Historic Resources Commission – January 8, 2025

Historic Resources Commission Meeting Recap – January 8, 2025

On January 8, 2025, the Historic Resources Commission (HRC) convened to discuss matters related to preserving Asheville’s historic character. This meeting, attended by Chair Sue Oliva, Cecil Holt, Will Hornaday, Sarah Gross, Shannon Watkins, and Janice Ashley, addressed several development proposals and ongoing initiatives impacting designated historic districts across the city. The HRC serves as a quasi-judicial body, ensuring that any changes within these districts align with preservation guidelines.

A primary focus of the meeting was a proposal to redevelop the McDonald's restaurant at 255 Cumberland Avenue in Biltmore Village. This project, which includes a Tesla solar roof and two drive-thru lanes, sparked considerable discussion. While the commission acknowledged the innovative aspects of a solar roof and appreciated the applicant’s plan to elevate the building two feet above current grade for flood resilience, concerns were raised regarding the impact of two drive-thru lanes on the historic character of Biltmore Village, potentially requiring a variance from current regulations. The commission also emphasized the importance of signage that harmonizes with Biltmore Village’s unique aesthetic. Ultimately, the commission voted to continue the application until a future meeting (likely February 12th), allowing for further review and potential adjustments to address these concerns. Staff will work with the applicant on these points in the interim.

Beyond the McDonald’s proposal, the HRC approved a certificate of appropriateness for an addition to a house on 183 Pearson Drive in the Montford Historic District. The commission also reviewed a draft of their annual report, highlighting accomplishments and challenges faced throughout the year. A significant portion of the discussion centered on upcoming changes to flood ordinance regulations, and the HRC’s potential role in reviewing any variances related to historic properties. This could involve joint meetings with the Board of Adjustment, ensuring that preservation considerations are carefully weighed when addressing flood-related issues.

Community input was limited to individuals directly involved in the applications under review. A real estate broker offered perspective on the potential impact of solar installations on property values, noting that they generally do not significantly affect resale prices. Chair Oliva underscored the importance of balancing preservation efforts with sustainability goals, while staff emphasized the need for design choices that respect and complement the historic character of Biltmore Village. The McDonald’s representative, Daryl Grote, highlighted their commitment to serving the community and providing a positive customer experience.

Looking ahead, several action items emerged from the meeting. Staff will continue collaborating with the McDonald’s applicant to refine their proposal, addressing concerns about drive-thru lanes and signage. The HRC will also be involved in planning an educational series related to a Community Preservation grant, and actively participate in the review process for flood ordinance variances. Finally, discussions began regarding an update to the county’s architectural survey – a crucial step in identifying and protecting historically significant buildings. This meeting demonstrated the HRC's ongoing commitment to preserving Asheville’s unique heritage while navigating modern development challenges, a balancing act that will continue to shape the city's landscape.