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Minutes Historic Pres 01_18_07 MINUTES REGULAR SESSION Thursday, January 18, 2007 5:30 p.m. Auditorium, Carnegie Stout Library 360 W. 11th Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Chairperson Christine Olson; Commission Members Keisha Wainwright, Chris Wand, Matthew Lundh, and David Stuart; Staff Members Laura Carstens and David Johnson. ABSENT: Commission Members John Whalen, Mike Coty, Mary Loney Bichell and Robert McCoy. 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: Chairperson Olson requested three changes to the draft minutes of December 21, 2006. 1) The words “more historic” in line 5, paragraph 2, Page 2 should be in quotations. 2) The sentence in line 6, paragraph 3, Page 2 should be amended to read, “He explained that studies have indicated that bare woods prolonged exposure to the sun and ultraviolet rays deteriorate the top cells of the wood siding and consequently the siding cannot hold paint.” 3) After line 2, paragraph 3, Page 7 the record should also reflect that Staff Member Carstens confirmed the Mines of Spain is going forward with their project. The Commission discussed the proposed amendments to the draft minutes and agreed the additional comments would more accurately reflect the discussion at the meeting. Motion by Stuart, seconded by Wainwright, to approve the minutes of the December 21, 2006 as amended. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye – Olson, Wainwright, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay – None. DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Chad Walsh, Epic Construction for a National Register of Historic Places Nomination for the Dubuque Star Brewery, 500 E. Fifth Street. Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 2 Chad Walsh, project manager for Epic Construction, explained that his company has a long-term lease with the City of Dubuque to renovate the Dubuque Star Brewery. He introduced the project architect, Jeffrey Morton. Mr. Morton reviewed the scope of the project and noted the building currently has two tenants. Stone Cliff Winery will occupy the old tavern and rock building on the first floor, and a restaurant will occupy the entire second floor of the building. Mr. Morton stated that the parking for the uses inside the Dubuque Star Brewery will be located in the rear of the building. He explained that all of the windows and doors in the building have been replaced since they were all in very poor condition and rotted. He stated that wood windows and doors replicating the originals were used. He explained that the loading dock and transformer servicing the building will be enclosed with masonry per the Port of Dubuque design standards. Mr. Walsh added that the parking lot will also be reviewed by the Port of Dubuque Design Review Committee and a new street will be built by the City along the north side. He stated the name of the street will be Star Brewery Drive. Mr. Walsh stated that the remaining space in the building will be used for offices and small retail and specialty shops. He explained that Stone Cliff Winery will open in the spring and the restaurant is targeted to open in September. Commissioner Stuart questioned the term of the lease with the City. Mr. Walsh explained it was a 50-year lease. Commissioner Stuart suggested they study the IRS requirements for long-term leases to verify that it qualifies for preservation tax credits. Chairperson Olson asked why the nomination was one contributing building and one contributing structure. Mr. Morton explained the structure is the smoke stack, believed to be from a prior distillery and the contributing building is the brewery complex as it exists. Staff Member Johnson explained that the State is requesting the Commission review the nomination, and comment on whether the Dubuque Star Brewery building meets the significance criteria A, B, C or D for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. He stated the nomination indicates that the property is significant under Criteria A and C. He explained Criterion A is a property that is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history, and Criterion C is a property that embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant or distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. He requested that the Commission make a recommendation to the State Nominations Review Committee whether the Dubuque Star Brewery should be listed or not for consideration during the Committee’s February 9, 2007 meeting. Commissioner Wand questioned whether Criterion B could be applied to the nomination. The Commission discussed the difference between a state and national level National Register of Historic Places nomination versus local significance. Staff Member Johnson explained that Criterion B is property that is associated with the lives Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 3 of persons significant in our past. The Commission agreed that Criterion B would definitely apply to Dubuque on a local level and also noted its importance as a visible entry to the city of Dubuque. The Commission also noted that artifacts and information gathered as part of the National Register nomination for the Dubuque Star Brewery will be displayed throughout public corridors of the building, and historic photos gathered through the nomination process will be displayed in other areas of the building. Motion by Wand, seconded by Stuart, to recommend nomination of the Dubuque Star Brewery to the National Register of Historic Places based on its significance under Criteria A and C statewide, its significance under Criteria B locally, and that it is an important visible entry to the city of Dubuque. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye – Olson, Wainwright, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay – None. DESIGN REVIEW: Application of Jeffrey Morton for a Certificate of Appropriateness to remove the non-historic, wood framed, two-story rear addition and replace with a new, more appropriate two story addition in the same footprint for property located at 472 West Fourth Street in the Cathedral Historic District. Jeff Morton, architect for Susan Farber, property owner, presented the project. He explained that 470 West Fourth Street, the Red House Gallery, was reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission previously. He noted that Ms. Farber has purchased 472 West Fourth Street for the gallery expansion. He addressed the late addition on the rear of 472 West Fourth Street. Staff Member Johnson clarified that the Certificate of Appropriateness would be for 472 West Fourth Street only since no changes are proposed for 470 West Fourth Street. He stated information on both properties had been provided in the staff report and presentation, since the buildings will be tied together and used in conjunction with each other. Mr. Morton stated that the late addition on the rear of the property was poorly constructed and is leaking and deteriorating. He stated he would like to remove the non-historic wood framed two-story rear addition, and replace it with a new more appropriate two-story addition. He explained that there would be a connection between 470 and 472 West Fourth Street for the gallery expansion. He addressed the drawing submitted with the design review application. He noted the front of the building facing Fourth Street will be modified to level out the stoop accessing 470 and 472 West Fourth Street. He added that the existing metal door on the front of 472 West Fourth Street will be replaced with a reclaimed or new wood door with a new transom above it, which will reflect the shape and scale of the transom on 470 West Fourth Street. He added that the pitch of the porch will remain unchanged. Mr. Morton next reviewed the north, west and south elevation drawings for the project. He explained the new addition on the rear of 472 West Fourth Street will have cedar shingles, even though the drawings depict an asphalt shingle roof. The Commission Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 4 indicated based on the existing roofing material, either alternative would be acceptable. He explained that the addition will have cedar fascia, frieze board, and lap siding. He explained that large, clear, insulating glass paneled, wood framed windows will be installed on the second floor of the addition to maximize the amount of light entering the gallery. He explained there will be two new doors on the rear addition. Mr. Morton explained the clear insulating glass panes will be framed in wood. He added that both roofs on 470 and 472 West Fourth Street will have a cedar shingle and the pitch of the roofs will not change. Staff Member Johnson clarified that the Certificate of Appropriateness was for the front porch door and transom, the roof and the rear addition on 472 West Fourth Street. The Commission discussed the project and the possibility of the applicant applying for Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund (HPRLF) money. Mr. Morton explained should the applicant wish to pursue HPRLF money, it will be done at a later date. Commissioner Stuart stated he would like to see the wood elements either painted or opaque stained. Mr. Morton indicated they are leaning toward opaque stain. Motion by Stuart, seconded by Wand, to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness as submitted, noting that all new wood, except for the roofs shall be painted or opaque stained; and cedar shingles are allowed on both 470 and 472 West Fourth Street. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye – Olson, Wainwright, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay – None. ITEMS FROM PUBLIC : None. ITEMS FROM COMMISSION : Chairperson Olson stated she was contacted about an article on historic preservation in the Telegraph Herald’s “In and Out” section for January. Staff Member Carstens added she was also contacted and referred the reporter to Chairperson Olson. ITEMS FROM STAFF : Building Services Dept. – Status Report on Historic Preservation Enforcement: Staff Member Johnson reviewed the January Historic Preservation Enforcement report. He noted that 352 Bluff Street will remain on the enforcement report until a building permit is applied for the property. Staff Member Johnson explained 950 Spruce Street is an ongoing legal matter between the City and Mr. Brown, and therefore is being kept on the enforcement report as a reminder that a violation exists. Staff Member Johnson stated the Commission’s concerns regarding 1163 Highland Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 5 were forwarded on to Rich Russell. He stated Mr. Russell will verify the additional concerns brought forward and enforce as appropriate. He explained no progress has been made at 538 Wilbur Lane, and the timeline for compliance remains May 1, 2007. Staff Member Johnson explained that 1015 &1017 Bluff used to be on the enforcement report together. He explained that 1015 Bluff made the necessary repairs and is now in compliance. He stated that 1017 Bluff made temporary and inappropriate repairs to remedy the safety issue with the stairs. He explained wood treads affixed to a metal track was used to fill in the hole in the concrete stairs. He explained that since the repair is inappropriate, the matter will not be removed from the enforcement report. Staff Member Carstens noted we are currently trying to track down the address of the property owner since a number of correspondences have been returned as undeliverable. Staff Member Johnson explained there have been no changes made to the property at 180 Main Street. Staff Member Johnson reported that the property owners, City staff and local banks are still working to close the funding gap on the German Bank building at 342 Main Street. The Commission discussed their concern that water is entering the building and affecting neighboring buildings and referred the matter to the Building Services Department for follow-up. Staff Member Johnson stated that Vance DeLire at 1921 Madison Street has been cited for various housing and building services infractions. He explained the owners did not appear at their hearing and were fined $800. He stated they were also ordered to provide a schedule for repairs by February 1, 2007. Staff Member Johnson stated that the owners have purchased a permit to repair a quarter of the roof and to realign the gutters on January 3, 2007. He explained slow progress has been made on the roof. th Staff Member Johnson stated that the H & W Building located at 30 and Jackson Street was inspected by Rich Russell based on the Commission’s referral. He stated Rich did not feel that there was enough evidence for demolition by neglect. Commissioner Stuart stated he would follow-up with Mr. Russell. Staff Member Johnson explained that a prospective buyer recently approached the City and met with City staff to discuss a possible restaurant and apartment use for the southernmost th building fronting 30 Street. Staff Member Johnson reported that a letter requesting a timeframe for appropriate repairs to the front porch was sent on January 8, 2007 to the property owner of 1433 Main Street. The Commission discussed that there is a new owner for the property at 1433 Main Street. Chairperson Olson recalled a past Certificate of Appropriateness or correspondence regarding replacement of the front porch at 1433 Main Street. She Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 6 requested that staff research past Certificates of Appropriateness or correspondence for this address and forward them onto the new property owner. She also noted the previous property owner was Michelle Bain. Staff Member Johnson explained the property at 1051 White Street was cited for demolition by neglect. He explained that the Housing Department has been talking to the owner about demolition as part of the vacant and abandoned buildings program. Rich Russell met with the owner to inform him of the application process for a demolition permit in late to mid-November. Staff Member Johnson stated the owner was given until February 26, 2007 to apply for a demolition permit due to economic hardship. He explained hopefully this would be considered at the March 15, 2007 meeting. Staff Member Carstens noted for the Commission that a committee has been formed to address problem properties for Housing and Building Services as well as the historic preservation enforcement properties. She explained the combined effort will help the City coordinate enforcement efforts and address enforcement in a more efficient manner. Historic Preservation Housing Grant: Staff Member Carstens presented the draft letter from the Historic Preservation Commission to the City Council to restore the Community Development Block Grant Program funding for the Historic Preservation Housing Grant Program. The Commission discussed the letter, noting the importance of the program to low and moderate income homeowners as well as non-profit housing organizations for them to make necessary improvements to their properties. The Commission discussed that it is important that the letter emphasize that historic preservation is not optional in historic districts, and it is required by City Ordinance regardless of income. The Commission also discussed that it was important that the letter relay to the City Council that they recognize budget constraints and that they are willing to request $20,000 for the FY08 Historic Preservation Housing Grant Program. The Commission recommended that paragraph 1, page 2 of the letter be amended to read, “Historic preservation is not optional in our historic districts; it is required by City Ordinance, regardless of income. Therefore, low and moderate income homeowners and non-profit housing organizations need this funding in order to make necessary improvements to their properties.” The Commission also recommended that paragraph 2, Page 2 of the letter be amended to read, “Due to budget constraints in this year’s CDBG Program, the Commission understands that $30,000 may not be feasible. Consequently, the Commission is only requesting $20,000 for the FY08.” The Commission recommended, “is willing to see FY08 funding maintained at $20,000” be removed from the same sentence. Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 7 Motion by Wand, seconded by Olson, to approve the Historic Preservation Housing Grant Program letter, as revised. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye – Olson, Wainwright, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay – None. Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund: The staff and Commission discussed the letter from Douglas Horstmann, President and CEO of Dubuque Bank and Trust. Staff and Commission both noted that they were not aware that any such program existed from Dubuque Bank and Trust. Staff Member Carstens explained that unlike the Dubuque Bank and Trust loan fund, the City’s Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund is handled through the City. She stated Premier Bank provided the City with a $200,000 loan at 0% interest for 10 years in 2005. She explained the 3% interest rate charged to property owners in historic districts is reinvested into the loan fund. She explained the loan applications are not handled by Premier Bank; but rather by the City, and she didn’t believe the City could honor Mr. Horstmann’s request to mail out information on Dubuque Bank and Trust’s loan fund to property owners, since it is not a City program. The Commission agreed, noting that the City of Dubuque has an agreement and commitment to Premier Bank, who funds the Historic Preservation Revolving Loan Fund. The Commission agreed they would be opposed to using City money to advertise Dubuque Bank and Trust’s loan program; however, they did not object to staff communicating to the public about the program. Staff Member Carstens recommended that the Historic Preservation Commission contact Mr. Horstmann, express their appreciation for the DB&T Fund, explain the differences from the City’s HPRLF, and provide Dubuque Bank and Trust with the addresses of property owners in historic districts for them to send their own mailing out. The Commission discussed other ways of promoting the Dubuque Bank and Trust Loan Program to property owners in historic districts. Commissioner Wand suggested pooling the Dubuque Bank and Trust loan program with the Premier Bank/City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Loan Fund to provide a greater amount of money for the public to utilize. Staff Member Carstens again reiterated that no matter how the programs would be structured, the City has an agreement with Premier Bank and the City of Dubuque program is different in that the City manages the program. The Commission discussed the need for staff to communicate the differences in the City of Dubuque HPRLF and the Dubuque Bank and Trust loan program. Motion by wand, seconded by Stuart, to send a letter to Douglas Horstmann at DB&T to encourage him to meet with staff to discuss the City of Dubuque HPRLF details and differences between the two programs. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye – Olson, Wainwright, Wand, Lundh and Stuart; Nay – None. Annual IHPA Preservation at its Best Awards: The Commission discussed properties deserving nomination in 2006. The Commission recommended the HEART project Minutes – Historic Preservation Commission January 18, 2007 Page 8 located at 2052 & 2056 Washington for the Residential category. The Commission recommended the Shot Tower project completed by the Central Alternative High School students for the Special Projects category. The Commission recommended the West th 11 Street elevator park completed by Andrew Brachman under the Public category. The Commission recommended nominating the former Rolling Bootery (Ira Hanson Block) at 1086-1098 Main Street for a proposed Mixed-Use category. The Commission discussed proposing a mixed-used category for the Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance Preservation at its Best Awards because mixed-use is an integral part of historic preservation. The Commission noted that nominations are due by March 15, 2007, and stated they would continue to think of additional nominations for the other remaining categories. Ken Kringle Historic Preservation Award Nominations: The Commission discussed th nominations for this award, specifically identifying John Whalen’s West 11 Street project, Thomas Zaber’s porch at 1005 Locust Street, 1300 Walnut Street, the first floor of Washington Court, and the remainder of the 1000 block of Main, including the mansion completed by John Gronen. Staff Member Carstens stated that the Ken Kringle awards will be placed on the February Historic Preservation Commission agenda for discussion. She stated that at that time, the Commission can make formal nominations. Iowa Historic Preservation Tax Credit: The Commission reviewed and discussed the letter from City Manager Michael Van Milligen requesting the State of Iowa support efforts to increase the annual funding for historic preservation tax credit program, and to expand the sales tax rebate to include our downtown. 2006 GPRA Annual Report: The Commission reviewed the report and no comments were made. 2006 CLG Annual Report: The Commission reviewed the report and no comments were made. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, _______________________________ _________________________ David Johnson, Assistant Planner Adopted