Board approves demolition of non-historic carport and shed at 415 West Louisiana Street

The board approved a Certificate of Appropriateness to demolish a non-historic carport (c.1990) and a detached shed (c.1965) at 415 West Louisiana Street after staff recommended approval and the property owner described extensive structural damage. Staff told the board the carport has widespread water damage and is causing siding damage to the main house; the detached shed shows floor failure, deep cracks and foundation sinking from water intrusion.

"So staff does recommend approval of the request for demolition of the non historic carport and the detached shed," staff presenter Reyna said during her presentation. The owner and contractor confirmed remediation would require dismantling and new foundation work; owner Steven Keithley said, "we'd just as soon start over." A motion to approve the demolition passed with six yes votes; board member Carrie Kennedy recused herself from that vote.

Board members discussed options available under policy — approval, approval with conditions, denial, or a 90-day delay — and voted to approve without imposing a delay. Members asked staff to prepare clearer demolition criteria and cost-comparison guidance for future cases, including estimated rehabilitation versus demolition costs so the board can consider hardship claims consistently.