David Corneal applications top marathon HARB meeting

Historic City News has learned that, in anticipation of a longer than usual meeting, the Historic Architectural Review Board in St Augustine is adopting an earlier start time for tomorrow’s meeting and public hearings on a number of controversial issues published on the agenda.

The Thursday, July 16, 2015 meeting of the Historic Architectural Review Board will convene at 1:00 p.m. in the Alcazar Room of City Hall, located at 75 King Street, in St Augustine.

One set of applications, an Opinion of Appropriateness by the Wright Law Firm, a Certificate of Appropriateness for Ad Valorem Tax Exemption by Old Island Hotels and another Certificate of Appropriateness by Marquis-Halback design and Don Crichlow architect, have stirred so much controversy as to have triggered a group of citizens to come together in protest — complete with yard signs, e-mail writing campaign, a facebook group, and an Internet petition on the Change.org website.

Though the meeting will begin at 1:00, in an abundance of caution, the following three items will not be heard prior to the regular 2:00 p.m. start time:

e) Opinion of Appropriateness
F2015-0026 Wright Firm – Applicant
Old Island Hotels, Inc. – Owner
Continued from March 19th 149 Cordova Street/PID 199490
To review the development plan proposal associated with a rezoning application.

f) Certificate of Appropriateness for Ad Valorem Tax Exemption
F2015-0029 David Corneal – Applicant
Old Island Hotels, Inc. – Owner
Continued from March 19th Multiple Addresses/PID 199490
To review plans for building rehabilitations at 143, 145, and 149 Cordova Street; 42 and 46 Bridge Street; and 244, 246, and 250 St. George Street for an ad valorem tax exemption application. Withdrawn by applicant

g) Certificate of Appropriateness
F2015-0096 Marquis Halback and Don Crichlow – Applicant
Old Island Hotels, Inc. – Owner
Multiple Addresses/PID 199490
To alter the railing design and porches on 3 buildings, rehabilitate a perimeter wall on Cordova Street, alter the amphitheater area seating area, and apply a new roof material to the pavilion building.