He hopes to have his closet up by summer. Since its start in the 1970's, the program has grown to include ten historically designated neighborhoods in Dallas. Many feel it's helped save failing neighborhoods and part of the city's past. But the Dean house controvery prompted the city to take another look. This week the Dallas City Council will be briefed on proposed changes to the historic preservation program.
Critics say some changes are needed to make sure the program is fair and reasonable.
But others fear the changes will mean the historic intergrity of the neighborhoods will disappear. Ruth Chenoweth has volunteered with her community's Landmark Commission task force in Winnetka Heights. She says the neighborhoods are zoned to protect unique features and architecture. Every change chips away at their historic nature. But Dean says most of these homes changed over time.