The Macomb Historic Preservation Commission approved exterior changes to two downtown buildings last week, issuing certificates of appropriateness for ongoing renovations.
The commission voted 3-1 to approve window modifications at 309 Marketplace, 129 N. Randolph St., and new facade lighting at the Bougher, Krisher & Clark law office, 32 W. Side Square.
Paul Runser, partner in 309 Marketplace, said window frames needed to be repositioned for structural integrity reasons. Commissioner Savannah Ballard confirmed the changes were necessary for the building's structural stability.
At the law office, partners Stephanie Hilton and Ryan Krisher requested permission to replace broken facade lights installed in 1950. The partners said their replacement lighting plan matches other buildings on the square. Community Development Director Miranda Lambert said, 'Before this commision existed, there were probably changes made that were not historical.'
'Trying to repair the lights would cost more than replacing them,' Hilton said. 'It might not even be possible to repair the lighting system.'
Community Development Director Miranda Lambert announced she will leave Macomb this month for a similar position in Decatur. City Administrator Scott Coker and City Attorney Lisa Scalf will handle community development issues until a replacement is hired.
