TAMPA - Hillsborough Community College drew opposition from historic preservationists when designs for a new Ybor City student services building appeared too modern.

Usually, new architecture needs to be approved by the district's Barrio Latino Commission, which is charged with preserving the neighborhood's historic character. But HCC officials argued they were exempt from such review.

Now, that has changed.

While HCC can't be told how to design its building, it must adhere to the city's codes on how tall it can be. The four-story, $14 million building is designed to be more than 18 feet higher than the city's 45-foot limit.

To keep building, the college must get the commission's approval.

HCC's spokeswoman Ashley Carl says she expects the board to hear the college's petition in June.

Alexandra Zayas can be reached at azayas@sptimes.com or (813) 226-3354.