Commission allows repainting at 55 West Star Avenue after paint‑removal tests failed

The Victorian Village Commission voted to allow repainting of 55 West Star Avenue as a special remedy after staff and the applicant reported repeated failures of paint‑removal methods on the property's brick.

HPO staff reviewed earlier test patches and said some commercial strippers and test methods had not removed the paint; the applicant, Jeff Doolin, and counsel Suzanne Kelly said they had tried multiple products and time frames (including 1‑ to 24‑hour tests) and that aggressive high‑pressure washing above 4,000 PSI — which the commission would not permit — was the only method that removed paint. "We've tried every product that has been suggested...and none of them have adequately removed the paint from the building," Kelly said.

Commissioners acknowledged the exhaustive testing but emphasized concern about precedent. Several members said the building represents a unique case in which removal attempts would harm brick and mortar. One commissioner recommended returning the building to a paint color in the brick family to make the painted appearance less visually jarring. The commission directed a subcommittee to review and approve specific paint samples and color schemes so the work could proceed without further hearings.

The motion — which characterized the situation as a special case because removal attempts risked brick damage — passed by voice vote. Commissioners asked the applicant to provide clear sample boards showing a buff/brick‑matching color and trim details for the subcommittee to review.

Next steps: the applicant will work with HPO staff and the designated subcommittee on final color approval and any finishing details before permits are issued.