The meeting’s most pressing topic involved the Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of a property located on Pass-a-Grille Way. The property, built in 1936 and recognized as a contributing structure to the National Register District, was presented in a deteriorating condition. The contract planner for the city detailed the extensive issues, such as rot, structural decay, and plumbing failures, making maintenance untenable. The staff recommended approving the demolition, citing that the property did not meet the criteria for retention due to its disrepair. The recommendation included a condition that the demolition permit be granted only after the approval of a related residential design review.

During the discussion, the applicant’s representative shared challenges faced in maintaining the property. Structural issues, including flooding risks, were outlined, with the representative noting that elevating the home to meet current codes would require breaking it into three pieces, compromising its original appearance and reinforcing the notion that the structure was beyond feasible repair.

Board members expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the current owners to restore the property despite its lengthy vacancy and decline. One member suggested maintaining a photographic record of the house before demolition to preserve its memory. Discussions included whether the city maintained a photographic history of such properties and the importance of documenting their condition prior to any alterations or demolition.

The board deliberated on the procedural handling of the case numbers related to the demolition and design review, noting inconsistencies in the case references and debating the order in which they should be addressed. Ultimately, a motion was made to grant the certificate of appropriateness for demolition with a condition of a 30-day stay, allowing time for further discussion regarding the design review. The motion was unanimously approved.

The board then moved on to the design review for the proposed new residence at the same location. Senior Planner Brandon Berry explained that the applicant’s design met the house large standard of the Pass-a-Grille overlay district, despite some unique site challenges, such as a portion of the lot consisting of submerged land, which affected the zoning code application. Berry pointed out a specific issue with an ornamental wall on the north side of the property, which extended too far into the setback area. While the design was generally found to meet broad design standards, there was a recommendation to revise the garage doors to match nearby elements more closely.

Board members raised questions regarding the design’s compatibility with the historic district. One member noted the transition from a unique old house to a unique modern house. The architect was invited to elaborate on the design choices, addressing specific setbacks and the overall architectural style. The discourse highlighted concerns about ensuring that new developments align with the historical context of the neighborhood while accommodating modern design preferences.

Significant discussions centered on the balance between modern architectural designs and historical preservation. One member expressed concerns about the increasing trend of modern designs in areas designated for historical preservation, emphasizing the need to scrutinize whether these designs align with the characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood. The sentiment was echoed by others who expressed frustration at the perceived lack of authority to enforce design guidelines that would preserve the historic character of the area.

Members discussed specific design elements, such as the proposed garage doors and construction materials, noting that while the proposed modern house might be appealing, it diverged from the prevailing styles in the neighborhood. Despite recognizing the beauty of the proposed house, there was an acknowledgment of the challenges in balancing modern innovation with historical preservation.

The conversation emphasized the importance of maintaining the unique character of the community while recognizing the evolving nature of architectural preferences. There was a suggestion for ongoing dialogue about design expectations within the district, including consulting with architectural experts to navigate the complexities of modern designs in historic areas. Members expressed a desire for a design guidebook to provide clearer information on design standards and future builds.

Another topic was the reinstallation of a non-conforming sign on Pass-a-Grille Way. The applicant sought to reinstall a 34 by 52-inch projecting sign, which had previously been displayed at the location but was no longer compliant with current zoning regulations. The community development director explained that the property is situated within the RM residential district and falls under the Pass-a-Grille overlay district, listed on the local historic registry. The proposed sign would be of the same size and location as before but would feature a different sign face. Staff recommended that the sign not have internal illumination and that any existing unpermitted signs be removed as a condition of approval.

Concerns were raised about the implications of granting the variance, particularly regarding the previous use of the property as a gallery, which ceased operations in 2018. A board member highlighted the risk that changes in business operations could lead to the loss of the non-conforming status if the property were vacated or if the use changed significantly. The board discussed the engineering aspects of the sign and its compliance with safety standards, with no significant comments from the building department regarding safety concerns.

A motion was made to approve the sign reinstallation as represented, agreeing to the recommendation that no internal illumination be permitted and that any existing unpermitted signs be removed. The motion was seconded and unanimously approved.

The meeting also addressed the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Beach Theater located on Corey Avenue. The board had previously landmarked the theater and was reviewing proposals for exterior renovations. The new owners sought to replace a window wall system installed in 1970, which was in poor condition, and to replace existing signage, intending to illuminate it. However, illuminating all five proposed signs required a variance, as existing regulations permit only three illuminated signs on the front facade.

Historical photographs were referenced to illustrate the theater’s previous appearances and signage. A representative from the architectural firm involved in the project explained that the intent was to replicate the original design as closely as possible while ensuring that the new doors met current impact safety standards. Concerns about the amount of glass in the doors were raised, with the representative indicating a preference for limited glass to maintain the intended ambiance of the lobby area.

After a discussion, a motion was put forth to approve the certificate of appropriateness for the theater’s proposed alterations, including the replacement of the window wall system and the design of the doors. The motion included a recommendation to the Board of Adjustment regarding the illumination of the five proposed signs and was granted unanimously.

The meeting concluded with a discussion about the facade alteration on Pass-a-Grille Way. The architect presented a new design involving splitting the former restaurant space into two separate businesses. The proposal included maintaining some elements of the original structure, such as a whitewash thin brick motif and a Beachwood aesthetic. Members expressed approval for the changes, particularly the addition of new clear story windows to enhance natural light.