Historic Resources Commission (In-Person) (Sep 9, 2026)

Historic Resources Commission Meeting Recap – September 9, 2026

On September 9th, 2026, the Historic Resources Commission (HRC) convened for an in-person meeting at Asheville City Hall to discuss a range of matters concerning the preservation and management of our city's historic resources. The meeting, open to the public via livestream on the City of Asheville’s YouTube channel, addressed Certificate of Appropriateness (CoA) requests for several properties, reviewed a National Register nomination, and handled internal procedural matters.

A significant development occurred at the meeting's outset: Celeste Gorman unexpectedly resigned as HRC Chair, with Amy Moxley stepping into an acting capacity. The Executive Committee will now assess the implications of this change and determine the process for appointing a permanent replacement. The Commission approved the minutes from August 2026, while deferring approval of the April 2026 minutes to a later date due to clerical issues. A review of the HRC’s quasi-judicial process was conducted, emphasizing decisions based on evidence and adherence to historic district standards.

The bulk of the meeting was dedicated to public hearings regarding CoA requests. A particularly engaging discussion centered on a proposal at 7 Cherokee Road in the Albemarle Park historic district. Initially, the applicant sought approval to rebuild a retaining wall, but presented an alternative: regrading the hillside. This sparked debate about potential tree removal associated with either option, prompting a continuation of the hearing to allow for further exploration. The applicant will now amend their application, investigate the feasibility of regrading, and address tree removal concerns. Importantly, any tree removal will require a separate application, ensuring careful consideration of the impact on Albemarle Park’s character. At All Souls Episcopal Church (Cathedral of All Souls), the Commission tentatively approved modifications to a vestibule and relocation/modification of mechanical equipment, with stipulations regarding fence height (pending landscaping) and door hardware review. Modifications to an existing accessory structure were also approved, allowing for enclosure of a porch and replacement of the door with either wood or aluminum-clad materials (fiberglass being preferred).

Beyond these specific projects, the HRC also considered a National Register nomination for a late Victorian-style house in Fairview. After careful review, the Commission unanimously voted to recommend listing the house on the National Register, recognizing its architectural significance as a well-preserved example of late Victorian architecture. This recommendation will now be forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for further consideration.

Throughout the meeting, community members provided valuable input. Albemarle Park resident Commissioner Jane Matthews emphasized the importance of selecting veneer materials consistent with existing walls, suggesting consultation with stone suppliers. Steve Berry (applicant for 7 Cherokee Road) presented the regrading proposal as a potential solution to eliminate the need for a retaining wall, while Jenny Gwinn (Fire Blender Bell) raised security concerns regarding electrical panels at All Souls Cathedral, influencing the discussion on fence height.

Looking Ahead: The Commission acknowledged a need to update signage standards maps, pending funding approval. Several action items remain outstanding: the Executive Committee will determine next steps for appointing a new HRC Chair; the 7 Cherokee Road application remains continued, requiring further revisions and assessments; All Souls Cathedral requires addressing fence height/landscaping and door hardware submission. The National Register nomination is progressing through the SHPO review process. The next HRC meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2026.

This meeting highlighted the HRC's ongoing commitment to balancing preservation efforts with contemporary needs, ensuring that Asheville’s unique historic character is protected for generations to come. Residents are encouraged to follow the Commission's work and participate in future public hearings, as their input is vital to shaping our city’s historic landscape.