Historic commission approves sign honoring Fulmer family at 175 State Street

The Elkhart Historic and Cultural Preservation Commission voted to approve 26 COA 03, authorizing a non‑illuminated vinyl sign panel to be placed on the portico of 175 State Street.

Kyle Anthony, Planner II for the commission, presented the staff recommendation, saying, “Staff recommends approval of the request” and noting staff’s findings that the proposed sign is proportionate to the building, will not cover or remove character‑defining elements, and will be anchored so as not to damage historic materials. The staff report also said the vinyl panel would be removable and would be installed over existing vinyl siding.

Todd Lehman of Sign Tech Sign Services, the petitioner, told the commission he worked with Lifeline Youth Ministries on the project and that Craig and Connie Fulmer funded the sign to recognize the family and name the house the Fulmer House. “This home is used for interns at Lifeline,” Lehman said, describing the sign’s purpose as identification and donor recognition.

Commissioners asked staff to point out the exact placement on the submitted photo and clarified that the lettering will occupy the center of a vinyl panel that fills the portico area. After a motion and second, the commission took a roll call vote and approved 26 COA 03; the recorded votes were affirmative from the four members present.

The approval is limited to the design and installation described in the application and staff report; permits remain subject to any standard building or sign permits required by the city. The commission did not record any conditions or amendments to the COA at the meeting.