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.
