Historic Zoning Commission

Ft. Sanders NC-1:

1-C-03-HZ

Applicant Request

Demolish fire-damaged structure, which has been vacant and was condemned approximately seven months ago.

Site Info

Two story frame with weatherboard and shingled wall covering. Hip roof with lower cross gables, replacement windows in front gable, shingled front gable. One over one double hung windows. One story two-thirds front porch with round wood columns, replacement balustrade. Cutaway bay on side elevation. Interior side brick chimney. Brick foundation, raised at rear elevation.

At its July meeting, the Historic Zoning Commission refused demolition, in part because a neighborhood resident had indicated a willingness to purchase and rehabilitate the building, which at that point was still possible. The owner later sold the property to a non-resident owner, and it has sat vacant since that time, with no weatherization or stabilization. At this point, following an additional six months of being open to the weather and to moisture, little structural integrity remains. The building is a detriment to neighbors on the east, west and south of the building. Demolition seems the only viable course for the house, with the adopted Fort Sanders Design Guidelines in place to guide the design of any replacement building.