AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Consider an appeal by David Zhang of the Historic Preservation Commission’s decision on November 7, 2024, to extend a 90-day demolition delay period until April 1, 2025, for demolition of a structure at 734 Valley Street (Permit 2024-52642).
Body
Meeting date: January 7, 2025
Department: Planning and Development Services
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Vision San Marcos - A River Runs Through Us
Background Information:
A complete demolition permit application was submitted for a one-story multifamily structure at 734 Valley Street on October 3, 2024. The location has been evaluated with a High preservation priority in My Historic SMTX and is subject to the demolition review for historic age resources under Section 2.7.4.1 of the San Marcos Development Code. A 90-day demolition delay was applied to the property until January 1, 2025. The Historic Preservation Commission has the option to apply a 90-day extension.
It is worth noting that the siding, walls, and flooring were removed more than a year ago by the owner/ applicant. The property has a history with the Code Compliance Division, including recent issues with squatters in the vacant structure.
Staff found the building’s character consistent with the following Factors for Consideration in Section 2.5.4.5(B) of the San Marcos Development Code:
1) Value as a visible or archaeological reminder of the cultural heritage of the community;
8) Historical, architectural, or cultural integrity of location, design, materials, and workmanship; and
11) Distinctive character, interest or value; strongly exemplifies the cultural, economic, social, ethnic or historical heritage of San Marcos, Texas or the United States.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted to extend the delay until April 1, 2025, in light of potential historic significance as a military barracks relocated from decommissioned Gary Air Force Base. The applicant has requested an appeal of the decision to allow the demolition permit to be issued earlier than April 1.
City council may uphold or reverse the decision of the commission. A reversal means that the structure may be demolished without further delay, subject to meeting standard demolition permit requirements.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
On November 7, 2024 a motion was proposed by Commissioner Baker, seconded by Commissioner Dillon, that the structure is historically significant and met several criteria of Section 2.5.4.5 and therefore, the issuance of demolition permit #2024-52642 should be delayed for an additional 90 days to allow all potentially interested parties to take whatever steps deemed appropriate to accomplish the preservation of the building. The motion carried by the following vote: For: 7 - Commissioner Rogers, Commissioner Long, Commissioner Dake, Commissioner Baker, Commissioner Dedek, Commissioner Dillon, and Commissioner Rivas; Against: 0.
Alternatives:
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Recommendation: