) and based on the Citywide Historic Design Standards for properties in the 500 and 600 blocks of East Sixth Street apply. The proposed project was evaluated based on the following applicable standards: 3) Commercial New Construction a) Location: Maintain the rhythm of contributing buildings on the street. Orient a new building consistently with the predominant orientation of contributing buildings on the same block. Set back a new building from the street at least: 15 feet, or the distance of the median setback of all historic buildings on the same block face, or in line with at least one adjacent historic building. The proposed project is oriented toward East Sixth Street. It is set back roughly in the same location as the previous non- contributing building. The applicant has amended the design to incorporate Committee feedback in order to better maintain the rhythm of contributing buildings elsewhere on the street. b) Scale, Massing, and Height: Design new building facades to reflect the massing of nearby historic building facades. Visually divide wider building facades into vertical bays that reflect typical widths of historic buildings on adjacent properties or the same block. Construct lower stories to appear as equal in height as possible to the story heights of adjacent historic buildings. Use vertical and horizontal design articulation techniques such as shifts in wall planes and differentiating materials to reduce a building's apparent scale and massing. Use step-downs in building height, wall-plane offsets, and other massing variations to provide a visual transition when the height of new construction exceeds that of adjacent contributing buildings by more than one story. The applicant has amended the proposal, per Committee feedback, to adjust the building’s bay widths and articulation to better reflect the widths of nearby …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-048021 1519 ALAMEDA DRIVE TRAVIS HEIGHTS-FAIRVIEW PARK NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 7 – 1 PROPOSAL Construct a new house and pool. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS The proposed new house is three stories tall, with a habitable basement and garage beneath the two main floors. Materials include concrete and stucco with vertical wood accents; alternately, vertical seamed metal and stone are proposed as accents. The proposed building comprises three rectangular masses with flat roofs of varying heights. Fenestration includes undivided corner and vertical windows, a front-facing garage, and an obscured front door atop a walled staircase. DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Residential new construction 1. Location The proposed building appears appropriately sited. 2. Orientation The proposed building is oriented toward the street. The front-facing garage at the front of the building is not compatible with the standards. 3. Scale, massing, and height The proposed building’s scale and height exceed those of nearby contributing buildings, and its massing is more complicated. Wall-plane offsets are used to reduce its monumentality when viewed from the street. 4. Proportions The proposed building’s proportions are not compatible with the surrounding historic district. 5. Design and style Though the proposed building is internally consistent in design and style, it does not appear to reflect the design or style of the surrounding district. 6. Roofs The proposed flat roofs do not reflect the roof styles of surrounding contributing buildings. 7. Exterior walls The proposed wood and stucco materials are mostly compatible; stone and metal options are less compatible. 8. Windows and doors The proposed fenestration does not reflect the fenestration styles present in surrounding contributing buildings. 11. Attached garages and carports See 2. Summary The project does not meet most of the applicable standards. COMMITTEE FEEDBACK Use dark colors to disguise massing and scale. Do not use option with wood siding. Ensure the garage blends. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Comment on plans. 7 – 2 LOCATION MAP 7 – 3
8 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 HR-2024-056413 TRAVIS HEIGHTS-FAIRVIEW PARK NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 2100 TRAVIS HEIGHTS BOULEVARD PROPOSAL Enclose the front porch and replace windows at a ca. 1958 house. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS ARCHITECTURE RESEARCH DESIGN STANDARDS 1) Enclose the front porch with glazing, using siding at the corner to match the existing exterior. Construct a breeze-block wall in front of the existing driveway using salvaged brick. 2) Replace windows within existing openings. Proposed windows are metal sliders and casements. One-story brick-clad Ranch with an integral partial-width porch, aluminum 2:2 windows, and a low-sloped cross-gabled roof with deep eaves. The house at 2100 Travis Heights Boulevard was constructed in 1958. Its earliest residents were Roy B. Estepp and his family, who moved to Austin from Burnet in 1925. Estepp, a retired City employee, lived at 2100 Travis Heights with his wife until at least 1972. The City of Austin’s Historic Design Standards (March 2021) are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and are used to evaluate projects in National Register districts. The following standards apply to the proposed project: Repair and alterations 1. General standards The proposed project alters the historic form of the building, enclosing the porch. 4. Exterior walls and trim The proposed new siding and brick are compatible. 5. Windows, doors, and screens The proposed window replacements are compatible. 6. Porches The proposed porch enclosure, through its transparency, mostly maintains the open nature of the porch and appears reversible. Summary The project mostly meets the applicable standards. The applicant has amended the proposal to include Committee feedback. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it does not meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of a modest Ranch house. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property does not possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that …
Historic Landmark Commission Applications under Review for July 3, 2024 Meeting This list does not constitute a formal agenda and is subject to change. A final agenda will be posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. Briefings 2. Briefing on community outreach and engagement for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan – Cara Bertron and Gregory Farrar Historic landmark and historic district applications National Register district permit applications 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 801 Lydia Street – Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District – Total demolition. 1807 E Cesar Chavez Street – Berner-Clark-Mercado House - Repair/replace deck and rails, paint exterior. 1003 E 9th Street – Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District – Partial demolition/addition/remodel/new construction accessory dwelling unit. 611 E 6th Street – Sixth Street National Register Historic District – New construction. 1519 Alameda Drive – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – New construction. 2100 Travis Heights Boulevard – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Partial demolition/addition. 900 Spence Street – Willow-Spence National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1409 Alta Vista Avenue – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1607 Kenwood Avenue – Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District – Addition. 1701 W 32nd Street – Old West Austin National Register Historic District – Total demolition and new construction. 4200 Wilshire Parkway – Wilshire Wood National Register Historic District – Total demolition. 1205 W 10th Street – West Line National Register Historic District – Replace windows/doors, replace stone, repaint. Demolition and relocation permit applications (all total demolitions unless otherwise noted) 7304 Knox Lane – Relocation – 78731 1205 Cotton Street – 78702 10413 S IH 35 SVRD NB – 78747 4700 S Congress Avenue #10 – 78745 1702 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard – 78702 1704 E Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard – 78702 3711 Gilbert Street – 78703 4704 S Congress Avenue #16 – Relocation – 78745 4704 S Congress Avenue #15 – Relocation – 78745 …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, July 3rd, 2024 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, Chair Witt Featherston, Vice Chair Kevin Koch Carl Larosche Trey McWhorter Harmony Grogan Jaime Alvarez Roxanne Evans Raymond Castillo JuanRaymon Rubio Tara Dudley AGENDA REVISED CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. June 5, 2024 – Offered for consent approval. 1 BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing on community outreach and engagement for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Presenter: Cara Bertron and Gregory Farrar PUBLIC HEARINGS/DISCUSSION AND ACTION Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 3. PR-2024-014961 – 801 Lydia St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Total demolition. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: Jennifer Hanlen City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Deny the demolition request. 4. HR-2024-040291– 1807 E Cesar Chavez St. Berner-Clark-Mercado House Council District 3 Proposal: Repair/replace deck and rails, paint exterior. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: David Rudick City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to August 7, 2024 to allow time to implement Committee feedback. 5. HR-2024-051579 – 1003 E 9th St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Partial demolition/addition/remodel/build new construction accessory dwelling unit. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: Joshua Mackley City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Strongly encourage the applicant to reduce the addition’s height further to enhance compatibility with the design standards, but approve the application, as the applicant has amended the design to better enhance compatibility per Committee feedback. National Register District Permit Applications 6. HR-2024-044761 – …
NEW NO CHANGE REVISED ELIMINATED 3 2 / 0 3 / 0 1 I T E S Y T L B S A E F I I / 4 2 1 0 2 0 / T E S G N C R P I I / 4 2 2 0 4 0 / T E S S S E R G O R P G N C R P I I 4 2 / 1 3 / 5 0 I T E S T M R E P DRAWING INDEX ISSUE ARCHITECTURAL TITLE SHEET & SITEPLAN GENERAL NOTES SURVEY TREE PRESERVATION TREE FLARE TYPE I DRIVEWAY DETAILS DEMOLITION PLAN CONSTRUCTION & ROOF PLAN FINISH & POWER PLAN REFLECTED CLNG PLAN BUILDING ELEVATIONS BUILDING ELEVATIONS WINDOW & DOOR SCHEDULE PROJECT SCHEDULE PROJECT SCHEDULE INTERIOR ELEVATIONS INTERIOR ELEVATIONS INTERIOR ELEVATIONS INTERIOR ELEVATIONS STRUCTURAL GENERAL NOTES GENERAL NOTES FOUNDATION DETAILS FOUNDATION DETAILS FRAMING DETAILS FRAMING DETAILS FRAMING DETAILS FOUNDATION/PIER LAYOUT PLAN FRAMING AND LATERAL BRACING PLAN R E B M U N T E E H S A0.00 A0.01 A0.02 A0.03 A0.04 D2.00 A2.00 A2.10 A2.20 A3.00 A3.01 A6.00 A6.01 A6.02 A7.00 A7.01 A7.02 A7.03 S0.0 S0.1 S1.0 S2.0 S3.0 S3.1 S4.0 S4.1 S4.2 EXISTING OVER HEAD UTILITY LINES @ 653.4' EXISTING OVER HEAD UTILITY LINES @ 654.4' FINISH GRADE @ SOD AREA METAL EDGING DECOMPOSED GRANITE SIZE: FINE TO 1/4" PARTICLE SIZE 1 1/2" LAYERS, EACH LAYER COMPACTED 90% W/TOP LAYER MIN. 75% DUST FINES ADD STABILIZER PER MANUFACTURER SPECIFICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS CLASS II AGGREGATE BASE (REFER TO SOILS REPORT FOR COMPACTION RATE IF AVAILABLE COMPACTED SUBGRADE GEOTEXTILE FABRIC " 3 " 4 WEST 32ND STREET (50') S70º43'00" E 63.85' EXISTING NO PARKING SIGN EXISTING FIRE HYDRANT K L A W . C N O C G N T S X E I I 34" HACKBERRY TO BE REMOVED RE: 2024-039448TP 1358 HIGH ADJ GRADE 621.4' " 0 - ' 5 1 LOT 4 621 15' CLEARANCE FROM CLOSEST O/H ELECTRIC WIRE NEW FRONT PORCH TO REPLACE EXTG FRONT PORCH 25' BUILDING LINE EXISTING STOP SIGN EXISTING WATER VALVES EXISTING OVER HEAD UTILITY LINES; TYP EXISTING OVER HEAD UTILITY LINES @ 657.4' 7500 LADLE LANE AUSTIN, TX 78749 WWW.RESTRUCTURESTUDIO.COM CONSULTANTS STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: ARCH CONSULTING ENGINEERS, PLLC 2579 WESTERN TRAILS BLVD, SUITE 230 AUSTIN, TX 78745 512-328-5353 | WWW.ARCHCE.NET CONTRACTOR: MERIDIAN CUSTOM HOMES P.O. BOX 161060 - AUSTIN, TX 78716 512-809-9840 | WWW.MCHAUSTIN.COM …
9 – 1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS JULY 3, 2024 PR-2024-026690; GF-2024-043975 WILLOW-SPENCE NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICT 900 SPENCE STREET PROPOSAL Demolish a ca. 1915 contributing building. ARCHITECTURE The 1985 Willow-Spence National Register Historic District Nomination describes the property as a one-story wood-frame house with a hipped roof. A porch supported by wooden columns is located across the eastern three-fifths of the front facade.1 The Historic Resources of East Austin National Register Nomination describes the building as an exemplar of the pyramidal cottage style.2 RESEARCH The house at 900 Spence Street, originally addressed as 810 Spence Street, was built in 1915 by Alfred and Caroline Johnson. Alfred Johnson worked as an engineer at the Southland Ice Company. The Johnsons lived in the home for twenty years, after which time it became a rental. Martha Ann “Mattie” Speir purchased the house after the death of her husband, Nace, in 1943. She took in renters for extra income and lived in the home until her death in 1957. Bastrop natives Bernardino Casarez Romo and Santos Selvera Romo purchased the house in 1957. Married in 1945, the Romo family had 8 children; Bernardino Romo served on the Palm School PTA board. Bernardino Casarez Romo worked as an upholsterer when the family moved into 900 Spence Street around 1959. The Romos retained ownership together until Bernardino Romo’s death at age 97 in 2017, and Santos Romo kept the house until her death in 2021. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Willow-Spence National Register district. Designation Criteria—Historic Landmark 1) The building is more than 50 years old. 2) The building appears to retain high integrity. 3) Properties must meet two criteria for landmark designation (LDC §25-2-352). Staff has evaluated the property and determined that it may meet two criteria for landmark designation: a. Architecture. The building is a good example of the National Folk style. b. Historical association. The property does not appear to have significant historical associations; however, the house’s occupancy history is a good example of the settlement patterns of the district. c. Archaeology. The property was not evaluated for its potential to yield significant data concerning the human history or prehistory of the region. d. Community value. The property was not evaluated for its ability to possess a unique location, physical characteristic, or significant feature that contributes to the character, image, or cultural identity of the …
June 28, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission of the City of Austin City Hall - Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd St. Austin, TX 78701 Email: preservation@austintexas.gov Re: Opposition to PR-2024-033568, Agenda Item No. 10: 1409 Alta Vista Ave. National Register District Permit Application for “Total demolition” by South River City Citizens Neighborhood Association (“SRCC”) To the Historic Landmark Commission: Please find the following resolution passed by SRCC at its June 18, 2024, general membership meeting concerning the above-referenced item on the agenda for your July 3, 2024 meeting. —----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Whereas the Travis Heights-Fairview Park National Register Historic District (the “District”) has been recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior; Whereas the property at 1409 Alta Vista (the “Property”), constructed in 1926, is considered a contributing and protected property within the District; Whereas the application to the National Park Service for certification of the District makes numerous references to the importance of the “landscape,” “tree canopy,” and “dense vegetation” (see page 11) and use of design traditions espoused by Andrew Jackson Downing and Frederick Law Olmstead (see page 13); Whereas the Property has seven significant trees that are integral to the character of the Property, the context of the street and neighborhood, and the nature of the District; Whereas demolition of the existing structure on the Property and the proposed construction of two to three densely-packed structures could damage or compel removal of the significant or heritage trees; Whereas the Historic Landmark Commission of the City of Austin is reviewing application number H-2023-043027 to proceed with demolition and new construction on the Property; Whereas, the District contains many examples of new additions to contributing properties; Whereas, the District contains many examples of Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) added to an original contributing home; Whereas, such new additions and ADUs illustrate square footage enlargement alternatives to full demolition and new construction; Whereas, the recent Home Options for Mobility and Equity (H.O.M.E) Initiative passed by the Austin City Council in December 2023 and May 2024 provides Preservation and Sustainability Bonuses to property owners who retain the original home; Therefore, be it resolved that SRCC, through vote of its general membership on June 18, 2024, opposes the release of the demolition permit proposed under application number HR-2023-043027, unless and until the owner of the Property can demonstrate plans to adequately protect the trees on the Property and preserve the façade of the contributing …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: CLIFTON LADD Larosche, Carl - BC; McWhorter, Trey - BC; bc-jamie.alvarez@austintexas.gov; Castillo, Raymond - BC; Rubio, JuanRaymon - BC; Evans, Roxanne - BC; Heimsath, Ben - BC; Featherston, Witt; Grogan, Harmony - BC; Dudley, Tara - BC; Koch, Kevin - BC Historic Preservation Office; Susan Armstrong Fisher HLC 7-3-24 meeting, agenda item 10: 1409 Alta Vista (PR-2024-033568) Monday, July 1, 2024 10:33:29 AM External Email - Exercise Caution I am writing to oppose the issuance of a demolition permit for 1409 Alta Vista (PR-2024-033568). I am Co-chair of the South River City Citizens (SRCC) Historic Preservation Committee and a resident of the Travis Heights - Fairview Park National Register Historic District. Thank you for this opportunity to comment. The SRCC approved a resolution regarding this home, which will be provided to you separately. Because of technical difficulties last month, I was unable to speak virtually at that meeting, though I had signed up and was on the line when my name was called. What follows is substantively what I had intended to say, had the system worked as it should have. I will not be able to attend in person or virtually on July 3. Thank you for considering my comments in your decision. The Travis Heights - Fairview Park National Register Historic District includes 353 acres of the South River City Citizens neighborhood area. It includes the core of the neighborhood and many of the oldest homes in the neighborhood. The district was approved in July 2021, because it meets the required eligibility criteria for protection on the National Register. I urge you to disapprove the application for demolition of 1409 Alta Vista. Alta Vista is one of the most important streets in the National Register District. For example, the 2024 Preservation Austin historic homes tour featured the Mabel Davis home at 1308 Alta Vista, just a block away from this home proposed for demolition. Both the house and the separate but associated garage are identified as contributing structures in the National Register Historic District listing. As such, they would need separate applications for a demolition permit. 1409 Alta Vista is a beautiful one-story craftsman home built in approximately 1926. I appreciate the staff review of this home, though I believe the property may meet the three required designation criteria for historic landmark status, including community value. I encourage you to evaluate this further. …
From: To: Subject: Date: Historic Preservation Office Case GF 24-073048 - 4200 Wilshire Parkway Friday, June 28, 2024 6:02:31 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Hello. I am writing to offer my support for the construction at 4200 Wilshire Parkway (Case GF 24-073048). I am a neighbor, living at 4101 Lullwood Rd. We have seen the plans and appreciate the attention to honoring the history of the neighborhood. We think the new home will be a great addition to the neighborhood. Take care, Trent 512-924-3478 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
June 27, 2024 City of Austin P.O Box 1088 Austin, Tx 78767 Subject Property: 7304 Knox Lane Dear City of Austin, Please see the attached documentation and application for the relocation of 7304 Knox Lane primary residence. In reference, to the attached Exhibits A, B, and C, that support and reveal the owner’s longstanding communication with the current neighborhood. In fact, over the years the petitioner has stayed in close communication with the neighborhood’s Mr. Charlie Galvin and the rest of the NWACA Board, refer to Exhibit B, email communication. On May 1, 2024 during the HLC meeting Mr. Hector Rivero, communicated that as a resident of the neighborhood he was not aware of this project. So, the petitioner postponed being placed on the agenda for June until Mr. Rivero’s questions were answered. After multiple attempts to schedule a time to meet with him and the neighborhood we did not hear back. Yet, the owner has over the years already met with the leadership and has a longstanding relationship with this neighborhood. The owner has kept the NWACA Team up to date and communication is also placed in the newsletter. We are asking the Historic Land commission to grant us the ability to relocate this house and help another family. Please refer to Exhibit A, in reference to the subdivision that was reviewed and processed by the City of Austin Staff and does meet the City of Austin’s code requirements. In Exhibit C, please find the contractor who has signed an affidavit communicating a successful relocation is possible. We look forward to working with you on these lots. Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information. Sincerely, Ricca Keepers, MUP Keepers Land Planning Exhibit A Exhibit B Exhibit C AFFIDAVIT OF KEVIN WOODWORTH STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF TRAVIS § § § BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, a notary public in and for the State of Texas, on this day personally appeared Kevin Woodworth known to me, and who, after being by me duly sworn on oath stated: “My name is Kevin Woodworth, I am over the age of 21 years, I have personal knowledge of the facts stated herein, which are all true and correct, and am fully competent to make this Affidavit. I am President of Blue Moon Builders. I have contracted with the owner of the property located at 7304 Knox Lane, …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Fahnestock, Sam Re: Knox Lane Development: July 3 Meeting Tuesday, July 2, 2024 12:43:28 PM ; External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: My name is Christopher Spandikow. My wife, twin 8-year old children, and I live at 7219 Running Rope. I completely agree with Mr Fitzhugh’s assessment provided in his email. I won’t repeat those same points here. Instead, I’ll offer my proof-point. My family also has not been in contact with Mr. Jimmy Nassour even though we live right next to the Fitzhugh and across from the Knox property. I respectfully recommend the committee to not take Mr. Nassour’s word on topics going forward, but would instead suggest that the committee seek proof of all of his claims. Thank you for your consideration and service. Best Regards, Christopher Spandikow Good morning, Mr. Fitzhugh, On Thu, Jun 27, 2024 at 9:18 AM Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> wrote: Thank you for writing your concerns. I will upload your comments for the Commission to review ahead of the meeting. Thank you, Sam Fahnestock Planner II | he/him City of Austin | Planning Department P: (512) 974-3393 E: sam.fahnestock@austintexas.gov 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, Texas > From: Champe Fitzhugh < Sent: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 1:38 PM To: Historic Preservation Office <Preservation@austintexas.gov>; Fahnestock, Sam <Sam.Fahnestock@austintexas.gov> Cc: Jack Richards < Betsy Clements < Subject: Knox Lane Development: July 3 Meeting >; > ; ; ; Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution To whom it may concern: My name is Champe Fitzhugh, and I live with my wife and our 3 boys at 7221 Running Rope. We are directly across the street from the entrance to the short Knox Lane cul-de-sac which ends at the Knox property. At the July 3 meeting, it is my understanding that Mr. Jimmy Nassour intends to speak. Apparently Mr. Nassour represented that he has had several meetings with nearby residents regarding his plan to redevelop the historic Knox property. If that is the case, and I do not believe it is, those meetings did not involve us, despite our being directly impacted by the proposed plans. The development “plans” continue to experience mission creep. Mr. Nassour now apparently proposes 20 ADUs rather than the original single-family home project. Of course all of his plans have …
From: To: Subject: Date: OCEAN Contact Team Fahnestock, Sam Fwd: Please recommend historic zoning for 1500 E 12th Street Tuesday, July 2, 2024 8:21:07 AM You don't often get email from . Learn why this is important External Email - Exercise Caution Thank you for your attention to Item 26. Sincerely, Nate > ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: OCEAN Contact Team < Date: Tue, Jul 2, 2024 at 8:15 AM Subject: Please recommend historic zoning for 1500 E 12th Street To: <BC-Ben.Heimsath@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Witt.Featherston@austintexas.gov>, <bc- juanraymon.rubio@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Raymond.Castillo@austintexas.gov>, <bc- jamie.alvarez@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Trey.McWhorter@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Carl.Larosche@austintexas.gov>, <bc-roxanne.evans@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Tara.Dudley@austintexas.gov>, <BC-Harmony.Grogan@austintexas.gov>, <BC- Kevin.Koch@austintexas.gov> Cc: <sam.fahenstock@austintexas.gov> Dear Chair Heimsath, Vice Chair Featherston and the Historic Landmark Commission: The Organization of Central East Austin Neighborhoods contact team appreciates staff's research and recommendation that 1500 E 12th Street be designated a historic landmark. We encourage you to elevate that assessment to council with your full support. This structure--known in past lives as the Ministry of Challenge, Eisenbeiser Grocery, Club Fifteen Hundred and Fifteen Hundred Beauty and Barber Shops-- has a long and varied history of adaptive reuse and mixed use dating back to the 1890s, and together with the I.Q. Hurdle House (at 1416) and Southgate-Lewis House (at 1501) comprises a historic anchor at the corner of E 12th and Comal Streets. While the Southgate-Lewis House has become the subject of renewed restoration efforts by the longtime owner, the W.H. Passon Historical Society, sadly, the other two properties have deteriorated and languished under the eight-year tenure of a Dallas holding company's entities called Sodosopa Salmon LP and Poisonous Poinsettia LP. As you may know, that company has amassed scores of properties along and nearby E 12th Street, restoring none and building nothing but fences and parking lots. That should not be the future for a high-profile site which, under decades of African American and German immigrant stewardship, provided groceries, libations, personal services, and even rehabilitation and supportive housing. That should not be the future for properties called out in the 2016 East Austin Historic Survey as eligible for landmark status. E 12th Street needs buildings that testify to its past and invite new waves of vitality and community within them; the street has its fill of clearance, vacancy, temporary uses, fences and parking lots. East 12th needs your courage, commitment and sustained attention to prevail and thrive in the face of indifferent actors who mock its legacy with LPs …
July 1, 2024 City of Austin Historic Preservation Office and Historic Landmark Commission Members: It is with great enthusiasm that I join Commissioner Rubio in an initiative to grant historic zoning designation to the Bethany Cemetery in East Austin. I have, off and on over the past few years, had the occasion to support the Bethany Cemetery Association. The fact that the association has been a good steward of this land as well as working hard to preserve its impressive history, allows us to have this conversation today. I look forward to a full discussion on the preservation of this cemetery and its history and look forward to hearing how I can be a part of making this initiative a success. Sincerely, Roxanne J. Evans Commissioner Roxanne J. Evans
Report of Public Involvement and Feedback Updated July 2, 2024 PHOTO CREDITS : DIANNA DEAN, CD&P, TAP-ATX Table of Contents Section 1: Executive Summary Community Engagement Objectives Metrics for Success Engagement Summary Partners Preservation Plan Committee Preservation Plan Working Group Historic Preservation Office Staff Technical Advisory Group Mini-Grant Partner Organizations Community Ambassadors Section 2: Engagement Activities and Materials Summary Engagement Activities Plan Materials Section 3: What We Heard Community Survey Results Section 4: Engagement Overview City-Hosted Events Partner Organization-Hosted Events Community-Ambassador-Led Events Presentations at Community Meetings Pop-Up Tabling Events 1-on-1 and Small Group Conversations City of Austin Board and Commission Briefings Deep Dives Flyer Distribution Unique Engagements Section 5: Plan Communications Videos Newsletter Social Media Personalized Communication Digital Toolkit City of Austin Resources Media and Advertising Areas of Improvement p. 1 p. 2 p. 3 p. 4 p. 4 p. 4 p. 5 p. 5 p. 5 p. 6 p. 9 p. 13 p. 13 p. 14 p. 16 p. 16 p. 17-26 p. 27 p. 27 p. 34 p. 36 p. 37 p. 38 p. 40 p. 41 p. 42 p. 42 p. 44 p. 45 p. 45 p. 46 p. 47 p. 47 p. 48 p. 48 p. 49 p. 50 Appendix p. 51-52 Executive Summary The draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan was created by community members as part of the Preservation Plan Working Group, as directed by Austin’s Historic Landmark Commission. This public engagement report outlines the comprehensive efforts undertaken to inform and engage community members around the draft plan in spring 2024. The four-month engagement window ran from February through May 2024 and built on previous multi-year outreach and engagement (Appendix A). The primary objectives were to raise local awareness of the plan’s creation and gather feedback on the draft plan’s goals and recommendations. Public outreach and engagement were executed by the City of Austin, community engagement consultant CD&P, community ambassadors, and mini-grant Partner Organizations, collectively referred to as the engagement team. The draft plan was developed to be accessible and applicable to all community members, not only the historic property owners and preservation advocates currently involved in local preservation initiatives. The number of self-identified preservationists in Austin is relatively small. In developing the draft preservation plan, the City of Austin, Preservation Plan Working Group, and Historic Landmark Commission sought to expand the number, racial/ethnic, and geographic diversity of people who are aware of and interested in …
HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION | JULY 3, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995); Chen Chen Wu; City of Austin Planning Process 2021-22 Draft plan developed by Preservation Plan Working Group Fall 2022 Draft plan presented to Historic Landmark Commission • Preservation Plan Committee • Community survey • Focus groups • Technical Advisory Group • ULI Technical Assistance Panel CREATE WITH INPUT RAISE AWARENESS GET FEEDBACK ON DRAFT PLAN Spring 2024 Intensive outreach & engagement Engagement Objectives Priority Groups • Inform the public • Historically marginalized • Gather community feedback • Move the plan forward communities: Communities of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ communities, low-income households, and renters • People directly impacted by the plan: Historic property owners and tenants; designers, developers, builders, and other real estate professionals; and City departments Community Outreach and Engagement Four-month engagement window from Feb. through May 2024 • 45 pop-ups at community events • 17 board and commission briefings • 42 presentations to boards and • 7 deep dives commissions, community groups, and professional stakeholder organizations • 4 City-hosted events • 29 small-group and 1-on-1 conversations Community Ambassadors DEEP DIVE AT AUSTIN CLUBHOUSE COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS (5 OF 9) AMBASSADOR COLLAGE AMBASSADOR DIANNA AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPANTS Mini-Grant Partner Organizations ANDERSON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION CREATIVE ACTION TAIWANESE AMERICAN PROFESSIONALS – AUSTIN CHAPTER Community Outreach and Engagement • 2,409+ people engaged about the draft plan • 2,662 community surveys completed (online and paper copies) • 1,000+ people engaged at pop-up tabling • 590+ people engaged by ambassadors and Partner Organizations • 349 people attended City-hosted events Community Outreach and Engagement Priority Group Survey Respondents Communities of color People with disabilities LGBTQIA+ communities Renters 52% 18% 14% 28% Austin 49.6% 7.2% 5.9% 55.6% Community Outreach and Engagement Race/Ethnicity White Hispanic Black or African American Asian or Asian American Native American, Alaska Native, or Indigenous Middle Eastern, Arab, or North African Survey Respondents (1,447) 37% (535) 22% (319) 19% (281) 6% (92) 4% (53) 1% (11) Austin 63.2% 7.9% 32.5% 8.4% 0.8% No Census equivalent Community Outreach and Engagement HOW LONG PEOPLE WHO RESPONDED SURVEY RESPONDENTS’ ZIP CODES TO THE SURVEY HAVE LIVED IN AUSTIN More than 5 people responded to the survey in 41 of Austin’s 64 ZIP codes What We Heard • • • • • • • “The buildings I cared about have already been demolished.” “We heard a lot of frustrated voices that this …
Sandlin Services, LLC P: (806)679-7303 TBPELS Firm # 21356 July 1, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Engineer’s Letter of Support for Demolition Permit 1500 E. 12th St. – #2024-064274 PR Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, As the Professional Engineer, we object to the staff recommendation to initiate Historic Zoning or otherwise require a Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit. As you will see, the public benefits afforded by demolition of the structure far outweigh the marginal benefits of allowing it to remain, and my justification is based on the following facts: 1. This structure type is not conducive nor available for relocation. Anything other than demolition is a 2. Various Civil Engineering Infrastructure items built around the structure are non-compliant with safety hazard to the community. modern safety driven setbacks. 3. Structure proximity to the adjacent major power infrastructure per National Electric Code as also used by the City of Austin is non-compliant. This is a disaster waiting to happen and the structure cannot remain. 4. The structure’s location related to public Right-Of-Way proves compliant sidewalks and sight distance unfeasible, endangering the safety, health and welfare of the members of the public amongst other conflicts. Due to the considerable risk to the health, safety and welfare of the public, it is our professional duty to inform you of the importance that this demolition plan be approved. Should you have any questions or need anything further at this time, please contact me at (806) 679-7303. Sincerely, Nick Sandlin, P.E. President & Principal TBPELS Firm# 21356 1
July 1, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Ownership Letter of Opposition to Staff Recommendation 1500 E. 12th St. – #2024-064274 PR Dear Historic Landmark Commissioners, As the Authorized Agent for the Owner, we hereby object to the Staff recommendation to initiate Historic Designation, Zoning or otherwise require a Documentation Package before releasing the demolition permit for the site located at 1500 E. 12th St for case #2024-064274 PR. Sincerely, Nick Sandlin, P.E. President & Principal TBPELS Firm# 21356 1
From: To: Subject: Date: Eric Standridge Fahnestock, Sam Re: 1500 East 12th street Tuesday, July 2, 2024 4:16:05 PM [You don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] . Learn why this is important at External Email - Exercise Caution Hello Sam, Thank you for the staff recommendation and report on this case. I noticed my correspondence below was included in the back up for the case. Can you please add my public comments from the June 5 meeting shared below. Thank you. -eric Good Evening Commisioners, My name is eric standridge and I have spent over half my life as a resident of Distict 1. Thank you for your service to our city and for the opportunity to speak today. I am here today to make you aware of what is happening to 1500 East 12th street, aka the former Eissenbiser grocery & cafe, east end saloon, club fifteen hundred, beauty and barber shop, palladium club, carol’s record shop and the ministry of challenge aka the rarest of rare building typologies in east austin, a century old neighborhood scale hybrid house/corner store on an intersection that include two other landmarked properties, the Southgate lewis house and the IQ Hurdle house. Recommended eligible, for historical associations and community value in multiple historic resource surveys and cited as a preservation priority by the D1 council member. Is it in rough shape, no doubt, you would be to if you were over a hundred years old and subject to a decade of neglect following all your neighbors being torn down and vacant lots becoming the norm. And yet even today this building still stands. The owner of this obvious historic asset has chosen to begin total demolition without an approved permit. Surely, they and their consultants are familiar with the process, having owned the property for over a decade and subject to numerous code compliance cases, and being the owners of the numerous properties on 12th street including the boarded up and vacant landmark IQ Hurdle house across the street. There have been missing windows, dangling fascia and siding and general despair at this property for all of recent memory. This is a case study for demolition by neglect. How is it that the normal process doesn't apply in East Austin? Can we agree applying for a permit is not the same as getting a permit? Preservation, and adaptive reuse are hard, sure, …
From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Jay Perrett Heimsath, Ben - BC Historic Preservation Office; Ben.Heimsath@austintexas.gov HLC - Item 26 - 1500 E 12th St Wednesday, July 3, 2024 10:46:13 AM Some people who received this message don't often get email from important . Learn why this is External Email - Exercise Caution Chairman Heimsath, I am writing in support of historic zoning for the property located at 1500 E 12th St. This building has tremendous historic significance for the African American and German communities, and is an increasingly rare example of a building that has stood as an important gathering point in our neighborhood for well over a hundred years. As you will note in the report prepared by staff, there is a rich history associated with this building and this location, and it very clearly meets the criteria for landmark status. Please follow the recommendation of staff and the input from neighbors and community members, and ensure that this building is preserved. There are not many chances left to retain such prominent examples of our community's history, and it would be a shame to let another one go. Best, Jay Perrett 404-702-3339 CAUTION: This is an EXTERNAL email. Please use caution when clicking links or opening attachments. If you believe this to be a malicious or phishing email, please report it using the "Report Message" button in Outlook. For any additional questions or concerns, contact CSIRT at "cybersecurity@austintexas.gov".
July 2, 2024 RE: Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo Dear Chair Heimsath, Vice Chair Featherston, and Members of the Historic Landmark Commission, Preservation Austin exists to empower Austinites to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and meaningful community culture through preservation. We write today in support of designating the Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo as a City of Austin Historic Landmark for its historic associations with women in construction, its Mid-Century Modern architectural style, and its community value as a significant site in the beautification of Lady Bird Lake. Built in 1969-70, the Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) spearheaded the efforts to raise funds for what was originally known as the Town Lake Gazebo. The organization commissioned architect J. Sterry Nill to design the gazebo in a striking Mid-Century Modern style, featuring a dramatic geometric roofline with folded plate ridges and valleys. The gazebo was one of the first structures built to beautify the south shore of Town Lake (now Lady Bird Lake), and its design reflects the spirit of its age and its role as a community space. The gazebo was later named in honor of Fannie Davis, a charter member of the Austin Chapter of NAWIC. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2019. In alignment with our Underrepresented Heritage Advocacy Priority, we commend the Historic Landmark Commission for taking the initiative to honor this significant site of women’s heritage. We wholeheartedly support the designation of the Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo as a City of Austin Landmark. Thank you for your consideration and your service to our city. Sincerely, Melissa Barry, President
Austin Parks and Recreation Department 200 South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78704 July 3, 2024 Historic Landmark Commission City of Austin Subject: Fannie Davis Gazebo Dear Members of the Historic Landmark Commission: Please accept this letter of support from the Austin Parks and Recreation Department for the designation of the Fannie Davis Gazebo as a City of Austin Historic Landmark. The 1969 Town Lake Gazebo was the first public structure built in the effort to beautify the south shore of Town Lake (now Lady Bird Lake), which was created after the construction of Longhorn Dam on the Colorado River in 1960. The Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), established in the 1950s for women working in the construction industry, spearheaded and raised funds for the project. Inspired by Lady Bird Johnson, a national leader in environmental beautification and later the honorary co-chair of the Town Lake Beautification Committee, the Austin chapter began planning and raising money for the structure in 1965. Nearly 100 contractors and suppliers enthusiastically supported the gazebo project with donations of materials and labor. The gazebo was dedicated in June 1970, and then in 1984, the structure was named for Fannie Davis, a founding member of the Austin chapter of NAWIC. The gazebo was designed by architect, J. Sterry Nill, to resemble an inverted morning glory flower and its design reflects diverse architectural trends of the 1960s. The Fannie Davis Gazebo was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. Noted for its historical and architectural significance, the Fannie Davis Gazebo joined other properties under the stewardship of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department system with historic designation. The Parks and Recreation Department Historic Preservation & Tourism Program appreciates the support of the Historic Landmark Commission and looks forward to collaborating on the historic designation process. Best regards, Kim McKnight, MSHP, AICP Program Manager, Historic Preservation & Tourism Program Cc: Alyssa Tharrett RA, NCARB, Division Manager, Architectural Development Liana Kallivoka, PhD, PE, LEED Fellow, Assistant Director Angela Means, MPA, Interim Director The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request.
July 2, 2024 RE: Bethany Cemetery Historic Landmark Dear Chair Heimsath, Vice Chair Featherston, and Members of the Historic Landmark Commission, Preservation Austin exists to empower Austinites to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and meaningful community culture through preservation. We write today in support of designating Betheny Cemetery as a City of Austin Landmark for its Historic Associations, Community Value, Archeology, and Landscape Features. We commend Sue Spears and the Betheny Cemetery Association for their tenacious advocacy in preserving and celebrating this incredibly significant site of Austin’s Black heritage. Betheny Cemetery was formally established in 1893, though burials at the site date to as early as 1879. The first Black cemetery in Austin, Betheny opened after Oakwood Cemetery ran out of room for Black graves in its small, segregated section. The Bethany Cemetery Company, formed in 1893 by William Holland, Henderson Rollins, Allen Bradley, and William M. Tears, maintained the site until 1933. Bethany Cemetery is the final resting place for hundreds of Black Austinites, including graves of formerly enslaved individuals. Betheny Cemetery tells the story of Austin’s Black community, from slavery and Jim Crow to the present-day advocacy and education efforts of the Betheny Cemetery Association. In alignment with our Underrepresented Heritage Advocacy Priority, we commend the Historic Landmark Commission for taking the initiative to protect one of Austin’s most significant sites of Black heritage. We wholeheartedly support the designation of Betheny Cemetery as a City of Austin Landmark. Thank you for your consideration and your service to our city. Sincerely, Melissa Barry, President
1 HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, July 3rd, 2024 – 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email preservation@austintexas.gov or call Sam Fahnestock at (512) 974-3393. COMMISSION MEMBERS: Ben Heimsath, Chair x Witt Featherston, Vice Chair x Kevin Koch ab Carl Larosche ab Trey McWhorter x Harmony Grogan x x x ab x x Jaime Alvarez Roxanne Evans Raymond Castillo JuanRaymon Rubio Tara Dudley APPROVED MINUTES CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first (10) speakers who register to speak no later than noon the day before the meeting will be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. Bonnie Orr spoke on 409 E Monroe. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. June 5, 2024 – Offered for consent approval. HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES MOTION: Approve the minutes per passage of the consent agenda on a motion by Commissioner McWhorter. Commissioner Grogan seconded the motion. Vote: 8-0. The motion passed. BRIEFINGS (June 5, 2024) 2. Briefing on community outreach and engagement for the Equity-Based Preservation Plan Presenter: Cara Bertron and Gregory Farrar CONSENT/CONSENT POSTPONEMENT AGENDA Historic Landmark and Local Historic District Applications 3. PR-2024-014961 – 801 Lydia St. Robertson/Stuart & Mair Local Historic District Council District 1 Proposal: Total demolition. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: Jennifer Hanlen City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Deny the demolition request. MOTION: Postpone the public hearing to August 7, 2024, per passage of the consent postponement agenda, on a motion by Commissioner McWhorter. Commissioner Grogan seconded the motion. Vote: 8-0. The motion passed. 4. HR-2024-040291– 1807 E Cesar Chavez St. Berner-Clark-Mercado House Council District 3 Proposal: Repair/replace deck and rails, paint exterior. (Postponed June 5, 2024) Applicant: David Rudick City Staff: Kalan Contreras, Historic Preservation Office, 512-974-2727 Staff Recommendation: Grant the applicant’s request to postpone the public hearing to August 7, 2024 to allow time to implement Committee feedback. MOTION: …
