Historic board presses city for clearer enforcement after multiple unauthorized window replacements

Board members used the Feb. 23 meeting to press city staff for clearer enforcement tools after discovering multiple instances of window replacements done without prior approval.

Ken McWilliams and other members pointed to recent work at 423 Mill Street and several West 2nd Street addresses where windows were replaced without a COA or where a prior restoration approval had not been followed. Brenna Haley said staff is reviewing each case and reminded the board that some earlier approvals authorized removal for restoration, but the installed units were not the approved product. Brian Shaw and Councilor Joe Jenner told the board enforcement avenues exist — including asking homeowners to appear after the fact, staff letters, code enforcement referrals, or filing injunctions — but that litigation and post‑fact remedies are resource‑intensive.

Chair Chris Cody and other board members discussed potential policy responses such as requiring a historic review permit for window and door work, adding fines or penalties in the city ordinance, and educating contractors so they consult staff before weekend work. Cody noted the board lacks unilateral enforcement authority and said the city council or mayor would have to change ordinance tools.

Board members asked staff to (1) determine which instances should be handled at the staff level and which should be brought back to the board, (2) send letters requesting after‑the‑fact appearances where appropriate, and (3) research whether building permits or registration can be conditioned when a compliance complaint exists. Staff agreed to report back to the board with recommendations.