The property on Romano Avenue was the centerpiece of the meeting, garnering unanimous approval for its designation as a local historic landmark. The Historic Preservation Coordinator presented a detailed report supporting the home’s historical, cultural, and architectural significance, including its adherence to George Merrick’s vision of a Mediterranean-inspired city. Notably, a code violation involving the unauthorized removal of an original masonry door surround during window installation in 2022 was a catalyst for initiating the historic designation by city staff.

The designation, based on three criteria from the Coral Gable zoning code, elicited questions from the commission regarding restoration work to correct unauthorized modifications. Staff emphasized the necessity to restore the property’s front elevation to its historical state and the need for any future modifications to undergo review. The commission’s approval of the historic designation was unanimous.

Further discussions at the meeting involved the property on South Greenway Drive within the Country Club of Coral Gables historic district. The commission approved a special certificate of appropriateness for the construction of a detached auxiliary structure and site work, including a gravel driveway, swimming pool and deck, and perimeter fencing. The board engaged in detailed deliberations over the material and design of the front steps, with a member of the public suggesting alternatives to Terra Cotta and Keystone or Oolitic Limestone, due to maintenance concerns. The commission and board members agreed to approve the alterations with conditions to ensure the historic integrity of the site.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed a proposed development adjacent to various streets, including Catalonia Avenue and Ponce de Leon Boulevard. This involved requests for amendments to the city plan, such as the vacation of a public alley and the abandonment and vacation of a portion of University Drive. The board reviewed whether the proposed development would affect the historic, architectural, or aesthetic character of nearby properties. A representative for the applicant, Mr. Javier Fernandez, presented the project, emphasizing its compliance with codes and its potential to enhance the pedestrian experience.

Public opposition to the requests was voiced by a member of the Historic Preservation Association, citing the importance of the city’s historic street grid and alleys as protected resources. The commission debated the implications of the proposed changes, with concerns raised about setting precedents that could undermine the historic integrity of the city. Ultimately, motions to deny the requests were made, citing adverse effects on the historic character of the city plan, specifically related to the historic white way street light.

The commission also discussed the implications of approving a special certificate of appropriateness for a right-of-way on Ponan Boulevard and a historic Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) approval. The focus was on whether the proposed development, as a receiving site for TDRs, would impact the historic character of nearby properties. Clarifications were sought on the procedural aspects of the TDRs, and a motion was made to deny the proposal based on its adverse effects on the historic architectural or aesthetic character of a local Historic Landmark. The motion did not pass, and the item was continued to the next meeting scheduled for February 21st.

Administrative matters were also discussed, including legislative updates on state senate bills that could impact local historic designations, particularly in flood zones. The commission considered a motion to draft a new resolution in response to the legislative updates for review at the next meeting. Updates on the Matheson Hammock properties, owned by the county, were also touched upon.