The Historic Preservation Commission recently assembled to discuss homeowner requests regarding updates to their historic properties in Excelsior Springs. Local homeowner Brandon Martinez submitted a request to rebuild an additional room on his home at 525 Benton Avenue. The application, presented by city planner Shantle Frie, noted the original addition had been torn down after it deteriorated. The rebuild would convert what was a closet into a combination laundry room and closet. Frie said the home’s structural integrity was already compromised in 1994 and 2014 when the deteriorating structure, which was historically part of an enclosed wrap-around porch, was removed. “The applicant (Martinez) removed the structure and wasn’t aware there was a certificate of approval (COA) needed before it was torn off,” said Frie. “The new improvements for the home will not affect the structural integrity of the house and will improve the visual impact of the historic property.” The application…