HDC reviews plans for Land Bank properties

The Historic District Commission June 3 reviewed plans for Land Bank properties slated to receive NSP 1 funds.

A representative of the Genesee County Land Bank presented plans for 518 Mason St., including details of an addition and the replacement of windows and siding.

Commissioner Ryan Eashoo was concerned about the proposed pine siding planned to replace the cedar siding and lead paint on the property.

"We're not here to worry about health issues, but to preserve the wood that's there. If it can be preserved we have to preserve it," Eashoo said.

The representative assured the group that, from a cost standpoint, the wood cannot be preserved. The siding is not sealed, and will continue to peel.

"It's a maintenance problem you can never solve," he said.

He also said unless the lead is removed, federal funds cannot be allocated to the project.

Commissioner Leanne Barkus sympathized with Eashoo, citing the recent renovation of houses on Stone Street.

"It broke my heart to see those houses stripped to the studs," she said.

Barkus said she understood the Land Bank's concern, and cited her own property, which has the peeling problem.

The commission approved the plans.

Land Bank Community Resource Planner Heidi Phaneuf withdrew plans for 713 N. Grand Traverse and 612 W. University after the commission decided there were not enough details nor examples of materials to be used on these properties to either approve or deny the plans. Phaneuf said she will bring more fully developed versions of the plans to the group in July.

The group discussed a growing concern that Carriage Town and Civic Park are on the brink of losing their status as historic districts.

Commissioner Wendy Johnson said the group needs to discuss Civic Park, which includes more than 900 structures with national designation.

"I've met families there who are proud home owners and want support," Johnson said.

The commission meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at City Hall, 1101 S. Saginaw St.