The most significant item on the agenda was the local historic designation for the property on Albera Street. Elizabeth Gan, the historic preservation coordinator, presented a report detailing the historical and architectural significance of the property. Constructed in the 1920s, the home embodies the Mediterranean Revival style, a hallmark of George Merrick’s vision for Coral Gables. The property’s design includes textured stucco, a mix of roof types, and distinctive arched openings. Despite some modifications over the years, such as enclosed porches and window changes, the residence retains its historic integrity.

Several attendees, including public supporters like Brett Gillis and Alice Goldhagen, voiced their approval of the designation. They emphasized the property’s role in reflecting the city’s cultural and architectural heritage. The commission deliberated on the property’s eligibility, noting that while there had been alterations, the essential design integrity remained intact. The motion for historic designation received unanimous support with a 7-0 vote.

Following this, the commission addressed case file COA 2024-25, involving an application for a special certificate of appropriateness for a property on Alo Avenue, another local historic landmark. The application sought approval for additions and alterations to the residence, including a new one-story addition for various living spaces and a variance for side setbacks. The preservation officer highlighted the property’s historical integrity and the proposed addition’s minimal impact on the original structure. However, concerns were raised about the addition’s design and how it would differentiate from the existing historical elements. The commission ultimately decided to defer the item due to technical difficulties during the presentation, allowing the applicant time to resolve issues and refine the design.

Another notable discussion focused on a variance request for a property in Coral Gables. The applicant aimed to retain the existing garage configuration while adding a new pool, requiring a variance for a reduced interior side setback. The applicant emphasized that the modifications were minimal and would not intrude on the surrounding environment. The discussion included inquiries about potential opposition from neighbors, but none was reported. The commission approved the design proposal for the pool, contingent on providing material samples as requested by staff. A motion for the variance was also approved, allowing the project to proceed.

The meeting also delved into the proposed addition to a property on Ferdinand Street, focusing on design compatibility and zoning variances. The architect outlined plans to extend the addition by 12 feet toward the front of the house and make alterations to window configurations, including replacing existing windows with impact-resistant casements. Public comments were invited, and one resident voiced support for the design while expressing concerns about the tight setbacks. The discussion revealed a mix of support and hesitation, reflecting broader concerns about maintaining neighborhood character while accommodating modern needs. Ultimately, a motion to approve the design proposal for the alterations, including staff-recommended conditions, passed with a vote of 5 to 2.

The meeting wrapped up with discussions on City Hall repairs, including updates on immediate repairs and structural shoring, and the election of a new chair and vice chair for the board. The current chair stepped down, and nominations for successors were made and unanimously approved, concluding the meeting with acknowledgments of the outgoing chair’s service.