Historical Review Board denies changes to iconic roof
The Mendocino Historical Review Board met Monday, March 4, and welcomed new member Julian Lopez. The Board denied the request to replace the metal roof on the old Shell Oil building at the corner of Lansing and Albion Streets with a composition shingle roof. It approved accessibility modifications to a building on Main Street.
Some members of the public and one Board member voiced concern about potential problems associated with a metal roof and the need to accept new materials in the town of Mendocino. Newly appointed member Lopez stated, “I believe that the shingles should be allowed to be put on the building mainly because, the fact is, a reliable roof is necessary, and a 40-year guarantee is something to look at. And you know, in the 21st century, we have the product to put that on there.” A local architect and builder, Ishvi Aum, echoed his position.
Other public members spoke passionately about replacing the metal roof only with another similar roof rather than a lower-priced and potentially more durable modern composition shingle roof. John Cavanaugh wondered, “Something that has lasted for the past 100-plus years can no longer work. I don't understand that. Namely, a century-old historic landmark with a red corrugated roof can no longer have a red corrugated roof.”
Board Chair Roth and member Kappler seemed to agree, Kappler stating, “This is a Category 1 building. It's one of the few buildings in town with a corrugated galvanized roof. As I mentioned before, we're a historical building review board. Consequently, it is incumbent on us to retain the historical architecture of the town to the extent that that's possible.” Chair Roth reminded everyone that “if you buy a historical building, it's your responsibility to maintain that historical building. And that is spelled out in the town's code.”
Notwithstanding the Board's 2-1 decision, the applicant agreed that lingering questions remain about whether the structure could support the added weight of composition shingles without significant structural improvements.
The Board also reviewed and approved with modifications a request to construct a new wooden accessibility ramp and replace a 6-foot wood landing area with concrete. The Board questioned why the landing would need to be concrete if the ramp itself could be constructed with wood. Although some questions arose regarding acceptable slip-resistant materials for ADA compliance, the building owner, John Marchini, agreed to use wood for the landing, pending approval by the building department.
Following the public hearing items, the Board heard from staff regarding the lengthy process involved in making changes to the Design Guidelines and broadening the eligibility for board members to allow business owners, not just residents, to hold one seat on the Board. Such changes would require an amendment to the Local Coastal Program, which involves multiple entities and would likely not be possible for many years. Staff concurred that the County does entertain four such amendments yearly, but those allotments are filled with other scheduled amendments through at least 2027. However, Lee Edmondson did remind the Board that in certain limited cases, a de minimis change may be possible that involves a far shorter time frame. The Board requested that staff report back with more information about a de minimis change amendment and how one is adopted.
Member Kappler inquired about the status of the sidewalk work at the corner of Main and Heeser, which seems to be stagnant.
Staff explained that the work had been delayed due to material delays and issues with the contractor but that the project proceeded once those issues were resolved and the weather was better.