The McKinney Historic Preservation Advisory Board convened on August 7, 2025, to discuss a proposed two-story addition to a historic home built around 1940. The board's staff recommended denial of the certificate of appropriateness for the project, citing concerns that the proposed changes would significantly alter the historic character of the property.

The proposed addition would modify the home's elevations and raise the original sloped roof line, which staff argued would compromise the historic integrity of the structure. According to the Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation, alterations that remove or change historic materials should be avoided. The staff highlighted that the new addition would not be compatible with the existing massing, size, and scale of the historic property.

During the meeting, board members discussed the implications of the proposed changes, including the potential need for variances regarding setbacks. The architect representing the homeowners emphasized that the addition would be designed to blend with the existing structure, maintaining similar architectural elements. However, concerns remained about how the changes would impact the property's historic significance.

The board has four options regarding the certificate: approve, approve with conditions, deny, or issue a 90-day delay. If a delay is issued, the certificate would be granted after the period unless further action is taken. The discussion highlighted the delicate balance between modern needs and preserving McKinney's historical character, as the homeowners aim to create a permanent residence while respecting the community's heritage.

As the board deliberates, the outcome of this proposal will set a precedent for future renovations in the historic district, underscoring the importance of maintaining the integrity of McKinney's architectural history.