Janesville Historic Commission Meeting – October 6, 2026

The Janesville Historic Commission met on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. All seven commissioners were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting lasted approximately 27 minutes, adjourning at 5:27 PM. The commission approved the minutes of the September 15, 2026 regular meeting, reviewed two Certificates of Appropriateness, and continued discussion on proposed changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes of September 15, 2026: Approved unanimously by voice vote.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were received, either in person or in writing.

Discussion Items

• Certificate of Appropriateness 2026-11 – 812 E Court St (Griffa/Corro): Commissioners Dale and Gabe visited the property and reported that major work included replacing three failing porch posts (with recommendation to replace all five) and addressing the fascia. The contractor preferred aluminum fascia, but the commission recommended LP (engineered wood) instead. The commission expressed concerns about unknown rot and the need for wood replacement of rotted materials. A motion was made to approve the COA with stipulations: no metal materials on finished exterior surfaces except gutters and downspouts; any additional work not specified requires a new COA. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
• Certificate of Appropriateness 2026-12 – 69 S Atwood Ave (Terrill/Goth): Commissioner Mitch reviewed the project—a roof replacement using identical shingles (like-for-like). The contractor, Danny Capala of Top to Bottom Construction, presented a sample and confirmed use of rope and harness (no lifts). The turret copper topper, if needed, would also be replaced like-for-like. The commission unanimously approved the COA.
• Old Business – Section 106 of the NHPA: Commissioner Nancy presented a draft public comment letter responding to proposed changes by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The comment period has not yet opened (still at OMB); it may be very short (30 days or less, possibly 3.5 days based on a recent case). Commissioners discussed refining the letter, asking staff to identify past federal projects (e.g., river lighting, possible Wi‑Fi box relocation) to strengthen the comment. The group also agreed to reach out to U.S. senators and representatives to advocate for preservation funding and against rule changes. Gabe volunteered to help coordinate. The final letter will be reviewed at the next meeting on October 20, 2026.

Key Outcomes

• COA 2026-11 (812 E Court St): Approved with stipulations (no metal visible, future work needs new COA) – unanimous.
• COA 2026-12 (69 S Atwood Ave): Approved as proposed – unanimous.
• Section 106 Comment: Draft letter will be finalized and submitted once the comment period opens. Commission plans to coordinate with city council and contact federal representatives.