Auburn Historic Design Review Commission Meeting – May 6, 2026

This meeting of the Auburn Historic Design Review Commission (HDRC) focused on a single public hearing: a proposed ordinance to amend Section 159.497 of the Auburn Municipal Code to establish exemptions for certain exterior painting and minor maintenance activities from historic design review, and a resolution pre-approving two historic paint color collections for use in the Historic Design Review District. After staff presentation, commissioner discussion, and public testimony, the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Council.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Dallas Drake (building owner and president of the Downtown Auburn Business Association): Expressed support for the ordinance but argued that the proposed color palettes (Sherwin-Williams Historic Color Palette – 65 colors; Benjamin Moore Historical Color Collection – 191 colors) are too limited. He advocated for allowing more vibrant colors on commercial storefronts to create visual identity and attract visitors, stating that the current restrictions stifle business investment and enthusiasm. He suggested that problematic paint colors could be addressed through public nuisance enforcement if complaints arise.

Discussion Items

• Staff Presentation: Jonathan Wright (Economic Development Director) presented the ordinance and resolution. He explained that the changes were inspired by downtown consultant Michelle Reeves’ 2024 assessment, which noted Auburn’s “Tan Land” appearance and encouraged color and minor improvements. The ordinance would exempt exterior painting that uses preapproved colors from needing a Historic Design Review Permit, and would allow administrative approval for replacing awning roofing with metal or masonry materials. Wright emphasized that paint is temporary and that the goal is to reduce regulatory barriers, encourage reinvestment, and support local businesses.
• Commissioner Questions and Debate:
  • Commissioners asked whether the process could include an administrative approval step for paint colors (beyond exemption). Staff explained that an exemption (no approval needed) was chosen to minimize burden; an administrative process would require fees and applications, which could discourage improvements.
  • Concerns were raised about subjective vs. objective standards: staff noted that using the approved palettes avoids subjective judgment about color compatibility, but some commissioners worried that property owners might use multiple colors from the palette in incompatible ways. Staff responded that the palettes are neutral and colors generally harmonize, and that code enforcement would handle serious violations.
  • Commissioner Kosinski raised concern about character-defining features (e.g., buildings with historically significant paint colors) potentially being lost under the exemption. Staff acknowledged that such cases would not have explicit recourse under the ordinance but noted that the city could still rely on historic design guidelines and enforcement if needed.
  • Commissioner Kramer expressed support for the exemption for palette colors, but wanted outside-palette colors to still go through design review. Others noted the ordinance preserves that path.
• Public Hearing: Opened and closed; only Dallas Drake spoke.

Key Outcomes

• Motion and Vote: Commissioner (unidentified in transcript) moved to recommend approval of the ordinance amending Section 159.497 and the resolution pre-approving the Sherwin-Williams Historic Color Palette (SW 2801–SW 2865) and Benjamin Moore Historical Color Collection (HC 1–HC 191). Motion was seconded and passed unanimously (7-0), with Chair Hyatt, Vice Chair Kramer, Commissioners Galliart, Hobbs, Kozinski, Costa, and Friesen all voting aye. Commissioners Lindbergh and Haswell were absent.
• Next Steps: The ordinance will be forwarded to the Auburn City Council for adoption; staff indicated the council hearing would likely occur at the end of June 2026 (tentatively June 8th or later due to scheduling). Staff will launch an educational campaign for property owners about the new options.
• Other Updates:
  • Staff reported that the Powers Mansion renovation permit has been issued (17 rooms, full kitchen/restaurant).
  • The Hink Block building has begun painting and roofing improvements.
  • Upcoming meetings: Planning Commission on June 16, 2026 (mobile food vending ordinance); City Council meeting June 1, 2026 (honoring Commissioner Galliart).