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1999 Historical Commission minutesNORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 Official Meeting Notice And Agenda Date: Monday, January 25, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes 7:05 pm Add "last minute" agenda items The Coolidge Bridge - Summary of Special Meeting with Hadley Commission Subsequent Negotiations Memorial Hall Main Street Historic District Study Commission Plan 1999 Preservation Awards Program - Preservation Week May, 9 -15, 1999 Received one public nomination so far Plaques/Markers Project Update Adjourn 9:00 pm Next meetings: Monday, February 22, 1999 July 26 March 29, 1999 August 30 April 26, 1999 Sept. 27 May 24, 1999 (May 31 is Memorial Day) October 25 June 28, 1999 November 29 December 27 We are meeting the last Monday of each month, except as noted. HAGAR, THE HORRIBLE N/E i1% TIT AW r6 = // T/•/ /5 /5 A 17E5/GNATEP NISTORIG To 77/RN o /5TR /GT ANV ANYoN� GAIJGfIT vEFAG /NG - uAcK! oR A`TErz /NG BXISTiNG ST,QUcTURE5 WILL Oro P�'oSEGUTEO, /•• m " -- -- " ®1997b nyF hirer nEkato: 4 1 1 j li I I � I � .Q, I ! roeoxPonro rdeened. - i -.- 2 is too expensive. Tris maintained that we need to be the consistent voice for insuring the architectural integrity of the bridge and that he would be willing to have the eagles wings clipped to accomplish that. Tris said he took pictures that he will develop. Norman said it is important to be in sync with the Hadley Commission in communicating to the State. Janie suggested writing a memo stating our ideal, but if that is impossible to accomplish, offer other suggestions. Ms. Well agreed to call Hadley to see what their current position is. She said it has been determined that the State will not pay to have the lights custom made locally. Evidently the Federal money won't allow a local crafts person to be involved. The light options were reviewed. To summarize, the position of the Commission was to have the pylons moved over intact, with supports underneath traveling; -down to the base; if solid walls are too expensive, propose supports with hollow walls. Ms. Well will communicate this stance. 4. Memorial Hall/ 5. Main Street Historic District/ The committee has not met in January, but will meet in February. The members are still processing the comments made at the public hearing. The Mass. Historic staff person who deals with local ordinances was out in December and will be making comments. 6. Preservation Week/ Awards Peg will order materials from the National Trust about events a locality can plan. for the week of May 5 -9 (National Preservation Week) . Members discussed nominations for the local awards, which will be made during this time. Valerie is making a list. The deadline for nominations should be the end of February. Tris and Peg agreed to work together on the nomination of the Calvin for a State award. 7. Adjourn/ The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m./ Submitted by Peg Keller Ms. Well reported that the Committee met in December. The January meeting was cancelled as they are waiting for Alison Lockwood to be able to attend. The roles of the various participants are being sorted out. The Consultant has made color selections which will be reviewed. 5. Main Street Historic District/ The committee has not met in January, but will meet in February. The members are still processing the comments made at the public hearing. The Mass. Historic staff person who deals with local ordinances was out in December and will be making comments. 6. Preservation Week/ Awards Peg will order materials from the National Trust about events a locality can plan. for the week of May 5 -9 (National Preservation Week) . Members discussed nominations for the local awards, which will be made during this time. Valerie is making a list. The deadline for nominations should be the end of February. Tris and Peg agreed to work together on the nomination of the Calvin for a State award. 7. Adjourn/ The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m./ Submitted by Peg Keller NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL, COMMISSION Minutes January 25, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Chair; Norman Winston, Valerie Lavender, Tris Metcalfe, Janie Van Pee. Also present, James Lowenthal, Rebecca Loveland, biking enthusiasts, Peg Keller, staff. AGENDA 1. Call to Order/ Approve Minutes Ms. Well called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. The minutes were approved from the November meeting with a motion from Ms. Lavender, seconded by Mr. Metcalfe. There was not a quorum for the December meeting, therefore no minutes were taken. 2. Announcements/ Ms. Well circulated the Gazette insert inviting participation in the City's Master Plan Visioning Process. The kick -off will occur February 6th, with follow -up workshops later. 3. Coolidge Bridge Update Ms. Well recapped recent events. Contacts have been made with the Cultural Resources Dept. at Mass. Highway, with Gary Hammer at the Mass. Historical Commission and a meeting was held with the Hadley Historical Commission. At the Hadley meeting, all agreed to send a letter to Mass. Highway expressing the same concerns. Ms. Well circulated a draft memo from Mass. Highway to Mass. Historic that she..had just received. Members discussed the memo. The current plan of sliding the pylons over slightly and cantilevering them over the side was discussed. The views from the river and the roadway were evaluated. Janie felt the pylons hanging over the edge makes the bridge feel precarious, off balance. Tris felt that the footings may be overloaded with the increased load, which may result in an unsafe situation. James Lowenthal, representing MassBike, discussed the need for accommodating bicycle usage in the redesign due to the fact that the rail trail is not plowed in the winter and is closed for night usage. James said that Mass. Highway actually has a Bicycle and Pedestrian Traffic Coordinator on staff, although he does not have much clout. Tris requested that the Commission send a letter asking that the pylons be rebuilt intact on supports that allow for increasing the road width to accommodate bicycles. Susan responded that she thought that request had been made and the response was that it NORTH[AM]PTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Date: Monday, February 22, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes 7:05 pm Add "last minute" agenda items The Coolidge Bridge- Discuss written proposal from Mass Highway, if received Plan 1999 Preservation Awards Program - Preservation Week May, 9 -15, 1999 1999 MHC Preservation Awards Application Main Street Historic District Study Commission Plaques/Markers Project Update Memorial Hall Adjourn 9:00 pm July 26 Next Meetings: March 29, 1999 August 30 April 26, 1999 Sept. 27 May 24, 1999 (May 31 is Memorial Day) October 25 June 28, 1999 November 29 December 27 We are meeting the last Monday of each month, except as noted. i NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION i Minutes February 22, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Norman Winston, Valerie Lavender, Associate Janie Van Pee. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. AGENDA 1. Call to Order Ms. Well called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. State Preservation Nomination The first order of business was a vote on nominating the Calvin Theatre and Performing Arts Center for a state wide preservation award from the Massachusetts Historical Commission. All present voted in favor of the sub - committee (Ms. Well, Ms. Bloomberg,, Mr. Metcalfe, Peg Keller) moving this process forward. Memorial Bridge Members reviewed the communication from Mass. Highway. Ms. Bloomberg said she felt the Commission should concentrate on the pylons and the eagles. Discussion followed. With regard to lighting, the members felt it was acceptable to use the tear drop design similar to other 1930 era bridges in the state. With regard to the railing, members agreed with Mass. Highway's proposal as long as the view of the river is maintained: Regarding the pylons, members expressed sadness that the monumental nature of the pylons will be compromised. They said they would like to see the drawings of the 18" extension on the river side. Members concluded by saying a letter should be written, expressing appreciation that some of their concerns were addressed but that they regret how the process was handled , overall. All felt that the defacement could have been avoided if hearings beyond the 25% design phase would have been held. Ms. Bloomberg added that the letter should encourage Mass. Highway to prevent such disasters in the future by soliciting more public input into the process. Ms. Well then raised the issue of protocol within our own Commission. She said this process was made more difficult and time consuming by the fact that more than one Commission voice was being heard at the State level. She said that when communications were sent to State officials without her `� knowledge, it reflected poorly on the whole Commission. i NORTHAMPTON PTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CTfY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 (3 CITY HALL Thomas F. Broderick, P.E. Chief Engineer Massachusetts Highway Department Transportation Building 10 Park Plaza Boston, MA 02116 -3973 RE: Calvin Coolidge Bridge Northampton/ Hadley March 2, 1999 Dear Mr. Broderick: Thank you for your letter dated February 18, 1999. It provided us with a comprehensive summary of the activities that have been undertaken to date. On behalf of the Northampton Historical Commission, I am responding to that communication. Firstly, we wish to express our appreciation for your department's willingness to respond to our concerns. We are very cognizant of the fact that our feedback came late in the process and are grateful that you and your staff have included our comments in your deliberation of the bridge improvement design plan. More specifically, with regard to the lights, the Commission agreed at its meeting held last night, to support the selection of the tear drop design evident on other bridges of the -era. This would be the standard depicted in the plans dated 11/13/98. Although we are uncertain why GE was not contacted to see if •• other options could be created to better reflect the original design, we are willing to concede on this issue, in view of the fact that the post will be a part of the railing, as we suggested. Regarding the railing, the Commission supports the railing restoration plan as proposed in your 2/18/99 letter as long as the view to the river is maintained for vehicle motorists. We understand the need for a crash rail and appreciate your willingness to retain the existing railing as we suggested. Members of the Commission approve the plan for the pylons in concept, but wish to review actual drawings of the 18 inch projection before giving final approval. The drawings should give the view from the approaches and from the river so that we can see the affect of the stepping or corbelling. In conclusion, the members of the Northampton Historical Commission feel that had there been an opportunity for public comment at points beyond the 25% design phase, the amount of overall historic integrity retained could have been greater. The pylons, which are integral to the design and history of the structure, will be altered forever. The pylons were "monumental" in size because the bridge was dedicated to a "monumental" figure in the history of Massachusetts. We regret the timetable for our input into this process and hope that we all have learned lessons for the future. As citizens of this Commonwealth and appointed protectors of the, built environment that is our history, we would ask that you pledge to create a new process to integrate the needs of the future with the need to preserve what is best about the past. C� Thank you. Respectfully, Susan Well Chair cc/ Hadley Historic Commission Massachusetts Historic Commission i I I�� 2 The drawings should give the view from the approaches and from the river so that we can see the affect of the stepping or corbelling. In conclusion, the members of the Northampton Historical Commission feel that had there been an opportunity for public comment at points beyond the 25% design phase, the amount of overall historic integrity retained could have been greater. The pylons, which are integral to the design and history of the structure, will be altered forever. The pylons were "monumental" in size because the bridge was dedicated to a "monumental" figure in the history of Massachusetts. We regret the timetable for our input into this process and hope that we all have learned lessons for the future. As citizens of this Commonwealth and appointed protectors of the, built environment that is our history, we would ask that you pledge to create a new process to integrate the needs of the future with the need to preserve what is best about the past. C� Thank you. Respectfully, Susan Well Chair cc/ Hadley Historic Commission Massachusetts Historic Commission i I I�� NORTHAMPTON ]HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 C� CITY HALL Date: Monday March 29, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes 7 :05 pm Add "last minute" agenda items 7:10 -7:30 pm Main Street Historic District Study Commission - Wayne Feiden leads discussion of Design Guidelines Manual; reports findings of mapping and scanning Survey The Coolidge Bridge - Update 1999 MHC Preservation Awards Application- Update Plan 1999 Preservation Awards Program - Preservation Week May, 9 -15, 1999 Plaques/Markers Project - discuss draft letter to building owners Memorial Hall - time line for project New Members Adjourn 9:00 pm July 26 Next Meetings: August 30 April 26, 1999 Sept. 27 May 24, 1999 (May 31 is Memorial Day) October 25 June 28, 1999 November 29 December 27 We are meeting the last Monday of each month, except as noted. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes March 29, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Norman Winston, Metcalfe, Janie Van Pee. Also present, Peg Feiden, Planning Director. AGENDA/ 1. Call to Order Valerie Lavender, Tris Keller, staff, Wayne Chair Susan Well called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Mr. Winston made a motion to accept the minutes from the previous meeting, seconded by Ms. Lavender. Vote was unanimous. 2. Update on Mapping Project Mr. Feiden reported that progress was being made on the $5,000 grant received from Mass. Historic to create a manual of design j� guidelines for the downtown. Funds were also received from a State Municipal Incentive Grant for the printing of the design guideline manual that is being created with the MHC $. The local match provided by the Planning Department involved scanning all the Form B's into the computer. Dates were assigned based on what was known about the properties. 40 -500 of the City's housing stock is 50 years old and older. Dates have only been verified for 10% of the City's 10,000 buildings, therefore much work remains to be done. A second application was made recently to cover some of this work. It was not funded. However, with the help of interns, we have been able to accomplish the scanning of the Form B's which are now on . 4 CD Roms. The quality is not great, but at least an archive has been created, which can eventually be put on the Internet for searches. Copies are at the Forbes Library, City Hall, Mass. Historic, Historic Northampton, and Wayne's house. The Manual was presented in draft to Commission members for their review. Time was spent soliciting editorial and contextual comments, which Wayne took note of. Generally, members are pleased to have a tool for developers to use to create architecturally compatible/ historically accurate projects in the downtown. This will be made available even if no local historic district is formally created. Ms_.Van Pee noted that it was important to educate people early in the design process, long before they actually come in for a permit. She stressed the importance of having the information enter the public domain at the earliest possible phase, encouraging people to feel "inspired" rather than "regulated ". Members were generally very pleased about the Manual's content and that it will facilitate public dialogue about design issues and the built environment. Discussion followed about parking and how it relates to the usage of the upper floors of downtown buildings. Mr. Winston said the policy of being required to provide parking discourages upper floor usage. Mr. Metcalfe said that often rear facades function as front facades and should be addressed accordingly. A discussion of tax incentives followed. Mr. Feiden was thanked for his attendance and all agreed that extensive outreach regarding the existence of the manual needed to be carried out. He agreed to post it on the Web and send letters to major developers in the community. It should also be available at the Building Inspectors office. 2. Bridge Update Ms. Well reported that the Gazette has said the project has been delayed. Peg Keller wrote to Mass. Highway on behalf of the Commission after the last meeting. Ms. Well read a letter from the Connecticut Watershed Assoc. asking the State to organize local meetings to plan for the activity over the next year. Mr. Miner wanted to know if the Commission had any desire to be part of this local /regional working group. Ms. Lavender made a'motion to write a letter to the State Highway Dept. supporting the idea to have a working group and to ask what ability actually exists for design alterations. Mr. Metcalfe seconded the motion, vote was unanimous in favor. Peg will follow - up. 3. Statewide Preservation Award The application for the Calvin Theatre and Performing Arts Center to the Mass. Historical Commission for a statewide preservation award was submitted on time. The photos and slides were sent the following week, as they had not yet been assembled at the deadline. We anxiously await word on the results. 4. Local Preservation Awards The Calvin has agreed to host our local ceremony and provide refreshments. The event will be held May 10th at 4:00 p.m. The winners need to be notified by 4/26, so decisions need to be made by 4/22. The list of current nominations was reviewed and revised. It was agreed that the Commission would meet again 4/12 at 5:00 p.m. specifically for this purpose. 5. Memorial Hall Update The Study Committee expects the restoration to be done by 1/2000. Bids will go out in September. The project scope and estimates will be developed over the spring and summer. 6. Membership Two slots will be open on the Commission. Ms. Van Pee will be leaving in August for one year abroad. Sally Evans' term will expire in October. { i 7. Environmental Review Input Letters have been received from the City's Block Grant office in the Planning Department alerting members to local projects that require Mass. Historic sign -off prior to utilizing Federal Community Development Block Grant funds. Peg explained that a local sign -off is not required but Lorrie O'Brien, local Block Grant administrator, wants to include the local Commission in the information loop and welcomes any comments members may want to make about a project. 8. Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting concluded at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller i i � ID CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION - CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE AGENDA Date: Monday, April 12, 1999 Time: 5:00 p.m. PLACE: HEARING ROOM - 18 City Hall, Northampton, MA 5:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes 5:05 pm Add "last minute" agenda items 5:10 pm 1999 Preservation Awards - Monday, May 10, 4:00 pm The Calvin Theater Determine Award Winners After Pictures - display Certificates and Frames Notify Winners Press Release Proclamation by City Council Programs Adjourn NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes April 12, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Janie Vanpee, Tris Metcalfe, Valerie Lavender. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. AGENDA/ 1. Call to Order Chair Susan Well called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. This special meeting was called to address the local preservation awards and the upcoming ceremony. 2. Announcements Ms. Well notified members that a National Register nomination was moving ahead for Miss Flo's Diner. Work had been done with the owner several months ago. Additional discussion will occur next month. Mass. Highway has sent a letter in response to Tom Miner's letter regarding the formation of a local working group to address the Bridge issues. Mass. Highway indicated that they do not expect a year delay on the project and have no intention of supporting the creation of any new groups. They said that any interested parties could attend the meetings held regularly at the Pioneer Valley Regional Planning Commission. They expect work to begin in the fall. Peg received this letter before sending the one our Commission had requested be sent. Ms. Well spoke with Ann Booth who expects the new drawings showing the cantilevering soon. They will be forwarded to Mass. Historic. Ms. Well did not get the feeling that they were interested in reopening any discussion about design issues. We will await the plans. 3. Local Awards The nominations were reviewed. The list was finalized. Members selected the ones they would like to present. Ms. Bloomberg will arrange for the calligraphy and frame purchase. Peg will take care of the Mayoral Proclamation for National Preservation Week. Ms. Well will focus on media coverage. A letter will be sent notifying the property owners. 4. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 6:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller I i NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION - PRESERVATION AWARDS 1999 April 15, 1999 Address Owners Work Done Presenter First Churches Contact: Repointing Susan Well Rev. Peter Ives 11 Washington Avenue Ian Milsark Removed Shingles; Susan Well Jean Henneberry Painted exterior Cooley Dickinson Contact: Design of Tris Metcalfe Craig Melin Addition Honorable Mention Calvin Theatre Eric Suher Interior & Exterior Tris Metcalfe Renovation 219 Elm Street Kari and New Porch; Creation Valerie Lavender Karl Knapp of Garden 323 Bridge Street Nadine and Renovation and Janie Vanpee Kenneth Salem Addition Honorable Mention 1;-° Conz Street Gretna Green Conversion to Office Norman Winston / y\ Development Corporation Space 210 Elm Street Sally Addition in back Louise Bloomberg and Paul Evans 24 Harrison Avenue Donald Andrew Restored and Painted Valerie Lavender Sandra Woyner Exterior 26 Winthrop Street Anne Leone Re -sided Exterior; Janie Vanpee Hans Vaget Porch Addition Northampton Contact: Interior & Exterior Louise Bloomberg Community Music Bill Feinstein Renovation .mil CeN - rEle_ Northampton Mayor Ford Creatively built Norman Winston Fire Department Structure Headquarters d CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL . COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE Date: Monday, April 26, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall Attendance, Approval of Minutes Add "last minute" agenda items Plan 1999 Preservation Awards Program - Preservation Week May, 9 -15, 1999 Monday, May 10 - 4:00 pm Calvin Theatre Mezzanine Main Street Historic District Study Commission - Design Guidelines Manual; Update Plaques/Markers Project - discuss draft letter to building owners Updates -The Coolidge Bridge; Memorial Hall Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Historic Northampton and Coolidge Foundation New Members Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: May 24, 1999 (May 31 is Memorial Day), June 28, July 26, August 30, Sept. 27, October 25, November 29, December 27 We are meeting the last Monday of each month, except as noted. 1� NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes April 26, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Tris Metcalfe, Janie Vanpee, Valerie Lavender, Louise Bloomberg. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. 1. Call to Order Chair Susan Well called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Ms. Lavender made a motion to approve the minutes from the previous two meetings, Ms. Vanpee seconded the motion. The vote in favor was unanimous. 2. Announcements Ms. Well reported on an upcoming event with Sen. Rosenberg which will be attended by Chris Skelly of Mass. Historic. Mr. Skelly serves as the hasion to local historic commissions. She also announced that the Calvin has been selected to receive a Statewide Preservation Award. There were 55 nominations submitted, 15 chosen, 4 from Western Mass. (Lee, Amherst and Holyoke). The ceremony will be held in Boston on May 20 This is very exciting! 3. Local Awards Discussion followed regarding the local awards ceremony. 24 Harrison Ave. has withdrawn. The property owner does not feel the property is "finished" and would be happy to be renominated next year. The ceremony will be held May 10 at 4:00p.m. Pictures will be assembled ahead of time, name tags and markers should be available. The City Council will receive the Proclamation celebrating National Preservation Week the week of May 6 th and the Proclamation will list the local awards. Presenting assignments were made, brochure content reviewed. 4. Bridge Update Additional research yielded information about the original light fixtures. Evidently they were sodium lamps that cast monochromatic color and are no longer conducive to the current lighting type. Mass. Historic has thirty days to approve the new pylon drawings and they said they would consult the local commission. Members reviewed the new pylon drawings. l Members agreed that they preferred the sketch drawn up by Ms. Well, showing a gradual corbelling. Mr. Metcalfe agreed to write two paragraphs to describe the design and specs. �;. -2- This description will be included in a letter written by Ms. Well and sent to Mass. Highway for closure on the discussion. 5. Main Street Historic District Study Committee The Design Guideline Manuals were distributed. Discussion followed about the difference between a State designated local historic district and a locally designated one and the Council votes required for each. 6. Plaques Ms. Bloomberg read a letter she and Mr. Metcalfe drafted to be sent to the property owners due to receive plaques. This will be followed up on after the local awards ceremony. Smith will complete the rest of the plaques after graduation. 7. Adj ourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting concluded at 9:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller UMIY ;'..3� \IN -MN "El � uu.t wmnm m ^�r CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE Date: Monday, May 24, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall Attendance, Approval of Minutes Add "last minute" agenda items Memorial Hall - Presentation by Ford -Gillen Architects - Homeless Shelter/Elevator to use CBDG Funds Coolidge Bridge - Summary Evaluate 1999 Preservation Awards Program - Monday, May 10 - 4:00 pm Main Street Historic District Study Commission - Prepare testimony for hearing Wednesday, May 26' 7:00 p. m. Masonic Street Fire Station - Hearing June 7, 1999 - 7:00 p. m. Plaques/Markers Project Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Historic Northampton and Coolidge Foundation - Results of meeting with Betsy Friedberg, Mass Historical Commission State Hospital Hearings in mid -May New Members Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: June 28, July 26, August 30, Sept. 27, October 25, November 29, December 27 (possibly January 3 and January 31 instead) We are meeting the last Monday of each month, except as noted. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes May 24, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Tris Metcalfe, Louise Bloomberg, Norman Winston. Also present, Peg Keller, staff, Mary Kasper, Mayor's Office, Michael Bardsley, City Councilor, and Kathy Ford, Ford Gillen, Architects. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Well called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. Ms. Bloomberg made a motion to accept the minutes from the previous meeting, seconded by Mr. Winston, vote unanimous. 1. Coolidge Bridge Update Ms. Well recapped the discussions that had occurred recently regarding the choice of the light fixture for the bridge. She reported that Mass. Highway and Mass. Historic are ready to sign a Memorandum of Agreement. The State agencies are requesting that the local commissions also be signatories. She has contacted Janet Sheppard's office. Attny. Sheppard will review the document before the Historical Commission signs off on it. Ms. Well said that they have agreed to incorporate the Commission's design for cantilevering the pylons. 2. Memorial Hall Renovation Project Kathy Ford of Ford Gillen Architects was introduced. The firm has been selected to do the design work for the basement renovation for the Cot Program and the elevator installation. Ms. Ford presented drawings showing a dormer for the exhaust vent exiting on the roof for the elevator and for the rear entrance to the basement. Mary reported that Mass. Historic is waiting for information from the local commission on the exterior changes and from the ADA coordinator about the plans for handicapped accessibility. Ms. Ford described the particulars of the project. The two components were discussed. Mr. Metcalfe suggested that the same type of vent cap that already exists on the roof be repeated rather than creating an entire dormer. He also suggested that the rear entrance be centered in order to maintain symmetry on the back of the building and to avoid blocking the right window. Ms. Ford agreed to reconfigure the drawings and fax the sketch to Peg Keller. Ms. Well agreed to move ahead with sending a letter to Mass. Historic saying that the Commission is aware of the project and provided design input. -2- 3. Main Street Historic District Study Committee Ms. Well reported that a public hearing would be held May 26 at 7:00 p.m. Members can get a copy of the study committee's report ahead of time if they would like to testify at the hearing. 4. Fire Station Disposition A public hearing will be held June 7, 1999 to entertain ideas for reusing the old Fire Station building. The parameters of the RFP discuss the desire for historic preservation. Ms. Well will attend the hearing to insure that preservation goals are emphasized. 5. Historic Northampton The staff and board of Historic Northampton are moving ahead on National Register designation for their buildings. There is some discussion about including J the larger neighborhood. Ms. Well will contact some residents of the Pomeroy Terrace area to gauge sentiment about district designation. 6. Plaques Ms. Bloomberg distributed a copy of the letter to be sent to plaque recipients. She will give Peg a list of those who will be receiving the plaques. 7. Northampton State Hospital Project Ms. Well stated she has a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding between Mass. Historic and the Division of Asset Management. Public hearings are being held to finalize the Master Plan and a site plan exists as well as information on the buildings that are slated for demolition. Members queried about their role and it was suggested they request a tour of the property and an explanation of plans for the complex. 8. Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, City of Northampton, Massachusetts Central Services Memorial Hall, 240 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 587 -1238 Fax: (413) 587 -1303 Brett Jacobus, Director June 7, 1999 Lorne O'Brien, CDBG Grant Administrator Office of Planning & Development City of Northampton 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 Re: Memorial Hall Renovations - Clarifications Dear Ms. O'Brien: You have requested clarification of three issues for which the Massachusetts Historial Commission requests more information concerning the proposed renovation of Memorial Hall at 240 Main Street. The issues to be addressed are as follows: 1. Changes to the exterior of the building as it relates to the installation of a homeless shelter in the basement I have attached an "elevation" of the rear exterior of the building (attached hereto and marked "Exhibit A ") which will show the proposed changes including the installation of a vestibule and awning. These are the only exterior changes contemplated in connection with the shelter portion of the project. 2. Handicapped Accessibility Entrance Issues /Architectural Access Board Variance The handicapped accessible entrance to the building will not change in connection with the shelter project. It remains on the east side of the building. Because the elevator installation is considered as "Phase 2" of the project and the shelter will become operational prior to it's completion, a variance has been requested from the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board allowing use of the shelter until it's completion. Lorrie O'Brien Page 2 i June 7, 1999 3. Changes to the exterior of the building as it relates to the installation of an elevator. A ventilation cap will be installed at the top of the building to accommodate elevator shaft ventilation. Please see the elevation (attached hereto and marked "Exhibit B ") for a more particular description. No other exterior changes will be made. I hope the above answers and the attached plans will satisfactorily answer the questions of the Massachusetts Historical Commission. If you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Respectfully yours, Brett Jacobus 4 Director of Central Services /City Property BJ /ss Att: Exhibit A - North side (rear) elevation plan Exhibit B - South side (front) elevation plan cc: Irene Lamson, ADA Coordinator Mary Kasper, Mayor's Executive Assistant 1 d 8 q �cl ,s r ;> Sri',•'? " ti -- - � �� 5 > �ui:G6 ? fit L6 !.Z �aW nuj 6Mp 1'£V 0166 00 \S000 NOIIJnHISN0O \H3113HS 1�VH IVIUOW3W 0666 \098VHS\ :g I I r r I I _ �� �� • 1 � �� 6 p A A A A pe { i� r k { �f +dq .! � e � "• ; i rof a j � itti n Leh S 0 gg L!'� w Xff H & pq �� -:�� - :;;.rya • . 6661 Z£ :Z0 Z�' LO .unr uow BMp uot,jenaj:a Ev N66 03\ • \d31 13NS l�VH ldIdOW3W 06- 66 \03kf H5\ y A - 7M 77[k - ),4 KM11TC1 n)4n-i K'CCTQC7C'Tfi nn'TT CCCTY;n1On REQUEST FOR LONG TERM USE OF PUBLIC SPACE Request is for land under the care of: file request with: ❑ Board of Public Works (streets & sidewalks) --------------------------- Dept. of Public Works ❑ Parking Commission (city -owned parking lots & associated land) -- Parking Manager ■ City Council Property Committee (city buildings & surplus land) - -- Central Services This form does not apply to requests for temporary use permits, street discontinuances, use of school or Smith Vocational - Agricultural School land, nor use of conservation, recreation or park land. ❑ Fee enclosed ($110). Fee covers processing this application. - It does not cover any consideration required for the actual use ofpublic space. —Fee waived— municipal applicant Use additional sheets and plans as necessary to answer each question complete - - Person requesting use: City Council Property Committee Date. 4/29/99 Address: c/o Central Services, 240 Main Street, Northampton, MA 01060 Describe the property you are requesting: Old Masonic Street Northampton Fire Station and entire parcel on which it sits Describe your request in detail: Sell parcel to the highest bidder under the following terms: I. City to retain a permanent Historic Preservation Restriction to ensure that the exterior facade of the old fire station will be preserved and maintained (with no restrictions on internal changes). 2. Purchaser is restricted to using the first floor for commercial development (office, retail, 1 service, restaurant) to generate commercial activity and taxes (with no restrictions on the CJ use of the second floor) 3. Purchaser must invest in facade restoration within one year of purchase to restore facade. 4. Cit will perform Phase I site assessment, Phase II if necessary, and then sell site as is, with purchaser responsible for any cleanup (assuming site assessment does not show a liability which exceeds the value of the property. Describe how you will maintain the property and prevent city liability: Purchaser will own the property in fee and invest in the exterior facade to restore building_ Describe the positive and negative impacts of your request on the following: 1. Public use of the property, including A. Vehicle and pedestrian circulation: Downtown redevelopment will aid pedestri an scale movement. Less traffic then generated by Fire Station B. Parking: Existing_ parking will be retained, no new parking required by zoning Project does prevent tearing down building for a new parking lot, which would not be in the best interest of the city C. Passive recreation and enjoyment: No change or effect D. Other public uses: Commercial activity will create draw to area E. Possible future public uses: This project will prevent other public uses -) 2. Accessibility for people with disabilities: AAB requires that first floor be developed to be accessible for people with disabilities 3. Egress and safety issues: Building has multiple entrances and exits and redevelopment will meet all fire and building omes 4. Plans of the land managing agency: Fire Department has no use for property once they rp 5 .5. an w� no- mumcipa purpose an o county L 11. City costs and revenues A. Potential city liability: Re moves city liability for maintenance of city B. Property tax revenue: Gets property back onto the tax roles C. Sale or rent of public land: Allows surplus property to be sold D. City maintenance responsibilities: Ends city maintenance responsibility 12. Other public benefit: Ensures permanent protection of historic building move Central Services would like to surplus property Police Department tower is being provided for by five -year lease. 5. City comprehensive and strategic plans: Downtown Plan, an element of the City's comprehensive plan, specifically calls for site to be redeveloped for commercial development with the historic building being_ preserved 6. Streetscape Aesthetics: Project will preserve on of the most attractive buildings in the city 7. Abutters: Project will preserve historic building and add commercial value to the area 8. Community economic vitality: Project will add economic and pedestrian scale vitality 9. Character of the surrounding area and the impacts on that area: Project is consistent with surrounding area and will reduce current traffic and add to the commercial nature of area. 10. Equity vis -a -vis other properties in similar circumstances: Project is consistent with C111 lusin of old schools (e DA Su11w a t 1 d ld G ?M Y Signed by person making request Brett Jacobus and Wavne Feiden �.J April 30, 1999 Date Page 2. of 9 CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE �� J l Date: Monday, June 28, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall Attendance, Approval of Minutes Add "last minute" agenda items Memorial Hall- Review Latest Exterior Elevations Coolidge Bridge - Approve Memorandum of Agreement Evaluate 1999 Preservation Awards Program Main Street Historic District Study Commission - Status Report Masonic Street Fire Station - Report of hearing June 7, 1999 Plaques/Markers Project Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Historic Northampton and Coolidge Foundation - Results of meeting with Betsy Friedberg, Mass Historical Commission Plaques for Coolidge Properties State Hospital - Master plan delayed until August 7 New Members Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: July 26, August 30, Sept. 27, October 25, November 29, December 27 (possibly January 3 and January 31 instead) Dates to Remember: Friday, Sept. 24, 1999 MA Statewide Preservation Conference- Worcester NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION s Minutes June 28, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Tris Metcalfe, Valerie Lavender, Louise Bloomberg. Also present, Peg Keller. AGENDA 1. Call to Order Chair Susan Well, called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. She circulated an announcement regarding the celebration of Coolidge Days in Northampton and Vermont. The, local event is July 30 and will focus on Grace Coolidge. 2. Memorial Hall Members reviewed the drawings of exterior changes proposed to accommodate the installation of a winter shelter in the basement of Memorial Hall. The full set of plans were reviewed and version B preferred. Peg will forward comments to the architect. 3 Coolidge Bridge/ Memorandum of Aareement Members discussed the contents of the MOA. It was suggested that the document should be signed but a letter attached expressing the Commission's overall dissatisfaction with the process and results. Hadley is not going to sign until they see drawings of the crash railings. Mass. Highway needs a sign -off from Mass. Historic and Mass. Historic will not sign until the local commissions have signed off. 4. Bronze Sian The organization responsible for overseeing the two Coolidge homes locally, the Beeches and Massasoit and the one in Vermont have asked for donations to cover the costs of creating bronze plaques to identify the properties. Ms. Well said she responded that we have no budget for such expenditures, but the members approved the design. 5 Evaluation of Local Awards Process and Ceremony Members made comments about how the event should be carried out in the future. Tasks should be divided and assigned earlier in the year, search should 0 2 be undertaken earlier and more thoroughly and the public should be alerted earlier. An awards notice flier should be created and distributed from the Building Inspector's office. Other events could be held to solicit nominees; i.e. a tea at an historic home, a tour, an instructional session at the Forbes Library regarding how to research an historic home, speakers at interesting locations, etc. Also the nominees should be notified earlier. Members need to get more information from them, such as, are they finished, what did they do and when did they do it, are they willing to participate, etc. Potential nominees will be told that it is an honor to be nominated, they will be notified later if they are . selected. This will give members more time and information to make the appropriate choices. Ms. Lavender and Ms. Well will begin work on the flier for the Building Inspector and include a handout on historic paint colors and the perils of vinyl siding. The award winners in this year's program could be written up on a single sheet and the sheet placed at various locations to stimulate interest. In summary, the ceremony needs to be held in a handicapped accessible space, the list should be developed earlier, the winners should be contacted earlier and there should be ongoing publicity throughout the year. 6. Historic Northampton The National Register nomination for the property has been supported by Mass. Historic. The State agency has also offered to assemble the nomination using a consultant they pay for. This will also involve application to the Mass. Preservation Projects Fund for rehab dollars. Mass. Historic is unable to find documentation describing reason for denial of the application of the larger Pomeroy Terrace district from 1979. The existing research needs to be expanded, Ms. Well asked Wayne Feiden about staff support. Councilor Tymoczko is supportive. 7. Plaques The quality of the plaques is problematic, as the letters are peeling off. The letter is on hold until the product is improved. Ms. Well will follow up with Smith College about the production process. 3 8. Northampton State Hospital U The Community Builders will be presenting to Mass. Historic on July 1S Mass. Historic will suggest they present to the local commission. The role of the local Commission will be clarified, then a presentation scheduled, and possibly a tour. 9. Memorial Hall Lobby Peg mentioned that the fundraising was beginning soon to undertake the refurbishing of the lobby. Members expressed the desire to understand what the project entailed prior to suggesting names of potential donors. Peg will work on finding the appropriate person to come to the next meeting to give a presentation. 10. State Preservation Conference Ms. Well circulated material about a statewide conference. She may be attending. 11. Downtown Architectural District The ordinance is currently in Ordinance Committee for review prior to Council vote. Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller \ 1 CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE F) U Date: Monday, July 26, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes, Announcements, Dec /Jan Meeting dates 7:10 pm Memorial Hall - Latest plans for Cot Shelter Rear Entrance 7:30 pm The State Hospital - Gerry Joseph, Community Builders 8:00 pm 2000 Preservation Awards Program- Review draft of flyer for Building inspectors Office Millennium Awards - Best of the Best Main Street Historic District Study Commission- Status Report Jonathan Edwards Memorial at Bridge Street Cemetery Masonic Street Fire Station Plaques/M[arkers Project Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Historic Northampton and Coolidge Foundation - Results of meeting with Betsy Friedberg, Mass Historical Commission New Members Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: August 30, Sept. 27, October 25, November 29, December 27 (possibly January 3 and January 31 instead) Dates to Remember: Friday, Sept. 24, 1999 MA Statewide Preservation Conference- Worcester NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes July 26, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Valerie Lavender, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston. Also present, Mary Kasper, Mayor's Office, Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order Chairperson Well called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. Ms. Lavender made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, seconded by Mr. Metcalfe, vote was unanimous. 1 National Register Nomination for Miss Flo's Diner Ms. Well read a letter from Mass. Historic regarding the application for National Register nomination for the Diner. Miss Flo's is part of a package of diners nominated across the State. Members expressed their pleasure that this has been accomplished. 2. Meeting Dates Ms. Well proposed that the meeting scheduled for December be cancelled and two meetings be held in January. Members agreed. Peg will schedule with Central Services for meetings to be held January 3 rd and the 31 St . 3. Memorial Hall Update Bids for the Cot Program came in much higher than budgeted. Ms. Kasper reviewed the changes that are being considered in order to rebid the project and lower the cost. She read a letter from architect Kathy Ford which described the revisions as she did not yet have updated drawings. The proposed glass enclosure around stair #2 will be eliminated and replaced by a painted open wood framed structure with a roof covering of asphalt shingles. The location and massing of the proposed structure will be the same as the one initially proposed. It is felt that the new plan will have to go back to Mass. Historic for approval. Members discussed the roofing material. Ms. Well questioned asphalt attached to a building with a slate roof. Mr. Metcalfe suggested a metal roof. Members reiterated that if the structure does not block an existing window and is still centered on the back, they are less concerned about the materials and whether or not it is enclosed. Members offered to come together mid - August to review the drawings (prior to the next meeting 8/30) if that would be helpful to the process. Ms. Kasper said she would let them know. Regarding the lobby project, Ms. Kasper circulated the fundraising brochure and suggested either Brett Jacobus or another committee member be invited to the next meeting to discuss the actual project parameters. Ms. Kasper closed by saying that she was trying to implement the policy that staff involved in building projects come to the Historic Commission sooner rather than later. Members expressed their appreciation of her efforts. 4. State Hospital Presentation Members welcomed Gerry Joseph of the Community Builders, the firm selected to develop the State hospital property. Ms. Well reviewed the Memorandum of Agreement between the State, City and Mass. Historic in order to set parameters for the discussion. All have questions about the role of the local commission and Mr. Joseph stated that he is willing to have them be part of the discussion regardless of formal standing ( or lack thereof). He reported the following: - firm is just finishing up the final master plan for submission to the State this week/ he agreed that the MOA is difficult to decipher/ DCAM (Division of Capital Asset Management) has responsibility to market the property in certain ways /no one came forward with a total thrust for historic preservation/ they came forward proposing the retention of certain elements/ there was never an expectation to preserve most of the buildings, for a number of reasons/ buildings have been exposed to the weather, floors have collapsed Pictures were circulated of the primary structures. Mr. Joseph continued by saying that the structures were built for certain purposes, all 880,000 square feet and they are difficult to adapt for reuse. In preparing the plan, it became challenging to try to balance the need for housing and jobs with economic viability of the project. He then reviewed the chart that depicted 15 buildings slated for preservation and gave a general overview of the master plan. The basic tenets are to create 750 jobs, 200 units of mixed income housing, preserve open space and address the needs of some of the clients of the Department of Mental Health. In assessing individual buildings, cost scenarios were developed comparing rehab vs. demolition. If more money can be saved by performing rehab as opposed to demolition, then the State will be supportive. He said that the buildings slated for renovation have open space and greater reuse flexibility. Some of the buildings contain space that is extremely difficult to reuse, such as the main complex with its 18" load bearing walls. The current plan for the main complex is removal. He said they will continue to look for reuse ideas and will consider giving or selling it to anyone interested in reusing the space. He said that this part of the campus is the last to be done, allowing for some time to research possibilities. The desire of TCB is to save all or part of the main building, but with the economics being what they are, this option is not currently on the table. Mr. Joseph relayed Mass. Historic's comments which were dislike of the proposed new building at the campus entrance which changes the character of the site, and that if the main campus can't be saved, why bother doing anything. Regarding next steps, the master plan has been approved by the Citizen's Advisory Group, the State will develop the Land Disposition Agreement, then the Environmental permitting process will follow (MEPA). TCB has said they will go no further without site control. He said that historic preservation and traffic will . be the two biggest issues in the MEPA process. Members discussed general concerns about the site. A tour of the main building was scheduled for Aug. 5 at 3:30 p.m. Mr. Metcalfe said he had done residential layouts for the main structure years ago and found ways to adapt the floor plans. He said that the massing of the main structure, the plan to create the finest living environment to encourage mental health, the fireplaces, statues, artwork, all contribute to the significance of the site and need to be preserved. Mr. Joseph was thanked for his presentation and willingness to include the Commission in the deliberations. 5. Building Inspector's Office Flier/ Preservation Awards Members reviewed Ms. Lavender's draft for encouraging building permit applicants to perform award worthy renovation work. She also circulated the new nominee list for 2000. A "Best of the Best" for the last 100 years was also discussed as a possible event. This could include those honored in the past. 6. Historic District Study Committee Ms. Well reported that the group no longer meets but a meeting with DPW will be held on 8/11 to discuss how the ordinance may impact their work and an Ordinance Committee meeting will be held 8/17 to discuss the proposal further. �J 7. Bridge Street Cemetery Ms. Lavender and Ms. Well reported that the Jonathon Edwards Memorial does not have a Form B. An obelisk exists in Stockbridge and the Bridge St. cemetery contains a marker. Ms. Lavender expressed a desire to annotate the cemetery and will work with Kerry Buckley. 8. Misc. Updates - no news on the disposition of the old Fire Station - no action taken on the plaques - need new members, possibly Kimball Howes 9. Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller �J 0 I NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES, August 7,1995,4:15 PM Present: Allison Lockwood, Sally Evans, Tris Metcalfe, George Snook, Richard Marquis, Louise Bloomberg, Patricia Wright, Rodney Kunath Absent: Stan Elkins, Gary Cadette 1. Corrections to minutes of June 26: Pat Wright should be included as absent 2. Corrections to minutes of July 10: Since both Harold Fitzgerald and Jean Kiteley have officially resigned from the Commssion, their names should be deleted from the absent list. 3. Above minutes were approved after corrections 4. Allison read a letter wluch Rev. Gierka of the Florence Congregational Church received from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts concerning the protocol to follow for a building to be included on the National Register list of historic buildings. A statement in the letter indicated that it is important to have the support of the local Historical Commission to help expedite the process. A motion was made and passed which stated that the Northampton Historical Commussion supports the addition of the Florence Congregational Church to the National Registry list. 5. Allison represented the Northampton Historical Commission at a recent Downtown Residents Forum meeting. Her presence was greatly appreciated. Among other topics discussed, was the problem of dogs on Main Street. 6. Allison Lockwood and Richard Gravy Nvill attend the New England Regional Council of American Architects. Following a luncheon at the Hotel Northampton, Helen Searing, Snuth Colleges' architectural art historian, will deliver a talk on the architecture of the Pioneer Valley. Later, Richard Garvey will lead a walking tour of Northampton. 7. Wayne Feiden, Office of Planning and Development, presented the Commission with the latest draft of the "Downtown Northampton - Today, Tomorrow and the Future" booklet. He explained the process of compiling the material for the booklet and went over this final public draft of the work. 8. Discussion of the upcoming Dating Project, which the Historical Commission will help implement, followed. Wayne indicated that about 80, or one-half of the total buildings in downtown do not have any Form B information. Fifty years is now considered the criteria for calling a building "historic" The Planning Conunission will photograph all buildings using black and white film. On September 11 at 4 PM the Historical Commission will meet on the steps of City Hall to start a downtown walk accompanied by Wayne who will have the Inventory of Form B book with him for consultation purposes. Hopefully, we will be able to describe the style and other features of the buildings we view on our walk. Others including Helen Searing will be invited to join us and share their dating and other expertise with us. Rain dates are September 12 or 13 at 4PM. Wayne indicated that any information we can provide will be helpful. Louise Bloomberg Acting Secretary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE Date: Monday, August 30, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes, Announcements, prospective members 7:10 pm Memorial Hall - Allison Lockwood, Plans for Lobby Renovation 7:30 pm The State Hospital - Recap of site tour - Planning our response 8:00 pm 2000 Preservation Awards Program - Finish flyer for Building Inspectors Office -- Millennium Awards - Best of the Best Main Street Historic District Study Commission- Ordinance Committee passed - City Council Agenda Thursday, Sept 2 Jonathan Edwards Memorial at Bridge Street Cemetery Plaques/Markers Project Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Coolidge Foundation Pomeroy Terrace Adjourn 9 :00 pm Next Meetings: Sept. 27, October 25, November 29, January 3 and January 31 Dates to Remember: Friday, Sept. 24, 1999 MA Statewide Preservation Conference- Worcester i NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes August 30, 1999 Members Present: Chair Susan Well, Norman Winston and Valerie Lavender. Also present, Eglal Doss - Quinby, interested in membership, Alison Lockwood representing the Memorial Hall Lobby Committee and Peg Keller, OPD staff. AGENDA 1. Call to Order Chair Susan Well called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Ms. Lavender made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, seconded by Ms. Bloomberg. Vote was unanimous. Ms. Doss - Quinby was introduced. She is interested in becoming a member and will be appointed by the City Council in October. 2. Memorial Hall Update Members had reviewed the newlyl issued brochure that describes the fundraising effort for the lobby renovation project and were interested in learning more about the project. . Ms. Lockwood was invited to attend the meeting to give members an update. Highlights CJ of her comments are as follows: - she and Mr. Garvey are responsible for the creation of" Northampton Remembers the monument in front of Memorial Hall/ $55,000 in cash was raised for that project with a $55,000 in kind contribution - she explained that this committee is strictly advisory and named the members - the original front door will be replicated, the interior panels are white ash and black walnut, which will be stripped/ floor tiles will replaced, painting will be original color, a dark red/ - originally the building was a library, the COA conference room was a work room for the librarians, the outer area housed newspapers and periodicals, the upper levels housed the library itself the handicapped lift currently in place does not operate and access`to the 3 rd floor requires an elevator - this is the only public example of second Empire style, architect was McLoughlin - there was a sky light which cannot be recreated because the roof membrane can't be cut but a light will be installed that appears to emit natural light/ it is hoped the project will be completed by the end of the year Chair Well summarized by saying that the NHC is interested in the project and asked that Ms. Lockwood keep us up to date on its progress. She was thanked for coming. Peg will find out when the meetings are and notify Ms. Lavender. c- 3. State Hospital Update Chair Well reported that staff at the Mass. Historical Commission said that when they get the master plan referred to them for review, they would notify her. Members discussed their desire to save the Main Complex building. A vote was taken in support of notifying the Division of Capital Asset Management and MHC to express the Commissions desire to save the building and to ask for information on how to accomplish that. If the MHC has offered their own resources to work on the National Register Nomination for the Historic Northampton buildings, perhaps they can devote staff time to marketing the Main Campus Building specifically, to potential developers nationally. The letter should also note that State dollars should be used for preservation rather than for demolition if the costs are similar. Peg and Ms. Well will work on the letter. 4. Request for Letter of Support Chair Well read a letter from an artist interested in doing a performance at the State Hospital to acknowledge its past. Members agreed to send a letter of support with the caveat that it is our hope that the building will not come down. 5. State Preservation Conference Chair Well and Ms. Lavender are interested in attending the State conference on historic preservation to be held in Worcester on September 24"'. Peg will asked if their U registration fees could be covered by the City. 6. Local Awards Program Planning Members reviewed the flier that Ms. Lavender has created for distribution to the local building community. Peg will assemble a list of area architects and builders who will receive a direct mailing and copies will be placed at the Building Inspectors office. Peg will include the literature on the perils of using vinyl siding and historically accurate paint colors. Ms. Lavender distributed a sample letterhead to be used by the Commission to publicize the Millenium Awards program. Peg will research buying a blue ribbon for the printer and Ms. Lavender will donate the paper. The Millenium Awards program was discussed. Members considered how it should be structured. Options include a public voting process based on all past recipients, or leaving it wide open for nominations. More discussion will be held at the next meeting. 7. Local Downtown Architectural District Chair Well reported that the ordinance will go before the City Council for a first reading this Thursday night. She will go to speak in favor. W. 8. Bridge Street Cemetery Ms. Lavender is working on inventorying what exists there. 9. Plaque Project Chair Well will contact Smith College after school starts to talk about changing the method of production considering the letters are peeling off already. Adjourn/ Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting was adjourned at 9:14 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller U 1 i I � j CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE Date: Monday, September 27, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes, Announcements 7:05 pm Report of State Preservation Conference 7:20 pm Recap of Activities and Plan until May 2000 7:40 pm The State Hospital - Planning our response 8:00 pm 2000 Preservation Awards Program -Flyer for Building Inspectors Office Stationary Millennium Awards Main Street Historic District Study Comrnission- Second reading Jonathan Edwards Memorial at Bridge Street Cemetery Plaques/Markers Project Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Coolidge Foundation Pomeroy Terrace Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: October 25, November 29, January 3 and January 31 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Minutes/ September 27, 1999 Present: Chair Susan Well, Norman Winston, Louise Bloomberg, Valerie Lavender, Tris Metcalfe, Eglal Doss - Quinby & Kimball Howes (potential members), three UMASS students, Michael Owens, OPD staff. The meeting was called to order by the Chair at approximately 7:05 p.m. Introductions of those present took place; a motion was made to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Valerie noted that Louise was omitted from the minutes and asked that she be added. The minutes were approved subject to this addition. State Preservation Conference A brief overview of the State preservation conference was given as two members attended. Valerie reported on a tour of the Hope Cemetery, owned by the City of Worcester. Issues dealing with cemetery preservation, historic landscapes, inventories of trees and headstones were all discussed. Valerie also reported that in Worcester a private group has formed to manage this important community resource. The group has bylaws and accepts donations to support the care and maintenance of Hope Cemetery. Susan Well reported on the keynote speaker at the conference. The speaker spoke about new urbanism, historic preservation and ways in which urban design can bring these interests together. Activity Recap Susan Well reviewed the Mass Historical resource manual and discussed the various historic resource forms i.e. Form A, B & C. A review of properties in Northampton listed on the State Register was also undertaken as well as how a review of work proposed on those properties takes place when public funds are involved. Susan also recapped activities undertaken over the past year and what the Commission had planned for the coming year. Activities undertaken included the annual preservation awards, a Memorandum of Agreement with Mass Highway regarding the Coolidge Bridge, Memorial Hall rotunda restoration and ongoing discussions with the developer of the former Northampton State Hospital. 96 Pleasant Street An overview of the historic review process for 96 Pleasant Street was given. Michael Owens gave a brief project update. The building is proposed to be purchased by HAP Inc. who will preserve �" this affordable housing resource in downtown Northampton. Downtown Architectural Review The second reading of this ordinance is scheduled for October Th. The Chamber of Commerce has come out strongly against the proposed ordinance. Ms. Well will be at the Council meeting on the 7ih to speak in favor and requests that any other interested party offer support at that time as well. Calvin Theater The Calvin has won a statewide award after a nomination by the Northampton Historical Commission. Miss Florence Diner The owner of the Miss Florence diner is proceeding with a National Register Nomination. Northampton State Hospital (NSH) A quick history of the NSH development was given. The Commission is concerned that all efforts be made to save the historic main structure which was not shown on a site rendering prepared by the developer Community Builders Inc. of Springfield. Ms. Well reported that she had spoke to Mary Clare Higgins regarding where the process was and where it was going. Apparently the state agency responsible for disposition of the property, DCAM, is presently negotiating the land disposition agreement with Community Builders. Ms. Well has spoken with Gerry Joseph of Community Builders and he is willing to come back before the Commission upon request. He has stated that given adequate resources Community Builders will do everything it can to save the historic main structure at NSH. Mr. Metcalfe recommended locating the building plans for the main complex so it can be properly marketed and saved. Eventually this should be the task of the developer, locate the plans and make every effort to market and save the main complex. Ms. Well suggested continuing to work with Community Builders but to hold off on contact with DCAM for now but also invite Gerry Joseph to the next meeting to further discuss the project. Michael Owens noted that as the NSH project moves forward it will be subject to the Mass Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) which will give all interested parties an opportunity to comment on proposed actions including the demolition of any buildings. Additionally, Mass Historical will require demolition of a historic structure be the only "feasible and prudent option " for the developer. New Members Ms. Well requested that prospective Commission members attend the Council meeting at which they will be confirmed. Historic Preservation Flyerl Building Department The draft has been given to the Building Commissioner who will review and provide comments to Peg Keller. Stationary A subcommittee made up of Valerie, Louise and Tris will work out the details of the new stationary and report back at the next meeting. Valerie suggested using the new stationary through next May (preservation month). Preservation Awards As part of the new millenium the NHC is planning millenium awards for the "best of the best' historic preservation projects. NHC has been giving awards since 1975. Items of discussion included what criteria should be used, should the public vote on winners, should there be one winner from each year when awards were `given. The conclusion reached is that the Commission needs to develop criteria for the millenium awards. ' A Sub Committee will be formed to address this issue and will meet at Ms. Bloomberg's house at 8pm on October 13th. Pomeroy Terrace Ms. Well gave a quick update on Pomeroy Terrace, which at one time had been considered for nomination as an historic district. The Commission requested staff attempt to locate the nomination papers for Pomeroy Terrace. 350th Anniversary The year 2004 will be Northampton's 350th Anniversary. Susan reminded Commission members that this date is only a few years away and they should start to think about celebration planning. Tris will try to get a copy of the 1904 celebration guide. There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 9:05pm. Respectfully submitted, Michael Owens i �ya�4unr+�m ^ r� CITY BALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE Date: Monday, October 25, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 7:00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes, Announcements 7:10 pm Recap. of Activities and Plan until May 2000 7:25 pm The State Hospital Central Business Architecture Ordinance Committee - Nominate two people to serve - the mayor will pick one 8:00 pm 2000 Preservation Awards Program -Flyer for Building Inspectors Office Millennium Awards - Sub - Committee Report - Louise Bloomberg Nominees - Valerie Lavender Jonathan Edwards Memorial at Bridge Street Cemetery - Valerie Lavender Plaques/Markers Project Pomeroy Terrace Requests for Survey and National Register Work from Coolidge Foundation Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: November'29, January 3 and January 31 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 C elebrating N Renaissance 1975 -2 J NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes October 25, 1999 Members Present: Susan Well, Valerie Lavender, Eglal Doss - Quinby, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe, Louise Bloomberg. Also present, interested member John Lind and Peg Keller, staff. CALL TO ORDER Chair Susan Well called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Members introduced themselves to Mr. Lind. Mr. Metcalfe made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Ms. Lavender. Misc. Updates/ 1. Awards Flier \ The flier announcing the upcoming awards round was placed in the Building Inspector's office. Peg will bring copies to the next meeting. 200 copies were made and Peg will monitor them to see when they need to be replaced. They are sitting on the counter that is utilized by those seeking building permits. 2. Statewide Preservation Conference Ms. Well gave an update on the Conference she and Ms. Lavender attended. She is in possession of a book describing the Secretary of the Interiors Rehabilitation Guidelines that will be circulated among members. Ms. Well also circulated a memo that describes different site layouts according to varying historical periods. She also passed around the Forbes Library Newsletter. 3. Grant Round Ms. Well reviewed a note from Wayne Feiden alerting the Commission to a funding round for historical documentation and record keeping activities. The need for a central registry was discussed. Members agreed that a memo to the Mayor was needed to relay the importance of a central registry and the preservation of historical material, however the Commission is unable to champion the effort at this time. It was noted that there might be some space at the State Hospital for such a purpose. Members agreed to support Forbes Library if they wanted to apply for the grant. The Commission and Historic Northampton could write support letters on the Library's behalf. �) 2 4. State Hospital Mr. Metcalfe reported that the architect working with the Community Builders is doing measurements and drawings for possible residential use of the Main Complex and will share those with him. Members expressed their desire to move out of their holding pattern with regard to making public statements about their preference that the Main building be preserved. Members were wondering if the time was now less politically sensitive than last month. With this being the last phase to be developed, members do not want to miss their opportunity for comment. Ms. Well updated members about a meeting that was held on a Friday morning with people interested in memorializing the Campus. Although the NHC did not formally get invited, Ms. Bloomberg and Ms. Lavender expressed a desire to be informed about future meetings of this nature. Ms. Schuleit, the performance artist was there, as well as reps from DMH and the arts community. Members asked if Mr. Joseph (of TCB) could be invited to the next meeting to discuss several issues. Peg agreed to follow up. 5. Central Business Architectural District �} The NHC has been asked to make two nominations to the new committee that will oversee the CBAD. The Mayor will select one. Ms. Lavender, Mr. Metcalfe and Ms. Well expressed interest in the appointment. Ms. Lavender removed her name from consideration. Peg will communicate the remaining two names to the Mayor's Office. 6. Awards Flier Discussion about the flier was revisited. Mr. Winston said he would look at the list he created for a broader mailing to see how extensive it would be to include architects, builders and realtors. Peg said that the OPD office could do the mailing. 7. Millenium Awards Ms. Well said that National Preservation Week is usually held around Mother's Day. Members reviewed the list of annual awards that are possible contenders for this year. ( 24 Harrison, yellow house on Massasoit, Edwards Church building that houses LaSalle's Florist, 40 N. Main St. in Florence, 118 North Street, Langworthy Rd., the kiosk). Ms. Well will send the boiler plate form she has for the Gazette to Ms. Lavender. The Millenium Awards Sub - Committee composed of Ms. Bloomberg, Ms. Well, Mr. Metcalfe and Ms. Lavender met on October 3` Ms. Bloomberg reported on their actions. \ Decisions made included the following: - the period would cover 1975 -2000 3 Renaissance should be used in the title - - - - A panel of judges should be selected/ Floyd Andross Arnold Friedman Michael Sissman Helen Searing Bonnie Parsons Walter Cudnofsky Award criteria would be determined by judges -. Winners determined by judges Nominations accepted from the NHC and the public By 1/1/2000 with the presentations being made at First Night 2001 Ms. Lavender made a motion to accept the report of the sub - committee and to have another meeting, seconded by Ms. Bloomberg, vote unanimous. Peg will see if they can get into the building an hour earlier prior to the regular meeting. 8. Architectural Detail Identification Contest Peg will take some pictures of architectural details around town and talk to the Gazette about running them to heighten awareness. 9. Bridge Street CemeterX Ms. Lavender reported that her work will focus on the Jonathon Edward Memorial and the preservation of trees. She will research. Members discussed the grants available from DEM and noted that collaboration with the Board of Public Works is necessary. Ms. Lavender mentioned that she also would like to attend the meeting scheduled in Boston about preserving community assets across the State. Peg will check with Wayne to see if the Department plans to do anything in response to the letter from Sec. Durand asking for slides of local amenities in need of preservation. 10. Pomeroy Terrace Members discussed their desire to see the nomination as an historic district reactivated if planning monies are available. Letters of interest are due in December, with a local cash match requirement. Ms. Well will pursue and keep the Commission informed. Ms. Lavender made a motion to support efforts to nominate this area of the City to the National Historic District register, seconded by Ms. Bloomberg, vote unanimous. 11. Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller U 1999 Awards Ceremony State Award for Calvin Theatre Letters to new homeowners who buy property with a survey form completed Flyers about awards in Building Inspector's Office, Mailed to builders and architects Project's monitored: Coolidge Bridge design 96 Pleasant St., Single Room Occupancy Memorial Hall Northampton State Hospital Establish Central Business Architecture Review 2000 Awards Ceremony - Preservation Awards 2000 Wk of May 14 Continue Letters - Monitor response Continue - monitor response Continue with lobby and elevator Dialogue continues Hear reports from rep Ideas in process at some, level: Celebrating Northampton's Renaissance/ Millennium Awards Plaques Cemetery Public Meeting - How to research a house's History Pomeroy Terrace Historic District The Beeches l_ Celebrating Northampton's Renaissance 1975 -2000 MEMO To: The Northampton Historical Commission From: Susan Well, Chair November 18, 1999 In May 1977, Carol Menke wrote a Master's Thesis titled, "A Preservation Handbook: Strategies for the Conservation of Northampton's Historic Resources." I am including seven pages from it with this months agenda because: -it may help for the Millennium Project - to know how the awards and register nominations began. - planning for the future - how many of the recommendations have been carried out - should they be carried out. - relevant to grant pre - application due in December, See page 61 for details about the Pomeroy Terrace nomination and page 63 for the Samuel Hill district nomination. J r� M CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 OFFICIAL MEETING NOTICE (7) Date: Monday, November 29, 1999 Time: 7:00 p.m. PLACE: COUNCIL ON AGING Memorial Hall 6:00 pm Subcommittee on Millennium Project 7 :00 pm Attendance, Approval of Minutes, Announcements 7:10 pm The State Hospital 8:00 pm 2000 Preservation Awards Program Flyer for Building Inspectors Office Nominees - Valerie Lavender Pomeroy Terrace Jonathan Edwards Memorial at Bridge Street Cemetery - Valerie Lavender Plaques/Markers Project Survey and National Register Work- The Beeches, Diners Adjourn 9:00 pm Next Meetings: January 3 and January 31, February 29, March 27, April 24, May 29 i (^ NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL, COMMISSION Minutes November 29, 1999 Members Present: Chair Susan Well, Tris Metcalfe, Valerie Lavender, Eglal Doss - Quinby, Norman Winston, Kimball Howes. Also present, Mayor Mary L. Ford, Clare Higgins, Chair, Citizens Advisory Committee/ Northampton State Hospital, Gerry Joseph of the Community Builders and Peg Keller, staff. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Well called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Members introduced themselves to the guests and new Commission member, Mr. Howes. Ms. Lavender made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Mr. Metcalfe, vote was unanimous. 1. State Hospital Update Ms. Well began the discussion by providing background about the charge of the Commission and recent activities. The role has been clear with regard to nominating properties to the National Register and conducting property surveys and commenting on projects that will be utilizing public funds. The charge sometimes involves a statutory role as an agent of the Federal and State government. The role the Commission is meant to play in the redevelopment of the State hospital has been less clear. In following the progress of the NSH plans, the main complex building was present in earlier versions and absent in the most recent. In summary, the guests had been invited this evening to update members on where the process is and what role the NC may have in that process. At a minimum, she stated she is looking for a way to prevent further deterioration of the structures if actual site development is years off. Ms. Higgins began by saying that the final Master Plan has been submitted to the State's Division of Capital Asset Management and the land disposition agreement is being formulated based on that plan. Additionally, the State Historic Commission had the statutory role in the process, not the local commission and the responsibility for securing the buildings to prevent further deterioration lies with the State. She said that a letter to Mass. Historic asking them to take some responsibility to preserve the buildings would be appropriate. Mr. Joseph added that the role the State has chosen for the last 20 years was one of neglect and that is why the buildings are in the condition they are now. He was not optimistic that the State would put any money into the property; their focus is on disposition. He said that although roof repairs are needed, he doubts the State would take C� any action. O 2 The Mayor relayed that this has gone on for years and years as the conditions of the buildings continually worsened. The State was very open early on about historic preservation, but they did want the property disposed of first and foremost. She emphasized the need for the Commission to focus on preserving the "concept" of the NSH as opposed to focusing on any single building(s). With the thrust being economic feasibility to reuse the property, Mass. Historic agreed that although best attempts for preservation should be made, if demolition was more financially feasible, they wouldn't stand in the way. Although this is not the best result, for the local commission, it is too late to advocate for any particular building. She said that the focus now is on memorializing what existed there. Efforts are underway to document what the State Hospital was about in the beginning and where we are now with it coming down, providing an historical record of the deinstitutionalization process. She suggested the Commission focus on the design guidelines for the elements of new construction. She went on to describe the anti - sprawl /village concept that will be created. She emphasized the need to focus on that opportunity rather than the presence of any specific building. She said 10 years ago she held the same position the members do now. Since then, she has watched the State let the buildings crumble. She doubted now that any historical concerns would outweigh the need to see the project fly financially. Ms. Higgins reiterated her feeling that the Commission could go on record stating their concern for the further deterioration of the buildings. The Mayor, indicating her need to leave the meeting, was thanked by Ms. Well for her support of the Commission's activities in the past. Mr. Joseph then reported that the Land Disposition Agreement with the State is still being negotiated, with regard to the time frame, the dollars and the site condition. He explained that the State does have the ability to consider "public benefit" as related to the purchase price. Based on a variety of factors, the State will determine a site value, divided by the number of phases to yield a price per phase. That price will then be reduced up to a certain amount to accomplish a clean site. So in the end the purchase price compared to the cost to clean the site will probably be a "wash" not leaving much for rehabilitation efforts. Currently they are trying to determine an appraisal methodology. . With regard to the environmental review process and the opportunity for local input, because this project involves the disposition of public property, all the State jurisdictions will weigh in. MHC will turn to the local commission for input. Although the MOA does not spell out specific ways the developer can meet the objectives, the main focus will be on the public process and DCAM being able to say that due diligence was accomplished in addressing everyone's interests. The MEPA process will be an evaluation of general performance guidelines, there is no requirement to produce a building by building analysis or assessment. Mr. Joseph went on to say that his desire to entertain an economically viable plan to save the Main Complex remains unchanged from his prior visit with the Commission. If a viable plan is created for all or part of the building, they will consider it. They have had a preliminary walk through with an engineer who is evaluating the structure based on the current building code and they will investigate further. His concern before was that if the Commission sent a letter requesting that a specific building be saved, that might have created an obstacle to the projects progress at that time. Ms. Higgins said the Commission should focus on the design guidelines. Mr. Joseph explained that the developer is responsible for developing those as part of a Planning Board submission requirement for a Planned Unit Development Overlay permit. There is opportunity for Commission input at that level as well. He said that would be commencing in the 6 month period immediately following the signing of the LDA. After the signing, the planning for the permitting process (Planning, Zoning and MEPA) will get reinvigorated. During a discussion of the bigger political picture, Mr. Metcalfe and Ms. Lavender emphasized the importance of this building in particular as the embodiment of what the campus represents and how that could be a marketing asset. Mr. Metcalfe presented drawings showing how the rooms could be used for residential purposes. Ms. Higgins said a spread sheet showing costs would be helpful (as well as some investors). Members then discussed whether or not private market rate apartments would serve to memorialize the previous function in an appropriate way. All agreed this was a topic for further discussion at another time. The point was made that the bottom line is money and Mr. Joseph and Mr. Metcalfe agreed to continue the discussion about the feasibility of reuse. Ms. Higgins reiterated that if Mr. Metcalfe, as an architect, separate from his role on the Commission wants to take this on, providing a way to make it economically feasible and identifying investors, the developer would be happy to entertain it. At that point, the two remaining guests departed after being thanked for their participation. Commission members then discussed follow -up action. Ms. Doss - Quinby reported that the Memorial Committee convener has asked if the Commission is willing to take over the committee and its work (and noted that the Commission is not listed in the phone directory). Further discussion will be needed. Ms. Lavender reported that she attended the meeting with the consultants hired to investigate Cemetery Hill at the State Hospital. She suspects that gravesites abound and will keep the Commission posted on further activity. 4 2. Pomero Terrace Historic District Application After discussion, members voted unanimously to apply to the Mass. Historic Commission for funds to hire a consultant to research the district and prepare a nomination to the National Register. Matching money will be required. The letter of interest is due December 10 There will also be a need for neighborhood outreach. Ms. Well submitted a proposal of other items that could be included in the grant if necessary. The motion in favor of applying was made by Mr. Metcalfe, seconded by Ms. Doss - Quinby. 3. Adj ourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting concluded at 9:16 p.m. The next two meetings will be held 1/3 and 1/31/00. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller . Minutes of NHC Millennium Project Sub Committee November 29, 1999 - Memorial Hall Present: Doss - Quinby, Lavender, Metcalfe, Well, Winston, Howes Meeting called to order at 6:15 pm. Reviewed agreement to date. Use of expert judging panel reconfirmed with the following suggested additions: Dennis Lee, W14W Nancy Denig, Landscape Architect Name of project was discussed with some feeling that `Renaissance' did not give the connotation we wanted. Revival and Renewal were suggested and debated. V. Lavender to make final determination when writing initial publicity and news release. Criteria and Categories: It was agreed to ask the public for nominations of `buildings that significantly contributed to the revival or renewal of the city since 1975.' The nomination form should suggest categories such as residences commercial buildings, landscapes, signage, public art - possibly using the phrase `enriches the public.' It was agreed to contact the organizers of First Night 1999 and Pip Stromgren of the GAZETTE to see if we can tie into this years event with an announcement of the competition in the program or nomination flyers at the venues this year with the thought of presenting the awards at next year's first night. Metcalfe has had a preliminary talk with Pip Stromgren. If we are to do this at First Night we might need to have a slide show or `performance' so Well suggested contacting Mary Kasper and the Arts Council to see if there were funds to hire an artist to put together a slide show or video detailing the rehab and preservation projects in the city in the past 25 years. The end product could then be given the Historic Northampton, etc. Its possible that we could work with an intern f4ern on of the colleges. Respectfully submitted, k '5� Z/� Susan Well NOTE: As I was typing this, I called Mary Kasper and found that the Spring round of funding is called `Arts Easy' and gives awards in the $1000 -1500 range. She felt this would not be enough for a video documentation, but certainly enough for a slide or photo show. She thinks the project as I described is FUNDABLE. It has a simple application form. 0 r' 1 City of Northampton, Massachusetts Office of Planning and Development City Hall, 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 587 -1266 (413) 587 -1264 fax MEMORANDUM TO: Ceil or Maddie, Council on Aging FROM: Cam Holub, Secretary C " RE: 2000 Historical Commission Meeting Dates DATE: December 2, 1999 Please schedule the following dates in the Council on Aging Conference Room for the Historical Commission in 2000. The Commission meets the last Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Give me a call at ext. 1286 if you have any questions. Thanks. January 3' January 3 V February 28' March 27`' April 24'' May 22' (May 29' is a Holiday) June 26'' July 31" August 28" September 25`' October 30`' November 27" No date set for December at this time