The Historic Vermilion Design and Review Board met on December 3, 2025, at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex to review several residential improvement requests within the city’s historic district, approving multiple applications after discussion.
Vice Chair Judy Doll presided over the meeting in the absence of Chair Robbie Brown. Board members Dan Pryor and Tara Leslie were present. Mayor Jim Forthofer, Council Representative Jeff Lucas, and Clerk of Council Melanie Wood also attended.
The board approved the November 5, 2025 meeting minutes on a unanimous vote. No correspondence was presented.
Old Business
A commercial signage request for a property on the 5500 block of Liberty Avenue was listed under old business. The applicant was not present, and no action was taken.
New Business
A roofing request for a home on the 5700 block of Liberty Avenue was noted as an emergency repair. The applicant was not present, and the board did not take further action.
The board approved a request from a homeowner on the 5400 block of South Street to replace a metal front door with a more historically appropriate option. Board members asked questions regarding door materials, storm door placement, and whether the storm door would be removed seasonally. The applicant stated the storm door would remain in place year-round and that the screen would be custom fabricated to match the historic appearance of the home. The application was approved unanimously.
Another request from homeowners on the 5200 block of South Street to construct a two-car garage was also approved. The applicants explained the garage would match the home’s siding and be painted white to align with planned exterior updates. Board members reviewed multiple design renderings and offered input on garage door styles, recommending a single door with windows. The homeowners welcomed the guidance, and the application was approved on a 3–0 vote.
The board also reviewed a window replacement request for a residence on the 5700 block of Lake Street, presented by the homeowner and representatives from Renewal by Andersen. The proposal involved replacing nine existing wood windows with fiberglass composite windows intended to improve energy efficiency while maintaining a historic appearance. Board members discussed window frame thickness, rail proportions, and overall compatibility with the home’s historic character. After reviewing sample images and receiving assurances that the final installation would closely resemble the original window profiles, the board approved the application contingent upon Building Department approval.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned. The next Historic Design and Review Board meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Municipal Court Complex.
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