Design Review Board Meeting March 3, 2026

The City of Aiken Design Review Board convened on March 3, 2026, primarily to review applications related to historic property renovations and new construction within the historic overlay districts. Key procurement-related discussions included the final certification of a special tax assessment for extensive renovations at 522 Coker Springs Road, where the board approved expenditures exceeding $937,000, confirming compliance with preservation standards. The board also approved amendments to window sizes and porch materials for a property at 726 South Boundary Avenue and granted a certificate of appropriateness for roofing material changes at another historic property. Additionally, the board reviewed a proposal for subdividing two parcels into four lots for new residential construction, approving the project contingent on proper subdivision approval by city planning. A significant policy discussion involved amending the historic overlay district ordinance to establish a default designation for properties less than 50 years old without prior designation, enhancing the board's ability to manage historic preservation effectively. The board voted unanimously to recommend this ordinance amendment to City Council. Other agenda items included motions to continue certain applications due to absent representatives and a denial of a certificate of appropriateness for a portico replacement that did not meet design guidelines, with the applicant given time to comply under a prior approval. Overall, the meeting focused on ensuring historic preservation compliance through approvals, amendments, and policy updates affecting future procurement and construction activities within the historic districts.