Consider for recommendation to the Board of Commissioners approval of work that was completed without proper Township approvals and permits, including:

a. The replacement of cedar siding with Cedar Impressions polymer siding;

b. The replacement of slate and asphalt roofing with synthetic slate;

c. The replacement of aluminum gutters with copper gutters; and

d. The removal of several original architectural details, including decorative diamond-shaped patterning of the cedar siding and the modification of balcony railings.

On July 22, 2019 the Historical Commission recommended approval of items a, b, and c. Regarding item d, the Commission recommended that the applicant make the changes listed below:

1. Re-install the original balcony railings, brackets, and ledges, or re-make them in the same design as the original.

2. Re-install the shutters, which were character-defining features, at any locations where they were removed.

3. A subcommittee will determine the final treatment of the gable end, with the applicant to provide material samples, to re-establish a single material on that surface.

The Commission does not find the introduction of details including panning on rakes, eaves, and trim, and corner boards as acceptable modifications, but does not recommend any action.

Although the Commission recognizes that they do not have jurisdiction to require the installation of the original railings and shutters, they have requested that the owner consider re-installing those elements.

Staff recommends that the Building & Planning Committee table this application until August 5, 2019 to provide time for staff to contact the property owner to determine if they are willing to consider the Historical Commission's recommended changes.