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MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION
5:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
City Council Chamber, Historic Federal Building
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Commissioners Present: Chairperson Bob McDonell; Commissioners Julie
Schlarman, Joseph Rapp, Mary Loney Bichell, Christina Monk and Otto Krueger.
Commissioners Excused: Commissioners David Klavitter, John Whalen and Chris
Olson.
Staff Members Present: Laura Carstens and David Johnson.
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairperson McDonell at 5:35
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 Krueger, seconded by Monk, to approve the minutes of the June
20, 2013 meeting as submitted. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye — McDonell,
Schlarman, Bichell, Monk and Krueger; Nay — None; Abstain - Rapp.
Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission Joint Meeting: The Dubuque
County Historic Preservation Commission members introduced themselves. R.R.S.
Stewart stated she is the chairperson for the Dubuque County Historic Preservation
Commission and thanked the City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission for
meeting with them.
Staff Member Carstens reviewed the staff memo and purpose of the joint meeting. She
noted the County Historic Preservation Commission is interested in discussing
increased collaboration and sharing challenges and successes of the City of Dubuque
Historic Preservation Program.
Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commissioner Jason Neises asked about
financial incentives and educational opportunities used by the City Preservation
Commission. The City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission reviewed the
Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund Program and the Historic Preservation
Housing Grant Program. Chairperson McDonell noted Planning Services staff
oftentimes informs property owners in historic districts of preservation programs that are
available to assist with rehabilitation projects.
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October 17, 2013
Page 2
The City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission reviewed the Education Task
Force. They noted the Education Task Force was established in 2009 with the purpose
of marketing, educating and engaging the Dubuque community on the importance of
preservation. The Commission noted the Task Force developed the marketing
brochure for preservation and assisted with programming to advance the City's
preservation program.
The Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission noted the challenges of
preservation in the County. The Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission
members explained the economic and social benefits associated with preservation are
not as immediately relevant to County properties. The City of Dubuque Historic
Preservation Commission noted that Dubuque's citizens, regardless of their setting,
often have an increased pride and sense of place with historic properties. The
Commission stated Dubuque seeks out media coverage opportunities to promote
preservation. The Commission reviewed the importance of having a positive presence
in the community.
Ms. Stewart noted the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission is currently
in a rebuilding process. She explained they are meeting with other partners like
Dubuque Main Street and regional historical societies to rebuild a presence. She noted
the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission will be developing a budget and
programs in the upcoming years. She reviewed immediate staffing and funding
challenges for their program.
The City Historic Preservation Commission suggested formalizing financial agreements
for funding and solidifying the roles of the County Historic Preservation Commission
and the Dubuque County Historical Society. The Dubuque County Historic Preservation
Commission noted the challenges in regulating preservation county -wide as the result
of agricultural exemptions from zoning.
The City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Services staff
recommended that the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission:
➢ Focus their efforts on education and validating those positive preservation
contributions by county residents.
➢ Promote agricultural properties through recognition.
➢ Serve as a resource to County residents.
➢ Coordinate with the Silos and Smokestack Program.
➢ Develop a landmark program to recognize county historic resources and that might
also be tied to financial incentives.
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October 17, 2013
Page 3
➢ Inquire about a barn survey recently completed by the State Historic Preservation
Office. They recommended contacting Paula Mohr with the State Historic
Preservation office.
➢ Develop a web page on the Dubuque County website which markets and informs
people of the County Preservation Program.
The City Historic Preservation Commission welcomed a partnership with the County
Historic Preservation Commission, noting opportunities for future joint educational
events. The Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commissioners thanked the City of
Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission for their time.
Staff Member Carstens noted Planning Services staff would be happy to meet with
Dubuque County Preservation Commissioners at a convenient time to discuss the
formalities of the City's Preservation Program.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Andrew McCready /Sesler Schaefer Architects for a
Certificate of Appropriateness to install a new awning on property located at 240 West
2nd Street in the Old Main Historic District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report and explained the request. He
referenced enclosed renderings and photographs submitted by the applicant.
Andrew McCready, Sesler Schaefer Architects, reviewed the project. He noted Sesler
Schaefer Architects is based in Tulsa, Oklahoma and he is moving back to Dubuque to
open a second office at 240 W. 2nd Street. He noted he lives above the office space at
220 W. 2nd Street. Mr. McCready distributed updated information, photos, and
drawings of the proposed awning. He distributed a polycarbonate sample of the
awning, noting the previously proposed yellow color has been changed to orange to
better coordinate with corporate colors. He also distributed renderings of the sign.
The Commission discussed the project. Commissioners noted the proposed
polycarbonate awning is not consistent with the architectural guidelines. The
Commission noted the guidelines do not recommend installing an awning that never
previously existed. The Commission added the architectural guidelines also do not
recommend plastic or metal awnings. The Commission stated canvas awnings are
typically the recommended material in the city of Dubuque.
The applicant and Commission discussed the size, location, and material for the
awning. Mr. McCready noted the shutters on the sides of the entrance will be removed
and the lights will be relocated.
The Commission discussed the importance of the 3rd Street facade as this was
historically a gateway and continues to be a highly visible secondary facade within the
community. The Commission noted the proposed polycarbonate and orange canopy
Minutes — Historic Preservation Commission
October 17, 2013
Page 4
would be distracting due to its color and material. The Commission discussed signage
options and branding that might help achieve the same desired effect. The
Commission noted an awning on the north facing facade would not offer any practical
protection from the elements. The Commission stated this entrance also never had an
awning to begin with. The Commission reiterated any canopy and signage should be
compatible with the facade. The Commission discussed an alternative awning that
would be retractable and canvas.
Motion by Bichell, seconded by Rapp, to approve the application as submitted. Motion
failed by the following vote: Aye — None; Nay — McDonell, Schlarman, Bichell, Monk,
Rapp and Krueger; Abstain — None.
DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Dylan Kreiss to demolish the building located at 604
Fenelon Place in the Fenelon Place Neighborhood Conservation District.
Staff Member Johnson reviewed the staff report. He noted the classical revival building
was constructed in 1906. He explained that in 1979, the property was evaluated as a
non - supporting structure. In 2005, it was re- evaluated and found to be contributing to a
potential National Register of Historic Places District. Staff Member Johnson reviewed
the previous alterations, noting the vinyl siding that was added to the building in 2011.
He reviewed that the building was extensively damaged as the result of a fire, which
occurred February 25, 2013. He noted the Fire Department reported water damage
throughout the building as a result of fighting the fire. He stated the applicant estimates
approximately 85 -90% of the home would need to be replaced, essentially resulting in a
new structure. He stated the applicant believes as a result of the fire, water and smoke
damage, the building is no longer historically or architecturally significant.
He explained the role of the Commission at this juncture is to make a determination as
to whether the building has historic or architectural significance. He explained that if the
Commission finds the building no longer has historic or architectural significance to the
community, the Commission should approve the demolition permit. He reviewed in
determining whether a building has historic or architectural significance, the
Commission should consider an application in accordance with the standards for review
set forth in the Secretary of the Interior Standards for identification and evaluation. He
explained the Commission should also consider a determination from the State Historic
Preservation Office as to the potential eligibility for listing the building proposed for
demolition on the National Register of Historic Places. He explained the Iowa Site
Inventory Form prepared in 2005 identifies the building as contributing to a potential
district based on Criterion C for its distinctive architectural features. He noted staff
consulted with the architectural historian who prepared the Iowa Site Inventory Form,
and an updated opinion on its significance was provided to the Commission.
Staff Member Johnson reiterated the role of the Commission is to make a determination
whether the building currently maintains enough architectural integrity to warrant
preservation. The Commission should determine whether the building currently
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October 17, 2013
Page 5
embodies or can ever again embody the distinctive architectural characteristics and
craftsmanship which made it a contributing building to a potential National Register of
Historic Places District prior to the fire.
The Commission discussed the application. Staff Member Johnson noted the
economic review criteria are not an issue at this point in the review process. He noted
the only question before the Commission is to determine whether the building currently
or can ever again be architecturally or historically significant.
Staff Member Johnson referenced interior photos documenting the extent of damage to
the building provided by the applicant. He noted additional imagery as well as the
Dubuque County Assessor information for the building has been included by staff.
Dylan Kreiss, 600 Sunset Ridge, reviewed his evaluation of the building and desire to
demolish it. Staff noted the property owner has signed the application acknowledging
they are aware of the applicant's effort to demolish the building.
Tim McDonald, 584 Fenelon Place, noted he has lived in the neighborhood for 40
years, and reported he has been in contact with the property owner, Kathy Sutton, to
find a buyer. He noted the City of Dubuque Housing and Community Development
Department had issued an order to repair or demolish the building by October 5, 2013,
at which point Ms. Sutton involved him in the project. Mr. McDonald offered his opinion
as to the condition of the building and relayed his findings of water damage. He
explained approximately 90% of the building would need to be removed. He explained
extensive water was used to fight the fire, and consequently, there is mold throughout
the building. He noted the roof and 3rd floor framing is a complete loss. He explained
many of the joists and studs in the home are damaged to the extent where they can be
removed by hand.
The Commission discussed Jim Jacobsen's original survey and comments since the
fire. Discussion followed on the economic feasibility of restoring the roof, and the
current historical significance of the building. The Commission noted Jacobsen offered
the opinion that it would be possible to reconstruct the building. Staff Member Johnson
noted Mr. Jacobsen also stated the house cannot be restored to its pre -fire state of
historical integrity given the extensive fire, water and smoke damage.
Mr. Kreiss explained the foundation of the building would also be inadequate for any
rehabilitation efforts. Mr. McDonald explained the City of Dubuque is being pressured
by the Fenelon Neighborhood residents to take action on the building as it has become
a dangerous situation and a nuisance to the neighborhood. He noted the
Commission's decision will affect the neighborhood for the next six months. Mr. Kreiss
reiterated he is only interested in acquiring and doing something with the property if a
demolition permit is approved. Mr. McDonald noted as winter approaches, if the
property is not demolished, it will likely sit in its current state for at least the next six
months. He again explained the condition of the building is beyond repair and if it were
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October 17, 2013
Page 6
to be repaired, it would essentially be a new building and no longer architecturally
significant to the neighborhood.
The Commission stated a person with the right skills and resources could rehabilitate
the building. The Commission explained properties in similar condition have been
rehabilitated.
Staff Member Carstens clarified that there is a significant difference between a
neglected building and a building that has been gutted and extensively damaged by fire.
Staff Member Johnson reiterated the economic viability of the project is not what is
under consideration. The Commission again explained their role is to determine
whether the building has architectural or historical significance to the neighborhood and
community.
Motion by Krueger, seconded by Schlarman, to approve the demolition permit as
submitted. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye: Rapp, Bichell, Monk and
Krueger; Nay — McDonell and Schlarman; Abstain - None.
EDUCATION TASK FORCE
Update on Public Outreach and Education Program: Chairperson McDonell noted the
minutes for the past three meetings have been provided for the Commission's review.
The Commission discussed the plans for registering the Old Town Neighborhood on the
National Register of Historic Places. Staff Member Johnson noted the registration
project is the result of a potential National Register eligible district that was identified in
Phase III of the City's ongoing survey and evaluation program. He explained registering
these neighborhoods and properties is the next step in the program and is consistent
with the priories aligned by the Historic Preservation Commission. He noted the area is
predominantly a residential neighborhood.
The Commission asked whether Central Avenue was included in the nomination. Staff
and the Commission discussed the boundaries, noting the Central Avenue corridor was
listed in the National Register as a district approximately a year ago. The Commission
recommended in the event the Upper Central Avenue Commercial National Register
Historic District becomes a local historic district, it should be called the Couler -Clay
Historic Preservation District to better represent its geographic and historical qualities.
ITEMS FROM PUBLIC: None.
ITEMS FROM COMMISSION: The Commission requested contact information for the
Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission members.
Code Update: Staff Member Carstens reported that Legal Services staff is backlogged
with other City priorities and continues to research and develop the proposed
amendments to the Historic Preservation Ordinance.
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October 17, 2013
Page 7
ITEMS FROM STAFF:
Building Services Historic Preservation Enforcement Report Update: Staff noted
enforcement updates are shown in bold in the report. Staff Member Johnson explained
a demand for delay of sale has been filed by the owners being foreclosed on at 1163
Highland. He explained he is unsure of the process or outcome. He noted the Legal
Services Department has explained the demands are typically resolved the first quarter
or middle of the calendar year and therefore it may take time before any decision is
known on this property.
Staff Member Johnson noted the hearing on 1921 Madison Street will be heard the first
week in November.
Historic Preservation Commission Contact Information: Staff Member Carstens
requested the Commission review the contact information distributed to them prior to
the meeting. She noted if there are any changes please note them on the sheets and
return them to Planning staff.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager Adopted