Landmark Commission Minutes - 11/18/2025 LANDMARK COMMISSION
MINUTES
November 18, 2025
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Christy Graham •Chairperson
Joel Hartmangruber •Vice-Chair
JD Dixon • Member
Bill Enlow •Member
Dr. Dawn Ferrell, Maj. Gen. (retired) ■Member
Noros Martin ■ Member
Janel Ponder Smith ■ Member
John Yates • Member
Whitney Flack ■ Council Liaison
Monica Aguon, Assistant City Attorney • City Staff
Karen Montgomery-Gagne, Principal Planner/HPO ■ City Staff
ABSENT:
John Dickinson ■Member
GUESTS:
Allen Winger-(1414 Tilden) • Representative
Xavier Lewis -(1414 Tilden) ■Contractor
Amor
Fernando Miranda - (3006 10th) ■Applicant
Jessica Wood -(501 Indiana) ■Applicant
Dylan Jimenez-KFDX •Reporter
I. Call to Order, Introductions and Welcome:
Chairperson Christy Graham called the meeting to order at 12:00 p.m.
Ms. Graham did introductions of Commission members, and guests attending.
II. Review & Approval of Minutes from August 26, 2025:
Chairperson Graham called for review and approval of the August 26th, 2025,
Landmark Commission meeting minutes. Mr. Noros Martin made a motion to
approve the minutes as presented, Dr. Dawn Ferrell seconded the motion. Minutes
were unanimously approved. 9-0. Chairperson Graham asked if there was anyone
from the public that had comments about the minutes, and there were no comments.
III. Action Item: Design Review Case — 501 Indiana: Backdoor Theatre:
Request authorization to install a new metal 3x8ft ground sign (indirect LED lighting)
and 13 new exterior light fixtures/electrical conduit on main building facades for
improved safety/visibility. (Depot Square HD)
Applicant: Jessica Wood, Executive Managing Director of Backdoor Theater
Landmark Commission 2 November 18, 2025
Staff presented the case and stated this structure was originally the People's Ice
House Company and in 1986 was featured in Texas Highways publication as the
only theatre use of a former icehouse in Texas. She added, the structure was
constructed in 1919 and is a contributing structure located in the Depot Square
Historic District. Staff displayed a photo of the subject property from 1927, courtesy
of Backdoor Theatre. Inventory photos from 1995 and 1999 showed minor
modifications to accommodate Backdoor Theatre that occurred approximately in
1986, such as a former ground sign being removed for the concrete handicapped
ramp and sign mural installed in 2009 with other courtyard improvements and
exterior lighting on the south façade, authorized by the Landmark Commission.
Current inventory photos showed little had changed on the subject property.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne stated the current sign had limited visibility on west façade
facing Indiana and after dusk signage not visible at all. The proposed sign would be
a 3X8 foot metal ground sign with indirect lighting at a pedestrian/vehicle height and
closer to Indiana Avenue.
The second request, Ms. Montgomery-Gagne advised, was for the addition of 13
LED light fixtures on select columns on each façade; north façade (facing 5th St) —
4 fixtures; east façade (facing courtyard/alley) — 2 fixtures; south façade (facing
parking lot) — 4 fixtures; west façade (facing Indiana Ave) — 3 fixtures. The current
view from the parking lot was shown, with handicapped ramp that showed the
existing 1 light fixture/electrical conduit and mature live oaks which are an important
site feature and aesthetic, but block lighting. The goal of the lighting project:
improved functionality and aesthetic visibility, in addition to safety for both patrons
and performers.
Applicant photos clearly illustrated how dark the historic property becomes after
sunset when the majority of patrons are attending performances. The mural sign on
the west façade (facing Indiana) is essentially blocked by shadows from the trees
along with the handicapped ramp/parking lot area being dark for patrons and
performers. Alterations requested are for both increased visibility and safety.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne stated Backdoor Theatre continues to work closely with
City staff/Landmark Commission and to bring all proposals for approval before work
is initiated. She also advised this proposal conforms to all design guidelines and
staff recommends approval.
Chairwoman Graham asked if the applicant, Ms. Jessica Wood, Executive
Managing Director, Backdoor Theatre had any presentations or statements for the
Commission. Ms. Wood stated she had nothing further and felt Ms. Montgomery-
Gagne did a wonderful job of presenting the case.
There was discussion among the Commission and Ms. Wood regarding lighting and
the theatre's preference. Ms. Wood stated Backdoor Theatre had received a grant
for funding and they would follow the Commission's recommendation.
Landmark Commission 3 November 18, 2025
Ms. Ponder-Smith made a motion to break up the requests into two separate
motions. Mr. Dixon seconded the motion. Mr. Martin asked if that was something
they could do, Ms. Montgomery-Gagne and Chairwoman Graham advised yes, that
was an acceptable option.
Chairwomen Graham made the motion to approve the proposed lighting as
presented. After much discussion among Commission and the applicant, there was
no second and the motion died on the floor. Dr. Farrell made a motion to table the
discussion of lighting with Ms. Ponder-Smith seconding to allow Backdoor Theatre
additional time to research options/costs for alternate up/down lighting fixtures found
on other structures in the Depot Square Historic District. Motion passed unanimously
9-0 to table the lighting proposal.
Ms. Ponder-Smith made a motion to approve the new construction of a ground-
mounted, metal sign 3ft x 8ft with indirect LED lighting utilizing the words/logo as
shown in the application design schematic. The sign will be placed in the triangular
island by the Indiana entrance north of the barbershop storage building. Mr. Dixon
seconded and the motion passed unanimously 9-0.
IV. Action Item: Design Review— 3006 10th St:
Request authorization to install a replacement pergola comprised of all metal in the
rear yard (visible from public ROW) in compliance with setback standards. (West
Floral Heights HD)
Applicant: Fernando Miranda
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Ms. Montgomery-Gagne presented the case and advised the Commission this was
brought to staffs attention in summer 2025 due to extensive work done in the yard
and is currently still undergoing changes. She stated the subject property, a
prominent contributing structure on 10th Street, was constructed circa 1923 located
in the West Floral Heights Historic District. The primary structure is the historic
house and rear detached two-story garage apartment. There was an additional
detached structure to the east of the house built in 1989. Ms. Montgomery-Gagne
stated the secondary structure, although not contributing, was constructed with
materials to match the primary residence design and scale.
The Colonial Revival residence is characterized by its 2'/2-story rectangular Burke
block form, capped with a hipped roof and roof dormer. A 2-story frame east wing
extends from the main block and includes an open first-floor porch with a room
above. The symmetrical façade features paired double-hung sash windows with
stone sills, complemented by semi-hexagonal bay windows flanking the main entry,
each containing double-hung sash windows and transoms. The front entry is notably
elaborate, highlighted by a stone surround and sidelights. Contributing structures on
the site include the primary house and a rear garage/apartment, while a later one-
story garage constructed around 1989 is as mentioned, non-contributing.
Inventory photos displayed from 2013 show the subject property unchanged from
the designation in 2005. Ms. Montgomery-Gagne pointed out in the photo a portion
Landmark Commission 4 November 18, 2025
of the original wood pergola visible from the right-of-way. Photos from 2019, again
show the property unchanged until this spring when ownership changed from the
late Dr. Karen Reed. There was a ramp installed and removed in July that is no AMA
longer a design consideration. Extensive landscaping conducted (terracing,
stone/brick knee walls, etc.) in the back and front yards. It was determined in
conjunction with Building Inspection, if the retaining walls were less than four-feet,
permits were not triggered and utilized brick similar to the primary structure coupled
with obscured view from the 10th St public ROW so design review was not required.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne showed photos taken in August and November 2025
showing a replacement metal pergola installed in June by former contractor void of
design review and building permits giving staff design, materials, and setback
concerns. The pergola was highly visible from the alley public ROW. There was also
a rear multi-tiered deck replaced prior to former owner's passing. However, it was
undetermined to what extent the decking was maintenance and repair vs. expansion
and extension, therefore design review was not required. The new owner, as of
October, moved the illegal metal pergola until the case was slated for review by the
Landmark Commission as not in violation to obtain an electrical permit. Photos taken
by staff on August 7, 2025, show a detailed view of the replacement metal pergola
from rear public right-of-way with different massing, profile, and design from the
former wood pergola. There were also issues with the setback as it appeared to
overhang the rear fence/property line. A photo taken in November showed the metal
pergola moved from the concrete pad and out of rear setback, until issues could be
addressed as well as missing permits.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne stated when looking at the design review guidelines the
landscape features not visible from the public right-of-way are not regulated.
However, the guidelines are clear regarding landscaping features that were visible
from the right-of-way that states "Do not remove or destroy any built historic
landscape feature that is visible from the public ROW unless deteriorated beyond
repair". Ms. Montgomery-Gagne advised the family of the former owner was
concerned about the wooden pergola being a safety hazard and had it removed, so
it may have deteriorated beyond repair. The design guidelines state new structures
must reflect historically present building forms, materials, massing, proportions, and
architectural style. Including the height of new construction shall not exceed height
of tallest contributing building on lot/block; the quality of construction/materials
prioritized over style; the design of new accessory buildings should be compatible
with the scale of the associated primary building and historic character of district yet
discernible as new. The materials/finish used for out buildings shall correspond to
overall character of district and building type. There is also a question of the setback
since there is no survey for the subject property. The City ordinance states
accessory buildings not exceeding 150 square feet in floor area may be placed
within the rear setback area, but no closer than one (1) foot from rear lot line. Staff
is working with building inspections regarding the setbacks. Ms. Montgomery-Gagne
stated the owner, Mr. Fernando Miranda, is requesting the Commission consider
approving the replacement metal pergola, however, the structure will have to meet
the setback ordinance requirements.
Landmark Commission 5 November 18, 2025
Chairwoman Graham asked if Mr. Miranda was present and wished to make a
presentation which he declined, but stated he would move the pergola wherever the
Commission instructed placement. Chairwoman Graham asked Mr. Miranda how
big the concrete slab currently in the backyard was versus the pergola. The applicant
stated it was a couple of feet bigger than the pergola. Chairwoman Graham stated
with the size of the pergola and the slab he would be able to move the pergola onto
the slab and still conform to the setback requirements. Chairwoman Graham asked
Mr. Miranda if he built the pergola and he stated it was there when he purchased
the property.
Chairwoman Graham asked if there was anyone from the public that wished to
comment. With no comments from the public, Chairwoman Graham asked if there
was a motion to approve moving the metal pergola onto the concrete pad to ensure
setback compliance. Dr. Ferrell introduced a motion to approve the pergola case as
presented. Mr. Hartmangruber seconded the motion. Commission voted
unanimously to approve 9-0.
V. Action Item: Design Review -1414 Tilden:
Request authorization to replace all 74 original existing wooden windows in house
and garage apartment with Renewal by Andersen Acclaim Fibrex material with
dimensional muntins (exterior and interior). (West Floral Heights HD)
Applicant: Dawn Neville
Staff presented the case and advised staff was contacted by a representative from
Renewal by Andersen that was present at the meeting, that was working with the
contractor and home owner on addressing concerns on recent storm damage on the
windows. Ms. Montgomery-Gagne stated there were 74 windows to be replaced and
would be done in phases, however, the owner was seeking approval for all windows
at that time since they would all be replaced with the same materials.
The subject property, located on the corner of Tilden and Avenue E was a
contributing property located in the West Floral Heights Historic District. Constructed
circa 1915, this Colonial Revival contributing structure features a side-gabled roof
with wide, open eaves and exposed rafter tails, presenting a symmetrical two-story
façade. The building retains its original wood windows—paired and tripled double-
hung units with multi-pane sashes in 6-over-6 and 4-over-4 configurations—while
vinyl siding, added before the district's 2005 designation, now clads the exterior. An
elegant, pedimented entry porch with a curved underside supported by slender Doric
columns highlights the front elevation, and three chimneys further define the home's
historic character.
Inventory photos displayed from 2013 and 2019 show the large number of windows
are a character defining feature and remain essentially unchanged. Photos shown
from April 2025 after a spring storm that had hail and damaging winds show exterior
wood frame damage, flaking paint, and glass panes broken and/or cracked. From
the interior there was water leaking inside house and causing damage to historic
Landmark Commission 6 November 18, 2025
woodwork, walls/plaster, and furniture. Multiple photos displayed of the many
windows show the trend in exterior as well as interior damage to the historical
structure and the need for window replacements. The new owners are concerned
about black mold and are seeking a remedy with window replacement.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne. advised the applicant is proposing to replace all 74
windows in the primary structure and garage/apartment in phases with engineered
fibrex, which is 40% reclaimed wood fiber combined with 60% thermo plastic
polymer. The muntin profiles are full divided light, exterior, between glass and
interior. In phase one, 24 windows would be replaced. She stated the proposed
window replacement product (Acclaim Fibrex Composite Material) does not meet
Wichita Falls Design Standards based on profile of sill/framework being wider,
substitute material is a vinyl product which is not an approved option. Texas
Historical Commission does not recommend use of Fibrex in historically designated
buildings. Use of Fibrex Composite material for replacement of 74 windows will
impact the overall architectural character of the house/garage apt. and block as a
contributing corner property. The fibrex window is classified as a vinyl (plastic)
window; fibrex is not fiberglass as fiberglass has been considered a substitute
material on secondary facades as its base is glass melted/molded under high-heat.
The fibrex material is not considered in keeping with Sec. of Interior's Standards and
would require replacement within 20-30 years.
Staff recommended consideration of wood, aluminum clad wood or aluminum
windows that do meet the adopted Wichita Falls design standard options and follow
Texas Historical Commission and Dept. of the Interior standards.
Chairwoman Graham asked if there was anyone from the public that wished to
comment. Mr. Xavier Lewis, Senior Project Manager with Renewal by Andersen
stated that the fibrex windows are specifically engineered to replicate historic wood
profiles, maintain the architectural authenticity of Colonial homes, and meet current
energy and safety codes. Mr. Lewis stated this proposal would preserve the historic
appearance of the structure while improving long-term durability and performance.
Mr. Lewis advised the Commission the Acclaim Fibrex windows were fashioned after
the wooden window and the closest you could get as it was not aluminum, and not
vinyl. Mr. Lewis stated the existing historic windows are deteriorated beyond
practical repair and due to the level of degradation, repair is not feasible without
replacing major components. Under the Secretary of the Interior's Standard 6,
replacement is appropriate when deterioration is beyond repair.
Mr. Lewis advised that the Acclaim Fibrex windows accurately replicate the
appearance of the historic wood windows and the material is compatible with
preservation standards. From the right-of-way Mr. Lewis stated you could not tell the
difference from painted wood and that met Secretary Standards 2 and 5, which
safeguard historic character and defining features and that under section 9,
substitute material is acceptable when they are compatible in appearance, texture,
and form and the proposed windows meet that requirement.
Landmark Commission 7 November 18, 2025
Mr. Lewis stated the proposed windows meet modern energy, safety, and building
code requirements and the overall project preserves the character-defining feature
of the colonial façade, fully aligning with preservation best practices and standards
2, 5, and 6.
In conclusion Mr. Lewis advised their proposed Acclaim Fibrex windows; preserve
the historic appearance of the 100-year-old colonial home; matches the original
wood window design and sightlines; strengthens long-term preservation by
preventing ongoing deterioration' meets or exceeds energy and safety codes;
complies with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation; and
maintains architectural integrity and the visual character of the historic district. For
those reasons, Mr. Lewis requested approval from the Commission for the proposed
window replacements.
After extensive discussion between the Commission and Mr. Lewis, Chairwoman
Graham made a motion to approve the new construction with replacement windows
utilizing a specific alternative material (Acclaim Fibrex) for limited application, as it
consisted of a combination of wood fibers and polymers. The Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties is referenced in this case
as the new construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that if removed, the
essential form and integrity of the historic property would not be impaired.
Furthermore, it was determined by the Commission that according to the Wichita
Falls Design Guidelines (Windows pg 56), although some substitute materials may
be used for replacement windows, the appearance of windows from the public ROW
shall closely resemble the original in size, configuration, profile, and finish.
Dimensional muntins shall be placed on the outside glass and spaces between the
glass so the window appears to have true divided lites from an oblique view. Dr.
Farrell seconded the motion, which passed with a 6-2 vote.
VI. Action Item: 2026 Landmark Commission Meeting Schedule
Review and Adoption of the 2026 Landmark Commission Meeting Schedule
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne presented the proposed 2026 Landmark Commission
Meeting Schedule. Ms. Ponder-Smith made a motion to approve the 2026 Landmark
Commission Meeting Schedule as proposed. Chairperson Graham seconded the
motion which passed 9-0.
VII. Other Business:
a) Monthly Reports:
Chairperson Graham for the Depot Square HD:
12/06 —City Lights Parade 4pm-6:30pm
11/21 — 12/13— Backdoor Theatre— Silver Bells
Wichita Theatre will host"Christmas with the Rat Pack"for one performance only.
11/14— 12/20 —Wichita Theatre— Murder on the Orient Express
11/22 — 12/20 —The Grinch that Stole Christmas
12/22 — Grand 01' Christmas Show
Ms. Janel Ponder Smith for West Floral Heights HD: All board positions are full.
Landmark Commission 8 November 18, 2025
b) Updates:
• Berry Brown House (1400 Travis) — Demolition due to fire and lack of
maintenance.
Ms. Montgomery-Gagne gave updates on the Berry Brown House (1400 Travis)
and the recent city council ordered demolition due to severe state of disrepair
to the point of being deemed a life, health and safety threat in the community.
Discussion among the Commission ensued, including the status of the historic
Victorian style fence that was also removed to access the site for demolition.
Preservation Priorities 2026-2028:
-Protecting our Historic Resources
-Working with our community to nominate five resources
*Noting: East Side Community, Indian Heights, Fillmore, Southland and Brook Village.
-Seeking funding
*To get additional city budget funding over a three-year period,to then match with a certified
local government grant from the State to hire a consultant to work with the community.
-Going out in inventory
*Working with volunteers, working with people from Dr. Draper's Department, working with
graduate students in the History Department and working with volunteers from the Wichita
County Historical Commission.
-Outreach in the community about why it is important.
-Texas First Initiative
*Being on an inventory and registered so that your downtown is recognized.
c) Resources/Webinars:
• The Medallion (THC) — Fall 2025
• NAPC Webinars — Design Review Roundtable (Nov 13)
d) Design Review: Staff Authorized — Minor Alteration/Repairs/Permits:
• 129 Pembroke(Morningside Nat'l Register HD)—20-window replacement;informational purposes only
• 408 Morningside(Morningside Nat'l Register HD)—roofing replacement; informational purposes only
• 2704 9th St (Momingside Nat'l Register HD) — kitchen remodel + 3 windows/1 door; informational
purposes only
• 1711 Grant(West Floral Heights HD)—roofing—replace same style materials; comp shingle
• 1501 Tilden(West Floral Heights HD)—carriage door rebuild(garage apt.); same style materials
• 1700 Hayes(West Floral Heights HD)—roofing—replace same style materials; comp shingle
• 1701 Hayes(West Floral Heights HD)—roofing—replace same style materials; comp shingle
• 2806 Ave E (West Floral Heights HD) — garage door — replace same design/profile/size &
materials
VII. Adjourn:
Chairperson Graham adjourned the meeting at 2:22 pm and stated the next scheduled
meeting would be January 27, 2026 at 12:00 pm.
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Christy Graham, Chairperson Date