The Women’s Club of Stuart Clubhouse now stands as a recognized historic site, a decision reached by the Stuart CRA after considerable deliberation on its architectural significance and role in the community’s history. The clubhouse, a mid-century modern structure, was noted for its distinct flying gables and original features that have been largely preserved since the building’s construction. Julie Priest, the presenter, provided a review of the clubhouse’s history, emphasizing its design and the contributions of architect Robert George Jela.

During the meeting, members of the CRA engaged in a debate over the importance of architectural style in historical designations. The City Attorney outlined the criteria for such designations, which include historical significance, association with distinctive elements, and the potential to yield important historical information. Despite concerns about the relatively modern architecture of Stuart, the board voted 5-1 in favor of the historic designation. Cecilia Lewis, President of the Women’s Club, underscored the historical relationship between the club and the city of Stuart, which dates back to the city’s incorporation in 1914, as well as the club’s ongoing contributions to the community.

The discussion around the historic site designation also brought to light the broader issue of architectural identity in Stuart and the purpose of historic designations. While one board member suggested that these designations serve primarily to take a second look at preserving a building, another highlighted the significance of acknowledging the Women’s Club’s place in the city’s history.

In addition to the historic site designation, the meeting saw the CRA address proposals for new murals in the downtown public shopping center. The approved murals, intended to honor the Environmental Studies Center, will feature marine life and be hand-painted. The artist responsible for the murals assured the board that they would apply clear coatings or UV protection to safeguard the artwork from environmental damage and commit to periodic touch-ups as needed.

The topic of murals continued as the board discussed the need for a permit fee for a sign to accompany mural approvals. Despite some members questioning why the mural approval didn’t automatically include the associated sign, the city manager clarified that a permit fee was mandated by the code to facilitate the review and inspection process of the sign’s construction. This conversation led to a unanimous vote in favor of a mural matching grant agreement with the property owner of 728 Southwest Federal Highway for the installation of murals on their building. The board approved a grant of up to $3,000 for the project, with the total cost estimated at $7,000.

Additionally, the board considered a minor conditional use approval for another mural on the Dehan Building located on Southeast Osceola Street. Titled “Old Colorado Inn Then and Now,” the proposed mural was supported by the Art Council but sparked debate due to a condition that the mural should not contain any form of advertisement. The artist and property owner clarified that the mural’s intent was to depict the building’s history rather than serve as an advertisement, leading to the board’s approval of the resolution with conditions attached.