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2005 Historical Commission minutesz�-cnA-I ? Gh�k -z4 - o5 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Cit2gHall• 2io Main Street, Room ii • No4ampton,MAoio6o -3i98 • 44S87-i266 • Fax587 -i264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: January 31, 2005 TIME: 00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2 Floor 210 Main Street- Northampton AGENDA c � 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Demolition Review Ordinance Update 3.) Project Updates - Florence Preservation Planning Project - Pomeroy Terrace - Memorial Bench - State Hospital Memorialization Project - Local Awards Ceremony 4.) New Projects /. 2005 5.) Other Business Peg Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopmentautyoritN • northampton CIS economic development community development • historic district commission •. historical commission , central business architecture original priatedonrecycledpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes January 31, 2005 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Susan Well, Norman Winston, Kim Howes, Barbara Blumenthal. Also present, Councilor Michael Bardsley and Peg Keller, staff. Absent, Jennifer Hayes, Tris Metcalfe, Louise Bloomberg. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. Ms. Blumenthal made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Mr. Winston. The minutes were approved. Demolition Review Ordinance Peg Keller reviewed the process to date. It appears that the remaining opposition focuses on three points; the composition of the Commission, the 12 month delay period and the inventory. Councilor Bardsley described the role of the Ordinance Committee and the Council and offered some process suggestions. The members then discussed each remaining issue. Composition/ Chair Kennedy proposed that certain types of members be represented on the Commission, but that membership should not mimic a 40C district exactly, as that is difficult to attain. Two nominations from each of the American Institute of Architects, the local real estate community and Historic Northampton becomes cumbersome to satisfy. It was agreed that the Chamber would be contacted to ascertain what types of representation they are seeking and try to address that either formally or informally through membership attrition and Mayoral appointments. 12 month time period/ All present felt this was still the optimal time period in order to provide a disincentive to demolition and to allow sufficient time to negotiate an alternative course of action. It was suggested that a list of the communities that have increased their time periods (i.e. several have increased theirs from 6 and 9 months to 12 months) be compiled to provide to Ordinance members and other Councilors. Invento Councilor Bardsley wondered if a phased approach might be palatable to those in favor of an inventory. He suggested that any property built prior to 1900 be automatically flagged (and then evaluated for significance) but an inventory be compiled for buildings built from 1901 to 1939. This was discussed and will be offered to the Chamber representatives as a possible option. Councilor Bardsley asked if it were possible to have the Ordinance Committee meeting televised. Peg will pursue this. Member Howes asked if there were additional information available on criteria to be used for property selection. His point was, relative to the discussion about composition, that the guidelines defining the significance are more important than the actual people on the Commission. The point was also made that if the composition of the Commission is altered, the original ordinance language from 1975 will need to be revised. A review clause versus a sunset clause was discussed. Councilor Bardsley noted the Council is doing away with sunset clauses, but he supported a review clause at which time the operational success of the Ordinance could be evaluated. Members discussed people to contact to give public testimony and it was agreed that a fact sheet on the current parameters of the Ordinance should be distributed, in view of all the revisions that have been made. Councilor Bardsley was thanked for his attendance and participation. He departed. Florence Preservation Planning Project/ Ms. Well has created instructional sheets on how to conduct historical research on homes. This was done in C' preparation for the "'block party" sessions that will be scheduled. Peg will recontact Steve Strimer to see when he is available to host such an event and a meeting of the Planning Project will also be scheduled. State Hospital Memorialization Project/ Peg had been waiting to hear about the availability of an intern to assist with this effort. The intern will not be available. Peg will move ahead with convening a meeting to undertake this endeavor. Barbara Blumenthal and Chair Kennedy agreed to assist with this. Local Awards Ceremony/ Ms. Blumenthal will contact the press to run a brief article asking for nominations. She also agreed to email the preliminary list to members. Peg will ask the Building Department for ideas. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 8:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller C i 9 ,s d , X23 - O,5 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTI3AMPTON City Hall • 2I o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o 1 o 6 0 - 3 1 9 8 (4 • Fax: 5 87-1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • pl anning@northamptonplannifig.org www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: February 28, 2005 TIME: ` 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton MA Agenda \ 1,) 2.) 3.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.) 8.) Public Comment Period Demolition Review Update Local Awards Ceremony ➢ Review of Nominations ➢ Property Assignments 350 Publications Update State Hospital/ Citizen's Advisory Committee Memorialization Project Florence Preservation Planning Project Other Business Adjourn Peg Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS .. economic development • community development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originaIprintedon recycledpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes February 28, 2005 Members Present: Chair Kennedy, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Barbara Blumenthal, Susan Well, Jennifer Hayes, Kimball Howes. Members absent, Louise Bloomberg, David Drake. Also present, Peg Keller, staff and Joan Turcotte, interested citizen. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. The November and January minutes were approved. Demolition Review Ordinance Discussion Peg reviewed the comments received from the Chamber and David Murphy. The final issues were discussed. The Chamber has endorsed the draft with the exception of one word that the Building Commissioner needs to review. Members reviewed the language in view of the Chamber concerns. Peg will draft the final revisions and circulate them to members, the Building Commissioner and members of the ad hoc consortium. Members were encouraged to attend the Ordinance Committee meeting scheduled for March 15 State Hospital Memorialization Ms. Turcotte inquired as to the Commission's plans for this endeavor. She was informed that the members had a few other projects to complete before embarking on this one. She expressed her interest in being involved and members thanked her for coming and agreed to keep her posted about the formation of a Committee and future events. 350 Committee Update Ms. Well reported that new copies of some of the chap books have been printed to meet current demand. She listed the names of the current books and the locations where they can be purchased. Historic Northampton Smith College Bookstore Forbes Library Smith College Fine Arts Center Broadside Bookstore Yiddish Book Center Collective Copies Book -ends Gabriel Bookstore She said that Lu Stone has agreed to become the distribution agent. Ms. Well said that soon a news release will inform that the Historical Commission will be taking over for the 350 Committee. She mentioned the names of the people that have been involved and that during this transition time she will continue to �. take care of loose ends. She suggested that with a new printing, that "boxed sets" could be created for sale. Members Hayes and Blumenthal offered their assistance in picking up responsibility for this exciting enterprise. Local Awards Ceremony Members reviewed the current list and added some potential new awardees. All members need to drive by the locations and come prepared to vote at the March meeting. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller F d - f 3.3 05 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Citvp Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o i o60 -3 i 98 (4 • Pax: 587 -1264 Warne Peiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: March 28, 2005 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2nd Floor 210 Main Street Northampton MA AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Local Awards Ceremony/ Selection of Awardees /Event Planning 3.) Project Updates ❑ Demolition Review Ordinance Update ❑ Memorial Bench/ Spring Implementation o Chap Book Production/ Distribution Plans 4.) New Projects 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn Peg Kelle S.22 ,Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communitrdevelopment • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture originalprintedon recgcledpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION ` Minutes March 28, 2005 Members Present: Barbara Blumenthal, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Jennifer Hayes. Call to Order/ The meeting was called to order at 6:38 p.m. Member Blumenthal made a motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Member Hayes. No one was present for the public comment period. Demolition Review Ordinance Update Final assignments were made relative to following up with the Chamber and City Councilors. Members discussed how to approach the actual Council meeting where the first vote would be taken. Members discussed final language revisions. It was determined that most of the opponents were now in support, so it is important to let Councilors know that the consensus building has been C > successful. Memorial Bench Member Blumenthal reported that she has been in communication with people at Smith Vocational High School and students are able to do some site work on a limited basis. They do mow it now, twice yearly. Ms. Blumenthal has agreed to be the contact person to move the project forward. The plan designed by Gloria McPherson will be pursued with some minor alterations. Members discussed possible suppliers of stone and plantings. Ms. Blumenthal will follow up. Running a news article to raise funds was mentioned. Local Awards / Annual Historic Preservation Ceremony Member Blumenthal offered to do the program handout again this year and Member Hayes agreed to create the Power Point presentation. Individual nominations were discussed and assignments made to contact property owners. Additional information was needed for 2 of the projects. Final determinations will be made at time of receipt of that information. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:00 p.m. -' Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 1 4-41-03 n PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CITY OF NORTHAMPTON city -Raff • 210 Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA o i o -3 • (4 3) 5. 8 7 -2266 • Fax: 5 87 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonptanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: April 25, 2005 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 Inventory Creation Strategy 3.) Community Preservation Act Update 4.) Local Awards Ceremony 5.) 350 Committee/ Chap Book Management Plan 6.) New Date for May Meeting r 7.) Other Business 8.) Adjourn Peg Kell 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 business architecture originalprintedon reeNdedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes April 25, 2005 Members Present: Chairman Chris Kennedy, Kimball Howes, Norman Winston, Barbara Blumenthal, Susan Well. Peg Keller, staff. Also present: Kathy Silva, Corby Mandeville and 2 other members of the public interested in the Community Preservation Act update, were also in attendance; Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Member Blumenthal made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting, seconded by Member Winston. The minutes were approved as submitted. Community Preservation Act Update/ Chair Kennedy reported that he had attended a meeting and had learned about the background of this effort, and current activities. He said that after previous attempts, there seems to be more support this year for its passage. He said the Mayor needed to put forward the override option last year, and felt that CPA would have competed with that, so U she was not in support. It appears this year that she is willing to see what grass roots support materializes. He reported that the organizational structure to work for passage is being formed. He said the purpose of tonight's update was to inform the members that the effort is moving ahead. The work of the Commission, preservation of historic resource, would be one of the areas to benefit, should the law pass. The three areas are historic resources, open space and affordable housing. He told the interested citizens that the 2 co- chairs of the effort, George Kohout and Lilly Lombard would be coming to the next meeting for an actual presentation. Demolition Review Update/ Chair Kennedy reported that the Ordinance had passed, with one vote opposed (Councilor Dostal). Chair Kennedy said, now, the Commission needs to move efficiently and prudently to implement this legislation. He feels that in putting it into practice, decisions should be broad for the initial threshold of determining historical significance, to allow broad based public input, but narrow at the preferably preserved designation phase. A work session was scheduled for May 16 to flesh out selection criteria and how to approach the inventory with the assistance of an intern. Issues around how to pay the intern were discussed. Member Well offered to ask the assessor's office if they can sort properties according to construction dates (i.e. from 1901- 1939). 1 Mr. Duffy's Tire Building/ Member Hayes distributed a report ( in absentia), outlining the status of this historic building. Members will read the report and be prepared to comment at the next meeting. Local Awards Ceremony/ Members discussed the logistics and assignments for the upcoming ceremony to be held May 11 relative to the food, programs, book sales, the power point presentation and other miscellaneous items. CHAP Book Management/ Member Blumenthal offered to contact Lu Stone relative to book orders and distribution and agreed to be the point person for this undertaking. She will develop an accounting system to be track income and expenditures. Member Well will assist with this. Ms. Blumenthal was thanked for her willingness to take this on. On -Line Form B's/ Members expressed continued frustration at not being able to use the City's website to access the forms. Peg will relay this to the Planning Department technician. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:30 p.m. The May meeting will be held May 23r ^1 instead of May 30 t h, a holiday. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 0 2 c • 05 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Cit29 Hall • 21 o Main Street, Room ii Northampton, MA of o60 -3198 • 14131587 -1266 Fax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION - Meeting Notice DATE: . May 23, 2005 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.) Approval of Minutes C 1 3.) Guest Presentation/ Community Preservation Act ' 4.) Project Updates/ ➢ Demolition Review Ordinance - Guidelines for Selection - Potential Projects ➢ New Haven Canal Project ➢ Memorial Bench /State Hospital ➢ Awards- Ceremony/ Evaluation 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn Peg Keller Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton CIS economic development • community development • historic district commission • historicaIcommission •_central business architecture original printed on recgcledpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes May 23, 2005 Members Present: Christopher Kennedy, Chair; Susan Well, Barbara Blumenthal, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe, Kim Howes. Also present, Michael O'Connor, 61 Laurel Park property owner and George Kohout and Lilly Lombard on behalf of the Community Preservation Act. Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order; Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. The first item on the agenda was an application for demolition, discussion relative to the newly adopted Demolition Review Ordinance. 61 Laurel Park Mr. O'Connor described the property and how he had come to own it. He explained what his renovation plans were, which involved demolition. He did plan to reuse the roof trusses. Chair Kennedy explained that this was the Commission's first application since the passage of the Ordinance. He described the process relative to the determination of significance. He reviewed the criteria to be considered; history of the property, history of the park, economic contribution to the area, the applicants' economic situation, the cultural significance and architectural significance. Chair Kennedy then offered his opinion regarding the property. He described what he knew about "spiritual" camps and the context of Laurel Park as a religious summer retreat. He said that every property in the Park contributes to the significance of the whole, which is unique. He said that making a determination of "not significance" on one property would make it difficult to deem others significant in the future. He said the Commission could not be arbitrary or capricious, and needed to apply the law uniformly. His goal would be to strive for public dialogue. By issuing a determination of significance, this would allow for it to be opened up to a public process. Member Metcalfe asked for plans for the renovation. It was determined that what the applicant plans for the property is not germane to the initial determination of significance of the existing property. Member Blumenthal said that after her site visit, she had observed that after a fire in 2000, not a lot of the rear of the building remains. The applicant concurred that the fire smell n remains, and that the studs were not placed appropriately, which he saw when the interior was stripped. Member Howes felt there was no historical significance for this particular property. The applicant circulated photographs of Laurel Park in earlier days and noted that the oldest properties were located on the innermost circle. The properties on the periphery, where his is located, were built later. Member Metcalfe felt that the determination should be made that the property is significant. Members Howes and Winston felt otherwise. Member Blumenthal said she did not feel like this property met the test for significance; Member Well said that the theory does hold true that if Laurel Park is significant as a unit then component parts of that unit should be defined as contributing elements. Chair Kennedy asked for a motion. Member Howes made a motion to determine that 61 Laurel Park should not be determined to be significant; the motion was seconded by Member Metcalfe. The vote in favor of the motion was 3, the vote opposed to the motion was 2, the motion carried. Peg Keller told the applicant that the Building Inspector would be notified that he could proceed with demolition. Community Preservation Act Presentation ^� George Kohout and Lilly Lombard made a presentation about the Act to the Commission. The three components mandated to receive funds are affordable housing, open space and resources for historic preservation. Belchertown, Easthampton, Amherst and Westhampton, are the closest towns to have adopted the Act. The grass roots group is proposing that the first $100,000 of property value be exempted. They are advocating for its' inclusion on the November ballot. The effort began in March. Now formal committees are being established. The Steering Committee has researched different surcharge levels and will be making a recommendation soon to the general committee. Most communities have adopted 3% levels. The guests then asked for an endorsement from the Commission. They also asked for a list of projects that the Commission could imagine being funded by this program. The guests departed. Member Metcalfe made a motion for the Commission to endorse the adoption of the Community Preservation Act, seconded by Member Well. The vote was unanimous in favor. Chair Kennedy will communicate the vote results to the co- chairs and continue to attend the CPA meetings. Minutes The minutes of the previous meeting were approved. Demolition Review Ordinance Selection Guidelines/ Chair Kennedy is working on a draft. He will have it ready for the work session scheduled for June 15 OJ New Haven /Northampton Canal/ Chair Kennedy has been attending meetings. Southampton did fund a study. The report is being reformatted for a National Register nomination. The Mass. Historical Commission has endorsed it. There is a 5 city Commission and letters are going out to representatives. Memorial Bench/ Member Metcalfe has solicited a donation of stone from Goshen Stone. Member Blumenthal is still pursuing other material donations. Smith Voc has agreed to provide students to do the installation, 3 or 4 days. They have expressed concerns about on -going maintenance, however. Member Blumenthal will continue working to bring the project to fruition. Awards Ceremony Evaluation/ It was noted that members need to remember to invite City Councilors specifically, and Councilor Bardsley could be asked to be the annual keynote speaker. He is very interested in the event and it was unfortunate that no one knew the Mayor could not attend until the last minute. Councilor Bardsley would have been happy to attend, had he known ahead of time. Otherwise, the event went beautifully. Thanks to all. 26 School Street This is a second demolition application that was referred by the Planning Department. The project involves demolition of an old barn, in order to construct a new garage. Chair Kennedy had done an on -site visit and circulated photographs to members via email. Member Howes made a motion that the barn located at 26 School Street be determined not to be significant. The motion was seconded by Member Well. The vote in favor of the motion was unanimous. Inventory for Demolition Review Ordinance Member Well circulated a list of properties she had run for those dated between 1901 and 1939. There are between 621 and 918 in the 01060 zip code. Work needs to continue on figuring out how to secure the services of interns for the summer. The list provided by Ms. Well, is a great starting point. Adjourn/ A work session was confirmed for June 15 th . The meeting then concluded at 8:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 3 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT e CITY OF NORTHAMPTON Citvq Hafl - 2i o Main street, Room ii - Northampton, MA o i o6p -3198 - 41 3) 5 87 -i266 • Fax: g 87 -r264 Wayne Feiden, Director • p lanning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: June 27, 2005 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.) Approval of Minutes 3.) Project Updates/ ➢ Demolition Review Ordinance - Guidelines.for Selection - Intern Work on Inventory ➢ 350 Memorabilia/ Publications Income ➢ Memorial Bench /State Hospital ➢ Community Preservation Act Update ➢ Cornerstone Research 4.) New Business - Memorialization Committee/ Start Up 5.) Adjourn .2_1 Peg Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning boardo of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton -Gis economic development • community development , historic district commission • historical commission •.centralbusiness architecture originalprintedon recycledpaper - — - -I NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES June 27, 2005 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Norman Winston, Kim Howes, Jennifer Hayes, Louise Bloomberg, Barbara Blumenthal and Michael Owens (staff). Tris Metcalfe arrived at 6:50 p.m. Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at approximately 6:30 p.m., a motion was made to accept the minutes of the previous meeting, which passed unanimously. Public Comment Period: There was no public comment. 350Th Memorabilia Income Barbara reported that she had conversations with a local book store about distributing the 350th book series, as requests come in the book store would fill them and keep a small amount of the proceeds as a fee. Members discussed marketing issues and made a recommendation that there be a written contract with the distributor. Staff suggested that because the Commission is considering assigning an item of value that there should be a conversation with the City's procurement officer. It was agreed that staff will speak with Joe Cook to determine the process for assigning a book distribution contract and that the Commisson will have an opportunity to review a written contract prior to the next meeting. Project Updates Memorial Bench: The design is complete and although the school year at Smith Vocational has ended the students will complete the landscaping in the fall. Many great items were donated including Goshen stone trap rock and possibly some rose bushes. The memorial will be a fitting tribute to the state hospital residents' intereed at the location. CPA Update: The Chair explained the law and the procedures it sets up. A CPA steering committee has been established and in early August the signature drive will begin; the hope is to get the issue on the ballot in November. It is estimated that matching funds from the state could provide up to 1.2 million dollars annually for affordable housing, open space and historic preservation. There would be a low- income senior exemption and the first $100,00 in value would also be exempted. The CPA is voted in every five years, 900 signatures are needed to get the issue before the voters. The Commission has publicly supported enactment of the CPA and will work to keep the issue in the public spotlight as the election approaches. Time Capsule: Kim Howes reported on the 350th time capsule that will be placed at the JFK school in cooperation with the students as a history project. Florence Casket contributed the cement box that will serve as the capsule and be opened in 50 years. Items from the 350th celebration will be placed in the vault. Demo Ordinance I Property Inventory: The Chair introduced the two interns working on the inventory and they provided information on their background and the status of their work. They have completed the citywide canvassing, photos are complete and they expect to have 50 — 60 properties for inclusion in the inventory. Both interns will have a presentation for the Commission at the July 2005 meeting. The Commission must agree on the list then it goes to the Building Commissioner for the required public hearing. It was noted that a six -month review meeting with the City Council will be held in Oct 2005. New Business: Tris reported that an architect / developer is interested in Old Main and this may be the last hope to save the building. He will try to get a meeting arranged with the developer and Mass Development to tour the structure. Updates: The canal building demolition (Fly By Night) has passed muster on all City permits and is expected to move forward after the appeal period is over. There was some limited research done on the building and unfortunately there is no way to prove that it was part of the canal operations. The Commission has asked the property owner, Richard Zafft, to takes steps to document the building prior to demolition. They are waiting for a response. It is hoped that HABS documentation of the structure can be completed as well as some wood core samplings taken to determine age. The owner may be more willing to explore these options after the appeal period has ended. As there was no other business the meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:10 p.m. Next Meeting: The next scheduled meeting of the Commission is Monday, July 25, 2005 at 6:30 p.m. �\ Respectfully submitted, Michael T. Owens } PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NORTHAMPTON City Hal[ • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA or o60 - 3?98 - (4 • Fax: S87 -1264 Warne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: July 25, 2005 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.) Approval of Minutes -,� 3.) Project Updates/ ➢ Demolition Review Ordinance - Intern Presentation/ Inventory Update Aaron Helfand, Andrea Drake ➢ 350 Memorabilia/ Publications Update ➢ Memorial Bench /State Hospital ➢ Community Preservation Act Update ➢ Cornerstone Research 4.) New Business - Memorialization Committee/ Start Up - Request re: DPW building skylights - Photo Documentation/ 31 State Street 5.) Adjourn e Peg Kel Date 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 origina[printedon rec2qdedpaper / NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes July 25, 2005 Members Present: Christopher Kennedy, Chair, Kimball Howes, Barbara Blumenthal, Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, Norman Winston, Jennifer Hayes. Also present, Councilor Alex Ghiselin, Michael Kirby, Gerrit Stover, Aaron Helfand, Andrea Drake, Planning Director Wayne Feiden. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:37 p.m. Guests present were interested in items on the agenda. No one spoke during the public comment period. Rail Trail Project/ Planning Director Feiden presented plans for the Rail Trail project from Easthampton to downtown. He circulated a map showing the proposed bike path, and described what was happening at different intersections. He said there was a slight project change that necessitated a new letter to the Massachusetts Historical Commission. He said the only historical aspects of the project that he was aware of, were the granite bridge abutments at Earl and Grove Streets. The granite is proposed for reuse as benches, hopefully in downtown locations. Chair Kennedy said those abutments were his primary concern. He agreed to support the project and sign a letter confirming same, with the stipulation that the granite be reused. Member Howes made a motion to that affect, seconded by Member Blumenthal. The vote in favor of the motion was unanimous. Mr. Feiden said the project would be advertised this October, with construction planned for next spring. Mr. Feiden then asked for a letter requested by the consultant working on the bike path planned for Leeds (to Williamsburg). This trail will be from Bridge Road, through Look Park and into Leeds. The Arch Bridge will be retained and repointed. He said he would have additional information about this stretch for the Commission at the August meeting. There is no time crunch on sign -off for this section. Member Well asked Mr. Feiden to bring a map illustrating the proposed bike path location. He agreed. Green Street/ Interested citizen Michael Kirby asked to address the Commission relative to the buildings on Green Street. As a representative of CANN, he showed members a map of properties owned by Smith College. He advocated for the protection of the Victorian buildings in the West Street neighborhood, the commercial structures on Green St. and the Spanish style residence on Belmont Avenue. He asked what assistance the Commission could provide. Chair Kennedy �! described the nomination process for inclusion of the district on the National 1 Register. He said that route could be pursued, although he did not think it met thresholds of being thematically noteworthy. It was noted that some of the buildings proposed for demolition might need to be considered as part of the demolition review process. Mr. Kirby was thanked for his interest and Chair Kennedy offered the Commission's assistance where applicable. DPW Skylights/ Councilor Ghiselin addressed the Commission with a request for them to render an opinion about the planned removal of skylights at the DPW building. The lights, previously covered with plastic and grime, have been uncovered and cleaned and are now providing much needed natural light for the employees that work in the space. He said the City needs to set a good example for historic preservation as it carries out its own projects and be environmentally progressive as well. He said that no process exists currently for the review of City projects. He noted that the Central Services Department is maintenance oriented and he advocated for a process to evaluate historic preservation and environmental aspects. He also asked the Commission if they felt they could offer an opinion relative to the saving of the skylights at the DPW building, which are slated for removal. Chair Kennedy said that upon receiving the request, he went to the DPW and spoke with the Director and some of the employees. The Director is concerned about heat loss and OSHA regulations. Chair Kennedy said that the building is U indeed historic, as the lights indicate a style associated with the early 1900's, and the building is an old trolley barn. He suggested that the Commission send a letter to the DPW asking that the lights be retained " "if at all possible ". A draft letter was circulated. Member Hayes made a motion to send the letter, with some revisions. The motion was seconded by Member Howes, the vote in favor of the motion was unanimous. Councilor Ghiselin thanked the Commission and said that he would support the Capital Improvement Committee giving their proposed list of projects to the Historic Commission for review. Gerrit Stover mentioned that with the possible advent of the Community Preservation Act and the resultant projects, the Commission would have a stronger position to monitor City projects. Approval of Minutes/ With a motion from Member Blumenthal and a second by Member Howes, the minutes from the past two meetings were approved, with one revision. Intern Presentation/ Aaron Helfand and Andrea Drake then presented their findings on the inventory required in the newly adopted Demolition Review Ordinance. They presented a power point slide show that depicted photographs of many properties in the City. They explained their methodology for determining -J which properties were significant. They split up the City and drove down every 2 street, taking note of which properties exemplified the criteria they had established. At the conclusion of the presentation, they presented CD's of the inventory and a notebook brimming with completed Form B surveys for the properties selected. Commission members thanked them for their excellent work and expressed appreciation for such a competent and professional product. This will assist greatly with moving ahead on the mandated progress reports to the City Council and to the final formulation of the inventory. (!!!!!!!!) 350 Books/ Member Blumenthal has taken steps to acquire three bids, as instructed by the City's Procurement Officer. Peg will work with her on the contract. Members requested that a balance in the gift account be brought to the next meeting. Memorial Bench/ Gary Warner of Goshen Stone has agreed to donate the stone for the path. He will be contacted in the fall. Member Blumenthal is looking for someone to donate the rose shrubs. All the elements are coming together, including the offer from Smith Voc. to do the installation. Member Blumenthal will continue bringing the project to fruition. Community Preservation Act/ Chair Kennedy reported that the opening campaign kick -off is scheduled for September 8th Cornerstone Research/ Members Well and Hayes agreed to take the material given to Peg to see if they could determine the appropriate location at the State Hospital. Florence Preservation Project/ A meeting will be scheduled in September, after everyone is back from vacations. Adjourn The meeting concluded at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 3 '7 69.05 PLA.NNING AND DEVELOPMENT - CITY OF NORTELAIVOTON City Hal[ • 21 o Main Street, Room z 1 • Northampton, MA o 1 o60 -3198 • (413) 5 8 7- 12 66 Fax 5 87 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @nortyamptonplartning.org • wwwmortbamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: August 3, 2005 TIME: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 P.M. PLACE: City Hall. Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton MA AGENDA 1.) Review of Applications for Demolition Review ■ 117 Straw Avenue/ Robert Ficarra/ demolish 2 sheds/ approx. 1908 ■ 323 Riverside Drive/ Kris Thompson/ demolish shed /approx. 1840 ■ 498 Spring Street, Leeds / Paul Griffin/ demolish garage/ approx.1920 2.) Other Business Peg Keller Date planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o f appeals • housing partnership redevelopment autf)ority • northampton CIS - economic development • communitS development .. yistoric district. commission .• historical commission • central business architecture originaIprintedon recycledpaper Historical Commission Minutes of August 3, 2005 Hearing Room, City Hall, 210 Main Street, Northampton Members present: Chris Kennedy, Barbara Blumenthal, Louise Bloomberg, Tristram Metcalf, Susan Well, Norm Winston, and Jennifer Hayes. Staff present: Wayne Feiden Chris Kennedy opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. 323 Riverside Drive, Bay State (map 30A- 37) —At 5:35 PM Kris Thompson presented the application. The shed was built in the early part of the 20 century but is currently in a very advanced state of collapse. Upon motion by Jennifer Hayes and second by Tris Metcalf, the Historical Commission voted unanimously that the property has been determined not to be significant according to the Demolition Delay Ordinace definition and that a Demolition Permit may be issued. 498 Spring Street, Leeds (map 16A -9) -- at 5:40 PM Paul Griffin presented the application. The shed is not significant and in an advanced state of collapse. r 1 , Upon motion by Susan Well and second by Jennifer Hayes, the Historical Commission voted unanimously that the property has been determined not to be significant according to the Demolition Delay Ordinance definition and that a Demolition Permit may be issued. 117 Straw Avenue, Florence (map 17D -19) —Robert Ficarra called staff on August 0 and requested a continuance. He said he had also faxed a written request, but Feiden reported that he checked the fax machine just before the meeting and it was working and no fax was received. Based on that, the Commission decided they needed to take up the matter within their 15 -day statutory review period, but could revisit the matter with Mr. Ficarra at a future meeting. The Historical Commission, with the Building Commissioner's assistance, determined the following chronology: 1. On July 18, 2005, Mr. Ficarra filed a written application for a demolition permit. 2. On July 18, 2005, in a phone conversation with the Building Department Mr. Ficarra indicated that the house was build circa 1908 and didn't know when the sheds were built. It appears likely that they were built at approximately the same time. 3. On July 19, 2005, the Building Commissioner's office mailed Mr. Ficarra a denied permit request noting that a Demolition Delay permit was required. 4. During July 20, 2005 site visits, both the Building Commissioner and Historic Commission members found that the sheds had already been removed without either a Demolition Permit or a finding from the Historical Commission. �� •. Upon motion by Jennifer Hayes and second by Tris Metcalf, the Historical Commission voted unanimously to find that the sheds are no longer on the site and no Demolition Delay permit or finding was obtained and to invoke Section 28 -8(3) of the City of Northampton Demolition Delay Ordinance, which reads "...if a building and /or structure subject to this Ordinance is demolished without first obtaining a Building Permit for demolition, no Building Permit shall be issued for a period of 2 (two) years from the date of demolition on the subject parcel of land unless otherwise agreed to by the Commission." The Commission determined that this prohibition on work will remain in place until the Historical Commission has an opportunity to meet with Mr. Ficarra to determine whether there are mitigating circumstances that would allow a shorter construction delay period, or for two years, whichever is shorter. Respectfully submitted, Wayne Feiden August 3 minutes --- wfeidenSeptember 21, 2005 - -- Paget - PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CITY Y OF NORTHAMPTON CkN Hall • a1 o Main Street, Room ii • Northampton, MA or o60 -3198 • (413) 587 -1a66 • Fax: S WaNne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org www'northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: August 29, 2005 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 210 Main Street Northampton MA AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) , Demolition Review Application ■ 117 Straw Avenue/ Robert Ficarra/ demolish 2 sheds/ approx. 1908 Follow- Up discussion 3.) Project Updates • Cornerstone Research • Florence Preservation Planning Project o Memorial Bench Site o New Projects 4.) Other Business 5.) Adjourn Peg Keller Housing an Community Development Planner 587 -1288 pkeller @northamptonma.gov planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton CIS economic development • communiq development • historic district commission • historical commission • central business architecture - originalprintetion recyciedpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes August 29, 2005 Members Present: Christopher Kennedy, Chair, Kim Howes, David Drake, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg. Also present, Wayne Feiden, Planning Director, Peg Keller, staff, Robert Ficarra, applicant and the applicant's cousin (name unknown). Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. The minutes of the last meeting were approved as submitted. Presentation/ Rail Trail Project Mr. Feiden updated the Commission relative to the bike path projects in the community. He distributed maps depicting the plan for the section from Look Park to Williamsburg. He noted 4 historical resources that may be impacted. They are a granite box culvert opposite the Veterans' Administration Campus, which remain and be reused, a granite abutment behind the Look Restaurant, the Arch Street Bridge and the arched bridge over Beaver Brook. There are plans to put fences along the tops of the bridges. He noted that comments from the Commission would be forwarded to the DPW and Mass. Highway. There is a round -about being considered for the Bridge Road Route 9 intersection, but that may be 2 years off. Members discussed the proposal. Member Howes made a motion to have the Commission write a letter of support for the project, seconded by Member Well, with the condition that the fencing on the bridges be compatible with the historic features of the bridges. The vote in favor was unanimous. Mr. Feiden will draft a letter for the Chair's signature. Straw Avenue Shed Demolition This discussion is a continuation of a determination made at an earlier meeting, held last month. The applicant, Robert Ficarra, 117 Straw Avenue had demolished 2 sheds on his property prior to a decision being made by the Commission on their significance. Because the Commission had to act within 15 days of the initial request, they voted to prohibit the issuance of a building permit for the period of 2 years until they could hear from the applicant. This was the purpose of tonight's session. Mr. Ficarra was joined by his cousin, (name unknown) who is serving as a Civil Engineer for the project. They offered the following information: The house and 1 shed were in tough shape upon purchase. One shed was already on the ground - ' and the other was leaning against a tree. There is a daycare business operating next door. The homeowner there had requested the sheds be taken down, to remove a safety hazard for the children in her care. The house renovation was completed first, and although told not to, children continued to enter the yard. Mr. Ficarra was under the impression he had permission from the Building Department to take them down. He said they had pulled permits for all their other work and did not realize there was a delay on the shed removal. Chair Kennedy said there was a different interpretation of the events from the Building Inspector's Office, but tonight's purpose was to determine how to move forward. The applicant agreed that the removal of the sheds was premature. The Chair offered the following items to consider in the deliberation of the "penalty phase ". The action the Commission takes will set a precedent, considering it is the first such event, the delay phase may not be on the checklist issued by the Building Department, the buildings were most likely not significant, that people still may not be aware of the existence of the Ordinance, and that the abutters supported the demolition. Members then discussed a monetary fine versus a time delay on additional building permits /certificates of occupancy. Varying amounts of time were C , debated. Member Metcalfe ultimately made a motion to prohibit the issuance of additional permits from the Building Department for a period of 60 days from the date the original permit was filed in the Building Department, which was July 18, 2005. The motion was seconded by Member Well. Six members voted in favor of the motion; with one (alternate) member abstaining. It was agreed that the Commission would communicate that decision to the Building Commissioner. Cornerstone Research Member Well circulated a sheet describing what she had learned from the information supplied by an area researcher and from her own investigation. The contents of the cornerstone at the State Hospital were listed. Now the task becomes - to find it! Florence Preservation Planning Project Peg will send an email around to determine a September meeting time. State Hospital Memorialization Committee Peg will organize a meeting for some time in October. 350 Book Publication Contract 2 Chair Kennedy had asked if there was anything in writing relative to the copyright for the publications. Member Bloomberg said there are 350 Executive Committee minutes with a vote giving the logo and book publication rights to the Historical Commission. She said authors who so chose, could have their own contracts (2 did). Authors also have legal ownership of their own texts. The contract for book publication and order filling will be finalized and given to Steve Strimer for their (Collective Copies) review. Flood Photos Some 1936 flood photos were sent to the Historical Commission. They will be passed along to Historic Northampton. Memorial Bench Member Blumenthal will contact Smith Vocational School about their availability now that school has started, for the stone installation. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:11 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller __ 3 PI,AINTINING AND I©EVE LOPA&ENT CITY OF NORT'HAMPT'ON City Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room 11 • Northampton, MA o 1 o60 -3 x 98 ' (413) 587 -1266 • Fax: 587 -1264. Warne Feiden, Director • planning @nortyamptonplanning.org wway.nortyampto.nplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: September 26, 2005 TIME: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2 nd Floor 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Approval of Minutes 3.) Request for Demolition/ 3 bay Garage at 74 Bridge St. Preliminary Review 4.) Project Updates • Florence Preservation Planning Project • Memoriat Bench • 31 State Street/ Archival Photographs • Demolition Review Inventory/ Next Steps • 350 Contract/ Publications and Memorabilia 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn Peg Keller 587 -1288 pkeller @northamptonma.gov planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals yousing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIS economic development. • community development •historic district commission • historical commission • centralbusinessarcbitecture - f ongmdlprtntedon recycled paper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes September 26, 2005 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, Kim Howes, Susan Well, Louise Bloomberg, David Drake, Norman Winston, Jennifer Hayes, Barbara Blumenthal. Also present, Todd Marchefka and Arthur Pichette, applicants and Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order: Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. Member Drake made a motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Member Well seconded the motion; the vote in favor was unanimous. No one was present for the public comment period. Application for Demolition/ 74 Bridge Street/ Todd Marchefka Chair Kennedy introduced the application by saying that the main house on this property is a William Fenno Pratt design. The property owner said there is decay around the perimeter of the carriage barn and it is starting to lean. He has been told by contractors that total demolition and reconstruction is preferable to renovation. He does plan to reuse some original materials if possible. Mr. Marchefka circulated drawings of his proposed plans. The Commission said the new construction is really not in their purview. There was discussion about the actual date of the carriage barn. The application said 1925, but Chair Kennedy estimates it to be around 1860 -1880, and wondered if it were original to the main building and also a Pratt design. Mr. Marchefka continued to describe the termite damage to the structure and buckled beams. He said he would try to reuse some of the clapboards on the new structure. Chair Kennedy asked the applicant for a week continuation in order to better determine the date of the structure. The applicant agreed. The Chair said he would like to contact Kris Thomson, Kerry Buckley and Steve Strimer to ascertain additional information. The meeting was continued to October 5 at 5:30 p.m. Application for Demolition/ 64 Reservoir Road/ Sweet Meadow Properties Arthur Pichette described the condition of the house and garage and said they planned to demolish them and build new units higher up the hill behind the current structures. He guessed a construction date of 1920's although the Assessor's card says 1850. Mr. Pichette said the condition is poor and the cinder block garage has structural problems. He said the cost of renovation would be prohibitive and the property has no historical significance. Member Drake made a motion to approve the demolition, seconded by Member Howes. During the discussion, Member Well offered to research the prior property owners to see if there is any cultural significance that may be noteworthy. Member Drake withdrew his motion. Member Well made a motion to continue the hearing for a week, to enable her to do her research. The motion was seconded by Member Hayes. The vote in favor of the continuation was unanimous. The hearing was continued to October 5 2005. Florence Preservation Project/ A meeting date will be set. October 6 th was suggested. Peg will contact the members. Memorial Bench/ Member Blumenthal gave an update. The gravel, stone and roses have all been secured. 31 State Street Photographs/ The photos submitted by Richard Zafft as a condition of his demolition approval were circulated. Member Well made a motion for staff to review the submission to ascertain if they meet the archival requirements. The motion was seconded by Member Hayes and the vote in favor was unanimous. Demolition Review _Inventory/ Chair Kennedy will be attending the City Council meeting next month to present the required 6 month update. 350 Publications Contract/ Member Blumenthal said the contract has been sent to Steve Strimer of Collective Copies for their review. She hopes to hear back the first week of October. Member Hayes will send a letter to the authors informing them about the new contract. The sub - committee that met around this issue also suggested that a letter be sent around the community suggesting that the remaining memorabilia is suitable for holiday gifts. Chair Kennedy agreed to speak with Kerry Buckley at Historic Northampton regarding their displaying and selling some of the items. Member Well agreed to approach the Chamber about doing the same. Having the information on the City Website was also discussed. Rail Trail Chair Kennedy attended a meeting held by the Leeds Civic Association. He reiterated the Commission's support of requesting appropriate railings to be installed on the bridge crossings. A letter from the Association to the Commission had been received, asking for such support. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:10 p.m. 1 Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller IJ PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT • CITY OF NOR'THAMP'TON City Hall • 2i o Main Street, Room 1i ' - Northampton, MA of o60 -3198 • (413)587 -1266 • Fax: 587 -1264 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @no rthamptonplanning.org www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Continuation DATE: October 5, 2005 TIME: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 Agenda 1.) Continuation/ Commission Determination on Applications for Demolition - 64 Reservoir Rd. Leeds/ Proposed demolition of House and Garage - 74 Bridge Street/ Proposed demolition of 3 bay garage Initial discussion took place at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Historical Commission held September 26, 2005 Both requests were continued for additional information. This is the preliminary determination phase, not a public hearing, although public input is welcome. p Peg Keller 1 587 -1288 pkeller @northamptonma.gov C) planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton GIS - economic development -community development • historic district cdmmission •,historica[ commission • central business arcyitecture original printed on recgcled paper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes October 5, 2005 Members Present: Chris Kennedy, Chair, David Drake, Susan Well, Kim Howes, Tris Metcalfe. Also present, Todd Marchefka, applicant and Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order/ The meeting was convened at 5:30 p.m. This is a continuation of a meeting begun September 26, 2005. There were two applications for demolition that were continued until this evening for additional information. 74 Bridge Street This application was continued for research to ascertain the date of the building and if it were designed by William Fenno Pratt. Chris Kennedy had met on site with the property owner and Kris Thomson, a carpenter specializing in historic restoration. They examined both floors on the interior and the exterior as well as the hardware, the timbers, the floorboards, windows and doors. The evidence was inclusive about whether or not it was a Pratt design. Kris thought the construction was in the vicinity of 1840 -1860. Kerry Buckley said there was no mention of the carriage barn in the clippings he has on the main house. Steve Strimer did not have any information either. Therefore, it cannot be concluded that it was definitely designed by Pratt. Chair Kennedy reported that there is not enough evidence to move it to the next phase for review. Member Metcalfe asked if it could be moved. He said that even if it is not a Pratt, the age and quality are still relevant. Member Well expressed her preference that it be saved and reused. Member Drake said that the demolition delay should be reserved for properties that are more significant, but also encouraged the applicant to reuse as much original material as possible. Mr. Marchefka said he intends to save the archway and the eaves and will work with Kerry Buckley to find a good solution. He agreed to reuse as much as possible. He said that he has to apply to the Planning Board to convert the use of the building to residential /office and will entertain public comments about the design during that process. Members summarized their desires to see the building saved, but recognized they can't save everything. Member Well made a motion to approve the request for demolition. Member Howes seconded the motion. As part of further discussion, Member Metcalfe offered to write a letter to the applicant supplying information for his architect (Kuhn /Riddle) that summarizes the Commissions hopes for the new design. The vote in favor of granting the motion was unanimous. (4 -0). 64 Reservoir Road Chair Kennedy had asked the Leeds Civic Association if anyone had concerns about the demolition of this house and garage. Sue Carben responded that no, she could not find anything architecturally or historically significant about the properties. Member Well circulated her list of former owners. She said that an older home burned in 1905. There are some French Canadian links, as it was known as the Versailles homestead around 1890. Member Well made a motion to approve the demolition of the house and garage. The motion was seconded by Member Howes. There was no further discussion. The vote in favor of the motion was unanimous (4 -0). The meeting concluded at 6:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller o -•e-G -O5 PLANNING, AND DIEVELOPhVIET 1T o CITY OF NC✓RTI— IAMP'3'ON City Mall • 2i o Main Street, Room ii • 14Tortb ampton, A A oa o60 -3198 "(413)07-1166 •.Fax: S Wayne. Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org • www.northamptonp[anning.org NORTHA HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: October 31, 2005 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.) Approval of Minutes -� 3.) Request for Demolition/ Garage at 17 Florence Road/ Preliminary Review Garage at 17 Madison Avenue 4.) Project Updates • 350 Contract/ Publications and Memorabilia • Florence Preservation Planning Project • Memorial Bench • Demolition Review Inventory/ Next Steps 5.) Other Business 6.) Adjourn Peg Keller 587 -1288 pkeller @northamptonma.gov planning board • conservation commission • zoning board o f appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authority • northampton GIs economic devel opment • community development • historic district commission Fjistorical commission • central business_ architecture - originai printed on recocjedjiaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes October 31, 2005 Members Present: Chair Kennedy, Tris Metcalfe, Norman Winston, Kim Howes, Louise Bloomberg, Susan Well, Barbara Blumenthal, David Drake. Also present, Peg Keller, staff, Linda Gaudreau, Wright Builders, Robert Gould, property owner and Wesley Smith, Contractor. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. No one was present for the public comment period. Member Well made a motion to approve 2 sets of minutes from prior meetings. The motion was seconded by Member Howes and the vote in favor was unanimous. Demolition Application/ 17 Florence Road Mr. Gould, the property owner described the condition of the existing single bay garage and his plans for construction of a new one. He noted that the structure is in poor condition, the foundation is deteriorating, and generally the building is structurally unsound. He presented the plans for new construction that will utilize cedar shingles to match the existing house. The Commission did not have any issues with the applicant's plans. Member Howes made a motion to approve the application for demolition, seconded by Member Well. The vote was unanimous in favor. Demolition Application/ 17 Madison Avenue Ms. Gaudreau described the project on behalf of the property owner, the Marottas' and Wright Builders. She said the single bay stucco garage was built in 1914 and is in poor condition. It currently bears no real relationship to the house. The plan is to build an addition with a 2 bay garage. After a brief discussion, Member Howes made a motion to approve the demolition, seconded by Member Well. There was no further discussion and the vote in favor was unanimous. Project Updates 350 Chap Books Publishing Contract/ Member Blumenthal said that the document had come back from Collective Copies with a revision. She will get that language to Peg who will print it out and copy it for circulation among signatories. Member Well then made a motion to approve the contract, seconded by Member Howes. The vote in favor of adopting the contract as drafted and revised, was unanimous. Member Blumenthal was thanked for her efforts regarding this. 1 350 Memorabilia/ Members agreed to set up a table during the big shopping weekend in Northampton and try to sell some of the remaining maps, medallions and banners. This will occur on November 19 from 10 -5:00 p.m. Chair Kennedy spoke to Kerry Buckley who does have a supply of medallions that he bought for resale. He will buy more when he needs more (at a discounted rate). Members will continue to brainstorm venues to provide visibility for the remaining stock. The glass cases at Forbes were mentioned as possible locations. Florence Preservation Planning Project / Members did meet and revisited the purpose of the project. Members Well and Howes in addition to Fran Krumpholz and Steve Strimer were in attendance. There was some desire to revert to the original project scope as there may be funds available. The idea of going off in a new direction was broached. This would be an effort to create a "Friends of Park Street Cemetery" to raise funds for research and maintenance. Chair Kennedy said he would pursue the logistics of such an undertaking, as a similar effort was underway for the Calvin Coolidge Room at Forbes. Memorial Bench/ Member Blumenthal reported (and had circulated digital photos) that the shrub roses had been planted by Smith Vocational students. Willards will be donating the gravel and Goshen Stone the walkway stones. l' Members thanked Member Blumenthal for seeing this project through. It will be a pleasure to plan a recognition ceremony, possibly next spring early summer, when the work is completed. Demolition Inventory Update Chair Kennedy attended the City Council meeting to provide the required update for the first six months. The next update will be in April. He presented a strategy of reviewing 10 -15 properties a month in preparation of finalizing the inventory. Each property that the interns had suggested would be reviewed and voted on. A final list would be formulated and a public hearing held. Discussion followed relative to this process and outbuildings. It was agreed that Peg would copy the entire paper list and discs for each member to review at their leisure. The list would then be divided up and reviewed by pairs. The first 40 properties would be reviewed and commented upon by Tris and Norman; 41 -80 David and Kim; 81- 120 Susan and Louise; 121 -160 Chris and Jen. This architectural analysis would be completed by April. The next 6 months would be spent gathering cultural and social information. It was suggested that a questionnaire be devised and sent to Alison Lockwood, Jim Parsons, George Snook, Bob Rundquist, Jim Bridgeman, Steve Strimer, Kerry Buckley and others. These historical experts would be asked to provide the anecdotal information that is often not found in texts or on maps. The December meeting will include 2 !� time to work on the questionnaire that should go out after the first of the year. This information would be compiled for additional criteria to be used in finalizing the inventory list. The next 6 months would entail finalizing the list and conducting the public hearing. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 3 NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes November 15, 2005 Members Present: Christopher Kennedy, Chair, Kim Howes, Tris Metcalfe, Susan Well, David Drake and Norman Winston. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of the meeting was to make a determination of significance for a demolition application. 24 Wilson Avenue The Commission, after some discussion, voted unanimously to allow for the demolition of the garage. There had also been an application for demolition of a garage at 378 Pleasant St. Chair Kennedy informed members that Building Commissioner Patillo had issued an emergency demolition permit and that the property no longer needed a determination of significance. It was noted that the condition of the building had been brought to the attention of the Building Commissioner by the Commission The owner had noted that the situation might be unsafe. The Pleasant Street garage was discussed as it had been viewed by the members. The consensus was that it would not have been determined to be significant even if it had come before the Commission. Members concurred that the condition of the garage was a safety hazard. Other Business Members discussed the plans for the Commission to set up a table downtown on Saturday the 19 to sell the 350 memorabilia. Member well agreed to work on a schedule for members to staff the table during the hours from 10:00 a.m. to . 3:30 p.m. She will contact people during the week. Chair Kennedy agreed to pick up the material from Peg Keller's office on Friday and delivery it along with a 6 foot table and drape to the site Saturday morning. Site is not yet confirmed but Chair Kennedy agreed to follow up on Member Well's call to Eric Suher to obtain permission to use the lawn of the former NIS bank. (permission subsequently granted on November 16 The problem of alternate storage of 350 material other than the Planning Department was discussed without resolve. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 5:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller Notes from Christopher Kennedy PLAIN IININNG AND DEEVEI .,C)PMETW7T o CITY OF NORTIRAIMPTO GitN Wall - a i o.lMain Street, Room l l • leTorthampton,1NLA o l o60- 3198 (413) 537 -1166 • Fax: 5 B7 -1 a64 Wayne Feiden, Director • planning @northamptonplanning.org www.northamptonplanning.org NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting Notice DATE: December 13, 2005 TIME: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room 18 2� Floor 210 Main Street Northampton AGENDA 1.) Public Comment Period 2.) Approval of Minutes C ' 3.) Establishment of Demolition Application Review Sub - Committee 3.) Project Updates • Florence Preservation Planning Project • Memorial Bench •. Demolition Review Inventory/ Next Steps • Local Awards Ceremony/ Draft List 4.) Other Business 5.) Adjourn Peg Keller 587 -1288 pkeller @northamptonma.gov planning board • conservation commission • zoning board of appeals • housing partnership • redevelopment authoritN • northampton GIS economic development • cornmunitN development , historic district comN✓usslon • historical commission • central business architecture . origina I prim tetl on YuNcletlpaper NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes December 13, 2005 Members Present: Chair Kennedy, Kim Howes, Norman Winston, Tris Metcalfe, Barbara Blumenthal, Susan Well, David Drake and Louise Bloomberg. Also present, Peg Keller, staff. Call to Order/ Chair Kennedy called the meeting to order at 5:38 p.m. No one was present for public comment. Member Drake made a motion to approve the minutes of October 5, 2005, October 31, 2005 and November 15, 2005. Member Metcalfe seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous in favor. Demolition Review Sub - Committee Members discussed the possible formation of a sub - committee to make the initial determinations of significance for properties proposed for demolition. Chair Kennedy noted that it would need to be composed of less than 4 members to avoid quorum issues. He suggested that the group's tasks include the following: ■ On -site visits, taking and circulating photographs, securing the Form B and Assessor's card, possible deed research and ascertaining cultural /social information, to the extent possible. It was suggested that membership might rotate. The following was concluded: ➢ Three members and an alternate would be appointed by the Chair ➢ The Chair would not serve on the Sub - Committee ➢ Periods of service would be three months, with reappointments possible ➢ Decisions would require unanimous votes (3 -0) ➢ If the decisions were not unanimous, the application would be taken to the full Commission and a special meeting would be called ➢ The Sub - Committee would make their decision within 7 days of receiving the application from the Building Commissioner; to allow time for review by the full Commission, if that becomes necessary ➢ The Chair would serve as the contact person for Planning staff This process would be activated only during the first two weeks of the month when the Commission would not be meeting. The sub - committee could take responsibility for doing the research in preparation for the full meetings as well. I Information will be circulated to the full Commission in the first 2 weeks to allow everyone to render an opinion, but a full meeting would not be called. Member Drake made a motion to approve the proposal as presented. Member Well seconded the motion. The vote in favor of the proposal was unanimous. Project Updates Florence Preservation Planning Project/ did not meet. Memorial Bench/ Member Blumenthal said that the stones had not been laid prior to snow fall. She will contact Smith Vocational to see if they have the stones, for installation in the spring. Demolition Delay Inventory/ Property listing sheets and cd's with the Form B's and photographs were distributed to each member. Members were asked to review their materials and confer with their partners. (see the October minutes). The plan is to approve the inventory assembled by the interns, relative to architectural merit over the next couple of months, with finalization by April. The next six -month period will focus on the social /cultural investigation. Chair Kennedy agreed to draft some questions to give to local historians to frame the discussions at focus groups to be held in the spring. Local Historic Preservation Awards Program Members reviewed the list of potential nominees. Member Blumenthal updated C, the nomination forms; Peg will place in the Building Commissioner's Office. The list will be revisited in January. Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 2 __