Minutes_Historic Preservation Commission 4 21 11Dubuque
DUB E 'IIIL'
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007
THE CITY OF
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
5:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
City Council Chamber, Historic Federal Building
TE N
Commissioners Present: Chairperson David Klavitter; Commissioners Chris Olson, John
Whalen, Mary Loney Bichell, Chris Wand, and Bob McDoneli.
Commissioners Excused: Commissioners Michael Knight and Joseph Rapp.
Staff Members Present: Laura Carstens and David Johnson.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Klavitter at 5:33 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: Motion by Wand, seconded by Whalen, to approve the minutes of the March
17, 2011 meeting as submitted. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter,
Olson, Whalen, Bichell and Wand; Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Jeffrey Morton, Architect for a Certificate of
Appropriateness for building rehabilitation for property located at 900 Jackson Street in the
Historic Millwork District.
Commissioner Olson recused herself because Four Mounds is considering locating their
programs in the building.
Commissioner McDoneli arrived at 5:34 p.m.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report. He reviewed the history of the building
and summarized the applicant's request. He noted the property is within the Dubuque
Millwork Historic District, the Historic Millwork District Master Plan area, and the Historic
Millwork District Planned Unit Development boundary. He explained the Historic Millwork
District PUD states that the Downtown Design Guidelines shall apply to site development in
the district PUD. He noted staff's review concluded the project conforms to the Secretary
of Interior's Standards and the Downtown Design Guidelines. He noted the project is being
brought before the Commission because the property owner wishes to utilize the Historic
Millwork District Assessment Reduction Program, which requires HPC review. He
explained the review criteria for the project, noting the Historic Millwork District Master Plan,
Downtown Design Guidelines and Historic Millwork District PUD. He reviewed the intent of
the three documents.
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April 21, 2011
Page 2
Jeffrey Morton, Project Architect, 206 Bluff Street, presented the request. He reviewed the
project scope and bidding process. He noted the project is an extensive restoration and
rehabilitation process. He reviewed the number of additions, key features and numerous
modifications that have happened over time. He explained the essential court yard and
passageways will be opened up to become primary entrances. He explained the future
building uses, noting the first floor is intended to accommodate large and small commercial
uses, and the upper stories will be designed for 36 apartments per floor.
Mr. Morton reviewed the historic tax credit requirements. He noted the masonry will be
cleaned and re- pointed. He noted the masonry will be gently cleaned so as to not remove
many of the historic painted signs. He explained the windows will be replaced and the
historic entrances will be reconstructed using existing arches to open up passageways and
the courtyard. He explained the loading docks will be reconstructed with a 12 -foot canopy.
He explained the roof will also be reconstructed and the original large skylights will be
reintroduced to allow natural light into the 3 floor. He noted the elevator shafts will be re-
used for stairways.
The Commission discussed the project.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Whalen, to approve the application as submitted. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Whalen, Bichell, McDonell, and Wand; Nay —
None; Abstain — Olson.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Gary Carner / Franklin Investments LLC for a Certificate
of Appropriateness to construct a detached enclosed parking structure for property located
at 39 Bluff Street in the Cathedral District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report. Gary Carner, 1664 Washington Street
and Matthew Lundh, Project Architect, 2678 Marywood Drive, were present. Mr. Lundh
noted changes from the previously reviewed project with regard to the site plan. He
explained the proposed garage has been relocated approximately five feet to the north.
The Commission discussed the project, and reviewed the building details and garage door
options with the applicant.
Motion by Whalen, seconded by Bichell, to approve the application as submitted with a
square decorative garage door, windows optional, and noting metal is an acceptable
material. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Whalen, Bichell,
McDonell and Wand; Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Jim Avery & Rhonda Dunbar for a Certificate of
Appropriateness to install windows for property located at 168 E. 10 Street in the Historic
Millwork District.
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April 21, 2011
Page 3
The applicant was not present.
The Commission reviewed the staff report and discussed the proposal.
Motion by Whalen, seconded by Wand, to approve the request as submitted. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Whalen, Bichell, McDonell and Wand;
Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of John White for a Certificate of Appropriateness for
facade improvements for property located at 925 & 955 Jackson Street in the Historic
Millwork District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report, noting this project is in the Historic
Millwork District Master Plan, Historic Millwork District Planned Unit Development, and the
Downtown Design Guidelines area. He reviewed the proposed modifications to the two
buildings. He noted the applicant is attempting to implement the fa9ade depicted in the
Historic Millwork District Master Plan for 925 Jackson Street.
John White, 409 Birch Street, property owner, presented the request. He explained he
cleaned the exterior of the building three years ago. He stated he wishes to add three
windows to 955 Jackson Street to match the north elevations. He noted the windows will
both vertically align and be positioned to match the windows north of the property. He
explained he will use bricks removed as a result of installing the new windows for
repointing and repairs to other masonry on the building. He noted the entire facade will be
re- pointed. He clarified that the request does not include any modifications to the front
parapet and cornice of the building. He noted the facade will remain unchanged aside
from the new window sills and re- pointing. He noted the existing overhead door and
service door will be repainted.
Mr. White reviewed the proposed changes to 925 Jackson Street. He explained he would
like to replace the existing metal siding with a new ivory- colored metal siding. He stated he
would like to replace the original concrete foundation with salvaged limestone block. He
noted he would like to replace the existing concrete and metal stairs on the front of the
building with new limestone steps and a simplified metal rail. Mr. White clarified the
salvaged limestone block will be about three feet high and include blocks that are 10, 12
and 14- inches thick.
The Commission discussed the project. Mr. White clarified how the limestone will appear
when completed. He noted the limestone block will be in the exact location as the concrete
foundation. He explained it is important to him that the facade align with the limestone
block beneath.
The Commission discussed the proposed work at 955 Jackson Street. Mr. White
described the structural aspects of the building. He noted the building's historical
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
April 21, 2011
Page 4
relationship to the two adjacent buildings to the north. He reiterated he simply wishes to
add three windows to match the other windows.
The Commission discussed the proposed work at 925 Jackson Street. Mr. White clarified
he plans to use new corrugated metal siding with ribs spaced approximately six inches
apart. He explained the intent is to improve the appearance over the existing rusted metal
siding. He noted the color will be ivory with green trim. He explained the building is a
wood post building and has a drive -thru from front to back. He reviewed the building's
former use. The Commission discussed the existing galvanized siding and whether this is
original. Mr. White and the Commission discussed the availability of metal siding and
galvanized siding. The Commission noted the importance of retaining the building's
industrial history and character. The Commission explained a metal corrugated siding with
ribbing much more closely spaced would be more appropriate. The Commission noted
spacing of one or two inches maximum.
Mr. White stated approval of the windows and limestone now would be helpful to
coordinate his planned project with the City's streetscape work, which is currently
underway. He noted he would be willing to investigate other metal siding options and bring
the metal siding back to the Commission for review.
The Commission discussed the railing style. Mr. White discussed the design guidelines,
noting they suggest a simple plain substantial railing without decorative elements.
The Commission discussed the limestone for the foundation, and noted the concrete is
original. Mr. White stated he wants to improve the building's appearance with the
limestone. He noted future plans are to expand the use of the building as an artist's studio
and the limestone would help tie into that concept. The Commission noted the concrete
foundation is original; it would be appropriate to retain that original character. The
Commission noted limestone block would also be an acceptable alternative.
Motion by Whalen, seconded by Wand, to
1) Approve the request for 955 Jackson Street as presented without stepping down the
front facade.
2) Approve the request for 925 Jackson street as submitted, with the option for either
concrete or limestone for the foundation and stairs, with the provision that the metal
siding come back to the Commission for review.
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Whalen, Bichell, McDonell and
Wand; Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Brandon Hrubes & Greg Prehm for a Certificate of
Appropriateness to install aluminum soffits and fascia, gate, cement board siding, and
approve the gable end of the front porch roof as shown in the February 21, 2008 approved
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April 21, 2011
Page
plans for property located at 624/626 & 634/636 Arlington Street in the W. 11th Street
Historic Preservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report and noted supplemental information was
provided to the Commission before the meeting for additional background on the history of
the project.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the complete history of the property and the February 21,
2008 Certificate of Appropriateness. He reviewed the staff approval for the five inch lap
width for the buildings, which was based on the consensus of the Commission. He noted
he approved carriage house style garage doors in conformance with the recommendation
in the February 21, 2008 Certificate of Appropriateness.
He explained the applicants have requested several deviations from the approved
Certificate of Appropriateness. He noted the application states the drip edge that was
already installed when the property was purchased was designed to accommodate
aluminum not cement board, and therefore the applicants would like to use aluminum
soffits and fascia on the buildings. He explained the applicants would like to install a
decorative gate to screen the area between the two buildings. He noted there is
approximately 12 feet between the two buildings.
Staff explained the applicant is asking to install cement board siding in place of the
previously approved limestone veneer on the south two- thirds of the west foundation wall
of 624 -626 Arlington and the south two- thirds of the east foundation wall of 634 -636
Arlington. Staff noted the applicant would also like to construct the gable end of the front
porch as depicted in the 2008 Certificate of Appropriateness rather than the simplified
pediment as suggested from the work session.
Greg Prehm, 8505 Southern Hills Ct., Dubuque, and Brandon Hrubes, 1675 Silver Maple
Trail, North Liberty, Iowa, were present. Mr. Hrubes requested that the contractor address
the issue with the aluminum soffit. Contractor Jesse Gansen, 9063 Long Trail, Dubuque,
explained that the previous owner and builder constructed the building at 624 -626 Arlington
Street in such a way that aluminum soffits are the only option without removing roofing and
fascia.
The Commission discussed the soffit and fascia. The consensus was that aluminum is
acceptable for the fascia only on 624 -626 Arlington Street, but the building will have to
cement board soffits. The consensus was the building at 634 -636 Arlington Street must be
built according to the approved plans with cement board soffits and fascia.
The Commission discussed the gable design and the approved February 2008 Certificate
of Appropriateness. The Commission noted the approved plans reflect the recommended
modifications from the January 2008 work session, and therefore, the porch gable is
acceptable as depicted in the plans and as its being constructed. The consensus of the
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April 21, 2011
Page 6
Commission was the February 21, 2008 plans supersede the direction at the January 2008
work session.
The Commission discussed the gate options, noting appropriate styles and finishes. The
Commission requested the gate coordinate with color and design with the garage doors.
The consensus was to have a painted gate to coordinate with the color and design of the
garage doors with detailing similar to the black gate example provided by the applicant to
install in the 12 -foot space as proposed with a straight top edge, rather than the curve.
The top edge can be angled. The consensus was to have a design be presented for the
Commission's review and approval by email.
The Commission discussed the cement board siding. The consensus was to allow the
cement board siding in place of the previously approved limestone veneer for the area
between the two buildings, contingent on the approved gate.
The Commission discussed the large concrete retaining wall at the rear facade of the two
buildings and possible changes in appearance. The property owners noted that was
something they would like to address as well, noting the potential for an improved
appearance. The applicants and Commission discussed a variety of treatments and
agreed that acid staining or a limestone veneer overlay should be investigated. The
consensus was for the applicants to submit options using acid stain in a limestone color to
match the native stone, or a limestone veneer, for HPC review.
Motion by Olson, seconded by Wand, to approve the request with the following
conditions:
1) An aluminum fascia and cement board soffit is acceptable for the property at
624 -626 Arlington Street, and the property at 634 -636 Arlington Street must use
cement board soffits and fascia as previously approved.
2) Cement board siding is allowed in place of the previously approved limestone
veneer for the area between the two buildings contingent on an approved gate.
3) A painted gate to coordinate with the color and design of the garage doors with a
horizontal or angled top edge with detailing similar to the black gate example
provided in the application needs to be presented to the Commission for review.
4) Treatment options for the retaining wall between the two buildings including acid
stain in a limestone color to match native limestone, or a limestone veneer,
needs to be presented to the Commission for further review.
5) The gable ends of the front porch roofs are acceptable as depicted in the
February 21, 2008 Certificate of Appropriateness.
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Whalen, Bichell, McDonell
and Wand; Nay — None.
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April 21, 2011
Page 7
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Justin McCarthy, Straka Johnson Architects, for an
Advisory Design Review to install a monument and integrated electronic message signs for
property located at 975 Central Avenue (Parking Ramp) in the Downtown Design
Guidelines.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report for the new City parking ramp under
construction. He noted the parking ramp is in the Downtown Design Guidelines area and
public funds are involved in the project. He referenced the draw ings of the signs and
rendering of the completed parking facility as well as the site plan which depicts the sign
locations. He reviewed the sign dimensions, materials and construction. He noted the
Downtown Design Guidelines for signs have been provided with the staff report; however,
consideration needs to be given that the proposed signage is for a new parking ramp. He
clarified the Downtown Design Guidelines for signs were well thought out for the downtown
area; however, they are most relevant to historic properties in historic areas.
Marty Johnson, Straka Johnson Architects, 3555 Digital Drive, was present. He reviewed
the message center sign on Central Avenue, and clarified the integrated message center
sign will be flush with the brick wall, and not protrude two inches out as depicted in the
applied drawings. He noted the freestanding monument sign on the west side of the ramp
was designed to pull in materials and tie into the parking ramp facility.
The Commission discussed the sign designs, noting its size and purpose.
Tim Horsfield, Parking Division Manager, explained the messages on the wall- mounted
signs are intended primarily for ramp users. He noted the sign would advise ramp users
that a level was full or other similar issues, but also noted it may be used to publicize City
events. He explained the freestanding sign is intended to advertise civic events as well as
direct ramp users. He noted it is intended to be used similar to the sign at the Historic
Federal Building.
The Commission expressed concern that the signs do not follow the Downtown Design
Guidelines, and asked if other options were considered. Marty Johnson indicated that the
two signs at the Historic Federal Building and Prescott School are successful in advertising
City events, and the ramp signs presented a similar opportunity. Mr. Horsfield noted that
the Iowa Street side of the ramp is a plaza area, and he has been directed to design a sign
to convey information to the public.
The Commission noted that their charge is to review projects on a case -by -case basis in
accordance with the Downtown Design Guidelines or applicable standards. The
Commission noted the signs are for parking ramps and questioned their effectiveness.
Staff Member Johnson noted the ramp is located in an area of downtown greatly affected
by urban renewal. The Commission recognized the area has seen a number of changes.
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April 21, 2011
Page 8
Motion by Wand, seconded by Whalen, to approve the request as submitted. Motion failed
by the following vote: Aye — Whalen, Bichell and Wand; Nay — Klavitter, Olson, and
McDonell.
The Commission and applicants discussed whether any changes or modifications could be
made to gain greater support for the signs. The Commission explained those opposed to
the design disagree on principal with the electronic message components as they are
inconsistent with the Downtown Design Guidelines. The Commission explained the motion
can go to the City Council as voted on so the Council can discuss and make the decision.
Education Task Force: No report.
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC: None.
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION: None.
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
Resignation of Peggy Stover: Staff noted that Peggy Stover has submitted her resignation
from the Historic Preservation Commission.
Motion by Wand, seconded by McDonell, to accept the resignation of Peggy Stover and
direct staff to send a letter to all residents in the Cathedral and Old Main Historic Districts
regarding the current vacancies. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter,
Olson, Whalen, Bichell, McDonell and Wand; Nay — None.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Adopted