The Historic Preservation Board deferred an after-the-fact request for a seven-foot horizontal wood fence and synthetic hedge assembly at 301 SW Second Street (case UGP HP25009), asking the applicant to provide revised materials that increase visibility of the historic structure.

Applicant Angel Canada (appearing at the hearing) described changes intended to open the corner of the enclosure so the historic building façade and an informational tile panel remain visible. Canada said the design sought a balance between public visibility and customer safety, noting incidents near the property. A board member suggested shutters or operable grilles might address nighttime safety while keeping daytime visibility. Other board members said the proposal still created a visual wall along the sidewalk and worried approval could set a precedent for other commercial properties.

Staff reported the application had been before the board in September and that the new materials reduce the number of panels to improve sight lines but otherwise retain the same height and materials. Several board members requested clearer photographs and revised drawings showing the entire front of the historic structure and an explanation of how the revised fence would comply with historic-district standards. Staff told the applicant new materials must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the next agenda.

A motion to defer the case to the next meeting was made and seconded; the motion carried. Staff and the board requested that the applicant submit photos showing the full building frontage and updated design drawings in advance of the continued hearing.

Provenance: See transcript segments for the case introduction (tc 00:26:05) and final vote (tc 00:41:17).