Historic Preservation Commission Agenda and Packet 2024 04 15

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structure. The current windows date from after the 1970s at the earliest, and possibly dating from the 1990s according to the applicant. In addition, the windows have not changed in design, size, or placement over time, meaning that the proposed replacement does not qualify as a restoration project. Staff considered whether the request could potentially qualify as a rehabilitation project, defined as follows in Resolution 17: Rehabilitation is the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values. Rehabilitation acknowledges the need to alter or add to a historic property to meet continuing or changing uses while retaining the property's historic character. The limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and other code -required work to make properties functional is appropriate. To evaluate rehabilitation grant requests, staff evaluates the age of the materials or systems (such as electrical wiring or windows) to be updated to assess whether the changes are necessary due to the age of the home. Relating rehabilitation projects to age in this way helps to ensure that grant -funded projects go toward updates that are directly related to factors unique to historic homes (such as age and condition) and do not go toward projects that replace relatively new materials for newer materials. This analysis also helps ensure that rehabilitation projects follow replacement and repair guidelines for original and/or historic windows (see Preservation Briefs 9: The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows from the US Department of the Interior). In the case of the windows at 982 La Farge, staff finds that the relatively recent installation timeline (1 970s-1 990s) means that the project could not qualify as rehabilitation. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of the grant request allows for a total grant of up to $17,819.90 (staff's recommendation) or $25,319.90 (applicant's request).The unencumbered fund balance is estimated at over $21VI, thus, staff finds there are adequate funds to support either grant amount. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of a Preservation and Restoration Grant in the amount of $17,819.90. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 1, Series 2024 2. Application 3. Historic Structure Assessment 4. Alteration Certificate from 2024 covering the proposed grant -funded work 15