Historic Resources Commission (In-Person) (May 13, 2026)

Okay, here's a comprehensive recap of the Historic Resources Commission (HRC) meeting held on May 13, 2026, incorporating information from all provided documents.

Meeting Overview and Context:

The May 13, 2026 meeting of the Historic Resources Commission (HRC) was a full session dedicated to reviewing Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications, discussing design standard amendments, and recognizing contributions to historic preservation within Asheville and Buncombe County. The HRC is a quasi-judicial body responsible for ensuring proposed changes to historic properties respect the character of designated districts. The meeting was held in person at Asheville City Hall and streamed online.

Key Discussions, Decisions, and Actions:

The meeting commenced with a recognition ceremony honoring several individuals and organizations for their contributions to preserving local history and culture. Dr. Todd Gregg was recognized for his documentary work on the impact of urban renewal, the Come Hell or High Water Project for archiving stories following Tropical Storm Helene, and the Stumptown/Montford Fund for its work in combating racial wealth gaps through affordable housing initiatives.

The bulk of the meeting was devoted to reviewing COA applications, with decisions made on several projects:

• 265 Cumberland Avenue: The HRC approved a plan to widen the driveway and relocate a retaining wall, with conditions related to tree removal and ensuring historically appropriate concrete treatment.
• 30 Lodge Street (Biltmore Village): The HRC approved renovations to the Southern Railway Passenger Depot, pending clarification on door specifications and screening for mechanical equipment.
• 174 Montford Avenue: A COA was approved to change a flat roofline on the rear of the house to an asphalt shingle pitch, with stipulations regarding matching existing roofing materials.
• 315 Pearson Drive: The HRC approved plans to enclose a back porch/mudroom and modify windows, requiring revised wood specifications for doors and windows.
• Walton Street Park: The hearing for this application was rescheduled to the June HRC meeting.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around proposed amendments to the Montford Historic District design standards, specifically concerning fences and walls. After extensive debate, a motion to delay discussion on the fencing amendments until July was approved (6-4 vote), with a potential work session planned in between.

The HRC also conducted elections for the Executive Committee, resulting in new nominations: Ms. Gorman as Chair, Ms. Moxley as Vice-Chair, Ms. Watkins as 2nd Vice-Chair and Mr. Skouby as 3rd Vice-Chair. Finally, a discussion arose regarding the possibility of designating a 400-year-old White Oak tree as historic, with Ms. Bowen agreeing to discuss the matter with a City Council member.

Action Items and Next Steps:

Several action items were assigned following the meeting:

• Applicants for 265 Cumberland Avenue, 30 Lodge Street and 315 Pearson Drive must submit revised specifications as required by the HRC.
• The Executive Committee will determine next steps regarding the fencing amendment discussion.
• Staff will be consulted regarding scheduling a work session on the fencing amendments.
• Ms. Bowen will contact a City Council member regarding the White Oak tree designation.

Future Meetings and Important Dates:

• The next HRC meeting is scheduled for June 10, 2026.
• An HRC Education Event is planned for June 12, 2026 at the YMI Cultural Center.
• Site visits for Preliminary Landmark Applications are scheduled for May 15, 2026.

The meeting demonstrated the HRC’s commitment to balancing preservation goals with property owner needs, while navigating complex discussions about evolving design standards and emerging initiatives like the potential designation of a historic tree.