Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting Date: September 2, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, AICP, Interim City Planner
Title
Commission Comment on Repainting at 108 5th St. E.
Body
Action Requested:
The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) is asked to review and provide comment on the proposed repainting at 108 5th St. E.
Summary Report:
The owner of 108 5th St. E. is proposing to repaint the wood siding (front, side, and rear facades) and concrete (lower side façade). The ground-floor side façade is proposed to have a mural painted on the concrete masonry units.
Section 3.2 of Chapter 34 of the Northfield City Code establishes that the HPC is to be asked for comment on proposals for buildings adjacent to the Historic district.
108 5th St. E. is not within the Historic district and is considered ineligible for national listing due to the significant loss of integrity. City records show the original building is dated 1900. The ground floor front façade was likely constructed in the 1970’s, though records are incomplete. The upper story was added in approximately 1990.
The proposed painting scheme is consistent with the Downtown Design Guidelines, which state:
- However, there is no clear rule for paint colors in a stylistically mixed group of buildings like those in the district, other than to avoid bright or unusual colors.
- The City of Northfield strongly recommends that property owners keep their buildings regularly painted and follow these guidelines in selecting the type and color of paint.
- It is recommended that:
o Utilize colors consistent with an integrated design for all material and color choices
o Trim elements that have the same function are the same color
o Avoid painting masonry that is not painted
City Plans & Policies Relevance:
NA
Alternative Options:
NA
Financial Impacts:
NA
Tentative Timelines:
NA