Minutes_Historic Preservation CommissionMasterpiece on the Mississippi
Dubuque
2007
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
5:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
City Council Chamber, Historic Federal Building
DIEN
Commissioners Present: Vice Chairperson Chris Wand, Commissioners David Klavitter,
Chris Olson, Joseph Rapp and Bob McDonell.
Commissioners Excused: Commissioners John Whalen, Michael Knight, Mary Loney
Bichell and Peggy Stover.
Staff Members Present: Laura Carstens and Dave Johnson.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Vice Chairperson Wand at 5:30
p.m.
AFFIDAVIT OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying the
meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law.
MINUTES: The Commission noted a correction to Page 4 of the February 18, 2010
minutes. The Commission noted the first sentence in paragraph 5 should read, "The
Commission questioned why the applicant wanted the building removed from the Brewery
Conservation District."
Motion by Olson, seconded by McDonell, to approve the minutes as amended. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Rapp, Wand and McDonell, Nay —
None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Gene Melssen for a Certificate of Appropriateness /
Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund to repair the roof on the building located at
3040 Elm Street in the Brewery Conservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report, noting the building's condition, the
proposed work and two bids received for Phase 1 of the project. He explained the
applicant's intent is to initially repair the hip roof portion of the building. He stated the
applicant explained that the flat roof area adjacent to and east of the tower as well as the
tower will be repaired immediately following the hip roof portion. He stated that the Historic
Preservation Revolving Loan Fund Committee has met and recommends funding up to
$25,000 for the entire project. Staff Member Johnson noted the committee will require bids
be submitted for review for the later phases of the project.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 18, 2010
Page 2
Gerry Charley, 2745 Cottonwood Court, presented the application. Mr. Charley explained
he is the property manager for the building. He noted the project is planned to begin with
the hip roof and then proceed with the flat roof and steeple.
Motion by Wand, seconded by McDonell, to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness and
up to $25,000 in Historic Preservation Revolving Loan funds, as proposed, subject to
Planning Services staff review and approval of the materials prior to installation. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Rapp, Wand and McDonell, Nay —
None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of D & J Realty, Dennis & Joe Hefei for a Certificate of
Appropriateness /Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund to remodel the storefront
located at 163 Main Street in the Old Main Historic Preservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report. He reviewed the proposed changes to
the storefront. He explained the approval had previously been given to the property owner
to open the upper story windows to the original size and install wood, vinyl or aluminum
clad windows that were the same type, shape and style as the original. Staff noted that
approval was to be consistent with the Historic Preservation Commission Window Policy.
He noted the 2001 rendering prepared by Main Street Iowa Architect Tim Reinders
provided by the applicant. The Commission noted the applicant was not in attendance.
The Commission discussed the proposed Low E glass transparency. Staff Member
Johnson explained his conversation with the applicant was that the glass in the storefront
would have the typical slight greenish hue that Low E glass has; however, the glass will be
transparent and will not be reflective.
The Commission discussed the window replacement on the upper story of the building.
The Commission felt the new windows were not appropriate and not consistent with the
Window Policy, which allows windows to be replaced that are the same size, style and
shape as the original. The Commission noted the original windows would have been a
two -part window and not a three -part window as was installed. The Commission required
the three -part windows be removed and replaced with a two -part window, which are the
same type, shape and style as the original windows.
The Commission clarified that the windows and transoms will be the same size all across
the storefront. Staff Member Johnson noted that the storefront will not have traditional
size transoms; rather, two large 10' by 10' panes of glass with metal trim have been
proposed. He clarified that those windows and flashings will be the same size and align
across the storefront.
Motion by Olson, seconded by Klavitter, to approve the request with the following
conditions:
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 18, 2010
Page 3
1. Follow the Window Policy and replace with windows that mimic the ones to the
north.
2. The plate glass on the storefront must stay the same height.
3. The glass on the storefront must be transparent.
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Rapp, Wand and McDonell,
Nay — None
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Dubuque County Historical Society for a Certificate of
Appropriateness for a Lead Mine Exhibit located at 2241 Lincoln Avenue (Ham House
Landmark).
Commissioner Rapp excused himself from discussion due to a conflict of interest.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report. He reviewed the proposed work and
materials for the lead mine exhibit at the Ham House site. He explained the photos of the
site.
Commissioner Olson noted she had a conversation with Dubuque County Historical
Society Executive Director Jerry Enzler regarding permit review for landmarks and
landmark sites.
Commissioner Wand noted his firm, Durrant, prepared the drawings, but he did not
participate and he was not aware of the project, and therefore felt he did not have a conflict
of interest.
Jerry Enzler, Dubuque County Historical Society Executive Director, reviewed the history of
the Ham House and the consultants the Historical Society has retained for the project. Mr.
Enzler also reviewed future site improvements for the grounds. He noted the restoration of
the Ham House and the addition of other historic buildings on the site. He explained the
long range plan is to install historically appropriate plantings and interpretive signs. He
introduced Mark Hantelmann.
Commissioner Klavitter asked about the work in progress before the Historic Preservation
Commission had a chance to review it. Staff Member Carstens explained review of work in
historic districts and landmark sites is triggered by the building permit process. She
explained the City's permit software is intended to flag building permit applications for
properties located in historic districts and local landmarks. She explained staff learned
after the fact that the City landmarks were not flagged in the software, and the Historical
Society inadvertently did go through the proper review procedures prior to obtaining the
building permit. She noted the problem has been remedied.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 18, 2010
Page 4
Staff Member Johnson asked whether any safety barriers are planned at the top of the
exhibit. He noted the top of the exhibit is approximately 10 -12 feet from the parking lot
surface. Mark Hantelmann explained there is a rock barrier proposed at the top of the
exhibit to prevent falls.
The Commission noted that if the Building Department determines City Code would require
a barrier other than the proposed rock barrier, an unobtrusive fence system should be
considered. The Commission noted possible materials such as hoop railings, unobtrusive
metal railings or wire systems. The Commission noted if a fence system would be required,
it should be painted black so it would disappear from a distance.
The Commission agreed the exhibit setting does not detract from the Ham House and the
collection of other structures on the property lends to the exhibit. The Commission
discussed the actual exhibit appearance versus the model's appearance. Mr. Enzler
clarified that the slope will be more natural rather than the limestone wall that appears in
the application.
Motion by Olson, seconded by Wand, to approve the request, noting the changes
discussed at the meeting:
1. The stone wall will be replaced with an earthen structure instead of the proposed
dry stacked limestone blocks.
2. The drop -off will be protected with a Code - compliant railing if required by the City
Building Code and the Historic Preservation Commission will defer to staff approval
of the railing design with the suggestion to consider the hoop style metal railing
used on the West 1 1 th Street Historic District retaining walls.
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Wand and McDonell, Nay —
None; Abstain — Rapp.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Betty Smith for a Certificate of Appropriateness / Historic
Preservation Housing Grant to install a new roof at 1157 Bluff Street located in the Jackson
Park Historic Preservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report, noting the proposed work, materials, grant
request, and recommendation of the Historic Preservation Housing Grant Committee. He
distributed photos of the property.
Betty Smith, 1157 Bluff Street, reiterated she is asking approval for a new flat roof for her
property.
Motion by Wand, seconded by McDonell, to approve the request as submitted, and concur
with the recommendation of the Historic Preservation Housing Grant Committee to fund up
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March 18, 2010
Page 5
to $3,400 for the project. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson,
Rapp, Wand and McDonell, Nay — None.
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC:
Historic Millwork District Streetscape Plan: Staff Member Carstens reviewed the need for
streetscape changes from the original design due to comments from the State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO) and the Complete Streets requirements. She introduced the
consultant team and Engineering staff.
Greg Roth, V & K, reviewed the PowerPoint presentation of the changes from the Historic
Preservation Commission's previous review and timeframe. He discussed the TIGER grant
requirements, the changes in streetscape and street paving, what does not change, why
changes are needed, the conflicting interest and requirements of the grants, and revised
decisions as to plantings in planters and various streetscape elements: lighting, trash
receptacles, bike racks, bus shelters, and benches.
Commissioner Olson suggested permanent planters, similar to what is used at the Roshek
Building, would be a good example to review with SHPO.
Will Page, Historic Preservation consultant, reviewed the character - defining features of the
Historic Millwork District. He noted density of development, building materials, hard
textures, height, industrial design, restricted color palette, rectilinear layout of streets and
buildings, railroad tracks, docks and doors, irregularity of curb lines, signage, and absence
of vegetation. He explained these character - defining features need to be taken into
consideration as they certainly will be by the State Historic Preservation Office.
Greg Roth, V & K, reviewed the impact of the TIGER grant on the use of brick pavers. He
reviewed the revised design for Jackson Street, which re -uses Purington pavers between
the rails and approximately 8" along each side of the rails. He explained concrete will be
used in the travel lane and permeable pavers in parking areas. He reviewed the simplified
design for Washington Street. He reviewed ADA compliant pavers as key issues at
intersections. He noted the Complete Streets requirements that prohibit the use of
Purington pavers in a number of travel -way locations. He clarified that 10 Street will
match the Washington Street concept. He discussed using colored concrete pavers for
intersections that need to meet Complete Streets requirements. He noted the pavers are
ADA compliant.
Ed Freer, JJR, reviewed the need to find a balance between curb appeal and respect for
the past in the designs. Mr. Freer noted based on SHPO comments, less trees and
vegetation are proposed. He noted the number of opportunities to introduce the industrial
aesthetic to the district. He reviewed the permeable pavements and public art and
vegetation proposed in the district. He referred to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market
examples. He noted their historic setting and modern day uses. He noted that the
vegetation that was introduced into these sites is a large component of what makes them
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March 18, 2010
Page 6
successful urban places. He noted that the Quincy Market examples show the introduction
of social interaction, urban opportunities, vegetation and urban design. He explained the
vegetation also provides canopy shade in some locations. He noted that places of
significant historical value such as the Historic Millwork District can use restrained
vegetation and streetscape amenities as benefits to an area. Mr. Freer reviewed 25
historic warehouse districts around the country that utilize successful balance of curb
appeal that accommodates adaptive re -use.
Staff Member Carstens noted the goal of the Commission is to find consensus on how
vegetation and streetscape amenities can be properly introduced into the Millwork District.
Commissioner Rapp asked if any rooftop gardens are utilized in the national examples that
were noted. Mr. Freer stated limited green roofs are currently in place; however, he
anticipates their use more in the future.
Mr. Freer reviewed the proposed luminaire fixtures, benches, trash receptacles, bicycle
racks, bus shelters and other amenities.
Mr. Roth reviewed the next steps of the project. He noted the time constraints with the
grants.
Commissioner Wand noted the importance of considering bike safety and ADA concerns
with the brick pavers. He liked how the concept incorporated the pavers into the tracks and
cautioned how they are installed so bike tires cannot get caught in between them. He
suggested not doing any streetscape improvements on Elm Street in anticipation of that
street being realigned at a later date. He felt savings from that could be incorporated into
other areas of the project.
Commissioner Wand questioned whether the one -way streets on 9 and 11 will be
converted to a two -way street. Jon Dienst, City of Dubuque Civil Engineer, stated it is still
under study and review with the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT). He explained
the City is currently meeting with property owners and other interested parties.
Commissioner Wand noted he supported the use of pavers at intersections. He stated he
would support using the Purington pavers at intersections instead of a substitute paver
material. He suggested a simplified brick layout rather than the mixed herringbone pattern.
Mr. Roth noted the proposed design was chosen because it will hold up better to traffic
demands. He noted the preference of SHPO would be to utilize the Purington pavers as
well, but cautioned that the IDOT most likely will not allow them at intersections.
Commissioner Wand suggested not restricting anything with the proposed plantings. He
stated he liked the number and density of what was proposed. He supported the hanging
light fixtures, but stated the pole mounted light fixtures will appear dated quickly. He
explained it would be important to find a balance between the historic industrial fixture and
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March 18, 2010
Page 7
an ornate fixture. Commissioner Olson stated she supported the hanging fixture as well,
but did not like the pole- mounted fixture. Will Page stated he preferred the hanging fixture
and disagreed with the proposed pole- mounted fixture. Commissioner Wand suggested
looking at historical photographs of the Millwork District which show lighting fixtures. Mr.
Freer noted the pole- mounted fixture is actually narrower that what is depicted in the slide,
and suggested viewing the fixture in person. Commissioner Wand expressed concern
about the illumination from the fixtures. He recommended cut -off luminaires and shields.
Commissioner Wand expressed concern about the bike racks and whether people would
be able to identify them as bike racks. He stated he liked the simplicity and
unobtrusiveness of the rack, but cautioned people may not recognize them as a bike rack
and therefore not use them. He stated he would support the bike racks if they were
grouped. Commissioner Olson also expressed support for the bike rack and felt that they
were a good unobtrusive design. Mr. Roth noted the bike racks actually come with a small
bicycle decal on them.
Commissioner Olson stated she felt the proposed trash receptacles were too contemporary
and look as though they would be more appropriately located in the interior of a building.
She stated they appeared too delicate looking for the Millwork District. Commissioner
Klavitter noted the receptacles would be out of place with the benches.
Commissioner Klavitter supported the benches and noted the design would fit in well with
the Millwork District.
Commissioner McDonell concurred with the lighting comments and suggested more
continuity with the lighting fixtures. He stated he agreed with the receptacle concerns.
Commissioner Rapp questioned whether historic millwork products once made in the
district could be used as art features in public spaces in the district. Staff Member
Carstens reviewed that the art component of the Historic Millwork District Master Plan does
incorporate those concepts, but the District does not have a specific art plan in place at this
time. She said she would share Commissioner Rapp's suggestion with an art and culture
group who will be looking at the Millwork District.
Mr. Roth noted people are currently considering using millwork equipment as a feature in
Foundry Square. Commissioner McDonell stressed that if permanent fixtures are used, it
is critical that they fit in with the district. He suggested local artists be used if rotating art is
the direction of the district. Mr. Freer stated they are trying to incorporate the public
amenities and functions in a subtle, non -trite manner that does not compete with fine art.
The Commission suggested a better connection between benches and the trash
receptacles. The Commission noted the receptacles should be simpler in design.
Consensus was the trash receptacles should be metal, all one dark color, or wood and
dark metal.
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March 18, 2010
Page 8
The Commission agreed that there is an adaptive change in use in the district which brings
on new needs and therefore the vegetation is important to creating a livable place. The
Commission suggested not restricting any more vegetation. The Commission favored
opportunities to increase the number of trees and vegetation throughout the district as long
as they were located appropriately.
Mr. Freer noted that columnar trees will be used by the arched loading docks and will not
obscure anything. Staff Member Carstens reviewed the City's streetscape and landscape
guidelines for historic districts support vegetation as long as it does not obscure the view of
building details or damage a building. Consensus was agreement with the proposed
plantings and trees, because it is restrained and compatible with the District's change in
use with the introduction of residential, if it is reversible, and it creates livable spaces.
The Commission suggested using Purington pavers at the intersections, if possible. The
Commission agreed that if this is not possible, modern brick pavers would be the next
acceptable alternative followed by concrete pavers. The Commission agreed they liked the
suspended Caternary illuminaire, but would choose a pole- mounted style more in keeping
with the district as long as there is a connection between the hanging and pole- mounted
styles. The Commission agreed they supported the bicycle racks with the details that will
delineate them as bike racks. They suggested grouping the bike racks as well. The
Commission supported the option that the benches have a back and no back. Staff
Member Dienst explained the City is currently considering using local contractors to
develop the benches and incorporating salvaged material into the benches. The
Commission suggested using the manufacturer of the benches to also manufacture a more
simplified receptacle style. The Commission agreed the receptacles should be dark in
color, simple, and more utilitarian. The Commission supported the proposed street and
sidewalk concepts.
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION:
Historic Preservation Housing Grant and Revolving Loan Fund Applications: The
Commission requested future staff reports include the amount of remaining funds in the
Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund and the Historic Preservation Housing Grant.
Work without a Permit: The Commission requested future staff reports note when an
applicant has started work without obtaining the necessary approvals and review.
Four Mounds White House Columns: Commissioner Olson provided the Commission with
an update of the column repair at the White House at the Four Mounds Estate. She noted
a previous presentation to the Commission that requested feedback on replicating the
columns using a cast resin material. She explained Four Mounds will first attempt to repair
the columns. She stated if that doesn't work, Four Mounds will pursue the resin alternative.
The Commission and staff discussed whether the Commission formally reviewed and
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 18, 2010
Page 9
approved that request. Staff Member Johnson stated he would follow -up with the
Commission.
1090 W. 3 Street: Commissioner Klavitter distributed a historical image and current
photograph of his house located at 1090 W. 3rd Street. He explained he wishes to replace
the walk -out porch railing located above the corner entrance of the home. He explained
the historical image is not of good enough quality to see the historical design. He
requested the Commission offer suggestions for rail designs. The Commission noted the
railing appeared to be fairly simple in design, although the exact design cannot be
determined. Staff Member Johnson suggested a simplified approach that is compatible
with features of the home. Commissioner Wand stated the railing was most likely similar to
the porch railing of his home. Commissioner Wand provided Commissioner Klavitter with a
railing sketch. Commissioner Klavitter stated he is meeting with the previous owners who
may have images of the railing. He stated once a design is identified, it will be formally
presented to the Commission.
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
Mines of Spain Exhibit & Education Program: Staff Member Carstens reviewed the
concepts for the upper level of the expanded E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center. The
Commission suggested avoiding using the color red for the Native American
interpretations. Commissioner Rapp noted Junkermann is spelled with two n's.
Architecture Days: Staff Member Jonson referenced the scheduled events for Architectural
Days that will take place between April 12 -15, 2010. He explained the Commission is
encouraged to attend as many events as possible.
Foundation of Historic Rehabilitation Seminar: Staff Member Johnson referred the
Commission to the brochure for the Foundation of Historic Rehabilitation Seminar. He
reviewed the seminar's events and noted Commissioners may attend the seminar free of
charge and should contact the Planning Services Department if they wish to register.
National Historic Preservation Month: Staff Member Johnson explained the theme for
National Historic Preservation Month, which takes place in the month of May is, "Old is the
New Green." Staff Member Johnson reviewed the purpose of National Historic
Preservation Month as well as the list of suggested activities provided by the National Trust
for Historic Preservation. He noted that the Mayor will be issuing a proclamation for
Historic Preservation Month at the May 3rd City Council meeting. The Commission
discussed possible historic locations to hold the May Historic Preservation Commission
meeting in recognition of Historic Preservation Month. By consensus, the Commission
agreed to first attempt to schedule the meeting at the Carnegie Stout Public Library
Auditorium, and if that is not available, attempt to schedule the meeting at the Roshek
Building Lobby.
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March 18, 2010
Page 10
Building Services Dept. — Status Report on Historic Preservation: Staff reviewed the
updates to the Status Report on Historic Preservation enforcement.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Adopted
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