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2004 Historical Commission minutest)Ln Pc , S le 1 zo •v4 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT' o CITY OF NORT -I AMPT ON City Mall • 2i o Main Street, Room i 1 • Northampton, MA o i o60 =3 198 • 14131587-1266 • Pax:.587 -1264 WaNne Feiden, Director • p fanning @northamptonplanning.org • iviviv.northaniptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: January 26, 2004 TIME: 7:00 p.m: to 9:00 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 .210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Approval of Minutes 3.) Announcements/ Correspondence 4.) Project Updates - MHC Grant - Hotel Bridge - Pomeroy Terrace Demo Delay - House Tour /Fundraising - Pratt Cottage - Pollard Estate - Awards Ceremony /Criteria - Memorial Bench - Community Preservation Act 5.) Establishment of Sub - Committees/ Annual Goals 6.) Other Business 7.) Adjourn Peg Kell WAMME planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture a rig in alprinteelon recycleelpa lie r NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes January 26, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Jennifer Hayes, Barbara Blumenthal, Kim Howes, Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, David Drake. Also present, Gerrit Stover and an unidentified interested citizen; Peg Keller, staff. AGENDA Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. He asked for approval of the minutes from the November meeting. They were approved as submitted. No meeting was held in December. Correspondence/ The Chair read a letter from Mass. Historic relative to the Paradise Pond apartments proposed for West Street (and the demolition of the 2 existing cottages) and 2 letters relative to antenna installations planned for buildings at the VA Campus. Members noted that MHC had already made decisions on these applications without soliciting local input. Peg Keller will send a letter asking for clarification on MHCs review process. There was also a letter from Mass. Highway notifying the Commission of the planned route for a bike path. Members reviewed the map. Ms. Hayes agreed to do research to identify any historical resources that might be impacted by the project. Peg will talk to Wayne to see if he is aware of any issues of concern. Public Comment/ Chair Kennedy recognized the two guests who said they were interested in the Pratt Cottage /Pollard lot updates on the agenda. Mr. Metcalfe updated the group about a private party interested in moving the Pratt Cottage to the Pollard lot. He noted that the preferred route is on Interstate 91 and support will be needed to acquire permission from Mass. Highway. He said that Historic Northampton is moving ahead on their request to a judge for permission to place the house on the lot. It was agreed that the Commission would write a letter of support for the project to accompany the request to the judge. Those present gave Mr. Metcalfe names of possible contacts at Mass. Highway. He said that Historic Northampton is supportive of the move of the Pratt Cottage to the Pollard lot, with historic preservation restrictions, and it is believed the abutters are in favor as well. MHC Grant/ Peg agreed to send the application to members. She described a meeting held with Chris Skelly and Wayne Feiden at which the project scope was - discussed. It was determined that rather than doing a city -wide project, it made sense to focus on Florence. Peg asked for members willing to be on a Planning Sub - committee. Mr. Howes and Mr. Drake agreed to assist. Peg will outreach to Steve Strimer and assemble interested people during February. The grant is for technical assistance from Mass. Historic for preservation planning. No local cash match was required and Northampton has been selected. Pomeroy Terrace/ Peg agreed to call Jacquie Scott to see if she can work on the National Register nomination. Chris will recontact the U.Mass. professor to determine if there are any students available. Ms. Hayes and Chair Kennedy agreed to be the Sub - committee members for this project. Ms. Scott did produce the photographs necessary for the submission. What is needed now is the reformatting of the information in the original submission and editing. Memorial Bench/ Members agreed to meet early in the spring (April) for a site visit to make final decisions about design. Gloria McPherson (Planning Dept.) will be invited to attend and prepare site drawings to finalize the decisions. Smith Vocational School will be contacted regarding any longterm maintenance issues. Permission for any additional site alterations will be secured from the Dept. of Food and Agriculture. Plans for a small commemorative ceremony will be undertaken upon project completion. Members agreeing to serve on a Sub- committee to bring this project to closure were Ms. Bloomberg, Ms. Blumenthal and Ms. Well. House Tour /Fundraising/ Ms. Blumenthal said she will work on this, in conjunction with Mr. Drake. The event will be considered in the context of 350 celebration activities. Local Awards Ceremony/ Ms. Blumenthal distributed revised selection criteria and the informational flier for nominations. Ms. Hayes agreed to do a press release. Members were encouraged to drive around to the potential nominees and formulate their final choices. Mr. Drake offered to make the information available for the plaque he had made for his house, in recognition of the award he received from the Commission. Possible sites for the ceremony were discussed. Mullino's was thought to be too small; the Center for the Arts and the Coolidge Room at Forbes Library were mentioned. Community Preservation Act/ Chair Kennedy is serving on a volunteer committee of local citizens interested in pursuing the adoption of this Act. Funding received through this legislation would provide resources for open space acquisition, historic preservation and affordable housing activities. Joann Montgomery will be invited to the next meeting to describe the Act in more detail. �J Demolition Delay Ordinance/ Discussion was started, but due to the lateness of - the hour, it was agreed that a special meeting would be held on Feb. 9 th to discuss this item solely. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller T t ui City hall • ? � o Main St , foam a a • ldort6ampt on, i�t 1 ®z oGo -3 :i �8 (q s 3) 5 37 -�2G�i Fa„c 5 8' Vvayna Feiden, Director- • planviixg @northamptonplanning:org TV 7g coucn'�` , JUSTIII , NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION. Meeting Notice DATE: February 9, 2004 TIME: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. GLACE: City Hall Hearing-Room 18 210 Main Street 'Northampton AGENDA - 1.) Working Session/ Demolition Delay Ordinance Peg Kehler Date planning board • conservationcommission • zoning boardof appeals • housing partnership .- redevelopmentauthority • no economic development • community development • h istoric district Commission • historical commission • central business architecture origina l prin tedon recycW paper Z��Lcvl 1]PL.1a INTNING AND D _EV_,L0FTV E q T - C;Z'�'Y 0r City Fall - 2i o Main street, Room ii • TNorthavnpton, MA o;: oho -3 i 98 4131587 -ai66 • Tax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @nOYthamptonplaniaing.org www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL, COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: February 23, 2004 TIME: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. PLACE: City .Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Announcements 2.) Approval of Minutes 3.) Updates Communication from Mass Highway re: bike path - Letter to Mass. Historic re: notification process - Pratt Cottage 4.) Sub - Committee Reports o Local Awards Ceremony/ Press Release Review List of Properties a Assign Properties to Members Ceremony Site Selection . Pomeroy Terrace Project o House Tour /Fundraising . o Community Preservation Act o Florence Preservation Planning Project 5.) Other Business Grove, Street Notification/ Housing Authority 6.) Adjourn Peg Kell "'Date planning board conservation commission •zoning board oTappeats • housing partnership ' redevelopment authoritN • northampton =tzIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon rechcledpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes -- February 23, 2004 Members Present: Chair Chris Kennedy, Norman Winston, Kim Howes, Jennifer Hayes, Tris Metcalfe, Louise Bloomberg, David Drake. Also present, 2 interested citizens from Leeds and Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Bloomberg made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Mr. Winston. Those present at that meeting voted in favor of approval. Announcements/ Updates Pratt Cottaae Mr. Metcalfe reported that he is trying to set up a meeting with the abutters of the Pollard lot, to discuss moving the cottage there. Support letters are still needed from the Commission and Planning Department. Mass. Historic Commission Peg K. will write the letter about the notification process for their environmental reviews. Bike Path Proposal Ms. Hayes produced copies of early maps. The bridge abutment was discussed. Peg K. will send a letter asking for a presentation on plans as they progress. Two residents of Leeds were in attendance. Their property abuts the proposed bike path in Leeds. They were directed to speak with Wayne Feiden, Planning Director and Craig Della Penna for information about the bike path in their area. Sub - Committee Reports Pomeroy Terrace/ Peg K. contacted Jacquie Scott who is willing to move ahead with the text for the nomination. Peg is meeting with her March 2 nd at Hay Market (6:00 p.m.). Other members are welcome to attend. House Tour /Fundraising Ms. Blumenthal was not in attendance; no report. Community Preservation Act Chair Kennedy reported that the steering committee moving the effort forward has decided to wait until after the override vote. They will assess how to proceed at that time. He noted that they were discussing a petition to place the issue on the ballot, as opposed to a City Council submission. Florence Preservation Planning Project Peg has scheduled a meeting for March 10 at 7:00 p.m. Attending will be Steve Strimer and Frances Krumpholz from the Florence History Project, Chris Skelly from Mass. Historic and David Drake, Kim Howes and Chris Kennedy from the Northampton Historical Commission. Chair Kennedy said he had invited Craig Della Penna also. This will be the kick- off planning meeting to define the scope of the work. Intern Ms. Hayes reported that she has someone interested in helping the Commission. It was suggested that the Pomeroy Terrace nomination and the awards ceremony were possible projects she could assist with. Ms. Hayes will get back to her with those options. Local Awards Ceremony Final nominations were determined and research assignments made. The finalists are Lilly Hall (Barbara), the Bay State Hotel (Jen), the Calvin Coolidge Room at Forbes library (Norman), the Sojourner Truth Statue and park (Kim), the new building on Strong Avenue (Chris), the Masonic Street fire station (Tris), the Slough Hill school (Kim), 161 State Street (Susan), a house on Pomeroy Terrace (Louise), 1 Main St. in Florence (David) and 180 Main Street (David). An address will be secured for a nominated property on South Street and members are encouraged to view the Bridge St. property across from 1 0 the Bridge St. school for possible inclusion. Members are to begin their research. Mr. Winston will ask if Forbes Library can be used for the ceremony. Demolition Delay A meeting was scheduled for March 8, 2004 from 5 -7:00 p.m. to continue drafting the ordinance. Adjourn/ Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting concluded at 9:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CITY OF NORTHAMPTON City Hall • . 210 Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o r o60 -3 i g8 • (4 • Fax: S 87 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northampto'np[anning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org 4 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: March 29, 2004 TIME: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 P.M. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Project Updates \ ➢ Demo Delay Ordinance Update/ set Work Session Date ➢ Pomeroy Terrace National Register- Nomination Update Florence Preservation Planning Project- 3.) Fundraising / Plaques 4.) Area Event/ Gehenna Plaque 5.) Local Awards Ceremony/ Next Steps 6.) Other Business 7.) Adjourn Peg Kelley e • c..Jeo, . Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communitN development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon regdedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes March 29, 2004 Members Present: Chair Chris Kennedy, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe, David Drake, Susan Well, Kim Howes, Jennifer Hayes, Barbara Blumenthal. Call to Order Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Member Hayes made a motion to approve the minutes from the February meeting. The motion was seconded by Ms. Well; the vote in favor was unanimous. Announcements Chair Kennedy noted an editorial in the Gazette entitled "Tale of Two Houses" which addressed the Pratt Cottage and Parsons House. He also noted that the person who dismantled the Parsons House is now saying he is unable to reassemble it and may be interested in selling it. Chair Kennedy also read a letter from a person who used to maintain the Pollard Estate. It looks as though the Commission was copied on the letter sent to the Gazette editor, therefore no response is required. Public comment/ No one was present from the public. Demolition Delay Ordinance Peg distributed copies of the Elm Street and Central Business district ordinances. Ms. Hayes is working on the "frequently asked questions ". Chair Kennedy reported that the Mayor said she is willing to have it introduced after the over- ride vote. A work session was scheduled for April 12 from 5:00 — 7:00 p.m. Discussion followed about possible Councilor sponsors and public testimony. Pomeroy Terrace Chair Kennedy reported that Jacquie Scott had submitted a draft of the nomination text and was going to follow up with some interviews to fill in the historical gaps. It was suggested that the Commission give Ms. Scott an award for all her help this past year. She will be so notified. Florence Preservation Planning Project A tour is being scheduled to orient Chris Skelly of Mass Historical and to begin to develop the database. Member Howes reported that he has developed a list of people who should be interviewed. He says there are several people who know about the history of Florence that could assist with the effort. He said he would 1 n wait until the proper time to conduct the interviews. It was suggested he contact CLIO, the video company in Florence to see if they are willing to video the interviewees. Ms. Well agreed to fax the list of properties in the 01062 zip code to Peg as a way to begin to identify the study area. The tour is scheduled for April 9th Historic Property Plaques It was agreed that information would be made available to award winners if they wanted to order and purchase plaques. Awards Peg will give Barbara the certificates and a final list of award winners. Peg will send out the letters asking people to send digital photos to Tris. Ms. Hayes has agreed to assist with the creation of a power point presentation, as well as a physical display. Chair Kennedy will locate donated frames. Member Blumenthal agreed to contact Laurie Loisel of the Gazette about a press release for the event. Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund Peg made the information available to the City Finance Director to see if he wanted to submit an application. A funding award would augment City funds currently earmarked for City Hall renovation. Water Street Bridge Member Howes reported that it is now closed. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 2 r PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT e CITY OF NORT -IAMPT'ON City Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o i o60 -3 1 9 8 ' ( 41 3)587 -ia66 • Fax: 587 -ia64 Warne Feiden, Director planning @northamptonplanning.org www.northamptonp[anning.org Q NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Work Session Notice DATE: April 12, 2004 TIME:. 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street AGENDA. 1.) Demolition Delay Ordinance/ Work Session Peg Kel uate planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development • community development historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture original prinLedo H recycled paper 0 4.23�v� ri PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT , CITY OF NORTHAMPTON U29 Hall • 21 o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA of o60 -3198 • (413) 587 -i266 • Fax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptoitplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: April 26, 2004 TIME: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 P.M. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period C� 2.) Project Updates ➢ Demo Delay Ordinance/ Review and Approve ➢ Pomeroy Terrace National Register Nomination Update ➢ Florence Preservation Planning Project 3.) Local Awards Ceremony/ Next Steps 4.) Fundraising / 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn FA Peg Keller :!::--> .y3. Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o o appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritS - northampton GIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture original printed on recycled raper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes April 26, 2004 Members Present: Chair Kennedy, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Barbara Blumental, David Drake, Jennifer Hayes, Kim Howes. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. Mr. Winston made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Ms. Hayes. The motion in favor was unanimous. Local Awards Ceremony The logistics of the upcoming event were discussed and assignments made. Mr. Drake will bring display boards and easels. Ms. Hayes will continue work on the power point presentation and the refreshments. Ms. Blumenthal will produce the programs and the press releases. Members were encouraged to contact their award winners to make sure before photos are received promptly. Plaque Program Mr. Drake distributed materials describing plaques that can be made to identify award winning properties. He has researched possible vendors and decided on the one presented. He reviewed pricing options and the possibility of utilizing the effort as a fundraiser for the Commission. He offered to create a display for the Ceremony and make the information available to awardees. Checks should be made to the City of Northampton and when there are several to submit, an order to the plaque company will be forwarded. Demolition Delay Ordinance Revised copies of the most recent draft were made available. A work session was scheduled for May 17 Final alterations will be made for a possible submission to the City Council in June. New National Register Designation It was - announced that Steve Strimer has succeeded with his nomination of the property at 191 Nonotuck Street to the National Register. Betsy Friedberg of the Massachusetts Historical Commission has approved the nomination. Congratulations, Steve, for all your hard work! Painting c� f City Hall C� The Commission has been notified that there are plans to paint City Hall. Chair Kennedy will contact Brett Jacobus, Director of Central Services to see what paint colors, as well as the extent of the repairs, are planned. Academy of Music Mr. Howes reported that a handicap ramp will need to be installed at the building and designs are currently being reviewed. The plan is to have the ramp entrance in Pulaski Park. He will keep the Commission apprised of the developments relative to the design and installation. Memorial Bench Ms. Blumenthal reported that the bench gap opening again between the boards. the site plan. has been reinstalled, although there is a A site visit will be scheduled to finalize Adjourn Due to the lateness of the hour, the meeting concluded at 9:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller Pj PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON CitN Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o 1 oho - 3198 • (4 • Pax: S 8 7 -1 26 4 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonptanning.org • ivivn).northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: May 17, 2004 TIME: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1). Demolition Delay Ordinance/ Work Session s Peg Kel Date planning board • conservation commission -zoning board o appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communitv� development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originaiprintedonre Ndedpaper PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON City Hall • 2i'o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o 1 o60 -3198 • (4 • Pax: S 8 7 -12 . 6 4 Wayne Peiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice . DATE: May 24, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. NOTE TIME CHANGE PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Project Updates ➢ Demo Delay Ordinance[ Update ➢ Pomeroy Terrace National Register Nomination Update ➢ Florence Preservation Planning Project ➢ Memorial Bench/ State Hospital Burial Grounds ➢ Building Plaque Program 3.) Local Awards Ceremony/ Post Event Analysis 4.) 350 Celebration/ Activities Update 5.) Fundraising / House Tour 6.) Other Business/ Manhan Rail Trail Plans 7.) Adjourn Peg Keller Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon recNdedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes May 24, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair; Barbara Blumenthal, Louise Bloomberg, David Drake, Tris Metcalfe, Jennifer Hayes. Also present, Peg Keller, staff; Mike Kirby, interested citizen. Call to Order Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. Member Hayes made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, seconded by Member Bloomberg. The motion was approved in favor. Public Comment/ Mr. Mike Kirby was present to request that the Commission not support the 13 million dollar request being made to the supplemental budget by Rep. Kocot. Mr. Kirby said the request is for demolition and environmental clean -up and he asked members to submit cards and letters asking that the funding not be earmarked. Chair Kennedy agreed to do research to find out what the funding is earmarked for and to advocate for rehabilitation where possible. Demolition Delay Ordinance It was noted that the Information Packet would be needed for June 10 in order to get it mailed to the Economic Development, Housing and Land Use Committee prior to their meeting on June 14 The final draft is ready with the exception of Mr. Feiden's language on fines. Pomeroy Terrace Jacquie Scott held a meeting with Faye Wolfe, Patricia Wright and Steve Strimer. This was an information gathering session to help Jacquie fill in some historical context gaps in the National Register nomination for the neighborhood. Florence Preservation Planning Project Chris Skelly of Mass. Historic has not been heard from. He will be contacted to see what progress has been made on the data collection phase of the project. Memorial Bench The bench is in place. Holes were drilled to keep the boards together, although some separation is occurring. Members agreed that the bench and placement C ) would adjust to the elements. Peg agreed to check with Gloria McPherson about a site visit to finalize the plan for the area. Plaque Orders There are five orders to date for plaques. Smith College is interested also. Member Drake asked if Smith could put the names of the buildings on theirs. Members felt that would be acceptable and subsequent requests for deviation from the model would be addressed on an individual basis. Local Awards Ceremony Follow -up Two nominations for next year have been submitted: 15 Arlington Ave. and 123 South Main Street. Also, recognition for the 350 Celebration Planning Committee would be in order. A letter to realtors was suggested for additional outreach. Kim Howes will be asked to follow -up with the Hampshire Gazette. Members noted a dedication ceremony is planned for May 30 for the Sojourner Truth statue and park. 350 Celebration Member Bloomberg circulated the first two chap books. She said copies will be available at Forbes Library, Collective Copies and Historic Northampton. Members offered to write a letter to the editor congratulating the committee on the effort, as a way to promote their availability. She said copies will be in the Mayors Office and the Planning Department was suggested as an additional location where they could get exposure. All were very excited about the existence of the books, their content and quality. Other upcoming events; the parade, balls and fireworks were noted. House Tour Member Blumenthal said she would begin work in the fall, for a 2005 event. She will check the listserve about liability issues faced by other Commissions who may be involved in showing private houses to the public. Architecture educational walking tours were suggested as an additional way to raise funds. Manhan Rail Trail Members reviewed plans that were submitted to them as part of a Section 106 review process. A bridge is scheduled for renovation, so the Commission had no problem with the project. Bridge Street Cemetery Members Hayes and Drake agreed to pursue working on this as a new project. Members are concerned about the deterioration of gravestones and cemetery infrastructure, fencing, etc. It may be possible to apply for funding to conduct restoration and research activity. It was noted that former Vice -Chair Lavender had done some preliminary work on this and that she said much information �� exists at the DPW. 191 Nonotuck Street Chair Kennedy reported that the Dorsey Jones House at this address has been submitted to Mass. Historic for National Register nomination approval. MHC is slated to give final review (and hopefully approval) to the nomination in September. This is the work of Steve Strimer and others associated with the Florence History Project. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller Peg NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: June 28, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 P.M. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Delay . - Review and Approve Final Draft 3.) Project Updates - Memorial Bench - Academy of Music/ ADA Plans - Awards Plaque Program - Fundraising/ Fall '04 Halloween Cemetery Tour 4.) General Updates - Thank you Letter to 350t Committee - Leeds Mill River Disaster Memorial - New Haven — Northampton Canal - D.A.R. Home/ South Street 5.) New Business 6.) Adjourn PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT , CITY OF NORTHAMPTON CiQ9 Hall • 2z o Main Street, Room ii • Northamptox MA o i o60 -3198 • (4 5 87-x266 • Fax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org Date planning board • conservation commission -zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communitN development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture origina I printed on recycled paper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes June 28, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Susan Well, Barbara Blumenthal, Kim Howes, David Drake, Jennifer Hayes, Norman Winston. Also present, Sue Carbin, Leeds Civic Association, Councilor Bill Dwight and Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order: Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Member Drake made a motion to approve the minutes of May meeting. The motion was seconded by Member Howes, the vote in favor was unanimous. Agenda 1.) Memorial Bench/ The date of July 6 th at 4:00 p.m. has been set for an on- site visit with Planning Dept.'s Gloria McPherson to decide on a final site design. Once a plan is solidified and the scope of work determined, a time line and a date for a concluding celebratory event will be established. It was noted that any plan and event should include former patients. Rebecca McCauley is the contact O person. 2.) Academy of Music/ Member Howes reviewed plans for a handicapped ramp to be installed at the Academy. The Mayor and Mass. Historical have signed off on the plans. Members asked about the fate of the marquee and Mr. Howes confirmed that it would not be re- installed due to its poor condition. Chair Kennedy asked him to convey to the Academy's Board that the marquee itself should be preserved locally, as opposed to being sold to someone in another location. 3.) Plaques Mr. Drake will take responsibility for forwarding the 7 orders received to the manufacturer. Peg will deposit the checks received into the Historic Commission's gift account and issue one for the total order. 4.) Fundraising/ Member Hayes offered a suggestion to do a Halloween walk through at the Bridge Street cemetery. Discussion followed regarding permission, liability and moral appropriateness. No decisions were made. 5.) 350 Thank you/ Chair Kennedy offered to write a letter to the Committee complimenting them on their wonderful effort that produced such great community events. The letter will be sent to the co- chairs Susan Well and David Stevens. 6.) New Haven Canal Recognition Project/ Chair Kennedy attended a lecture given by Bob Rundquist that he found to be very informative. He also attended a meeting in Southwick with representatives of the 5 communities involved. The project is still moving ahead. A study has been completed but does not contain enough information for the National Register nomination. He suggested that possibly in October, the NHC could sponsor a joint meeting in Northampton. This meeting could be a public session to disseminate information and raise funds. 7.) DAR Home/ Chair Kennedy said he had been contacted by a person associated with the building, with regard to the installation of a 2nd egress. He offered some suggestions on how to proceed. 8.) Leeds Mill River Flood Disaster Project/ Sue Carbin described efforts to date that have succeeded in erecting a monument to the flood victims of 1874. In a joint effort with Williamsburg, Leeds and Haydenville, $4,157 was raised for the monument. The second phase of the project involves developing the area around the monument. Jim Parsons has sketched a plan and the group is looking for additional funding. Members mentioned the Mass. Preservation Projects fund, the DEM Landscaping program and suggested a "Buy a Brick" private fundraising undertaking. They have an estimate of $4,650 from a mason to do the work. Members agreed to help with identifying potential funding sources and expressed excitement about the project and the groups' endeavors! 9.) Demo Review Ordinance/ Chair Kennedy summarized 2 remaining issues. Discussion followed relative to the number of years and whether or not to include stonewalls, fences and other items. He relayed the concerns of the Mayor about requiring review for activities that do not require a permit currently. Chair Kennedy also received comments from Chris Skelly from MHC, which he relayed. He also said that Wayne Feiden had suggested that if the Commission really wanted to include those items, that perhaps they could be addressed by a list based inventory. After further discussion, it was agreed to remove fences, stone walls and retaining walls but to keep bridges, dams and dikes in the ordinance. It was also agreed to eliminate 28 -3, #2 and to revise the definition of structure. In conclusion, a motion was made by Member Hayes to accept the final draft for submission to the City Council. The vote was seconded by Member Howes and the vote in favor was unanimous. The information packet will be circulated for member review prior to submission to the Council. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 9:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 2 M 11 � NORTHAMP STR N C xuSE�rrS 010 60 CITY HALL William Fenno Pratt Architect, 1849 July 21, 2004 Susan Well David Stevens Northampton 350th Committee P.O. Box 1420 Northampton, MA 01061 Dear 350th Committee, On behalf of the entire Northampton Historical Commission I would like to convey a sincere "thank you" for your tireless efforts to produce a 350th anniversary celebration of which the City of Northampton can be proud. Any decision by committee can be a daunting task, a task we feel that your committee has done an excellent job of administering. Providing events and activities for most, if not all, over a wide spectrum of events that reflect the diversity and experiences of Northampton s 350 year history was a challenge that as a committee you have mastered. Congratulations on a job well done. Sincerely, Christopher Kenn Chairman, Northampto i orical Commission c� Peg Keller NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: July 26, 2004 TIME: 6:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance 3.) Developing a Registry of Monuments and Memorials 4.) Compiling Biographies 5.) Project Updates - Memorial Bench/ Results of Site Visit - Florence Preservation Project 6.) Other Business/ New Business 7.) Adjourn PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON City Ralf • 21 o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA of o60 -3198 • ( 413) 587 -1266 • Fax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton CIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture origina Iprintedon recyciedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes July 26, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair; Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Kim Howes, Jennifer Hayes, Norman Winston, Barbara Blumenthal. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order: Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Member Blumenthal made a motion to approve the minutes of the June meeting. The motion was seconded by Member Winston and the vote to approve was unanimous. There was no one present for the public comment period. AGENDA 1.) Demolition Review Ordinance Chair Kennedy reported that the City Solicitor had signed off on the ordinance and the information packet has been sent to the City Councilors. Two revisions had been suggested by Wayne Feiden and Chris Skelly (MHC). Those revisions were discussed; one related to the MEPA exemption, the other to securing all relevant permits prior to demolition for the new use. Members reviewed the schedule for approval that involves a second meeting with the Housing, Economic Development and Land Use Council i Sub - committee (8/9/04) a discussion at the Planning Board (8/5/04) and review at the Ordinance Committee (8/10/04), prior to returning to Council for the second reading and vote. It was agreed that Councilors will be contacted by the Chair. Commission members will talk to their own respective Councilors as well. Members discussed other individuals that could be contacted to express support and attend the public sessions. Member Hayes is working on the resource list for property owner assistance during the demolition delay. 2.) Monuments and Memorials Inventory Member Howes suggested that such an inventory would be beneficial. Peg suggested he contact Jill Walton as she had undertaken this effort as a school project. Member Well said she had taken pictures of the monuments in the park next to Leeds School and had a list of the soldiers names on those plaques. 3.) Memorial Bench Members met on site with Gloria McPherson and she is working on a plan. Accompanying Members Kennedy and Blumenthal and Ms. McPherson was Rebecca McCauley who represents an association of former State Hospital patients. Their input into this effort is critical. 4.) Biography Compilation Planning Director Feiden had suggested that some biographical information on prominent Northampton residents be compiled for inclusion on the City's website. The Historic Northampton web site already has some, so web links have been suggested. 5.) Florence Preservation Planning Project Peg will resurrect the volunteer group to move the effort ahead. Chris Skelly is working with other communities, so there is no immediate pressure, however he is looking for a list of historic resources in Florence that needs to be assembled before he can continue his work. 6.) Academy of Music Handicap Ramp Plans have been approved by the Mayor and the Massachusetts Historical Commission to erect a ramp at the property. The removal of the marquee was discussed. It will not be reinstalled and evidently has been sold and relocated. Most members expressed dismay that no discussion had occurred about the fate of the sign. Last year a member of the Academy Board had said that a committee, with Historic Commission representation, would be assembled to discuss the fate of the marquee and future signage at the site. This did not happen. The State does hold a preservation restriction on the building by virtue of the public funds awarded for the renovation. Chair Kennedy will contact the Mayor to see how a communication breakdown like this can be avoided in the future. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:42 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 2 I pn, c e) - 5 �0 PLAININING AND DEVELOPMENT CITY OF NORTHAMPTON City Hall - 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o z o60 -3 i 98 - (413) 5 87 -z 266 • Fax: 5 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.morthamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: August 30, 2004 I C.�fwS TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton I AGENDA r 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance ➢ Review Final Changes to Draft ➢ Council Sub - Committee Updates ➢ Outreach for 9 /14/04 Ordinance Committee Meeting 3.) Project Updates - ➢ Pratt Cottage — Peg Keller ➢ Registry of Monuments and Memorials — Kimball Howes ➢ Florence Preservation Planning Project - Peg Keller ➢ Memorial Bench Plan - Committee ➢ Demolition /Preservation Resource List — Jen Hayes ➢ Preservation Awards Plaque Program — David Drake ➢ Pomeroy Terrace National Register Nomination — Chris Kennedy 4.) Other Business/ New Business . ➢ Barrett Place house demolition ➢ New Haven - Northampton Canal Walk 9/12/04 5.) Adjourn Z� 0 A Peg Kelle Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton CIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central 6usiness architecture original princed on recNeled paper PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CI'T'Y CP NORTHAMPTON City Hall • 21 o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o i o60 -3198 - 4 1 3)S 8 7 - i 266 • Fax: S 87 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @inorthamptonpfanning.org wivw.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: September 27, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 - 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance Update 3.) Project Updates • Memorial Bench Plan Follow -up • Pomeroy Terrace National Register Nomination • Florence Preservation Planning Project • Monuments and Memorials Inventory • Plaque Program ■ . Pratt Cottage 4.) New Business Louise Bloomberg/ 350 Committee 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn E Peg Kel Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton CIS economic development • communitN development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture origina[printedonruNdedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes September 27, 2004 Members Present: Christopher Kennedy, Chair, Jennifer Hayes, Susan Well, Kim Howes, Louise Bloomberg, Barbara Blumenthal, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe and David Drake. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. No one was present for the public comment period. Project Updates 1.) Memorial Bench Ms. Bloomberg reported that the Committee felt Gloria McPherson did an excellent job preparing a site plan. The group felt„ however, that the cost estimates are high and they prefer a more pastoral design. They will be in touch with Ms. McPherson. 2.) Pomeroy Terrace Chair Kennedy said he needs to check in with Jacquie Scott to see where she is on the nomination project. He is still doing research himself. 3.) Florence Preservation Planning Project Ms. Well reported that she, Fran Krumpholz, Steve Strimer, Craig Della Penna and Peg Keller met at Kim Howes home to advance the effort. Mr. Strimer has an early map of Florence that the group decided to use as a base for research and inventorying. Another meeting is scheduled for October 28 at 9:00 a.m. again at Mr. Howes residence. 4.) Monuments At Mr. Howes request, Peg downloaded the Form C from the Mass. Historical Commission's website. This is the appropriate form for surveying monuments and markers. An effort will get underway after the Florence Preservation Planning project is accomplished. 5.) Plaques The check has been sent to Erie Landmark and the spec sheet will follow. It was agreed that a press article about someone installing the plaque on their home could generate additional interest and orders. 1 6.) Pratt Cottage The actual move took place over this past weekend. The event was discussed and members expressed excitement that the building had been saved. 7.) Demolition Review Ordinance Current revisions made by the Planning Director, as a result of comments made at the public hearings, comments received from the Chamber Economic Development sub - committee and the Mayor's Office, were reviewed. Commission members expressed their opinions about the revisions proposed. Their comments will be forwarded back to the Planning Director. 8.) Gift of 350 Committee to the Commission Ms. Bloomberg reported that as Publications Sub - Committee Chair, she was invited by the Executive Committee to offer the remaining "Chap" books, a percentage of the revenues and future copy rights to the Historical Commission. Members expressed appreciation for this generous offer, as it will help to generate funds for the Commission's work. Member Drake made a motion to accept the offer, Member Hayes seconded the motion. Member Blumenthal asked for a clarification about what was actually involved in assuming this responsibility. Member Drake said that the proceeds would be deposited into the Commission's gift account. Ms. Bloomberg said that if the Commission wished to reprint copies of the Chap books, that Collective Copies could fill the orders. The vote was called and 5 voted in favor, none opposed. Members Well, Howes and Bloomberg abstained, as they are members of the 350 Committee. Member Drake expressed the Commission's gratitude for the thoughtfulness and selflessness of the Committee in making this offer. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 9:20 p.m. after a question by Member Metcalfe about the pending demolition at Barrett Place, which evidently is moving ahead. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller � 2 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Citvv Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA of oho -3i98 • (413) S87 -i266 ..lax. 587 -i264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northaWptonplanning.org- NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: October 25, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2 Floor 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Project Updates C - Memorial Bench Award Nomination Pomeroy Terrace Fundraising/ Cemetery Walk House Tour Local Awards Ceremony Spring `05 3.) Demolition Review Ordinance Update 4.) New Business/ Other Business 5.) Adjourn Peg Keller Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communitN development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon recycled paper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES October 25, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Norman Winston, Kim Howes, Jennifer Hayes, Louise, Bloomberg, Barbara Blumenthal and Michael Owens (staff). Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at approximately 6:30pm, a motion was made to accept the minutes of the previous meeting which passed unanimously. Public Comment Period: There was no public comment. Project Updates Memorial Bench: Gloria McPherson will be available Friday to visit the site and discuss landscape design options for the bench area. Louise will coordinate with Susan and Barbara when the time is confirmed. Kim noted that he would provide the register list for graves at the Spring Grove cemetery, which may be helpful to fully document deaths at the state hospital. Award Nominations: The Commission will support the Academy of Music for a Commonwealth award; Karen in the Mayor's office has offered to shepard the nomination paperwork through the process. A cover letter / support letter will be required from the Commission upon submission. Local award nominations for spring 2005 were discussed; a list of the proposed properties will be sent to Peg Keller and included with the next mailing of minutes and agenda. A press release will also be prepared that outlines the nomination process and request candidates. Pomeroy Terrace: Chris is waiting for an e -mail response from Jackie, otherwise there was nothing to report at this time. Cemetery Walk: Susan reported to the group her conversations with George Andrikidis; the DPW feels it needs a policy for the use of cemetery land. Susan as well as any other interested members are encouraged to attend the meeting of the Board of Public Works scheduled for this Wednesday evening at 7pm. Review - Demolition Delay Ordinance Members discussed progress made to date on the draft ordinance, it was noted that it has been difficult to track changes made to the document. Discussion also focused on some of the specifics in terms of identifying properties that would be subject to the delay (static date vs. rolling date vs. list based). The Chair reported on discussions with Peg Keller, Ordinance Committee members, as well as the Planning Director and Building Commissioner. Chris expects these discussions to continue up until the time the document moves out of Ordinance Committee. Members suggested a meeting on Monday the 8th to review the final draft and get a sense of overall support prior to the Ordinance Committee meeting scheduled for the November Stn. Next Meeting: The next scheduled meeting of the Commission is Monday, November 8th at 6:30pm. Respectfully submitted, Michael T. Owens PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITE' OF NORTHAMPTON CitN Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room i i • Northampton, MA o x o60 -3198 • 4 1 3)5 8 7 - x 266 • Fax: 5 87 -1264 Wayne Riden, Director email: planning@ citN. northampton. ma. us• internet :ivwwnorthamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: November 8, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. , to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Council Chambers 212 Main Street Northampton NOTELOCArTONCHANGE AGENDA 1.) .Working. Session/ Demolition Review Ordinance Peg Kel I • planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission• centraIbusinessarchitecture original prin on recgcled paper PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OE NORTHAMPTON City Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA of oGo - 3 1 9 8 - (4 • Fax: S 87-1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • emai l:p fanning @citN.northampton.ma.us • internet :wwwnorthamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: November 29, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2 Floor 210 Main Street Northampton MA AGENDA �) 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance Update 3.) Project Update - Memorial Bench. - .Pomeroy Terrace - Plaque Distribution/ News Coverage - Fundraising 4.) Other Business/ New Business 5.) Adjourn Peg T L Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o f appeals housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development • communitydevelopment • historic district commission • historical commission• central business architecture origina( prin on recycled paper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes November 29, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Norman Winston, Kimball Howes, Barbara Blumenthal, Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Tris Metcalfe, Jennifer Hayes. Also present, Councilor Michael Bardsley, Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m. There was no one present for the public comment period. Councilor Bardsley was in attendance to discuss the Demolition Review Ordinance that he is sponsoring for the Commission. Member Hayes made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, seconded by Member Howes. Demolition Review Ordinance Update Peg summarized the comments that were received from the public and Councilors at the last Ordinance Committee meeting. The issues appear to relate to: the time period of the delay, the definition of demolition, the creation of an inventory and the membership composition of the Commission. The issues were discussed. Councilor Bardsley suggested a visual presentation and the possibility of including primary buildings only. He asked members what was most important to protect. He also stressed the educational component and noted that all Councilors should be invited to the annual Historic Preservation Awards ceremony. It was agreed that a fact sheet would be developed to circulate so the public knows what changes have occurred from the original submission and the current parameters of the Ordinance. It was noted that the Building Commissioner should be contacted to ascertain a definition of demolition with which he can feel comfortable. Commissioners feel strongly about moving forward with a 12 month delay period, but could consider going to a 50% figure for amount of demolition. Additional strategy was discussed and the Councilor was thanked for his attendance and support. 1 Lilly Library There will be a presentation soon about the proposed addition to the Library. Because local Community Development Block grant dollars and other public funds are being utilized, a Section 106 review is being undertaken. Mass. Historical Commission will be looking for comments from the local Commission. The architect and Library Director will come and present the plans, in hopes of having the Commission's comments prior to a Planning Board hearing scheduled for late in January. Spring Grove Burial Records Member Howes reported that records identifying former Northampton State Hospital patients who were buried at the Spring Grove cemetery have been found. Copies have been given to the Cemetery Department. Historic House Plaques Peg has been unable to reach Member Drake, so Member Hayes offered to assist with the distribution of the plaques. !� Florence Preservation Planning Project U The next meeting is scheduled for December 9 Work will continue on gathering information on the earliest homes in Florence. Memorial Bench Members Bloomberg, Well and Blumenthal met with Gloria McPherson of the Planning Department to review the site plan for the bench area. Gloria agreed to revise the plans to something less formal and Ms. Blumenthal will talk to Smith Vocational about doing the work and conducting on -going maintenance. 350 Publications Member Bloomberg noted that the newest Chap Book would be released shortly on the Silk industry in Northampton. Members remarked about the incredible publications that have been created by such talented local historians in celebration of the 350 Adjourn/ There being no additional business to discuss, the meeting concluded at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 6 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Peg Kel NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: December 20, 2004 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Council Chambers NOTE L0CATION CHANGE 212 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance Update 3.). Project Updates - Memorial Bench - House Plaques - Hotel Bridge - Pomeroy Terrace 4.) New Project/ State Hospital. Memorialization 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn iRl City Hall • 21 o Main Street, Room i i • Northarnpton, MA o i o6o -3 i 98 • 4 1 3)5 8 7 - i 266 • Fax: 5 87 -i 264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @nortbamptonplanning.org www.northamptonplanning.org Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northarnpton CIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon regdedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes December 20, 2004 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Louise Bloomberg, Kim Howes, Barbara Blumenthal, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe, Jennifer Hayes. Also present, Peg Keller, staff, Martine Hargreaves, Director of the Lilly Library, Ken Jodrie, Architect, Caolo and Bieniek Associates, Inc. and Bob Mahar, Chair of the Lilly Library Building Committee. Call to Order: Presentation/ Lilly Library Addition Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. with the presence of a quorum. The representatives from the Lilly Library were introduced. The purpose of the presentation was to review a plan being pursued relative to an addition to the library. Due to the public nature of the project and the use of local CDBG funding, the Mass. Historical Commission is seeking the comments of the local commission. Mr. Jodrie began by distributing copies of an information packet that he had submitted to Ann Lattinville at Mass. Historic. He noted that the plans had changed since the original submission to the Northampton Planning Board. The 6,300 square foot addition proposed has been reduced 1,000 sq. ft. to total 5,300 sq. ft. The library is currently 4,180 sq. ft. The 1.1 million dollar funding required is now in place. Mr. Jodrie noted that this plan will be submitted to the Planning Board for review on January 27 and he would like to have the approval of the local Historical Commission prior to that date. Mr. Jodrie summarized that the scale has already been reduced in response to neighborhood concerns. His design strives to place the 2 story addition more to the rear of the site, leaving the eastern fagade that faces downtown Florence, relatively intact. The existing materials include a granite base, brick work above and wood work in the gable ends. He said that the addition would carry the wood work theme throughout, by matching the existing wood with paintable fiber siding. All of the existing features would be replicated with new materials, as the use of granite and brick is cost prohibitive. The proposed addition will be concrete faceted with simulated stone, on the first floor. Aluminum windows will be used, replicating the existing divisions. He noted that additional funding might 1 be sought at a later date to replace the existing windows and repair the slate roof and repoint the existing brick. Mr. Jodrie circulated a materials sample for the siding. A discussion of the pros and cons of fiber cement siding ensued. Mr. Jodrie said he was looking for agreement on his plan to preserve the east elevation to the extent possible, and place the addition more toward the rear and west sides of the property. Chair Kennedy agreed with that premise. Mr. Howes asked about illumination and was told that the lighting would be directed downward, more towards the direction of downtown. Mr. Jodrie continued that the siding color would either be matched to the existing color of the wood, or the existing wood would be painted the new color. Members discussed ADA access, the placement of the mechanicals and the site's setback limitations. It was reiterated that solid granite and granite facing are very expensive, and beyond the limits of the existing budget. Member Metcalfe supported the massing on the rear of the existing building and suggested moving the mechanicals to a lower or below ground level to free up the east elevation. He thought the public view should have higher weight than the concerns of a single abutter (on the west). Mr. Jodrie pointed out that the budget would not allow going underground for the mechanicals. Mr. Metcalfe suggested a summer reading deck on top of the roof of the east program room addition, to avoid looking out from the existing building onto a flat roof. He added that the proposed addition has no frieze depth with a heavy cornice, which is the opposite of the existing building. Discussion followed about relocating proposed uses to free up more of the east elevation. Mr. Jodrie emphasized how difficult it has been to date to do the space planning relative to the site limitations. In conclusion, the Commission offered the following comments: ■ Reinforce the effort to free up the east fagade ■ Replicate the proportions of the frieze and cornice of the existing building on the addition • Research an alternate material from the aluminum coil stock on the fascia (to for example, fiber cement) • Change the 3 over 3 design of the proposed windows in the new program room to one over ones (to match the existing) • Approximate as close as possible the dome lentil over the new second floor windows in the addition on the east • Rethink the upper panel on the roof above the program room addition and consider a railing instead • While acknowledging budget limitations, there is still a strong preference for the use of brick and granite for the addition, as opposed to alternate 2 1 materials ■ Reconsider the 5 arched windows on the western elevation; keep 3 on the east, 3 on the west, over the bay and keep the 3 on the north over the bay. Money can be saved on the west elevation by eliminating the arches. It was agreed that staff would email a draft of the letter that will be sent to Mass. Historical to members for their review. At that point, the guests departed. Other Updates Memoria /Bench/ Member Bloomberg met with Gloria McPherson (OPD) and expressed the concerns of the Sub - committee. Ms. McPherson agreed to redo the draft plan. House P lagues/ Member Hayes said she had contacted the press but had not received a call back. All the plaques have been picked up except for one. Pomeroy Terrace/ Peg reported that she had received an email from Jacquie Scott saying she had been recently sidetracked from the project by giving birth to twins!! All members felt that was a legitimate reason for not having heard from her!! Members send their heartiest congratulations and Peg will get a card for members to sign at the next meeting. Jacquie is on maternity leave until the spring and said she will get back to her interviews in late January. State Hospita /Memoria /ization Project/ Peg and Chris updated members on the new task assigned to the Commission. At the last CAC meeting there were former State Hospital employees requesting the protection and restoration of the fountain currently located in front of Old Main. The Mayor asked for volunteers from the CAC, the Historical Commission and the former employees to come together to form a committee to supply ideas to the developer that would satisfy their obligation in the Memorandum of Agreement from Mass. Historic. Member Blumenthal suggested that some members of the Save Old Main organization might be interested in participating. Peg said the effort would get underway after the first of the year, hopefully with an intern to assist. Citizen's Advisory Committee/ State Hospital/ Having learned about the resignation of Tom Douglas as the historic preservation advocate to the CAC, the Commission suggested the following names as a replacement: Garritt Stover, Steve Strimer, Chris Kennedy and Jordi Herold. Those names will be forwarded to the Mayor for her consideration. Demolition Review Ordinance/ Members were updated on where the process stood. It appears that we have the "'blessing" of the consortium to move ahead on an ordinance that allows delays for projects proposing total demolition. 3 !� Work will continue on a redraft with resubmission to the Ordinance Committee in January. The dialogue will continue with the members assembled for the consortium at a later date, in order to pursue something more restrictive than total demolition. The Chamber remains committed to the development of an inventory. This work would come at a later date as well. Members of the consortium included: Jonathon Wright, Suzanne Beck, Councilors Ghiselin and Bleiman, Tony Patillo, Building Inspector, David Murphy, Bob Walker and a representative of the Franklin /Hampshire Realtors Association. Present for the Commission were members Well, Howes and Chair Kennedy. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller IN