Minutes_Historic Preservation Commission 3 15 12THE CITY OF
DUB
Dubuque
E
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
5:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
City Council Chamber, Historic Federal Building
rd
Commissioners Present: Chairperson David Klavitter; Commissioners Chris Olson,
Mary Loney - Bichell, Joseph Rapp, Chris Wand, Mitzi Krey and Bob McDonell.
Commissioners Excused: Commissioner John Whalen.
Staff Members Present: Laura Carstens and David Johnson.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Klavitter at 5:31
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 McDonell, to approve the minutes of the
November 17, 2011 and January 19, 2012 meetings as submitted. Motion carried by
the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Bichell, Rapp, Wand, Krey and McDonell;
Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Rudy & Shawn Vera for a Certificate of
Appropriateness to add a deck and roof to a porch for property located at 560 Wilbur
Street in the W. 11 th Historic Preservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report, describing the property and the
proposal. He reviewed the details of the deck proposal as to construction, materials,
location, dimensions and finishes. He also reviewed details of the porch, and noted
drawings. He requested that the Commission condition any approval on the applicant
obtaining a special exception for the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the setbacks, and
approval of a revocable license from the City Manager for encroachment into the public
right -of -way.
Commissioners discussed the occupancy and configuration of the property with staff.
Rudy Vera, 970 Olive Street, reviewed the plans and noted the lack of outdoor space
for the lower unit due to steep topography. He felt the new deck would provide needed
outdoor space.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 15, 2012
Page 2
Commissioners discussed the proposal with the applicant. They reviewed the current
improvements to remain, and the new deck and property lines. Commissioners
reviewed the front porch, hip roof, railings, and columns, and discussed that fascia
board, railings and other wood elements need to be painted or opaque stained. Mr.
Vera agreed.
Commissioners discussed the existing concrete under the deck, and how it will be
treated. Mr. Vera explained he will likely pour concrete for the porch. Commissioners
discussed the style of lattice noting it should be horizontal rather than vertical. They
referenced a historic property on Spruce Street. Commissioners discussed the number
of columns and recommended using two larger columns instead. Mr. Vera agreed with
two larger columns. Mr. Vera answered questions as to where the gutter, downspouts
and stairs will be.
Motion by Olson, seconded by Wand, to approve the front porch on Wilbur as
presented with the following conditions:
1) Two columns be 6" by 6" or larger and use two columns instead of three
columns;
2) Gutters run back toward the house for drainage;
3) Entire structure be painted or opaque stained to look like paint;
4) Use of horizontal instead of diagonal lattice; and
5) Use of a trim board between the deck and lattice.
Commissioners discussed the deck, noting concerns with the size of deck on a
prominent fagade. Commissioners suggested a smaller deck to be no wider than the
house, perhaps 8' by 10', or 10' by 10', to keep it within line or "notch" of the house and
encroach less into the public right -of -way. Commissioners discussed the design
guidelines and the unique configuration, proximity to the street and loss of integrity for
this property. Commissioners discussed cutting the deck area by 50% to be in
proportion to the house. Mr. Vera felt an 8' x 10' deck was inadequate, and he
requested the deck be withdrawn from the application.
Motion by Wand, seconded by McDonell, to accept the applicant's withdrawal. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Bichell, Rapp, Wand, Krey and
McDonell; Nay — None.
Motion by Wand, seconded by McDonell, that the Certificate of Appropriateness for the
porch be contingent on approval of a special exception and revocable license. Motion
carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Bichell, Rapp, Wand, Krey and
McDonell; Nay — None.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 15, 2012
Page 3
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Scott Hendron for a Certificate of Appropriateness to
install new downspouts for property located at 1433 Main Street in the Jackson Park
Historic Preservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the proposal, discussing the analysis and planning
done by the applicant as to the need for new downspouts in front of the window sets,
now prohibited by the Certificate of Appropriateness.
Scott Hendron, 1433 Main Street, presented a PowerPoint presentation on the
downspout situation and previous Certificate of Appropriateness. He reviewed options
he has explored for the 3,000 square feet of roof space to be drained. He referenced
the neighboring property, with downspouts painted to match the brick, in front of the
window sets. He had examples of other properties in the district with similar
downspouts in front of their window sets. Mr. Hendron reviewed the gutter sizes
needed. He stated if he is not allowed to put gutters and downspouts in front of window
sets, excessively large gutters would be required in the back. He summarized his
request and his concerns. He discussed side and rear drainage issues, examples of
neighboring properties, and requested the Commission strike the language on
downspouts in the Certificate of Appropriateness.
Commissioners commended Mr. Hendron on the quality of his presentation, and noted
that the Commission reviews projects on a case -by -case basis. Commissioners
discussed the additions to the original building putting pressure on the drainage system,
and having a downspout painted to match the brick.
Commissioners discussed the feasibility of putting downspouts behind the windows,
and then running drainage piping to the front. The applicant and staff discussed the
sidewalk and fence that are in the side yards. Commissioners noted their careful
review of the Yankee gutters and maintaining their appearance in approving the
Certificate of Appropriateness.
Commissioners discussed concerns with the look of the downspout interrupting the look
of the brackets at the cornice. The applicant and Commission discussed locating the
downspouts in a less obtrusive place behind the two corner brackets 2 -3 feet away, and
"hug" the cornice more. Commissioners discussed how the first elbow of the
downspout could turn and be closer to the 2nd bracket to reduce its profile.
Commissioners discussed with the applicant painting the downspout to match the
cornice, brick, and limestone foundation.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Olson, to modify the previous Certificate of
Appropriateness to allow downspouts in front of the window sets with a
recommendation that they be held back behind the second bracket; be configured to
hug the cornice to reduce the profile, and be painted to match the cornice and brick.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 15, 2012
Page 4
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Bichell, Rapp, Wand, Krey
and McDonell; Nay — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of the City of Dubuque for a Historic District Public
Improvement Program application for decking, a railing and a sidewalk approach for the
White Water Creek Bridge Landmark located in the Bergfeld Recreation Area along
Chavenelle Road.
Staff Member Carstens reviewed the staff report, and the history and significance of the
bridge. She reviewed the State grant funds already invested in the project. Staff
Member Johnson reviewed project challenges and progress to date. Staff Member
Carstens explained the HDPIP grant would provide necessary funding to finish the
project. She stated the HDPIP request would reserve the remaining HDPIP funds as
well as next fiscal year's allocation. In response to a question from the Commission,
staff noted half the cost had been covered with $85,000 in grants.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Bichell, to approve the request for HDPIP funds as
proposed. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — Klavitter, Olson, Bichell, Rapp,
Wand, Krey and McDonell; Nay — None.
EDUCATION TASK FORCE:
Update on Public Outreach and Education Program: Chairperson Klavitter updated the
Commission on the Education Task Force. He explained he spoke at an Old House
Enthusiasts meeting and provided the Phase V survey in preparation for their annual
tour of homes. He stated the Old House Enthusiasts offered to provide the historic
preservation brochures at the tour of homes.
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC: None.
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION:
Architecture Days: The Commission discussed the upcoming Architecture Days.
Chairperson Klavitter stated he was approached by Brian Cooper of the Telegraph
Herald, and asked to prepare an op -ed to be run the week of Architecture Days. The
Commission discussed the content of the op -ed. Commissioner Wand reviewed
Architecture Days building tours. Staff Member Johnson clarified Architecture Days will
run April 16th -21St and the schedule has not been finalized. Staff Member Johnson
stated he will email Commissioners the schedule of events once finalized. He noted
Commissioners are encouraged to attend all the events, but the HPC's Ken Kringle
award ceremony will be particularly important for Commissioners to be at.
Architecture Retrospective Project: Commissioner Olson described the architecture
retrospective project that her husband Tim Olson was undertaking. She asked if the
Commission would like a short presentation on the project. The Commission agreed.
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 15, 2012
Page 5
Staff Member Johnson requested Mr. Olson contact him in advance of the meeting he
would like to present at.
560 Wilbur Street: Commissioner Wand felt the Commission had taken the correct
action on the proposed size of the deck, but was disappointed at the applicant's
withdrawal. Commissioners asked staff to encourage Mr. Vera to reconsider some
options on size, and then come back to the Commission for another review.
Ryan House — Becker Stone: The Commission discussed the work that was started at
the Ryan House, 1375 Locust Street. Staff Member Johnson stated that the property
owner confirmed Becker Stone has salvaged the stone and is keeping it off -site. Staff
Member Johnson added that the property owner is undertaking a lot of landscaping
work, but the approved retaining wall is still part of the plan.
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
Update of State Historic Preservation Plan: Staff Member Carstens explained Ryan
Dierks with Smart Growth Development contacted her about how the City ,of Dubuque
can assist with a public input session as part of the update of the Statewide
Preservation Plan. She explained Mr. Dierks serves on the Advisory Committee for the
Plan's update. She stated Commissioners are encouraged to review and comment on
the plan.
The Commission discussed the public input session. The Commission noted the April
meeting conflicts with Architecture Days, and recommended the input session be done
in conjunction with the May meeting. Commissioner McDonell recommended a media
release to promote the public input session.
FY 2013 -2017 Historic Preservation CIPs: Staff Member Carstens reviewed the new
CIPs for historic preservation activities. She noted the CIPs reflect the
recommendations of the Commission. She reviewed the CIPs noting they are for
additional funding to the HDPIP program, historic preservation technical assistance and
historic /architectural surveys and evaluations. The Commission noted HDPIP funding
has increased from $10,000 per year to $25,000 annually.
The Commission expressed appreciation for the show of support for historic
preservation. Staff Member Carstens noted the funding will go a long way in leveraging
state funds and help connect people to tax credits, especially in the small projects
category where up -front costs are often times a substantial obstacle.
2011 CLG Report: The Commission received and filed the report.
2011 Ken Kringle Award Nominations and Ceremony: Staff presented two projects,
and requested any other projects to be honored. The Commission discussed eligible
projects. The consensus of the Commission was to nominate the Riverworks project at
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
March 15, 2012
Page 6
40 -44 Main Street, the Washington Street row houses at 1765 -1795 Washington Street,
and the White House Restoration at the Four Mounds Estate.
Commissioners discussed noteworthy work at the Faber house on Grove Terrace and
Wilbur Street, and a house at the top of Spruce Street. Commissioners noted that
these smaller projects could be recognized with a certificate issued quarterly to good
projects that may not rise to the level of a Ken Kringle award. Commissioners also
discussed a "round -up" of roofs, windows, porches, etc. and an award category for
individuals. The consensus of the Commission was to follow -up on certificates or
letters of recognition for smaller projects.
National Historic Preservation Month: Staff Member Johnson reviewed the National
Trust for Historic Preservation list of activities and suggested the Commission consider
the list. He asked the Chair to be at the May 7th City Council meeting to accept the
Historic Preservation Month proclamation. Staff noted the Task Force suggested a
program for residents on researching historic resources and suggested Planning staff
and other community resources could be tapped for the program. Commissioners
directed staff to put together a program for May 2012.
Building Services Historic Preservation Enforcement Report Update: Staff Member
Johnson noted the updates are shown in bold. Commissioners asked if the new
owners of the property at 1163 Highland would be aware of the pending violations.
Commissioners asked Planning Services staff to check with Legal staff as to whether
citations (issued or pending) can be recorded
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Adopted
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