Loading...
1996 Historical Commission minutesCITY HALL DATE: TIME: PLACE: �J NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission Tuesday, January 16, 1996 4:15 p.m. Council on Aging, Memorial Hall Northampton AGENDA 1. Minutes of last meeting. 2. Meet Brett Jacobus, Director of Buildings and Grounds, City of Northampton. 3. Historical plaques - Tris Metcalfe. 4. Northampton - New Haven Canal event: Richard Marquis. 5. Re: History Channel. 6. Preservation awards, May 1996. 7. Discussion of Downtown Historic District. 8. Any Other Business. I i Northampton Historical Commission 1 January 16, 1996, 4:15 p.m., Council on Aging, Memorial Hall present: Evans, Freundlich, Kunath, Lockwood, Marquis, Metcalfe, Snoek, Wright absent: Bloomberg, Cadette, Elkins, Feely. 1. AL reported on meetings of the Downtown Historic District Commission, adding that Wayne Feiden is optimistic about them. 2. AL introduced Northampton Director of Buildings and Grounds Brett Jacobus, who described his responsibilities for existing and planned buildings and spoke of the administrative fragmentation of these responsibilities prior to his arrival. This fragmentation, he said, had precluded project management and preventive maintenance. AL solicited BJ's thoughts about the restoration of Memorial Hall; he said the development of a master space plan could involve the third floor of the building. TM argued for the plausibility of using the fourth floor of city hall. BJ asked how his department could interface with the commission, for example on an upcoming project to install an overhang at the rear entrance of city hall. He is "looking for guidance on aesthetic issues." 3. Preservation awards: a house between 82 and 94 on Massasoit should be considered, suggested SE. SE noted that in typing the minutes for the Dec. 4 meeting, she deleted the list of buildings discussed; preliminary suggestions should not be part of the public record, she suggested. 4. AL read a letter from Stanley Elkins, resigning his membership on the Commission and citing the time requirements of his new position as the chairman of the board of Historic Northampton. 5. AL reported on a number of minor matters: a letter from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission inviting her to a meeting; a Jan. 27 meeting at Fanueil Hall offering an overview of the Historic Mass. Act (RM expressed interest in attending); a Jan. 18 meeting of the Northampton Film Association's "Save the Calvin group. AL mentioned her attendance at five meetings of the Downtown H.D. Commission, and spoke of the interest of the Downtown Residents Assn. in the district. She distributed copies of the preliminary study report of the Commission, noted that the first public hearing on .the district is Jan. 24, and urged Historical Commission members to attend. Finally, she noted that she will be writing a Gazette column, probably to be published on the 27th, about the destruction of the Hotel Draper. 6. AL remarked that on her recent return flight from London she had spent time reflecting on the purpose of the Commission, and had consulted the Preservation Planning Manual to that end. AL read aloud the pertinent passages referring to the Commission as an agent of local government with a legally defined role distinct from that of an historical society. (AL remarked that our supply of these manuals is depleted; SE' volunteered to phone former members and attempt to recoup.) � AL commented that she was surprised to realize she'd chaired the Commission for 28 months. The accomplishments of that period she listed as an improved relationship with the planning department; an improved awards event; cooperation with Historic Massachusetts during their meeting here; the restoration of the City Hall crenellations and the proposed floodlighting of same (this project not dead, she said); and the development of ties and a "Committee of Correspondence with other commissions in Franklin and Hampshire counties. AL cited as further accomplishments the inquiries from reporters now routinely directed to the head of the Commission; our new stationary; TM's salutary influence on the Bay Bank facade; her monthly column in the Gazette ; and involvement in the New England architects meeting in Northampton and the First Churches fundraising effort. The idea of a Mass. Historical Commission meeting in Northampton has been "pitched," she said. "We're on the mailing lists," she concluded. As negatives, AL listed the chronic problem of minutes - taking; J the need for members to participate more in public meetings on preservation issues (the Calvin, the Downtown H.D., the State { l Hospital); the fact that there's been no ongoing contact with the Elm Street H-D. (SE interjected that she attends, and will report); and a need for letters to the editor on preservation issues. As a contributor to the Gazette, AL can't write letters to its editor, but Commission members can and should, she advised. Looking to the future, AL remarked that it is good we're getting to the awards earlier; that we might consider awards emphasizing the contributions of Wm. Fenno Pratt; that we should complete revision of plaques, foster relationship with the Committee of Correspondence, and pursue relationship with Brett Jacobus; she concluded that she fervently wishes we could restore Memorial Hall. 7. AL announced that she had that day given Mayor Ford a letter citing her recent election as a trustee of Forbes Library and the demands of her research and writing, and resigning from the commission. 8. PW made a motion to express the Commission's gratitude for AL's splendid contributions and regret for loss of her leadership. �j The motion passed unanimously. 9. After AL's departure from the meeting, RK suggested that the Commission send her a letter of thanks. PW offered to draft such a letter for consideration at the next meeting. 10. RK suggested an interim chair be designated to determine how AL is to be replaced: i.e. by election or appointment. SE agreed to serve. 11. The next meeting is scheduled for 4:15 Feb. 5 at the Council on Aging. Res fully s mitted, Pa rici W gh , Acting Secretary At 1/16/96 meeting: Sally Evans 210 Elm Street 584 -0769 Oliver Freundlich 66 West Street 584 -3727 Rodney K. Kunath 4 Reed Street 1- 800 - 439 -2370 ask for 584 -7800 Deaf TTY Richard Marquis 66 Whittier Street 585 -9148 Tristram W. Metcalfe III 142 Main Street 586 -5775 George A. Snook 70 Bancroft Road 584 -2955 Patricia Wright 67 Vernon Street 586 -7790 CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION DATE: Monday, February 5, 1996 TIME: 4:15 p.m. PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall 1. Minutes of last meeting. 2. Addition of items to Agenda. 3. Procedure for selection of new Chairperson. 4. Membership of the Commission. 5. Letter to past Chairperson. (Patricia Wright) 6. Northampton -New Haven Canal event (Richard Marqui 7. Preservation Awards. Examine categories & critez Discuss nominations. 8. Plaques: Status, etc. (Tris Metcalfe, Gary Cadett 9. Downtown Historic District Study Committee Hearir 10. Elm Street Historic District - Update. (Sally EvE 11. Other business. I NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION FEBRUARY 5, 1996 MEMORIAL HALL Present: L. Bloomberg, S. Evans. O. Freundlich, T. Metcalf, G. Snook Excused Absent: R. Kunath, P. Wright Absent: G. Cadette, R. Marquis 1) Meeting called to order at 4:15 PM with Sally Evans in chair (pro tem). 2) Corrections of previous minutes: a) Stanley Elkins resignation accepted at December meeting b) George Snook's name spelled Snook not Snoek c) (item 2, 2 paragraph) add to end of last sentence "as a first place for city office expansion" d) Preservation award (item #3) suggested by AL not SE. `-' 3) SE inquired as. to -the selection of a new chair and informed the Commission that the chair should be elected by the voting members. It was decided to postpone this decision until there is a full complement of voting members. 4) Patricia Wright, Richard Marquis and George Snook were to be recommended for voting membership. The members were encouraged to consider nominees for associate membership. 5) A letter of appreciation to Allison Lockwood for her services during her tenure was read and approved. 6) No report on the progress of the Northampton - New Haven Canal event was available. 7) Three additions to the Preservation Award List were added. These were the interior renovations to Northampton High School sponsored by the Lions Club, College Hall (Smith College) and the Nolan House on Elm Street. 8) Mockups will be done by Gary Cadette for the Plaques. 9) It was noted that if the Downtown Historic District is created the Elm Street District will be merged with it so that there will be only one district. 10) TM informed us that the houses of Historic Northampton (Damon, Parsons, and Shepard) were not on the Massachusetts Historic Register. This is a requirement for them to be eligible for preservation grants. This must be done through local Historical commissions. TM will initiate the proceedure and follow through with it. Respectfully submitted, George Snook, Acting Secretary City of Northampton, Massachusetts Office of Planning-and Development City Hall • 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 • (413) 586 -6950 FAX (413) 586 -3726 • Community and Economic Development • Conservation • Historic Preservation • Planning Board • Zoning Board of Appeals • Northampton Parking Commission Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission DATE: Monday, March 4, 1996 TIME: 4:15 p.m. PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall Northampton AGENDA ORIGINAL PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER 1. Designation of today's Secretary. - - 2. Notice of excused absences. 3. Minutes of Last Meeting. 4. Addition of agenda items. 5. Report on status of existing Associate Members (SE). 6. Election of a new Chair. 7. Preservation awards - Examine categories and criteria. Discuss nominations. 8. Plaques: Status, etc. (Tris Metcalfe, Gary Cadette) 9. New Haven- Northampton Canal event. (Richard Marquis) 10. Historic Northampton (Northampton Historical Society) Need for National /State Register status. 11. Calvin Theater. 12. Commission membership. Ideas for new associate members. 13. Massachusetts Historical Commission - Preservation Awards. �\ 14. Massachusetts Historical Commission - Preservation Projects Fund. ORIGINAL PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER Northampton Historical Commission minutes MARCH 4,1996, 4:15 PM - 6:10 Council on Aging meeting room Present: L. Bloomberg, S. Evans, 0. Freundlich, R. Kunath, R. Marquis, T. Metcalfe, G. Snook, P. Wright. Absent: G. Cadette. 1. Minutes were approved from the 2/5/96 meeting. 2. Sally Evans is unanimously elected as the new Chairperson, ..applause! 3. Sally introduced Susan Well, the new associate member appointed by mayor Mary Ford. 4. SE, the "Preservation Planning Manual ",s from previous members are still being sought out by SE to recycle to you. 5. A. Lockwood sent a note describing thanks for our letter, and a message about continuing the NHC activity with the chairs of other Historical Commissions, a way to be more effective for everyone's benefit. 6. The Calvin Theater was discussed in context with the interests of Northampton Film Assoc.Inc. (586 3471) members present; Howard Polanski,.and Dee Gesso._They_reported _ that _two groups exist that are trying to purchase the building, restore it, and use it for theatrical functions. John Morrison is doing a feasibility study with a grant from a donor, that hopefully will be presented at an April meeting to be announced, the Arts Council will know when. We agreed that we should investigate means available to us to help. If MHC in Boston is brought into the effort we may have some additional effect to help save the building. SE said she would contact them. 7. An example of a Plaque was presented illustrating need for a sealer compatible with carbon images. TM said GC will do it. 8. RM discussed the Canal presentation being shifted to Historic Northampton since Forbes will be closed. He sought approval to have our efforts on this project transfer to the historical museum. 9. Awards Ceremony was discussed, projects reviewed,.decision to have ballots mailed out for return at the April meeting for a tally then, with option to have any fine tuning votes also then and final decisions. The status of unfinished projects was discussed. TM felt that if , it was obvious what all, the design decisions were, and would likely remain, then awards may help to:.encourage efforts to finish well. respectfully submitted by TM i 1 CITY HALL Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission DATE: NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 Monday, April 1, 1996 TIME: 4 :15 p.m. PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall Northampton AGENDA i� r r 1. Designation of today's secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Addition of agenda items. 3. Approval of minutes of last meeting. 4. Calvin Theater. 5. Preservation awards - Categories and criteria. - Nominations. 6. New Haven - Northampton Canal event - Status (RM) 7. Historic Northampton (Northampton Historical Society) National /State Register - Status (TM, etc.) 8. Plaques (GC, TM) 9. NHC membership - 3 nominated voting members. - 1 nominated associate member. - 2 newly- appointed associate members. - Ideas for additional associate members. - Progress on copies of preservation manual 10. NHC and other City bodies - Pairing of NHC members with other boards. - Onto mailing lists of other boards. 11. Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from a prev. chair. - Other ideas. i NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION APRIL 1, 1996 1 MEMORIAL HALL Present: S, Evans Chair, R. Kunath, T. Metcalf, G. Snook, S. Well Excused Absent: 0. Freundlich, L. Bloomberg, R. Leuenberger Absent: G. Cadette, R. Marquis, P. Wright Visitor: Tom Douglas _ 1) Meeting called to order at 4:15 PM. Mrs Evans in the chair 2) Announcements: Because of the limitations of "signing" it must be a rule that there will be only one speaker at a time in any discussion. SE will attend the regional Historical Commission meeting Smith College is planning to renovate Sessions House, Hatfield House, Gill House (Day School) and the laundry behind it. The State will replace Brury Bridge over the Manhan ( ?) River in Northampton. The Downtown Historic District report will be presented to the City Council on April 4. There will be a public hearing on May 8 at 7:00 PM. 3) Minutes of previous meeting were approved after the following corrections. S. Well was present. R. Leuenberger had an excused absence. 4) In regard to the Calvin Theater it should_ be noted that financial help might be obtained by an Open Space Bond issue or through a tax credit. 5) The criteria for the Historic Preservation Awards has been redefined. A new category of Small Projects for use in those small but well done projects has been added. 6) After much discussion concerning the submissions for the Historic Preservation Awards the following were selected: 1) Pierce Hall at Smith College 2) 30 Monroe St 3) 29 Arlington St. 4) Northampton Country Club 5) 225 Elm St. Small Project 6) 41 and 45 Eml St (Chase and Duckett Houses) - Honorable Mention Awards will be presented late in May. The date and time have not been determined. 7) A memo from TM on the replacement of windows in Memorial Hall has been forwarded to the Asst City Solicitor. Respectfully submitted - George Snook NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Official Meeting; Notice f f Northampton Historical Commission +----------------- - - - - -+ DATE: Monday, May 6, 1.996 ;If you will be unable to attend, please call; TIME: 4:15 p.m. ;Sally Evans (584- 0769); ------------------------ PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall, Northampton AGENDA 1. Designation of today's secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Approval of minutes of last. meeting. 3. Addition of agenda items. 4. Announcements. 5. Preservation awards - Date, Place, Time, Publicity, Special invitations, Certificates, Photos, Agenda, Presenters, Commentators, Refreshments 6. Brett. Jacobus - Memorial Hall, etc. 7. Updates: Calvin Theater New Haven - Northampton Canal program (RM) Historic Northampton (Northampton Historical Society) National /State Register - Status (TM, GS) Plaques (GC, TM) a; 8. NHC and other City bodies - Pairing of NHC members with other boards. - Onto mailing lists of other boards. 9. Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from two previous chairs. Other ideas. 10- Today's additional items: _l 1?.. Next meeting. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMNIISSION Minutes of May 6, 1996 meeting Present: Louise Bloomberg, Sally Evans, Reuthe Leuenberger, Trish Metcalfe, George Snook, Susan Well, Patricia Wright Absent: Gary Cadette, Oliver Freundlich, Rodney Kunath, Richard Marquis Minutes of April lst meeting accepted after the spelling of Drury Bridge was corrected. Sally updated us concerning the Memorial Hall window replacement project. On April 22nd Sally and Trish went before the Property Committee to request a cancellation or temporary halt to the installation of aluminum windows on the ground floor of Memorial Hall. They were given nine days to draft a document bolstering our position that the installation of these windows in Memorial Hall is a very bad decision. They compiled an eight page document plus appendices which clearly spelled out the rationale for stopping the project. At the end of their presentation, Brett Jacobus stated that Northampton now owns the windows, and he has no intention of stopping the project. Trish suggested that they be used as stonn windows. This proposal was rejected by Brett. 'At this point in our discussion, Brett arrived at our meeting to discuss further the window situation. He stated that a contract with Thermo Experts, Inc. of Pittsfield, MA to install windows in Memorial Hall had been signed on 3/11/96 by him and the Mayor's signature was added on 3/13/96. Trish asked to look at the specs. When directly questioned about whether the windows had already been cut by the Pittsfield vendor, Brett replied that "to the best of my knowledge, they have ". Several members present asked him to check on this. Trish later stated that he would visit the vendor the next day to check on the status of the windows himself. After repeatedly asserting that he, Brett, would not halt the installation of the windows, he pointed out that lie was willing to compromise. He would put plans to replace the other windows on hold and have the original windows and sash removed and stored on the third floor of Memorial Hall for later use if this was deemed appropriate. Susan asked who would carry out this task. When Brett responded that his team would do it, Susan expressed her concern that this group had no experience handling historic artifacts and might be heavy handed in carrying out their job. Brett stated that he was interested in the safety and comfort of employees and visitors in Memorial Hall. He indicated that he and his expert consultants felt the cost to make the present windows more energy efficient was prohibitly high. (Trish questioned this since lie was told by someone knowledgeable in historic reconstruction, that it would cost less.) Sally emphasized that historical preservation has to enter the equation when any renovations of Memorial Hall are considered. When asked why. lie would not consider using the new windows as storms, Brett responded that this would create a "bugging out" effect and the "aesthetics won't be acceptable to me ". Trish asked to see details of the new windows to determine if this would indeed be the case. Brett agreed to show Trish the design. Susan pointed out that Memorial and City Hall are the two most important buildings we have from an historic point of view and added that we understand the need to arrive at a working relationship with Brett. Trish pointed out that the new windows, if used as storms, would save existing windows which equal part of the fabric of the building. After Brett's departure, concern was raised about how these new windows would impact on future historic grant proposals. Trish agreed to verify whether on not we will loose grant funds if we remove original windows. Also, he will investigate the cost of totally rebuilding them. Susan pointed out that Bob Walker indicated that all of the windows are easily fixed. May 6th minutes continued Sally reported that: The Planning Committee chair indicated that we no longer have a line item budget, but about $100 is available for expenses such as plaques, frames, calligraphers, etc. Miss Flo's Dinner wants to be on the National Register. A Calvin Theater update will be presented at our next regular meeting. The 1996 Awards Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, May 28 at 4 PM in Smith College's Pierce Hall, 2nd floor conference room. Sally will call the Mayor's office to see if Mayor Ford can be present. Sally will follow this call with a formal invitation to the Mayor and the City Council, Two possible awards for next year: Bill Brandt's house and a. Doctor's (7) house on Prospect Street. Respectively submitted, Louise Bloomberg NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 DATE: TIME: PLACE: Wednesday, June 19, 1996 4:1.5 p -m- Council on Aging, Memorial Hall +------------------ - - - - -+ If you will be unable ;to attend, please call Sally Evans (584 -0769) Or leave a message with; ;the Council on Aging +------------------ - - - - -+ AGENDA 1. Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Request to limit # of speakers to one at a time! 3. Announcement and hand out material (if any) 4. Approval of minutes of last meeting. !� 5. List any "last minute" agenda items. 6. 4:45 p.m. Calvin Theater - John Morrison, guest. 7. Recap of Awards Ceremony. 8. Memorial Hall 9. Status of: Downtown Local Historic District - Give testimony before City Council Historic Northampton onto registers Plaques (TM, LB, GC) New Haven - Northampton Canal program (RM) Miss Flo's Diner ( ?) 10. NHC charter /charge. 11. NHC and other City bodies - Pairing of NHC members with other boards and onto mailing of other boards. 13. Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from two previous chairs, eta.. 10. Today's additional items: 11. 'Next meeting. Ell) NORTHMPTON _HISTORICAL COMMISSION JUNE 19,1996 MEMORIALHALL P'reserrt: S. Evans, Chair, G. Snook, R. Kunath, O: Freundlich. Excusedbsence. R. Marquis, L. Bloomberg, P. Wright Absent- T. Metcalf G. Cadette, S. Well, R. Leuenberger 1.11��1eeting galled to order at 4 :20 PM, Mrs. Evans is the chair. 2.) O. Freundlich was selected to take minutes for the meeting. 3) Ainn(*.)uncemerds: Because of the limitations of "signing", it has been requested that only one person speak at a time during meetings. .N1 meeting will begin promptly at 4:15 PM. Members should do their best to beprompt. S. Evans received several phone calls: 144 South street is dealing with lead paint problems and called for advice. S. E. will send along pertinent renovation and restoration documents. Work on Hawley Street property has been approved by MHC and will bypass the NHC's approval. 4.) Minutes from last months meeting could not be approved because there was no quorum. R.K. mentioned that he should be listed as excused absence in last months minutes, due to a family emergency. 5.1 John Morrison was unable to attend the meeting to give an update on the status of the Calvin Theater. He sent his apologies and will try to make it in July. He sent over a Yrragh copy of the Calvin research packet for the commission to review. 6.) It was agreed that the awards ceremony was a great success, and everyone who participated was thanked by S.E. It was suggested by Q.F. that it would be nice to show sliders at the next awards program in order to better illustrate the projects. Perhaps "before and afters" if possible. S.E. is compiling a list of possibilities for 1997 awards. The commission was encouraged to keep an eye out for possible nominees. R.K offered to let the commission use his extensive slide collection, including photos of the Calvin Theater and Forbes Library. .1.l In regards to the Memorial Hall windows controversy the NHC would like to i :ha:nk S.E. and T.M. for their extensive hard work on the reports they provided for the City. Unfortunately their efforts failed, and the City made no changes. 8.) The Downtown Local Historical District proposal will be presented to City Council cart June 20,1996. The general feeling is that it will not get passed. The NHC supports ? this designation and will make a finally attempt to loby the council members. S.E., R.K. and perhaps Patricia Wright, will attend the council meeting. Qi 9.) The Canal project was brought to Historic Northampton, but nothings has happened clue to cost. 10.) 'Ibe owner of the Miss Florence dinner has requested the NHC help in filing an application to the National Register. The NHC would like to see the building designated and will invite Tom Alexander to the next meeting to provide him with assistance. "11) SE submitted a proposal for an addition to article XX It could not be voted on because there was no quorum. It will be brought up at the next meeting. Respectfully submitted, Oliver E. Freundlich NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION t I CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET - NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 fix Official Meeting Notice CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Northampton Historical Commission Architect, 1849 DATE: Monday, July 1, 1969 ;If you will. be unable TIME: 4 :15 p ; to attend, please call PLACE: Council on Aging, ;Sally Evans (584- 0769) Memorial Hall ;Ur leave a message with; the. Council on Aging ----------------------- - - -�.. �J AGENDA 1. Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Request to limit # of speakers to one at a time! 3. Announcements. Hand out material (if any) 4. Approval of minutes of last two meetings. List, below, any "last minute agenda. items. 6. 4:45 p.m. Calvin Theater - John Morrison, guest. 5:00 p.m. Miss Flo "s Diner - Tom Alexander, guest. 8. 1iew early nominations for 109 Awards. 9. Memorial Hall -- Recent developm if any. 10. Status of: Downtown Local Historic: District - Give testimony before City Council Plaque, (TM, LE, GC) 11.. NHC charter/ charge. 12. ? Change day and /or time of NHC meetings ? 13 - D elegation of members" responsibilities and pairing of NHC me;ribers with other City boCL_ds and ont_i :Iia7_ling lists of other !,:ia - - 14. Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from two previous chairs, etc- 11. Today's additional items.: 1E . lde_:t meeting: Date and tiliie = Northampton Historical Commission Minutes July / , 1996 Present: Evans (Chair), Bloomberg, Kunath, Leuenberger, Metcalfe, Snook, Wright. Absent: Marquis, Cadette, Freundlich (excused), Well. The meeting was called to order at 4:24 p.m. SE reminded members that we should attempt to speak one —at —a —time to facilitate interpretation for Rodney. She noted a correction in the minutes for the last meeting: year should be 1996. SE called the attention of the Commission to a "First Person" essay by 8th grader Bartlett Doty published in the Hampshire Life; the essay addressed questions of preservation and conservation; should we respond? No action was taken, consensus seemed to be that response probably unnecessary. SE raised question of visit to Mary Ford by herself and TM, to discuss Memorial Hall window debacle; also raised question of whether Mayor Ford should be invited to attend a meeting. Consensus yes in both instances. John Morrison of Northampton Film Associates arrived to discuss the status of the Calvin Theater. He reports that "things stand pretty much as they stood" at last report; that is, the theater is still owned by R. Goldstein, but "liens and encumbrances make things murky." JM and associates have come to conclusion that the only hope is finding a buyer. In answer to question from SE, JM said he would personally have no part in a solution that did not involve use as a theater. JM noted that the mayor has given the owner several extensions on repairs and taxes. Tom Alexander of the Miss Florence Diner arrived to discuss his interest in having the property nominated to the National Register. At SE's request, PW described the limited protections offered by NR listing. SE suggested that deed restrictions were a possibility, if economically feasible. Elise Feeley was suggested as a source of advice on historical research, and Mr. Alexander said he would contact her; SE will do deed work; RK will bring photograph. Mr. Alexander will attend a future meeting to further discuss the nomination. LB noted errors in the spelling of TM's nickname in the May 6 minutes. These are to be changed from "Trish" to "Tris." RK wished to affirm that his absence from the last meeting was excused. A misspelling of TM's surname was discovered in the June 19 minutes; a "e" is to be added. All minutes approved as corrected. SE reminded the group of the importance of starting on time, and a brief discussion of changing the meeting time ensued, with a general consensus that the current hour is probably most acceptable; RL noted that she will generally be late in arriving. SE reminded members to keep next year's preservation awards in mind. A brief discussion of possible candidates ensued. GS suggested photographing potential nominees; RK volunteered to do this. SE read the draft of a letter to the City Property Committee stating that she and TM would not be returning, as requested, to discuss grants for Memorial Hall, since they believe the building will no longer be eligible for such funds in the wake of the window replacement. Discussion of the language of the letter ensued; SE offered to revise it, PW to consult. As an extension of this discussion the Commission considered ways of reaching out to city officials in the hope of being seen as ally rather than an adversary. SE noted that Penny Kim had suggested revising the language of the Commission's charge to make it more integral to the planning process; it was agreed that this should be pursued. RL will contact Brett Jacobus as part of our outreach effort. The Commission will invite Councilor Goggins to a future meeting. C J The next meeting of the Commission will be Monday, August 5 at 4:15 in Memorial Hall. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Wright � �l i CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 l NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission DATE: Monday, August 5, TIME: 4:15 p.m. PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall +---------------- - - - - -- + 1996 ;If you will be unable ; to attend, please call. ; ;Sally Evans (584 - 0769) -; ;Or leave a message with; ;the Council on Aging ; -F------------------------i- AGENDA 1. Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Reminder to limit 9 of speakers to one at a time! 3. Announcements. Hand out material (if any) 4. Approval of minutes of previous meeting. 5. List, below, any "last minute" agenda items. 6. Downtown Local Historic District - Give testimony before City Council. (SW) - NHC and City Council - DHG letters 7. Miss Flo 's Diner ?(Tom Alexander, guest) ( &SE) 8- I -91 Calvin Coolidge signs (letters received) 9- Hampshire County & Future of Courthouse (letter received) 10. Status of: Plaques (TM, LB, GC) Calvin Theater. Memorial Hall (TM & SE -- Letter & visit) NHC charter/charge- New early nominations for 1997 Awards. 12. ? Change day and /or time of NHC meetings ? 13. Delegation of'members` responsibilities and pairing of NHC members with other. City boards and onto mailing lists of other boards- 14_ Possible future projects for NHC'- Comments from two previous chairs, etc- IS- Today's additional. items- -- 1C. Next meeting Pate and time I MINUTES OF THE NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION August 5, 1996 Present: Evans, Metcalfe, Snook, Kunath, Well Absent: Leuenberger (excused), Wright, Bloomberg, Freundlich, Marquis, Cadette The meeting was called to order by Evans at 4:22 p.m. She reminded us to speak one at a time to facilitate interpretation for Kunath. Announcements - 1. Fort Hill Pre - School, Lyman Road has corresponed with MHC re renovations. 2. Oliver Freundlich resigned from the Northampton Historical Commission because he is moving from the city. We will miss him. 3. Ruth Leuenberger will meet with Brett Jacobus Aug. 20, 1996. 4. A letter to Mayor Ford from Chronos, a Historical Video Survey Service, in Amherst was forwarded to us. Metcalfe moved, Snook seconded, Commission approved the minutes of the last meeting. Downtown Local Historical District Evans reported that the City Council will not vote on this ordinance before September. The Gazette feels it has given equal and fair coverage to all sides of the issue, but would be willing to print letters of 300 words or less. A discussion of political lobbying strategies ensued. It was agreed to send a letter to City Councilor Judith Fine. Metcalfe will call Councilor Quinn and Evans will call Councilor Harrington to determine their objections. Well will speak to Fine. Anyone with ideas for the letter to Fine should give them to Evans within 7 days. Miss Flo's Diner Evans will call Wright to get staus report on diner's nomination to the National Historic Register. Evans had done some searching at the Registry of Deeds. Kunath had picture of diner from 1966 to add to the application. Calvin Coolidge Signs on Route 91 Christopher Lyon, Bradford Street, wrote to Rep. Nagle about geting signs on I -91 to direct people to the city as "Calvin Coolidge's Home." Nagle referred request to Mayor Ford with r, note that Mass Highway Dept. should be contacted. NHC was generally supportive of the idea, but Evans will check with Planning Department to find out what regulations and requirements the Mass Highway Dept might have. Evans read letter of Mayor Ford to Rep. Nagle re: status of courthouse with possible demise of county government. Evans will thank Ford. Plaques Metcalfe will meet with Cadette about technical problems. Calvin Theater Small discussion of John Morrison's report. Will monitor for a while since owner, Mr. Goldstein, has paid his back taxes. Memorial Hall Metcalfe and Evans are writing a letter to the City Property Committee. Wright will edit when done. Original plans for building are at the Forbes Library and have been recently photographed. NHC Charter - tabled 1997 Awards Evans got a call about 87 Vernon Street. Time and Date of Meetings Kunath will design a questionaire to determine best time and day. Evans will call members not here today. Liason with other city committees It was decided to get on the mailing lists of other city committees which might discuss similar topics. Evans will try to get the Conservation Committee minutes to Snook and Zoning Board of Appeals to Well. Further discussion will wait to next meeting. NEXT MEETING: September 9, 4:15 p.m. Council on Aging (Regular date is Labor Day) i NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 1 Official Meeting Notice CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Northampton Historical Commission Architect, 1849 DATE: Monday, September 9, 1996 :.If you will be unable ; TIME: 4:15 p.m. ;to attend, please call ; PLACE: Council. on Aging, ;Sally Evans (584 - 0769).; Memorial Hall :Or leave a message with; ;the Council on Aging ; +------------------------r AGENDA 1. Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Reminder to limit # of speakers to one at a time'_ 3. Announcements. Hand out material. (if any) 4. Approval of minutes of previous meeting. 5. List, below, any "last minute" agenda items. �J 6. Downtown Local Historic District - Give testimony before City Council. (SW) - NHC and three telephone calls (TM, SW, RM) - NHC and letter (SE & PW /LB) - DHG letters? 7. Miss Flo's Diner ?(Tom Alexander, guest) (PW & SE) 8, New /Old fire station - Letter to TM from architects. 9. Status of: Plaques (TM, LB, GC) Calvin Coolidge signs Calvin Theater_ Memorial Hall Letter & visit (TM & SE) NHC charter /charge. New early nominations for 1997 Awards. Chronos letter - What dial we decide? 144 South Street 10. Change day and/or time of NHC meetings ? (IRK) 11_ Delegation of Finish pairing of NHC met €fibers with othe € City board;. 12_ Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from two previous chairs c =tc. 1.3. l oday' s additional items: 16. Next meeting: Date and time = Minutes Northampton Historical Commission September 9, 1996 Sally Evans called the meeting to order at 4:20 p.m. 1. Present: S. Evans, T. Metcalfe, R. Marquis, S. Well, L. Bloomberg, G. Snook, R. Lueunberger, R. Kunath. Absent: P. Wright (excused), G. Cadette. 2. S. Evans reminded everyone to speak one at a time to facilitate interpretation for R. Kunath. 3. Announcements: S. Evans and T. Metcalfe met with Mayor Ford last Tuesday. Mayor Ford spoke of the Historical Commission responsibilities. S. Evans and T. Metcalfe brought up the proposed draft of Article 20 of the Northampton City Code. Mayor Ford thought it made sense except the list of Historic Buildings. There was discussion on relationships with other city groups, committees, etc. The NHC should begin having "liaisons" with the other groups. R. Luenberger met with Brett Jacobus about Memorial Hall. They will meet on a monthly basis. B. Jacobus is interested in possible grant money in the future for Memorial Hall. NHC will write a letter to the Mass. Historical Commission about how to apply for historical grant money and carbon copy to B. Jacobus. S. Evans thanked R. Leuenberger for meeting with B. Jacobus. 4. Indicate excused absences for L. Bloomberg and O. Freundlich on the August 5, 1996, NHC meeting. Minutes of the August 5, 1996, NHC meeting were approved with the above addition. � I i 5. (No additional items) 6. The Downtown Local Historic District is back in Ordinance Committee. T. Metcalfe contacted City Councilor G. Quinn. Councilor Quinn indicted that there is a new questionnaire to property owners to get process moving again. S. Well contacted City Councilor Fine. Councilor Fine thought that the drafted ordinance was poorly drafted and constrained building owners. S. Evans reported that she sent out a letter to Councilor Fine on the Downtown Local Historic District. R. Marquis contacted City Councilor Harrington. Councilor Harrington said that he was philosophically against local historic districts, however, the Downtown Northampton Historic District is better than some. Councilor Harrington indicated that he hesitated to vote for it because it restricted individuals, increased cost to construction, and made repairs much higher. S. Evans will call City Councilor M. Bardsley to find out the status of the historic district 1 and what the Chamber of Commerce group is doing. T. Metcalfe said he would write a memorandum on ordinance describing the success of the Elm Street Historical District, the construction cost with historic district is not necessarily more expensive, and does not have to add more time. S. Evans said she would find out the number of downtown historic districts and if any have been rescinded. 7. S. Evans said she would try to have guests from Miss Flo's Diner at the next NHC meeting. R. Kunath volunteered to find out if the Northampton Historic Society has anything on Miss Flo's Diner. 8. S. Evans read a letter from an architect on the fire station. She informed everyone that the bell from the old fire station will be moved to the new fire station. T. Metcalfe will respond to the letter. 9. Plaques will be covered next meeting. Will vote in October on deadline. Our job is done on the Calvin Theater. Pertaining to preservation awards, R. Kunath asked if Smith College should receive an overall award or individual award on a case by case basis. People indicated a preference to continue individual awards. 10. Next meeting date /time: first Monday in the month at 5:30 - 7:30. Next meeting on J October 7th at 5:30. Minutes taken by R. Marquis � �l NG, THAMPTON HISTOk. 'AL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Official. Meeting Notice William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 Northampton Historical. Commission DATE: Monday, October 7, 1996 ,If you will be unable ; TIME: 5:30 p.m. ..;to attend, please call ; PLACE: Council on Aging, :Sally Evans (584 -0769) -; - Memorial Hall ;Or leave a message with; the Council on Acing; ; AGENDA 1.- Desigpation of secretary & Notice of excused absences. 2. Announcements. Hand out ruateri.al (if any) 3. Approval of minutes of previous meeting. sf.. List, below, any "last minute" agenda items. 5. Brief reports from our Liaisons. 6. Downtown Local Historic District. 7. Miss Flo 's Diner ?(Tom Alexander, guest) (PW & SE) 8. Plaques!'. 9. Status of: Calvin Coolidge signs Calvin Theater. Memorial hall Letters (SE) NBC charter /charge. New early nominations for 1.997 Awards - Visits from other City officials New /Old fire Stations H.C.Court house - Reply 0. Possible future projects for N11C - Comments from two previous chairs, etc. 11- Today's additional items: 12. Next meeting: Date and time = w Minutes of the Northampton Historical Commission -� - October 7, 1996 ._ Present: Evans, Snook, Well, Bloomberg, Kunath, Lueunberger Absent: Wright (excused), Marquis (excused), Cadette, Metcalfe. The meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m. by Evans. Announcements: 1. Ashfield Historic Commission meeting will be held October 26th from 9 a.m. to noon. Sally Evans will be attending, others are invited to join her. 2. Massachusetts Historic Commission meeting will be held November 2nd, topic "Preservation by Design". Sally Evans will be attending, others are invited to join her. 3. Letter to downtown Historic District Study Committee sent. Minutes from September meeting will be reviewed at next meeting with October minutes. G Agenda: Brief reports from our Liaisons Evans attended Planning Board meeting and City Council meeting. Evans will check with Wayne Feiden about how Northampton Historic Commission can best follow what's happening with school buildings. Evans reported that the mayor has not yet gotten back to her re: Capital Improvement Appointment Committee. Louise Bloomberg attended Northampton Arts Council meeting. She reported that the design for the Kiosk has been chosen. The kiosk will be located between the Fleet Bank and the Old Edwards Church on Main Street. The kiosk will present a calender of events and display a map. Evans reported on Elm St. Historic District meeting - Topic Smith College wants to renovate a building that falls within the historic district. Downtown Historic District Meeting Evans reported that the Chamber of Commerce proposals were reviewed as was the letter from the Historical Commission. Metcalfe and Evans discussed points from our letter. The Downtown Study Committee and Chamber voiced some concerns about the addition of rear building development as part of current debate. Awnings were discussed and opinion was that the sign ordinance committee might best address this concern. In the discussion of ramps it was noted that - these should be subject to review. Concern was also noted re: reflected glass. Their next meeting will be on 10/21/96 and they will review changes to the plan and move to adopt change by vote. The Historical Commission also discussed sending the first part of our letter to the Downtown Historic District, to the City Council. This was voted and agreed upon. Miss Flo's Diner Evans reported: Tricia Wright has not yet reached Tom Alexander. She will continue to try and reach him to place him on our next agenda. Rodney Kenneth reported that he has made an appointment with Kerri Buckley to look into Miss Flo's Diner files. Plaques Evans reported - Gary Cadette is looking into what type of paper to use as well as what type of covering. Memorial Hall Letters Evans re- opened discussion of writing letter of inquiry to National Trust and National Historical Commission. Evans had discussed this idea with Bonnie Parsons and some questions from their discussion were brought to the meeting. Commission decided after reviewing Grant forms that a collaborative effort with Brett Jacobus would be the best approach. Reuthe Leuenberger will J contact Brett Jacobus to discuss Brett applying for grant with assistance from the Commission. New early nominations for 1997 awards - a State Street and Bridge Street home were discussed. Visits from other city officials. The Mayor and City Council President Pat Goggins will be invited to meetings in the near future. New /Old Fire Station - S. Wells reported that building is located in National Register of Historic Buildings. Commission discussed possibility of filing a form B with the Historic Commission. H.C. Court House - reply - Sally Evans had written to Bill Nagle and Stan Rosenberg about H.C. Court House. Stan Rosenberg replied stating his interest in Court House and suggested Commission stay in touch with Penny Geiss. Additional item - Letter from Ruth Wilbur S. Evans read a letter written by Ruth Wilbur, Director of Historical Society. The letter addressed concerns about the preservation of historical city records and objects. S. Well suggested the Historical Commission invite Christine Skorupski, City Clerk to our next meeting to see what type of guidelines exist currently. S. Evans will call Ruth Wilbur to report on our discussion of her letter. Next meeting November 4th at 5:30, Memorial Hall. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission DATE: Monday, November 4, 1996 TIME: 5:30 p -m- PLACE: Council on Aging, Memorial Hall ;If you will be unable ;to attend, please call ; ,Sally Evans (584 - 0769).; ;Or leave a message with; ;the Council b.A�ging ; -------------=------ - - - - -+ AGENDA 1. Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences_ 2. 5:30 - Mayor Ford. 3- Announcements. Hand out material (if any) 4. Approval of minutes of two previous meetings. 5- List, below, any "last minute" agenda items- 6- b rief reports from our Liaisons. 7- Downtown Local Historic District. 8. Miss Flo "s Diner ?(Tom Alexander, guest) (PW & SE) 9- Communication from Ruth Wilbur - Follow-up- 10- Plaques!! New Farm ? (SE & LB) 11- Status of: A) Calvin Theater_ fl) NHC charter/charge- C) - Ear ly nominations for 1997 Awards- D) New /Old lire Stations 3.2- Possible future projects for NHC - Comments from two previous chairs, etc- 13- Today's additional. items: 14 - Next meeting: Date and time - -1 I Northampton Historical Commission minutes; NOV. 4,1996, 5:30PM 7:30 @Council on Aging. Present: L. Bloomberg, S. Evans, R. Kunath, R. Luenen erger, T. Metcalfe, G. Snook, S. Well, P. Wright. Absent:R. Marquis, G. Cadette. 1. Minutes were corrected 10/7/96 (kiosk @ 1st Church not Edwards) 9/9/96 (46. Study not Ordinance), as corrected minutes approved for both meetings. 2. Hand out; Grant funds with MHC @ Wisteriahurst Museum 4 -6PM 11/14/96 3. Guest reporter present is Gwen Roic from U.Mass. Daily Collegian. 4. Announcements; S.E. wider road was discussed for Ashfield's center Main St. @ the West Mass. Hist. Comm. Chairs meeting,,, Recognition of Women in Mass. history @ Lowel, Ma conference. 5. Mary Ford attending the 11/4/96 Commission meeting, highlights; *Thanks for the NHC Awards Ceremonies contribution to enlightening the public on the values of the built environment, *The Masonic fire house is a listed structure for review. *Noting the Effectiveness of Advocacy volunteers. *The NHC should be proactive on buildings issues, advise, aid grants. *Ask W.Fieden & J.Musante for advisory input to Capital Improvements Committee. *Identify buildings of concern on master list, send to the chairpersons applicable. *Ruth Wilbur letter on city artifacts protection; Retention schedules of items need to be made,,, long term storage a growing issue,,, people need coaching on saving old docs,,, ask other Municipalities how to care for,,, we need a proper inventory system,,. Smith school just did one,,. Dept.heads don't know who's in charge of their stuff„ current purchases are being inventoried automatically in computer systems hopefully,,, do things go to Forbes, Hist.Museum, Hist.Commission ?,,, its also a regional issue that involves County efforts,,, Hamp.Cty.Rcds.Commte. exists,,, Amherst College Bunker ?,,, Old buildings like Ct.House may be the place,,, State Hosp. is being promoted in RFP soon by state to developers, options to them may find space since 50% space to be non - profit,,, funds needed to run non- profit shelters such as in Bldg.'G',,, 6. Tom Alexander from'MissFlo' asked where do we go from here? R.K. showed evidence the diner was moved from 100 Main St across the Street to 99 Main in 1941. Tom will speak to Elise Bernier Feeley @ Forbes then to P.W. for the next step in its application. 7. Liaisons to other committees; SW. at ZBA thought some items may be an issue,,. R.L. worked with Brett Jacobus on a 1996 grant form for Memorial Hall, he will get back to us by 11/27/96 and we will send it on to Alison Lockwood for her contribution. 8. S.E. will try to attend the 11/14/96 grant workshop @ Wisteriahurst.,,, it appears that the Hist.Dist. vote will show 5 for, 3 against, with 1 abstension (another way to vote against the required 2/3 vote for). October is now Roosevelt History Month, and the D in FDR is the Delano family from Northampton, we have a year to develop a local recognition for 10/97. Minutes respectfully submitted by T.M. I I IJ.I �6LI CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 Official Meeting Notice Northampton Historical Commission r i i DATA: Monday, December 2, 1996 ;If you will be unable TIME: 5:30 p_m- ;to attend, please call - ; PLACE: Council. on Aging, ;Sally Evans (584-- 0769).; Memorial lull :Or leave a message with; ;the Council on Aging ; A 7ENDA 1. _ Designation of secretary & Notice of excused absences- 2- 5:30 - Councilor Patrick Go--ins- 3- Announcements- Hand out material (if apy) 4- Appr oval of minutes of two previous meetings 5_ List, below, any "last minute" agenda items_ 6- Brief reports from our Liaisons. 7_ Downtown Local Historic District. u_ Memorial ball. 9_ Retention schedules- 10- Plaques - New Form ? 11- Early nominations for 1997 Awards_ 1.2. Possible future. projects for N11C - Comments from two PrClvious chairs, etc- .1.3- Today's additional items: 1-4- Next meeting: Date acid time _ MINUTES NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Dec �4 1996 Present: S. Evans, G Snook, S. Well, R. Kunath, T. Metcalfe, P. Wright. Excused: R. Marquis, R. Lueunberger, L. Bloomberg Not Excused: G. Cadette Guest, Goggins; Chairman City Council Minutes of previous meeting: correction - Roosevelt Historical Month was not discussed. Minutes then approved. Art work was presented to the Commission from John Fellows of Manchester, CT. It consisted of several pen and work sketches and 2 were created in Williamsburg and these will be will be sent to the Williamburg section and the rest will be donated to Forbes Library. The artist was Grace Howe Sharpe, A resident around 1900. A proposal was discussed which would allow City Departments to contact the Historical Commission when considering actions on any elf the city's historic properties. Mr Goggins said that if we � contacted Joe Cook we could get a copy of the city's properties. �.J Considerable discussion was held concerning the Downtown Historic District including a presentation to the Ordinance Committee. Next meeting will be Jan 6, 1977. Respectfully submitted, George A..Snook M.D.