MINUTES OF MOUNT VERNON HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
September 17, 2025
The Historic Preservation Commission met at the Mount Vernon City Hall on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Commission members present were Randy Brown, Sherry Brayton , Mike Guerber, Donnie Moore, Guy Booth, and Edith Dawson. Jim Evans was present as a guest.
There were two design review requests on the agenda. The first is from Christine Flavin, who resides at 609 6th St NW, which is in the Ash Park Historic District. Ms. Flavin is needing to put a new roof on her house. She has presented copies of information from the roofing company that describes the shingles to be an architecturally-designed asphalt shingle. It is manufactured by Atlas Roofing. The style chosen by Ms. Flavin is well-suited for her home.
Upon motion by Guy Booth, seconded by Mike Guerber, the Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the roofing project. Sue Astley will forward the certificate to the City building department.
The second design review request comes from Allyson Thurn, which is also a request for a new roof. Her residence is at 610 8th Ave. NW, which is in the Cornell Historic District. Ms. Thurn has presented information from GAF Shingle Company. These will be an asphalt shingle that is pewter gray. This matches the roof that is presently on the house. The composition and appearance of the shingles lend well to the historic nature of the property. Upon motion by Donnie Moore, seconded by Mike Guerber, a Certificate of Appropriateness was approved for the roofing project. Sue Astley will forward the Certificate to the City Building Office.
There was some discussion about what is happening with buildings on the Cornell Campus. In these difficult economic times, the Commission is interested in knowing about maintenance of buildings. It is understood the repair of King Chapel is now under way. It was suggested that we have a meeting that allows Cornell to update the Commission on projects to maintain the historic nature of campus buildings. Likewise, it was suggested that the Commission inquire of the State Historic Commission as to any types of grants that could be available for an owner of property that needs deferred maintenance updates, but that may need some assistance beyond what the owner is able to provide. The Commission will continue to look for grants that can help owners of properties in the historic district. Sherry mentioned that she thought the City of Lisbon has been able to identify grants that may be helpful in restoration of historic properties. It may be beneficial to schedule a meeting with Lisbon Historic Preservation to compare ideas and share information that may be helpful to their separate commissions.
The meeting adjourned at 7:30.
Respectfully Submitted, Guy Booth, Secretary