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Feedback: The Battle Over Windows

Story Published: Oct 26, 2011 at 5:07 PM EDT

Story Updated: Oct 26, 2011 at 6:29 PM EDT

It all comes down to windows - are they part of a building's facade or not? 

The historic building on Court Street in Watertown belongs to Steve Bradley.

He installed the windows several weeks ago.

"I want to keep it historic.  I'm taking a lot of pains to do that," said Bradley.

But he did it without approval of Neighbors of Watertown.  

Back in 2002, Neighbors got a promise from Bradley that he wouldn't make any changes without seeking approval. 

During a face to face meeting with Neighbors of Watertown Executive Director Gary Beasley, Bradley said, "I asked him directly if they would be acceptable to him and his answer was no."

Beasley declined an on-camera interview, but told 7 News every facade improvement project Neighbors has done in downtown Watertown has had to meet the same requirements. 

He has said Bradley isn't complying.

Bradley added a transom to see if it falls under the guidelines.

"I'm hoping we can just resolve the whole situation and keep going," said Bradley.

So back to the original question - are windows considered part of the facade?

According to the New York State Historic Preservation Office, they are. 

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Thursday, May 17, 2012
, Watertown, NY

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