The City Council of Austin has approved a first reading for the historic designation of the Romo-Johnson House in East Austin, but three council members abstained, creating uncertainty for the property's future. The house may face demolition if it doesn't receive a majority vote in subsequent readings. While city staff and the Historic Landmark Commission advocate for preservation, the Planning Commission made no recommendation. The property is noted for its architectural significance and the shift in demographics in the neighborhood. Historical residents include families from both white and Hispanic backgrounds, highlighting the community's evolution.
According to the 2016 East Austin Historic Resource Survey, the property is "a good example of the National Folk style." Several families lived in the house and raised their children there, but it is not associated with any well-known person.
The East Austin Historic Resource Survey identifies the house as "a significant look into the development and demographic changes that formed the predominant residential development patterns of the Willow-Spence neighborhood during the 20th Century."
Harper-Madison reiterated earlier statements saying she will not vote against an owner's wishes on historic designation, indicating a potential challenge for the Romo-Johnson House's approval.
Without historic designation, the current owner of the property, DMP Austin LLC, likely will carry out the demolition that was proposed before it went to the Historic Landmark Commission.
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