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2011 Historical Commission minutes Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, January 31, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or Barbara Blumenthal, bblument@smith.edu Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes of November 16, 2010 3.Election of Chair and Vice Chair 4.Leeds Hotel Bridge Community Preservation Project Presentation 5.Review of Historic Inventory Form B’s 6.Continued Discussions with Elm Street Historic District Commission A quorum of the Elm Street Historic District Commission may be present for this item 7.Review of Mail 8.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 9.Adjourn Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, January 31, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street Members Present: Barbara Blumenthal, Bruce Kriviskey, Craig Della Penna, and Dylan Gaffney Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chair Blumenthal opened the meeting at 5:33 PM. 1.Public Comments There was no public comment. 2.Approval of Minutes of November 16, 2010 Upon motion by Mr. Drake and second by Mr. Kriviskey the Commission voted unanimously to approve the minutes as presented. 3.Election of Chair and Vice Chair Chair Blumenthal opened the floor for nominations. Mr. Kriviskey nominated Mr. Drake for Chair, seconded by Mr. Della Penna. There were no additional nominations. Mr. Drake was elected Chair unanimously. Mr. Drake nominated Ms. Blumenthal for Vice Chair, seconded by Mr. Della Penna. Ms. Blumenthal was elected Vice Chair unanimously. 4.Leeds Hotel Bridge Community Preservation Project Presentation Chairman Drake noted that the Commission has heard about this project in the past. George Kohout, Leeds Civic Association informed the Commission that the first application for a CPA grant was not funded, so another application for a study is being put forward. Chairman Drake asked about the potential magnitude of the project if it continues after the study. Mr. Kohout replied that the renovation costs will be much less than they would be for a vehicular traffic bridge. Some structural work and touch-up is required, but the costs will likely be between $100,000 and $500,000. Fundraising is planned, and additional funds will be sought for that portion. Mr. Drake asked about historical significance, and whether any interpretive markers are planned. Mr. Kohout replied that the iron truss bridge is the last of its kind in Massachusetts, and was the only bridge that had to be constructed due to the rerouting of the Mill River. Funding for a historic marker will be included in the CPA requet. Mr. Kriviskey asked if it is specifically noted in the Form F or bridge inventory that the bridge is eligible for listing on the register of historic places. This was not immediately available. Ms. Blumenthal moved that the Historical Commission recognize the Hotel Bridge as historically significant, and to provide a support letter for the CPA application. The motion was seconded by Chairman Drake. City Councilor Gene Tacy commented that the Bridge is an important landmark for Leeds, and provides a bicycle connection that should be maintained. Mr. Della Penna noted that it would be useful to determine the pedestrian capacity of the bridge. The motion carried unanimously. 5.Review of Historic Inventory Form B’s Mr. Kriviskey suggested that a map showing completed Form B’s and potential historic districts would be extremely helpful. Steve Strimer noted that there are several older Form B’s that require updating and correction. Chairman Drake suggested that Bonnie Parsons from PVPC, who is working on the Form B’s, attend an upcoming meeting and provide an update. Ms. LaValley will set this up. 6.Continued Discussions with Elm Street Historic District Commission Marisa Labozzetta, Chair of the Elm Street Commission attended the meeting. The Commission discussed the Elm Street guidelines, which will be distributed to the Commission. The Commission discussed logistics, staffing, and membership of a possible combined Historical Commission and Historic District Commission. The Commission agreed that combining the two groups should not be pursued at this time, but could be considered again if additional local historic districts are created. Chairman Drake will contact the Mayor’s office to see whether vacant Historical Commission slots can be filled. 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared Mr. Kriviskey moved to commend Ms. Blumenthal for her years of service to the Historical Commission, seconded by Mr. Della Penna. The motion carried unanimously. The Commission asked whether a listing of demolition and building permits could be distributed, since these no longer appear to be published in the Daily Hampshire Gazette. Ms. LaValley will contact the building department. 8.Review of Mail No mail. 9.Adjourn Upon motion by Mr. Della Penna and second by Mr. Kriviskey the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 7:30 PM. 2 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, February 28, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Community Gardens Community Preservation Project Presentation 3.6:00 PM: Public Hearing To determine whether the house located at 27 Fort Street, Map ID 38B-183, should be determined “Preferably Preserved” pursuant to the Northampton Demolition Ordinance, Chapter 161 of the General Code. 4.Review of Mail 5.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 6.Adjourn Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, February 28, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street Members Present: David Drake, Barbara Blumenthal, Bruce Kriviskey, Craig Della Penna, Tris Metcalfe, and Dylan Gaffney Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chairman Drake opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. 1.Public Comments Lilly Lombard noted that the demolition request is in her area and that the architecture is in keeping with the rest of the neighborhood. 2.Community Gardens Community Preservation Project Presentation Lilly Lombard, Grow Food Northampton (GFN), informed the Commission that GFN closed on the property on February 25, and will now be cover cropping and looking for lessees for the farmland. CPA funds are being sought for creation of the Community Gardens. Several landscape architects and other professionals are providing pro-bono services. It will have many community benefits, and has received widespread support. Steve Strimer noted that the Ruggles Center could work with GFN to promote historic interpretation, and the Hill-Ross National Register district could also be expanded to include the Bean/Allard property. Chairman Drake asked about the appearance of historic farm structures. Ms. Lombard referred to photographs contained in the CPC application of a barn c. 1880, and a postcard depicting the Spring Street intersection. Ms. Lombard noted that CPA projects that address more than one CPA area are the most competitive, and the Community Gardens can also fit into the historic category. Interpretive signage is included in the budget. Mr. Kriviskey suggested that archaeology along the riverbed, appropriate naming, and incorporating historic elements into new structures could all be historic issues that could be emphasized. 3.Public Hearing: To determine whether the house located at 27 Fort Street, Map ID 38B- 183, should be determined “Preferably Preserved” pursuant to the Northampton Demolition Ordinance, Chapter 161 of the General Code. Chairman Drake opened the public hearing. Ms. Blumenthal stated that the structure was determined ‘Significant’ according to the Ordinance by the subcommittee, which does not deliberate. Mr. Kriviskey noted that he drove by and was impressed by the quality of the housing stock in the neighborhood. The home appears to suffer from deferred maintenance but seems to have a good frame. Mr. Metcalfe added that the subcommittee did not know the interior condition of the building. Chairman Drake provided an overview of the Demolition Ordinance and read the criteria for a structure to be determined ‘Preferably Preserved.’ Hobie Iselin, Construct Associates, distributed photos to the Commission (filed with the permit materials). The house is not in good condition, was not designed well, and had an unprofessional remodel done in the 1960’s. The foundation and wiring require replacing, and while the house looks nice from the exterior, it does not play a significant role in the streetscape. Kiki Smith and Charlie Cone, who are planning to purchase the house, require an accessible home and the existing house does not meet their needs. Mr. Metcalfe asked if retaining the shell of house had been considered as an option. Ms. Smith replied that the house as currently laid out would not provide good access to light, and a new house would be an improvement. Mary Isenberg, 26 Fort Street, stated that the house is a detriment to the neighborhood and the planned replacement would be an improvement. Mia and Michael Sullivan suggested that a delay would not accomplish what it is intended to, since the home has been vacant and on the market for a long time. The neighborhood would benefit from a new house with appropriate open space. Debin Bruce, Columbus Avenue, indicated her support for the demolition and rebuild. Mr. Kriviskey stated that the primary concern with regard to the Demolition Ordinance in this case is the role in the streetscape. Having input from the neighbors was very helpful. Ms. Blumenthal noted that the photographs of the interior and exterior details indicate that there is not a good base to be preserved. Mr. Kriviskey moved that the property be determined not preferably preserved according to the Demolition Ordinance, seconded by Mr. Della Penna. The motion carried, 5-1. 4.Review of Mail The Commission reviewed a letter from MassHistoric regarding the Fairgrounds redevelopment. The project will not have an impact on historic resources, as the grandstand will not be removed. 5.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 6.Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM. 2 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, March 28, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes a.January 31, 2011 b.February 28, 2011 3.Local Historic Inventory Project – discussion with Bonnie Parsons, PVPC 4.Section 106 Review – Telecommunications Tower, 30 Locust Street 5.Local Historic Preservation Restrictions– Identification of Focus Areas/Properties 6.Review of Mail 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 8.Adjourn Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, March 28, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street Members Present: David Drake, Barbara Blumenthal, Bruce Kriviskey, and Tris Metcalfe Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chairman Drake opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. 1.Public Comments There was no public comment. 2.Approval of Minutes a.January 31, 2011 b.February 28, 2011 Ms. Blumenthal moved to approve both sets of minutes as presented. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kriviskey, and carried unanimously. 3.Local Historic Inventory Project – discussion with Bonnie Parsons, PVPC Ms. Parsons informed the Commission that there are about 380 inventory forms still to be completed, and she hopes to work with the Commission when all are complete to identify potential National Register districts. The Pomeroy Terrace area has almost all been updated, and the ‘National Register Eligible’ box is being checked for all eligible properties to assist with nomination. About 100 Form B’s for properties not surveyed in previous efforts will be completed during the project. Mr. Kriviskey noted that completed Form B’s will be helpful for private property owners conducting research, as well as for broader planning purposes. Ms. Parsons noted that Northampton is one of the first communities in Western Mass to complete a comprehensive historic survey. The Commission discussed possible ways to promote the project when complete. Ms. Parsons noted that the forms will be available on the state’s MACRIS site, and the Planning Department can also make them available on the City website. Chairman Drake requested that a list of properties that should be considered for future research also be prepared. 4.Section 106 Review – Telecommunications Tower, 30 Locust Street The Commission reviewed plans for a cellular tower at Cooley Dickinson, which has already been installed. The Commission agreed that the project creates no adverse impacts to historic resources, and staff will prepare a letter. 5.Local Historic Preservation Restrictions– Identification of Focus Areas/Properties Ms. LaValley reminded the Commission that a CPA grant for a local Historic Preservation Restrictions was received. The funds support the donation of HPR’s by property owners. Ms. LaValley noted that owners of historic homes within the Elm Street area received a targeted mailing, and asked commissioners for additional suggestions. The Commission suggested that it may be helpful to contact architects and construction companies that often perform preservation work, as well as the Western Mass AIA. 6.Review of Mail Ms. LaValley distributed an article from Preservation Magazine provided by Mr. DellaPenna regarding remodeling and accessibility in a historic home. Ms. LaValley provided building and demolition permits issued since January 1, at the request of the Commission. 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared Chairman Drake reminded the Commission that Grow Food Northampton requested support for their community gardens CPA application at the February meeting. Mr. Kriviskey moved to support the application, noting that GFN consider a permanent marker to communicate the history of the site, and that naming reflect historic uses. The motion was seconded by Mr. Metcalfe, and carried unanimously. Chairman Drake noted that the planning for a potential new Amtrak station should take into account historic concerns. Mr. Kriviskey suggested that the Commission could encourage the re-use of historic structures. The Commission will continue discussions on this topic in future meetings. Ms. Blumenthal informed the Commission that she received a call from the Department of Mental Health regarding state hospital artifacts being stored in the Haskell Building. The Commission reviewed the list of artifacts. MassDevelopment believes that DMH is obligated to keep the artifacts. Ms. Blumenthal will look into this. The Commission asked staff to look into the possibility of filling vacant seats on the Commission, and also whether MassHistoric offers any awards for historic planning initiatives. 8.Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 6:45. 2 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, April 25, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes – March 28, 2011 3.Recent research into Underground Railroad in Northampton, Erastus Hopkins House 4.Preservation Awards Planning 5.Brainstorming – Historical Commission role in downtown transit planning 6.Review of Mail 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 8.Adjourn Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, April 25, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: City Hall Hearing Room, 210 Main Street Members Present: David Drake, Barbara Blumenthal, Bruce Kriviskey, Dylan Gaffney and Tris Metcalfe Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chairman Drake opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. 1.Public Comments There was no public comment. 2.Approval of Minutes a.March 28, 2011 Ms. Blumenthal moved to approve the minutes as presented. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kriviskey, and carried unanimously. 3.Recent research into Underground Railroad in Northampton, Erastus Hopkins House Chairman Drake stated that Steve Strimer has conducted a great deal of research into the Underground Railroad (URR) topic as well as the Hopkins House, and he is curious how the remaining weeks before the demolition delay expires can be best utilized. Steve Strimer stated that there is no other known place in Northampton with such a definite connection to the URR, including primary documents. Chairman Drake suggested that Mr. Strimer contact the parish to see if they would be open to discussion with the Historical Commission. The Commission discussed possible outcomes for the structure, including moving, and a plaque if it is ultimately demolished. Mr. Strimer noted that he will be giving a tour of abolitionist history in Northampton, and will include the Hopkins house while it still stands. Chairman Drake suggested that press pieces about the history of the house could inform people of its significance before it is torn down. 4.Preservation Awards Planning The Commission reviewed the working list of potential historic award sites. The Commission agreed that awards should be presented, and discussed timing and possible categories. Ms. Blumenthal will develop a working schedule and a deadline for submissions will be included. 5.Brainstorming – Historical Commission role in downtown transit planning Chairman Drake noted that the return of passenger rail will create some changes and opportunities for downtown Northampton, and asked how the Historical Commission could be involved. The Commission agreed that reuse of existing buildings should be encouraged. The Commission will prepare a letter encouraging a transit district committee of which the Historical Commission would be a part. 6.Review of Mail None. 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared Ms. Blumenthal noted that the state hospital artifacts are still being stored temporarily in the Haskell Building. She and Ms. LaValley will look into getting these moved to the former stable building at Village Hill. The Commission agreed that Ms. LaValley should send a letter to Kimball Howes saying that the Commission has missed him and ask if he will still be attending. Ms. LaValley will look into the status of any applications to be on the Commission, as well as filling vacant spots. 8.Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 7:00. 2 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, May 23, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: Council Chambers, 212 Main Street (behind City Hall) – Please note location change For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes – April 25, 2011 3.Erastus Hopkins House Update 4.Clarke School Campus History 5.Membership 6.Review of Mail 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared 8.Adjourn Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, May 23, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: Council Chambers, 212 Main Street Members Present: David Drake, Barbara Blumenthal, Bruce Kriviskey, Craig Della Penna, Dylan Gaffney and Tris Metcalfe Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chairman Drake opened the meeting at 5:32 PM. 1.Public Comments There was no public comment. 2.Approval of Minutes a.April 25, 2011 Ms. Blumenthal moved to approve the minutes, with the addition of Mr. Kriviskey as present. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kriviskey, and carried unanimously. 3.Erastus Hopkins House Update Anne Emerson, Great-Great Granddaughter of Erastus Hopkins, noted that she has been collecting his papers, and a lot of documentation about the family exists in firsthand documents. Erastus’ Underground Railroad involvement was recently discovered. He also had a role in Northampton’s history; he was a state legislator and advocated for the construction of the State Hospital in the City. Mr. Kriviskey noted that the alterations to the house are an issue when considering further preservation efforts. Steve Strimer stated that he met with Father Connors, and is also on the agenda for the next parish meeting. The Church is not interested in reusing the house on-site. Specialists in restoration and moving buildings are planned to visit the house. An interpretive plaque can be investigated if the building is torn down. Mr. Kriviskey noted that the delay will end on June 7, so it is important to have a Plan B. Mr. Metcalfe suggested that the porch and other exterior additions could be removed to create some parking around the house. Tom Weiner noted that the house would be a great resource for local schools for curriculum and fieldtrips. Mr. Strimer added that it would also create opportunities to discuss and present the State Hospital, Underground Railroad, and early industry. Mr. Drake stated that a great deal of community support would be required for any next steps in preservation. Ms. Blumenthal suggested that the Commission think about when it will be best to disseminate information about Erastus Hopkins and the house. Mr. Drake suggested that meetings on the issue be held as needed, allowing enough time for posting in accordance with Open Meeting Law requirements. 4.Clarke School Campus History Robert Jones, Bancroft Road, noted his concern about what will happen to the property when it is sold, and whether the historic nature of the campus buildings will be discussed. An RFP on the issued by for the school includes a zoning study that shows potential for new infill development if the area is re-zoned. Mr. Della Penna asked if Round Hill is within the Elm Street District; the Commission noted that it is not. Mr. Kriviskey stated that an updated inventory of historic properties is being completed. This could indicate the potential for the area to be nominated to the National Register of Historic Places, but this would not preclude new development. A local historic district would provide the most level of regulatory oversight. Demolition review will also take effect if any buildings constructed prior to 1900 are proposed to be completely demolished. Chairman Drake suggested that site design concerns also be addressed with the planning board, some uses would require special permits or site plan review, as dictated by zoning. Janet Gross, Round Hill Road asked about a local historic district. Chairman Drake suggested that neighbors talk with the planning department staff to investigate next steps. Mr. Kriviskey suggested that City Councilors should also be contacted, as historic districts and other actions would need Council involvement and support. Mr. Della Penna added that creating local districts is a lot of work, and that they often begin with the threat of something that would change neighborhood character. Chairman Drake noted that the Historical Commissions role is advisory, but that neighbors are welcome to keep discussing the area with the Commission. Mr. Metcalfe pointed out that six buildings are shown removed in the Landvest zoning study. 5.Membership Ms. LaValley noted that the Ordinance creating the Historical Commission does not create any provision for associate members, although associate members have been used for the past several decades. Now that the Commission is a permit-granting Commission, associate members should no longer be used unless the Ordinance is changed. The Commission agreed that Mr. Gaffney should be recommended as a full member. The Commission discussed how best to seek new members. Ms. LaValley will provide the application form to be filled out by interested members to the Commission. 6.Review of Mail 2 Ms. LaValley distributed an invitation to PVPC’s annual dinner, to be held at the museum of Springfield History. 7.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared The Commission discussed a potential role in planning for passenger rail. Mr. Della Penna expressed a willingness to be involved in talks about a new station. 8.Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 6:50. 3 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, July 25, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: Council Chambers, 212 Main Street (behind City Hall) For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes – May 23, 2011 3.5:30: Public Hearing to determine whether the buildings located at 21 Belmont Avenue, Map ID 31D-041, and 27 Belmont Avenue, Map ID 31D-067, should be determined “Preferably Preserved” pursuant to the Northampton Demolition Ordinance, Chapter 161 of the General Code. 4.Section 106 Review – Telecommunications Collocation – 221 Pine Street, Florence 5.Hopkins House Update 6.Preservation Awards Discussion 7.Commission Projects Update a.Form B Inventory b.Local Preservation Restrictions 8.Possible Beaver Brook Bridge CPA Application 9.350 Plaques th 10.Review of Mail 11.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared Adjourn 12. Northampton Historical Commission Minutes DATE: Monday, July 25, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: Council Chambers, 212 Main Street Members Present: David Drake, Bruce Kriviskey, Craig Della Penna, Dylan Gaffney Staff Present: Sarah LaValley Chairman Drake opened the meeting at 5:30 PM. 1.Public Comments There was no public comment. 2.Approval of Minutes a.May 23, 2011 Mr. Gaffney moved to approve the minutes, with the addition of Mr. Della Penna as present. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kriviskey, and carried unanimously. 3.Public Hearing to determine whether the buildings located at 21 Belmont Avenue, Map ID 31D-041, and 27 Belmont Avenue, Map ID 31D-067, should be determined “Preferably Preserved” pursuant to the Northampton Demolition Ordinance, Chapter 161 of the General Code. The hearing was opened at 5:32 PM. Chairman Drake explained that the Commission will consider whether 21 and 27 Belmont are ‘Preferably Preserved’ according to the Demolition Ordinance, and asked if there was any public comment. Cynthia Simision, 190 Round Hill Road, provided a letter (filed with 21 and 27 Belmont demolition review materials) to the Commission. She noted that she lived at 27 Belmont before the College took ownership in 1977. The building has deteriorated somewhat, but its preservation should be pursued. Mike Kirby, 17 Summer Street, distributed a 2005 Smith college planning map (filed with 21 and 27 Belmont demolition review materials), noting that the Belmont Avenue area is shown as lawn. The College could potentially raise some funds if the buildings were sold. Chairman Drake reminded all present that the perview of the Commission is to determine whether the structures are preferably preserved. The Commission does not take into account long-term development plans. Information about the historic nature of the buildings and their role in the neighborhood would be most helpful. Donna Riley, 155 Prospect Street, stated that she works at Ford Hall at Smith, and teaches a class about racism in science. Harris Wilder, one of the owners of 27 Belmont, and founder of the Smith Zoology department is a subject of the class, with his experiments with Native American remains. Chris Kennedy asked that the Commission enact a demolition delay for the Italianate house at 27 Belmont. It is unique to the site, and would be a travesty if it were demolished. While open space is valuable for neighborhoods, the existing building is more important. Ken Mitchell, West Street, suggested that not finding the buildings preferably preserved would essentially sanction their removal, while a delay could create an opportunity for additional discussion. Hasiah Baskin, Franklin Street, noted that 21 Belmont is aesthetically pleasing, and it shouldn’t suffer for not being as historically important as 27 Belmont. Tris Metcalf volunteered to work with Smith on potential options if a demo delay is enacted. Steve Strimer suggested that people concerned about the buildings’ future get in touch with Smith College. Donna Riley noted that the Campus Planning Committee might be the most appropriate contact. Charlie Conant, Smith College Capital projects, stated that he will report the concerns addressed at the meeting back to the College. Mr. Kriviskey suggested that 27 Belmont is unique, if not rare, in Northampton. It is suffering from deferred maintenance but is still in good condition. 21 Belmont has lost a lot if it’s original character over the years. In the context of neighborhood character and streetscape, both are important. Chairman Drake stated that the Ordinance automatically covers all structures built prior to 1901, and identified properties built between 1901 and 1939. 21 Belmont predates 1901, and 27 Belmont is listed on the 1901-1939 inventory. Mr. Kriviskey moved that 27 Belmont be considered Preferably Preserved pursuant to the Demolition Review Ordinance, Chapter 161. Seconded by Mr. Gaffney. The motion carried unanimously, with no additional discussion. Mr. Kriviskey moved that 21 Belmont be considered Preferably Preserved pursuant to the Demolition Review Ordinance, Chapter 161. Seconded by Mr. Della Penna. Chairman Drake noted that the building’s role in the streetscape is an important factor. The motion carried unanimously. Ms. LaValley noted that the delay period is one year from the application to the building department. Chairman Drake stated that the Commission can work with Smith College to see whether an alternative to demolition can be reached. 4.Hopkins House Update Steve Strimer noted that he met with the Parish Council, and they have agreed not to demolish the house until May, 2012. Mr. Strimer distributed an engineering report and 2 summary of tax credits (filed with rectory demolition delay permit). Different options for the preservation of the rectory are being considered. Mr. Kriviskey noted that tax credits are a good opportunity and should be pursued. Mr. Metcalfe added that locations on King Street are also being investigated for placement of the house. Chairman Drake thanked Mr. Metcalfe for his many years of service to the Commission, adding that the Commission looks forward to continuing to work with him. 5.Section 106 Review – Telecommunications Collocation – 221 Pine Street, Florence The Commission did not receive enough information from the applicant to be able to consider the request. 6.Preservation Awards Discussion No discussion. 7.Commission Projects Update a.Form B Inventory Mr. Kriviskey suggested that maps of potential districts be distributed as soon as they become available, for discussion at a future Commission meeting. The Commission discussed the potential for additional National Register districts. b.Local Preservation Restrictions No discussion 8.Possible Beaver Brook Bridge CPA Application Ms. LaValley informed the Commission that the Planning Department will be submitting a CPA application for restoration of the arch bridge over Beaver Brook in Leeds. She will present it to the Commission for an endorsement when the application is complete. 9.350 Plaques th Ms. LaValley informed the Commission that there are many of the souvenir plaques from the Northampton 350 celebration. th Mr. Kriviskey moved to send one to Mr. Metcalfe to thank him for his serve, and to retain the rest to give to award recipients. Seconded by Mr. Gaffney. The motion carried unanimously. 10.Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 7:00. 3 Northampton Historical Commission Meeting Notice DATE: Monday, August 29, 2011 TIME: 5:30 PM PLACE: Council Chambers, 212 Main Street (behind City Hall) For questions contact: Sarah LaValley, staff: slavalley@northamptonma.gov, or David Drake, Chairman: davidd321@yahoo.com Agenda 1.Public Comments 2.Approval of Minutes – July 25, 2011 3.CPA Historic Preservation Applications 4.Preservation Awards Discussion 5.Pomeroy Terrace National Register Update 6.Commission Projects Update a.Form B Inventory b.Local Preservation Restrictions 7.Membership 8.Review of Mail 9.Other business not foreseen when agenda was prepared Adjourn 10. Northampton Historical Commission Minutes of meeting Monday, August 29, 2011 Present: David Drake, chairman; Barbara Blumenthal; Craig Della Penna; Dylan Gaffney; Bruce Kriviskey The meeting was called to order at 5:30 pm 1. There was no public comment. 2. Since several members had not received the minutes of the previous meeting, approval was postponed until the September meeting. 3. Chairman Drake, who is also a member of the CPC, reviewed two historic preservation applications soon to come before the CPC. One is from the Academy of Music, which now wants to replace theater seating and paint the interior, as they continue their step-by-step restoration. The chair will ask that applications be sent to Commission members for review. He said that for this round of applications, the CPC has approximately $700,000. to award for all projects. There was brief discussion about the possible effects of an arts organization using space in the First Churches, particularly whether or not this would compromise recently-renovated historic aspects of the building. Chairman Drake also advised the Commission that there is a signature campaign to place the extension of the CPA on the election ballot this fall. We may need or want to offer support for the CPA; the CPC will conduct its own educational efforts, since they feel there is much misinformation about the CPA and how funds are awarded and used. Steve Strimer spoke about the CPC application for the Hopkins House (envisioned to be for $150,00-200,000.), which he stated will not be ready in time for the Sept 8 application deadline. Interested parties are still looking for a possible site on which to relocate the building, and they are also continuing quiet negotiations with the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton parish. Strimer said that National Register status for the building would be a great asset, and he asked if NHC staff could do this application, i.e., could she compile research done by others, including Neil Larsen. Strimer asked the Chair to ask staff how best to proceed. 4. Preservation Awards: Members approved awards each will research assigned projects and request “before” pictures from the award winners. Barbara Blumenthal will do the calligraphy on the certificates and prepare a powerpoint presentation for the awards event. Dylan Gaffney will try to arrange for the ceremony to be held in the Coolidge Room at Forbes on Wednesday October 19 or 26. Further arrangements will be discussed at the Commission’s September meeting. The awards: Morris & Lawrence Houses, Smith College (Barbara) John M. Greene Hall, Smith College (Barbara) Wright Hall, Smith College (Barbara) Academy of Music: marquee and door restoration (Bruce) Yes Computers, Pleasant Street (Bruce) 104 North Elm Street, Northampton (David) 30 Crafts Avenue, Northampton (Dylan) Peter Lapointe, citizen award (Craig) John Robinson, citizen award (Craig) 5. No update on Pomeroy Terrace National Register Update due to staff’s unavoidable absence after Hurricane Irene. 6. No update on Commission projects—Form B inventory and local preservations restrictions—due to staff’s unavoidable absence. 7. Chairman Drake stated that the Commission has one or two vacancies to fill and asked members for suggestions. 8. Review of mail: Chairman Drake has been invited to a community breakfast in Sept. at Smith College, which he will try to attend. 9. Other business: Craig Della Penna advised Commission members of activity in Florence, near the fire station and defunct Mobil gas station. He thinks that Cumberland Farms will be moving to this location. He said the small red barn will be disassembled and moved to another location, but that the fate of the nearby gray house is undetermined at this time. He also spoke about a granite boarding house further down Maple Street (across from Side Street Café) which is currently for sale, and various possibilities for its continued use, including its becoming a youth hostel. Della Penna announced that he will be giving a walking tour of railroad history in Florence on September 11, and has prepared a booklet on this topic. Dylan Gaffney announced that Forbes Library’s photographs are now indexed and available online. 10. Motion to adjourn made, seconded, and approved at 6:51 p.m. Minutes taken by Barbara Blumenthal