Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board Meeting - August 6, 2026

The Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board met on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Ocala City Hall to consider two Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) and discuss the need for updated design guidelines and a workshop. The board denied a request for a white vinyl fence replacement and approved a request for copper awnings.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Roger (applicant, 514 SE 8th Street): Stated that the proposed vinyl fence would replace a dilapidated fence of similar footprint, that no additional fence length would be added, and that modern vinyl fencing looks much better than older vinyl.
• Steve Arnold (Fencing Solutions, installer): Claimed that approximately seven doors east on the same street (8th Street) there is a similar white vinyl picket fence installed about four to five years ago within the historic district. Board member Jane Cosand disputed that the referenced property was outside the district and noted it creates a high glare.
• The applicant for the second COA (Charles and Paula King) was not present; their contractor had previously discussed the need to protect windows.

Discussion Items

• COA 26-0047 – 514 SE 8th Street (Mrs. Henry Sistrunk House): Request to replace existing damaged fencing with white vinyl: a 6-foot privacy fence along the rear and western side, a 4-foot privacy fence, and a 3-foot picket fence along the parking lot side. Staff (Charlita Whitehead) recommended approval, noting the fencing is limited to side/site improvements, does not diminish historic character, and is visually compatible. Board members raised concerns: vinyl fencing has historically not been allowed in the district; the example of another vinyl fence shown was installed without a COA; materials and glare were discussed. The board voted to deny the application.
• COA 26-0049 – 1238 SE 5th Street: Request to install three custom-fabricated solid copper awnings over windows on the west elevation to match existing approved awnings. Staff recommended approval, stating the awnings replicate previously approved material, profile, proportions, and detailing, and are compatible with the historic character. The board voted to approve.
• Workshop and Design Guidelines: During board comments, members (especially Jane Cosand, Tom McCullough, and Noelle Smith (absent)) expressed frustration over inconsistent decisions regarding materials such as vinyl. The board requested a workshop with staff and legal to clarify design guidelines, update the outdated 1990s-era guidelines, and define which materials are appropriate. Staff (Charlita Whitehead and Roberta Elis) acknowledged the need and committed to working on a timeline.

Key Outcomes

• COA 26-0047 (vinyl fence) was DENIED. A motion to disallow the application under Section 94-82 or 94-86 (referenced as 9682 C) passed. Vote count: All members present voted in favor (ayes), with one opposing voice, unclear tally – motion carried.
• COA 26-0049 (copper awnings) was APPROVED. Motion to approve passed; all present voted in favor.
• Next Meeting: Scheduled for Thursday, September 3, 2026.
• Directive: Staff will organize a workshop with the board and legal department to update design guidelines and define acceptable materials and standards for certificates of appropriateness.