Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Commission Presents Awards

Story and Photos Submitted by the Excelsior Springs Community Development Staff on May 12, 2022

On Wednesday May 11, the City of Excelsior Springs’ Historic Preservation Commission presented Preservation awards to two property owners for improvements made on their properties. May is National Historic Preservation month, and the commission wished to thank owners of historic properties for their work in preservation.

The award for Preservation of an Investment Property was presented to Gary and Kim Sanson for their work on 407 E Broadway Ave. The Sansons restored the two-story c. 1920 home by doing a complete interior and exterior remodel. The structure was scheduled to be demolished when the Sansons rescued the home and made a plan to save it. The Sansons were approved to receive a 353 tax abatement for improving this property. When asked how she felt about receiving the award, Mrs. Sanson responded, “Gary and I find it so rewarding to have the opportunity to restore historic homes in the “Historic Boarding House District”. It is a neighborhood that is full of charming homes and it is so exciting to see this area of our amazing community come back to life “one house at a time!”

Susan and Brittni Blaser were presented the Preservation Award for a Commercial Property for their restoration of 216 Spring Street, which is now Casa Di Vite Intimate Affairs and Wedding Venue. The building was two separate buildings until a connection was built around 1933. The property owners were also approved to receive a 353 tax abatement for improving this property. This property was essentially abandoned and the interior was in extremely poor condition when they obtained it. The Blasers saved the building from obsolescence and added another business to the downtown district. When asked about the award, Britti Blaser stated, “We can’t thank the community enough for all their support since starting our renovations at 216 Spring Street. It’s been an incredible journey watching the building go from studs and slabs to this elegant space that captures the essence of the building’s history. We are humbled that the Historic Preservation Commission has recognized all of the love and hard work put into this building to come alive again. Soon, the community will be able to enjoy its beauty and make memories with a delicious glass of wine.”

casa di vite opening — Photo by Courtney S. Cole – Click here for photoblog of renovations on Casa Di Vite

The Historic Preservation Commission hears requests on the second Wednesday of every month at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Hall of Waters. Tax abatements through the 353 program may be available to property owners who are making improvements to their properties. All property owners in the historic district must apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness before making any exterior changes to their historic property. If you have questions or would like to submit an application for a CoA, please call the Community Development office at 816-630-0756.