Historic Resources Commission – May 8, 2024

Historic Resources Commission Meeting Recap – May 8, 2024

The Historic Resources Commission (HRC) convened on May 8, 2024, to address requests related to Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) and preliminary subdivision approvals within Asheville’s historic districts and landmark areas. As a quasi-judicial body, the HRC operates under established legal guidelines, carefully considering presented evidence to ensure decisions align with preservation goals. This meeting focused on balancing the desire to maintain historic character with allowing property owners to make improvements and additions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing specific proposals. The commission unanimously approved the minutes from their previous April meeting and granted preliminary subdivision approval for 209 Cumberland Avenue, a project that will divide the lot into two parcels with new development planned. Discussions centered on driveway placement and its potential impact on the historic Frederick Rutledge House nearby, highlighting the HRC’s consideration of surrounding historical context. Later in the evening, a COA was approved for the installation of a metal picket fence at 122 West Chestnut Street, with commissioners referencing previous approvals for similar fencing to ensure consistency within the historic district. A more complex decision involved 19 Rosewood Avenue, where a COA was approved with conditions for an addition and garage. While the project received approval, debate arose regarding the roofline design of the new addition, with commissioners ultimately requiring a replacement of aluminum-clad windows with wood windows within 12 months to better align with the neighborhood’s historic aesthetic.

Public participation was a notable aspect of the meeting, with several residents attending and offering their perspectives during hearings. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on historic trees, particularly in relation to new construction, and requests for clarification regarding stucco foundations were made. Overall, public comments emphasized the importance of preserving neighborhood character and ensuring new construction is compatible with existing structures. A particularly lengthy discussion was reserved for a proposal at 6 Danville Place, involving a new primary and accessory structure. Commissioners expressed concerns about the overall scale of the proposed construction and its relationship to alleyway structures, ultimately deferring a decision for further discussion at a future meeting.

Looking ahead, several action items emerged from the deliberations. The applicant for 19 Rosewood Avenue is required to submit revised west elevation drawings, and city staff will follow up on pedestrian and crawlspace door specifications. The commission also initiated a discussion about the need to review and potentially update existing design standards for historic districts, specifically addressing ambiguous language. The HRC’s ongoing consideration of the 6 Danville Place proposal will continue at a future meeting. Residents interested in learning more about these decisions and the HRC's work can find detailed minutes and the full transcript on the City of Asheville website.