Historic Preservation Board accepts resignation, appoints Mary Jane Rosa to full member and seeks fixes to Bronson Mulholland House work

The Palatka Historic Preservation Board on May 7 recorded the resignation of longtime member Patty Bowes and formally elevated alternate Mary Jane Rosa to a full board seat.

Chair Van Hook announced the board had received Bowes's resignation and the chair said the board accepted it with regret. City Attorney West clarified that the appointing authority for board seats is the City Commission, but noted the board may exercise discretion in choosing its internal leadership; the board nonetheless voted to move Rosa from alternate to full member. The board then discussed recruiting to fill two alternate vacancies.

Separately, a board member with restoration experience raised concerns about recent work at the Bronson Mulholland House, describing misaligned pillars, damaged siding from power washing and gaps where treated lumber had shrunk. The board member called the job "deplorable" and urged others to inspect the site. City Attorney West asked the member to submit written, itemized observations to the planning department so staff can present the issues to the project manager and acting city manager for follow up.

Board members also shared informal updates about a local resident’s health and other community items during the comments section.