Commission approves reconstruction but denies after‑the‑fact demolition at 917 Center Street

After an extended presentation and staff review, the commission approved reconstruction of the one‑story wood frame house at 917 Center Street and declined to support an after‑the‑fact demolition request. Applicant Jonathan Tavares said the building collapsed during construction and termites severely compromised remaining structure; he asked to rebuild to previously approved plans. "It was basically... the house collapsed on itself," Tavares said in describing the site's condition.

Staff reported the structure remains a contributing resource and recommended denial of the demolition under the Land Development Regulations (LDRs) while supporting reconstruction plans that match the earlier approval. Commissioners approved reconstruction (with confirmation of novelty siding in the permit package) and then voted to deny the after‑the‑fact demolition; staff clarified that denial places the commission's disapproval on record but does not prevent the owner from pursuing permitted reconstruction options.