TO: Mayor Thomas J. Weisner
FROM: Preservation Commission
DATE: October 3, 2013
SUBJECT: title
Resolution approving a preservation grant to James P. & Ramona Schweizer in the amount of $24,000 for the property located at 425 West Park Avenue, Aurora, Illinois. (James P. Schweizer - AU21/2-13.355-AG/GR- SP/CW - Ward 6)
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PURPOSE:
The homeowners, James P. & Ramona Schweizer, are applying for a Preservation Grant to rebuild the historic wrap-around porch at 425 West Park Avenue in the Tanner Historic District.
BACKGROUND:
This Preservation Grant application was submitted by the homeowner to the Planning & Zoning Division on August 28, 2013.
Legislative History:
Date Review Body Motion Vote
9/26/2013 Preservation Commission Forward Unanimous
9/11/2013 Grant Committee Forward Unanimous
DISCUSSION:
Proposal: The proposal consists of demolishing the non-original front and side porches at the subject property and building a wrap-around porch to resemble the type of porch that was originally in place when the house was built in the 1890s.
Evaluation: Staff has reviewed the Preservation Grant application and believes that this grant will help the owners complete this project which will be a major improvement to not only the subject property but also the surrounding area of the Tanner Historic District. Because the subject property is located at the corner of Blackhawk and West Park, the proposed porch will be a readily visible feature in the neighborhood.
Public Input: At the September 26, 2013 special meeting of the Preservation Commission, applicants asked general questions about the Preservation Grant Program. A few of the applicants commented on grant applications submitted by others. Comments were positive. One homeowner stated that the Preservation Grants will benefit the entire neighborhood.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
The Planning and Zoning Division does not anticipate any impact to other City Departments with the approval of this Petition.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Preservation Commission recommended APPROVAL of the Preservation Grant at 425 West Park Avenue by James P. & Ramona Schweizer.
cc: Alderman Saville, Chairman
Alderman Irvin
Alderman Donnell
Alderman Hart-Burns, Alternate