REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Determination of Eligibility for Historical or Architectural Listing for the properties located at 1411 Lewis & 1444 Madison Street
Report
BACKGROUND
The applicant filed a preliminary application on January 18, 2018 to consider the proposal to demolish the structures at 1411 Lewis Street and 1444 Madison Street, and subdivide the single parcel into three parcels to construct three new single-family dwellings. Planning Staff recommended that the applicant host a community outreach meeting and apply for an early consideration of eligibility before the Historical Landmarks Commission for the existing buildings at 1411 Lewis Street (project site) for listing on the City of Santa Clara Historical Resource Inventory (HRI).
The project site is currently developed with two primary structures, a two-story single family house with a detached garage (1411 Lewis Street), and a duplex (1444 Madison Street). The single-family house was constructed circa 1880 in a functional (vernacular) style of that period. The single-story duplex was constructed in 1948, in the post-war minimal traditional style. A number of smaller sheds are also situated on the property.
At the noticed public hearing on April 5, 2018, the Historical and Landmarks Commission reviewed the request. Seven community members addressed the Commission, expressing support and/or concerns related to the proposed request. While five community members opposed the requested demolition due to the age of the house, two neighbors supported the project as a way to remove blight. Following the public testimony, the Commission made the following four recommendations:
1. That the Council not add the duplex residence at 1444 Madison Street to the HRI as it is not a contributing historical or architectural resource;
2. That the Council finds that the building of vernacular style at 1411 Lewis Street is eligible for listing on the HRI based on City's Criteria for Architectural Significance, t...
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