City of Kalamazoo - July 15, 2025 Historic District Commission

Updated 3 days ago

The commission addressed applications for replacing a non-historic window with an aluminum-clad window, the installation of new signage with modern branding for the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, and the addition of solar panels on a less visible roof section. Each application was evaluated for its compliance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The commission also discussed the importance of maintaining historic integrity while accommodating modern needs. Additionally, updates were provided on cemetery preservation efforts and the successful reinterment of remains found during city works.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:20)
The meeting of the City Historic District Commission was called to order, and roll call was conducted with several members present.

The meeting was called to order by the chair. A roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of members Katie, Christie, Dana, and James. A motion was made and seconded to excuse the absence of Dan, which was approved unanimously.
Reading of Disclaimer (00:01:06)
The City of Kalamazoo code of ordinances states that historical preservation is a public purpose, and the commission's responsibilities were outlined.

A member read the disclaimer that under the City of Kalamazoo code of ordinances, historical preservation is a public purpose. The Historic District Commission is empowered to regulate work on the exterior of historic and non-historic resources in historic districts. The responsibilities of the commission include regulating work on resources designated by city ordinance and ensuring compliance with local historic district acts.
Approval of Agenda (00:02:58)
The agenda was amended and approved to accommodate a representative with a prior engagement.

It was noted that the minutes distributed were incorrect, and thus the approval of June minutes was removed from the agenda. A proposal was made to adjust the agenda to move an item forward due to a representative's scheduling conflict. The motion to adopt the amended agenda was moved, seconded, and approved by all members present.
Public Comments (00:03:33)
There were no public comments on items not on the agenda.

The chair opened the floor for public comments on matters not listed on the agenda. No hands were raised, indicating there were no comments from the public at this time.
Application for Window Replacement (00:03:52)
A contractor presented an application to replace a non-historic window with an aluminum clad window for better egress and ventilation.

Arnie Block, a contractor for Emily and Tristan Wilson, presented an application to replace a third-story aluminum window with an aluminum clad window. The existing window is not historic and is malfunctioning. The new window will match the style of windows below it with a vertical divider. The replacement aims to improve ventilation and meet egress requirements for a bedroom.
Discussion and Vote on Window Replacement (00:09:17)
The commission discussed the application, and a motion was made and approved to grant a certificate of appropriateness for the window replacement.

Commission members asked questions about the visual impact and necessity of the window replacement. The commission agreed the proposed change was appropriate and a motion was made to approve the certificate of appropriateness based on compliance with the Secretary of the Interior Standards. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Application for Sign Installation (00:09:58)
Steve Vander from Sign Art presented an application for a new sign installation for a recently remodeled building, ensuring no damage to historic materials.

Steve Vander presented the application for a new projecting sign for a commercial building. The sign is internally illuminated, with a design that matches the building's style. Vander assured the commission that the installation would not damage historic materials, as the sign will be mounted through mortar joints rather than the brick itself. He also described the illumination details and compliance with zoning requirements.
Discussion and Vote on Sign Installation (00:20:30)
The commission discussed the sign installation application, and a motion was approved to grant the certificate of appropriateness.

The commission discussed the technical aspects of the sign installation, including its size, illumination, and compliance with standards. Questions were asked about the sign's visual impact and the installation process. A motion was made and seconded to approve the certificate of appropriateness, and it was passed with unanimous consent.
Application for Solar Panel Installation (00:30:27)
Chad Becker from Tiger Solar presented an application for the addition of six solar panels, ensuring minimal visibility from public areas.

Chad Becker presented the application for adding six solar panels to a building's roof, emphasizing that the panels would not be visible from street level due to the roof's height and the building's location. The commission reviewed photographs showing the roof's visibility from public vantage points.
Discussion and Vote on Solar Panel Installation (00:31:16)
The commission discussed the solar panel application and passed a motion to approve the installation, finding it non-intrusive.

The commission had a brief discussion on the solar panel installation, noting the panels' minimal visibility. A motion was made to approve the certificate of appropriateness for the solar panels, recognizing that the installation met the commission's standards. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.
Motion to Approve Certificate of Appropriateness (00:32:44)
Motion made to approve a certificate of appropriateness for work as described in the application. The motion complies with the Secretary of Interior standards.

A motion was made to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the work described in the application, as it complies with the Secretary of Interior standards. The motion was seconded and a roll call vote was conducted. The motion carried unanimously, and the next steps were discussed, including getting in touch with the applicant by the end of the week.
Coordinator's Report (00:33:29)
Discussion of the removal of a chimney on Elm Street for safety reasons and updates on building work including chimney removal and porch rebuilding.

The coordinator reported on several issues, including the removal of a chimney on Elm Street due to safety concerns. The chimney was severely deteriorated and posed a risk of falling. Other updates included a project on Westridge involving a porch that had been coated in vinyl prior to the establishment of the historic district, and door replacements where applicants went to specialized door makers to match historical styles. The coordinator emphasized the importance of safety and historical accuracy in these projects.
Cemetery Preservation Efforts (00:39:03)
Discussion of the partnership with Friends of Historic Cemeteries for gravestone cleaning events, focusing on preservation and education.

The coordinator discussed the ongoing partnership with the Friends of Historic Cemeteries to organize gravestone cleaning events. These events focus on educating participants about the preservation of masonry and proper cleaning techniques. The coordinator highlighted the importance of respecting the sanctity of life and maintaining these historical sites. The events are family-friendly, and the coordinator encouraged attendance to learn about preservation and engage with history.
Reinterment of Human Remains (00:39:35)
Reinterment ceremony for remains found in the Southwest, involving various organizations to ensure respectful handling.

The coordinator reported on the reinterment of human remains that were discovered in the Southwest. The ceremony involved collaboration with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Boy Scouts, and an Episcopal minister who delivered last rites. The coordinator emphasized the collective efforts of various organizations, including the State Historic Preservation Office, MDOT, and the Gun Lake Tribe, to handle the situation respectfully and ensure the remains were laid to rest properly.
Adjournment (00:41:50)
The meeting was adjourned following a motion and a unanimous vote in favor.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and seconded. The motion carried unanimously, and the meeting was officially adjourned.