Minutes Historic Pres. 10 19 06
MINUTES
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REGULAR SESSION D' RA FT
Thursday, October 19, 2006, :.
5:30 p.m. . "
Auditorium, Carnegie Stout Library .
360 W. 11th Street, Dubuque, Iowa
PRESENT:
Chairperson Christine Olson; Commission Members Keisha Wainwight,
Mike Coty, Mary Loney Bichell, Rob McCoy, Chris Wand, Matthew Lundh
and Dave Stuart; Staff Member Laura Carstens.
ABSENT:
Commission Member John Whalen.
AFFIDAVIT OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying the
meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Olson at 5:30 p.m.
MINUTES: Motion by Stuart, seconded by Wand, to approve the minutes of the
September 21, 2006 meeting as written. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye-
Olson, Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay - None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Michael & Patricia Cross requesting $11,000 in
Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund money and a Certificate of Appropriateness
to replace windows, repair the roof and substructure on the back of the building, replace
gutters and install rubber and sloped concrete at the base of the building for property
located at 352/354 Bluff Street in the Cathedral District
Patricia Cross, 16874 Country Club Drive, presented the project She said it is for
replacement of windows, new roof, an addition on back and improving the driveway.
New bids were received on October 1ih that are considerably less and she would like
to still have the original $11,000 revolving loan fund request, and then come back for
approval for work in the future. Mrs. Cross distributed the new bids. She noted that the
bid from Adams Johnson Construction includes aluminum clad windows.
The Commission discussed the request and noted they were willing to look at the new
bids and the original loan request, and to review of additional work in the future if loan
funds remained.
Mrs. Cross and Commissioners discussed the use of true divided panes versus snap-
on muntins. Chairperson Olson noted that with use of Historic Preservation Revolving
Loan Funds we look to using historically accurate materials, especially on the front
fac;:ade.
Minutes - Historic Preservation Commission
October 19, 2006
Page 2
Michael Cross, 16874 Country Club Road, stated they are not sure of material for the
gutters. He said they assume aluminum gutters will be replaced/added in the rear and
heat tape will be added per Alstates bid.
The Commission discussed Alstates bid lists, noting five wood windows with interior grid
on the rear. Commissioners asked about the windows of the front fac;:ade. Mr. and
Mrs. Cross indicated they would like to replace these windows in the front if there is
loan money left. Commissioners noted the grids could be placed on the outside, and
the windows on the rear could be removed and rebuilt for use on the front fac;:ade.
Commissioners suggested contacting Alliant Energy about rebates for new energy-
efficient windows.
Mr. and Mrs. Cross discussed the need for rubber flashing and new concrete sloped to
direct drainage away from the building.
Motion by Stuart, seconded by Wand, to approve the request for $11,000 in Historic
Preservation Revolving Loan Fund money and a Certificate of Appropriateness to
replace windows, repair the roof and substructure on the back of the building, replace
gutters and install rubber and sloped concrete at the base of the building for property
located at 352/354 Bluff Street as submitted with the following conditions: (1) windows
with wood, snap-on or integral exterior muntins are allowed; and (2) any siding
replaced be replaced with wood and painted. Motion carried by the following vote:
Aye - Olson, Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay-
None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Gil Spence/Gordon & Mary Ellyn Jensen for a
Certificate of Appropriateness to move the southwest exterior wall in two feet and install
a double-hung window in the south wall for property located at 982 Grove Terrace
in the W. 11th Street District.
Commissioner Stuart announced that he would be abstaining from the vote on this item.
Gil Spence, 975 Grove Terrace, presented the project, noting the property has been
vacant for about five years. He noted John Whalen has done extensive work to the
property next door. He explained that the garage at 982 Grove Terrace collapsed as a
result of Dr. Whalen's work. He also noted that the addition next to a new retaining wall
installed by Dr. Whalen is where the Jensens would like to move the wall in two feet to
reduce moisture infiltration and allow drainage. He said this will shorten the kitchen.
He also said they would like to install a double-hung window for ventilation. He
explained the exterior treatment of brick veneer was the original proposal, but they are
having difficulty obtaining this treatment, so they would like to install siding to match the
existing in a cement board. He said they would like to include this siding along the east
wall, which was the original front of the house.
Staff Member Carstens presented the staff report. Commissioners discussed the
project and the use of cement board siding.
Minutes - Historic Preservation Commission
October 19,2006
Page 3
Motion by Wand, seconded by Mary Loney Bichell, to approve the Certificate of
Appropriateness to move the southwest exterior wall in two feet and install a double-
hung window in the south wall for property located at 982 Grove Terrace as submitted,
noting that the exterior finish on the south and east sides is outside the purview of the
Historic Preservation Commission and allowing cement board siding. Motion carried by
the following vote: Aye - Olson, Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand and
Lundh; Nay - None; Abstain - Stuart.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of J. Thomas Zaber for a Certificate of Appropriateness
to repair the front porch and replace the wood columns with synthetic columns for
property located at 1005 Locust Street in the Jackson Park District.
The Commissioners were unable to reach the applicant by conference call.
Staff Member Carstens presented the staff report.
Commissioners discussed the nearly identical replication of the front porch is an
excellent project. The Commission asked staff to thank Mr. Zaber for outstanding work
and document what in the Building Code required a permit for this project.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Coty, to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness to
repair the front porch and replace the wood columns with synthetic columns at 1005
Locust Street as submitted. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye - Olson,
Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay - None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Dan & Tammy Steffen requesting $17,675 in Historic
Preservation Revolving Loan Fund money to reconstruct front porch, install synthetic
columns, extend handrail down the steps, and complete exterior repairs for property
located at 1283 Walnut Street in the W. 11th Street District.
Dan and Tammy Steffen, 1283 Walnut, explained the request is for the previously-
approved porch, and additional work. Mrs. Steffen noted that due to a recent raise in
pay, they no longer qualified for the grant program, and are now asking for a loan.
Staff Member Carstens reviewed the staff report and changes in the project. She said
in part, the request is to replace the existing concrete patio so water will drain away
from the house. She noted that the Historic Preservation Housing Grant Review
Committee and the Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund Committee both
recommended funding to re-pour the concrete patio to protect the long term health of
the building. She added that the Secretary of the Interior Standards state "New
additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy historic
materials that characterize the property". She noted the existing concrete patio is
approximately 23'-6" X 14' and sloped toward the house. She said the proposed
concrete patio will be expanded to the west 10 additional feet so the new patio will
extend to the patio doors (doors depicted in the enclosed staff report photos). She
Minutes - Historic Preservation Commission
October 19, 2006
Page 4
added that the new patio will extend approximately two additional feet to the south, and
the dimensions of the new patio will be approximately 33'-6" X 16'.
Staff Member Carstens explained that the applicants also are requesting funding to
repair and replace siding as needed. She said the funding would also cover scraping
and painting the siding. She noted the house has both wood and asbestos-slate siding.
She reported that staff could not justify requiring drawings for the concrete patio, siding
repair, painting, screens and kitchen door. She indicated that the site plan staff
prepared and photographs provided are intended for the Historic Preservation
Commission to make a determination. She noted that all other proposed work
contained in the contractor bids is depicted in drawings and photographs provided and
discussed at the September 21, 2006 design review conducted by the Commission
(front porch and front doors).
Staff Member Carstens stated that the request also includes the patio, kitchen door (the
contractor bids state it will be steel or otherwise specified by the owner), and screens.
She noted that staff feels all of these are eligible under the Loan Fund, and whether the
Commission approves of the methods and design is up to them. She said Specht
Construction added an optional bid to paint and scrape the whole house. She stated it
is staff's opinion is that it would be a nice improvement to the house and neighborhood,
since there are currently two types of siding on the house and three different shades of
white/beige paint.
Staff Member Carstens noted that the Grant Committee and the Loan Committee had
reviewed the revised project, and felt the original request and additional work were
eligible, subject to the Steffens meeting the loan underwriting criteria.
Commissioners discussed the use of revolving loan funds for historical improvements,
including a concrete patio that is necessary to keep the drainage away from the house.
Chairperson Olson noted that typically concrete patios would be less appropriate than
other types of historical entry treatments. She noted exceptional issues with this site
are the door at grade and the need to create a fairly large concrete area to
accommodate the grade needed to drain water away from the home. She noted that
approval of the patio for this property does not set a precedent for any other property.
Commissioners noted circled items on the bids were determined by staff to be eligible
exterior improvements.
Commissioners discussed screen replacements on lower level and upper level with the
Steffens. Commissioners also asked about the front doors. The Steffens said they had
not received any bids.
Motion by Stuart, seconded by Wand, to approve the request for $17,675 in Historic
Preservation Revolving Loan Fund money to reconstruct front porch, install synthetic
columns, extend handrail down the steps, and complete exterior repairs for property
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October 19, 2006
Page 5
located at 1283 Walnut Street as submitted, with the following conditions: (1) including
repair of the front doors and new storm doors, with design of doors to be reviewed and
approved by the Historic Preservation Commission; and (2) siding replacement should
be in-kind, with same height and same type of material, with any changes to be brought
back to the Historic Preservation Commission for review and approval. Motion carried
by the following vote: Aye - Olson, Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand,
Lundh and Stuart; Nay - None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Carnegie-Stout Public Library requesting $88,000 in
HDPIP funds to repair/replace sidewalks/steps at main entrance, 11th and Locust
Streets for property located at 360 W. 11th Street in the Jackson Park District.
Library Director Susan Hendricks reviewed the existing poor condition of sidewalks and
steps at the main entrance, and underground snow melt system. She explained that
the snow melt system is obsolete and is incompatible with concrete. She explained the
new system would be hot water and long-lasting. She explained the bids far exceed the
budget. She said this would be the first phase of sidewalk improvements in front of the
Library. She noted the planned renovation of the historic portion should not impact the
sidewalks or steps.
Staff Member Carstens reviewed the Historic District Public Improvement Program
request and guidelines.
Commissioners discussed the unusual nature of the project - City entity is the applicant
and the sidewalk is the eligible portion which should have 25% match, limits of the
project on public right-of-way, and sidewalk and steps with snow melt system are not
technically public right-of-way. Staff clarified that the steps and sidewalks with snow
melt system would be buff colored concrete.
Ms. Hendricks and Commissioners discussed the historic entrance was replaced with
the addition entrance to provide for accessibility for persons with disabilities and
because the primary functions of the Library shifted to the addition. Ms. Hendricks
explained the snow melt system is there for patron safety and convenience.
The Commission reviewed the cost estimates for the sidewalks along the street and
along the building. Commissioners discussed maintenance issues with colored
concrete. Commissioners discussed color differences in colored concrete. Staff
suggested working with City Engineering to determine if a project could be put together
for the sidewalks along all of the frontages after renovation is done.
The Commission suggested doing a cost difference for colored concrete on sidewalk
and steps. Staff agreed to withdraw the HDPIP application and resubmit a new HDPIP
application for the entire sidewalk to be developed with input from City Engineering and
timed for after the renovation.
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October 19,2006
Page 6
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC:
H & W Buildinq; Gene Melson, POBox 1405, Monument, Colorado, stated he is one
of three partners who have purchased the structure (north half). He and his partners
have an interest in any grants that would be available to assist with rehabilitation. He
said the north half is now available for sale for $300,000 and they plan to keep the non-
historical portion at the rear.
Commissioner Stuart reviewed his experience from grant training programs. He noted
most grants place conditions on the work and most require approval before beginning
any work. He suggested that a developer may be needed due to scope of the project
and the need for a plan. He offered to help them locate emergency grants. He
cautioned that subdividing the structures could make it more difficult to sell because
parking, storage, etc. would not be available. He suggested that some grants require
long-term ownership. He also discussed tax deductions for donation of the building to a
non-profrt organization like the Dubuque County Historical Society.
Commissioner Stuart also discussed preservation alternatives - for example, asphalt
roof in place of slate roof and the need for stabilization of the building to stop
deterioration from the elements. He cautioned that planning and rehabilitation could
take years. He noted that by City Code, buildings in conservation districts have to be
secured from water infiltration. Commissioner Stuart said he would work with the
owners and the State Historic Preservation Office to find any emergency grants that
may be available.
Commissioner Stuart said the developers he spoke with say all four parcels (two owned
by Krueger and two owned by 3M Development) need to be kept together, not parceled
off separately.
Mr. Melson discussed the conditions and layout of the structure, and other rehab
projects he was familiar with in Colorado and Minnesota. Commissioner Stuart again
cautioned to create a plan, don't start before getting approval and use experienced
contractors and developers. Mr. Melson asked if there were funds to do a study to
determine how it can be rehabbed. Chairperson Olson noted stabilization doesn't
require full blown rehab. She also noted there are different types of income, such as
storage uses they currently have in the rear of the building.
Commissioners discussed the possibility for warehouse storage as the downtown
warehouse district is revitalized with other uses. Commissioners also discussed uses
for housing. Commissioners emphasized that the first step is to stabilize the structure.
Mr. Melson agreed to get in touch with Commissioner Stuart.
Joe O'Donnell said everything is very positive for rehabbing. He asked if there are any City
programs for establishing a line of credit to implement the rehabilitation plan. Mr.
O'Donnell asked what the Historic Preservation Commission could do.
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October 19, 2006
Page 7
Commissioners reviewed a variety of city, state, and federal assistance available. The
Commission discussed what a feasibility study will look at. Commissioners discussed other
large historic rehab projects. They said stabilization covers windows, roof and tuck
pointing.
Staff provided an information brochure on the Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund
to Mr. Melson. Mr. Melson thanked the Commission.
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION:
Brick Streets and HDPIP Funds: Staff Member Carstens reviewed the Historic
Preservation Commission's request, the research conducted, and staff
recommendation. Commissioners discussed the report.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Coty, to approve staff's recommendation plus further
recommend to City Council:
1) Any carryovers to be used for replacement/repair of existing concrete and
asphalt patches; and
2) Allocate in first year $30,000 as HPC pilot project to contract annually with lowest
responsible bidder to perform brick repairs for excavations.
Motion carried by the following vote: Aye - Olson, Wainwright, Coty, Loney Bichell,
McCoy, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay - None.
Update on the Grove Terrace Liahts arant from HDPIP: Chairperson Olson explained
Historic Bluffs Neighborhood Association has been allocated $90,000 for street lights in
2005. She said HBNA has not raised the necessary match. She said an alternative
project is to repair the 11th Street steps, and the HBNA will make a decision at an
upcoming meeting
Update for the Grove Terrace steps proiect (the intention is for HBNA or the City to
make a reauest of HDPIP to help with the steps proiect): Chairperson Olson explained
that this project is in the development phase, and designs and cost estimates are being
prepared by City Engineering. Commissioner Loney Bichell asked if the project could
include handrail replacement as well. Staff agreed to refer this request to City
Engineering.
Lanaworthv Neiahborhood Association Historic Street Liahts: Commissioner
Wainwright and Mike Burke of Langworthy Historic District discussed the grant process,
light standards, and how to proceed with a HDPIP grant application for historic
streetlights to be installed in the Langworthy Historic District.
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
Minutes - Historic Preservation Commission
October 19, 2006
Page 8
BuildinQ Services Dept. - Status Report on Historic Preservation Enforcement: Staff
Member Carstens noted that two properties on the report were approved at this meeting
- 352/354 Bluff Street and 1005 Locust Street.
She reported that staff learned on October 1 ih that 1596 Iowa should be taken off the
enforcement report. She noted the property is out of foreclosure and Assistant Planner
David Johnson met with the new owners. She reviewed his report is that the windows
and exterior openings are repaired and the building is no longer open the elements, and
the wood windows were kept and only the glass was replaced. She added that Staff
Member Johnson has walked the building and reported they are also making good
progress on the inside. She reported that they have their first tenant in on December
1 st She reported that staff signed off on a building permit October 18th to repair the
front porch because the drawing submitted are consistent with design guidelines. She
noted that the permit is tied to the drawings and conditions, and that staff instructed
them and they agreed to come before the Commission at a future date for the rear
porch.
Staff Member Carstens reported that the City Manager has asked the Building Services
Department to enforce on the old Victorian on Madison Street and to expect it to be on
the November Enforcement Report.
Staff Member Carstens explained that the Assistant City Manager, Building Services
Manager and Planning staff are meeting monthly to review the enforcement report.
She said that the initial meeting went very well, and this should help coordinate
enforcement for properties where more than one department is involved.
Comments on Comprehensive Plan's Goals and Obiectives-Cultural Arts Element:
Commissioners reviewed the goals and objectives of the Cultural Arts Element.
Motion by Wand, seconded by Coty, to recommend that new Objective 6.5 be reworded
to read, "Develop a marketing plan for the cultural and historic resources of the
community." Motion carried by the following vote: Aye - Olson, Wainwright, Coty,
Loney Bichell, McCoy, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay - None.
Commissioners asked staff to bring this element back for additional review in
November.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Adopted
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager