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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION 2013/10/23 MinutesThe City of Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission Proceedings of the October 23, 2013 Meeting A regular meeting of the Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission was held on Wednesday, October 23, 2013, at 6:30 p.m., at the City of Lake Forest City Hall, 220 E. Deerpath, Lake Forest, Illinois. Historic Preservation Commissioners present: Acting Chairman Ransom, Commissioners John Travers, Robert Alfe, Susan Athenson Jim Preschlack and Mary Ellen Swenson Commissioners absent: Chairman Pairitz City staff present: Megan Neuman, Planner and Catherine Czerniak, Director of Community Development 1. Introduction of Commissioners and staff, overview of meeting procedures – Acting Chairman Ransom Acting Chairman Ransom reviewed the meeting procedures followed by the Commission and asked the members of the Commission and staff to introduce themselves. 2. Approval of the minutes of the September 25, 2013 meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission. The minutes of the September 25, 2013 meeting were approved with corrections as requested by Acting Chairman Ransom. 3. Consideration of a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving new signage and lighting at the First Presbyterian Church at 700 N. Sheridan Road. Owner: Society of the First Presbyterian Church Representative: John Johnson, Executive Director, First Presbyterian Church Acting Chairman Ransom asked the Commission for any conflicts of interest or Ex Parte contacts. Hearing none, he invited a presentation from the petitioner noting that the petitioner distributed samples of the proposed lettering to illustrate the material and color. Mr. Johnson introduced the proposed signage plan for the Church campus. He stated that the development of an overall plan was encouraged by City staff when the discussion of replacing the sign at the corner was initiated by the Church. He explained that this project went through various committees at the Church prior to presenting the plan to the City. He noted that the Church has had a sign at the corner of Sheridan Road and Deerpath since the Church was established in 1859. He stated that the current sign has been in place for about 20 years and is made of redwood and has Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 2 acrylic letters. He stated that one of the letters he passed around to the Commission is a letter from the existing sign. He pointed out that the Church campus has several driveway entrances and exits none of which are signed. He stated that signs identifying the driveway entrances would be helpful since many people come to the Church who are not familiar with the area to attend weddings, funerals or community events. He stated that it is not obvious to people where to turn into the parking lot. He stated that three types of signs are proposed for the campus, a replacement identification sign at the corner of Sheridan Road and Deerpath, driveway entrance signs and way finding signs to direct people once they get on to the campus. He showed illustrations of the three sign types. He stated that the color of the signs will be consistent with the colors of the Church. He noted that the height of the signs at the driveway entrances was a subject of discussion with staff. He described the corner sign further and explained that one panel is proposed below the corner sign to provide information on the times of services. He stated that the sign would change seasonally. He provided a cross section of the lettering and the posts noting that 6 x 6 posts are proposed for the corner sign and 4 x 4 posts are proposed for the entrance signs. He stated that various elements of the signs relate to elements of the Church pointing out the arch and dentils. He stated that the signs are simply designed and are consistent with the size requirements of the City Code. He provided an overlay of the new versus the old sign. He showed a photo of the mock-up of the sign at the corner of Deerpath and Sheridan Road taken from the perspective of a passenger in a vehicle. He stated that the corner sign will be landscaped but explained that a Church committee is still debating exactly what the landscaping will be. He reviewed that originally a different sign for the corner was presented but after discussion with staff, the current design was developed. He discussed the signs proposed for the driveway entrances commenting that they need to be visible as people come around the curves and visible above snow piles in the winter. He pointed out that many people coming to the Church for weddings or funerals are unfamiliar with the site. He explained that the way finding signs on the campus will help people get to the right part of the Church after they park. He stated that the signs will be constructed of wood and will be properly scaled for each location. He reiterated that the signs will reference elements of the Church for consistency. He stated that no tree removal is planned as part of the sign project. He stated that the signs will improve the look and function of the Church campus. He noted that he reviewed the proposed signs with the neighboring property owners. Ms. Neuman stated that an overall sign plan is presented to the Commission for review and approval consistent with the provisions for campus signage in the Code. She stated that the project has three components as described by the petitioner: replacement of the sign at the corner of Sheridan Road and Deerpath, the addition of numerous driveway entrance signs and directional signs on the campus to help visitors find their way to various activities. She reviewed key points for Commission discussion requesting input on the appropriate height for the driveway entrance signs and the size of the lettering on those signs and input on the acrylic material proposed for the letters on corner sign. She noted the proposed use of a graphic on the sign which requires Commission approval. She noted that the corner sign will be illuminated in a manner similar to the existing sign at that location. She recommended that landscaping be Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 3 required around the base of the sign at the corner to ground it. She stated staff support for the petition subject to input from the Commission on the items noted. In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Johnson stated that at some time, a bronze sign was used as the corner sign. He stated that the sign is available, but is too narrow to list the times of services. He stated that various historic photos were reviewed to identify what types of sign was used through the years but he explained that the photos did not provide sufficient detail to understand the earlier signage. In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Ms. Neuman confirmed that a mock-up of the proposed sign was installed at the corner and that staff visited the site and evaluated the location and size of the sign to assure that sightlines for pedestrians and vehicles at the intersection were not obstructed. She stated that the sightlines are clear with the sign located as proposed. She added that staff will work with the Church during installation of the sign to re-check sightlines. Acting Chairman Ransom stated that he also viewed the mockup of the sign and found the views clear. He stated that landscaping around the sign will need to be kept low. In response to questions from Acting Chairman Ransom , Mr. Johnson confirmed that the lighting for the signage will be on an automatic timer and will turn on at dark, and turn off at 11 p.m. He clarified the proposed locations of the signs along Sheridan Road. He stated that the Church would prefer that the signs at the entrance to the parking lot be a little larger than shown. He stated that it is important that the signs are distinctive and can be seen even when snow is piled in the area. In response to questions from Acting Chairman Ransom , Ms. Neuman confirmed that the Code allows directional signs on private property. She stated that the size of the signs is directed in part by the size needed to allow legible lettering. She stated that the size of the signs as proposed is consistent with the Code; she added that the Commission has the authority to approve a larger sign if an increase in size is determined to be appropriate. She suggested that limited words on the driveway entrance signs will make them more readable. She suggested simplifying the language. In response to a suggestion from Acting Chairman Ransom, Mr. Johnson stated that simply using a graphic of a cross on the driveway signs, rather than the name of the Church, would be acceptable. In response to questions from Commissioner Alfe, Mr. Johnson confirmed that based on the mock-up of the signs, the letters on the corner sign are visible, but the letters on the driveway entrance signs are not as easy to read. He stated a willingness to work on the driveway entrance signs using just the graphic symbol and larger lettering. Commissioner Athenson commented that the style of the monument sign at the corner and distance that it is setback from the corner works well and is an improvement over Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 4 what exists today. She stated that the signs at the driveway appear awkward. She suggested that consideration be given to lowering the sign if it is set on two posts. She stated that if the sign is on a single post, a taller sign is appropriate. She stated support for limiting the wording on the sign, lowering the sign and increasing the size slightly. She suggested that the use of acrylic letters be reconsidered noting that as the wood base of the sign ages, the acrylic letters will remain shiny. She stated support for natural, high quality materials. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Johnson said the Church choose to submit acrylic letters because they age more gracefully. He stated a willingness to consider other materials for the lettering. He confirmed that the color of the monument sign is consistent with the building. He stated that the base color and the color of the letters were selected to provide a contrast for legibility. He reviewed the proposed locations for the driveway entrance signs and explained how the parking lots are used. Chairman Ransom invited public comment, hearing none; he invited final comments from the petitioner or staff. Hearing none, he commented stated that there appears to be consensus on the Commission that the driveway entrance signs should be reconsidered perhaps making them larger, with larger lettering, and reducing the height. He suggested that the final wording on the signs could be resolved with staff. He stated support for either wood or acrylic letters acknowledging that acrylic letters will require less maintenance. He suggested that the landscaping near the signs should be kept low, without much flourish. He invited final comments from members of the Commission. Commissioner Preschlack stated that the corner sign is well designed. He stated confidence that the landscaping will be done appropriately and asked that staff monitor the plantings to maintain visibility at the corner. He stated support for larger signs at the entrances to the parking lots and commented that lower and larger signs are probably appropriate. He stated support for the unified design presented for all of the sign types used on the campus. He stated support for Commissioner Athenson’s comments in support of wood letters but stated that he could support acrylic letters. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Johnson explained that metal way finding signs on the campus were recommended by the sign company. He stated that his understanding is that metal was proposed because of the small size of the way finding signs. Commissioner Alfe stated support for larger driveway entrance signs and larger lettering on those signs. He suggested that consideration be given to using aluminum letters finished in the desired color. Hearing no further comments from the Commission, he invited a motion. Commissioner Travers made a motion to approve the overall signage plan for the First Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 5 Presbyterian Church and to approve lighting of the corner sign. He stated that the motion is based on the findings submitted in the staff report and noted that the presentation and Commission’s deliberations are included as additional findings. He stated that the motion is subject to the following conditions of approval. 1. Modifications to the plan, consistent with the direction of the Commission, shall be made and revised plans submitted for review and a determination by staff, in consultation with the Chairman as appropriate, that the plans are in conformance with the Commission’s direction prior to submitting a complete application and plans for a building permit. a. The size of the driveway entrance signs shall be increased and the lettering modified to be more legible through a combination of reducing the amount of lettering and increasing the size of the lettering, consistent with the Commission’s direction. b. The height of the drive entrance signs shall be reviewed in the context of the style of the sign, the height of the surrounding landscaping, the scale as viewed from a pedestrian scale from the nearby sidewalks and in relation to the height of the monument sign at the corner. The height of the entrance signs shall be subject to final approval by staff in consultation with the Chairman as appropriate. c. Further consideration shall be given to using natural materials for the lettering and for the way finding signs. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Swenson and was approved by a vote of 6 to 0. 3. Presented for Information and Preliminary Input: Consideration of a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for a patio expansion and new outdoor lighting at Market House Restaurant, 655 Forest Avenue. Owner: MSQ Partners, LLC (Mark and Carla Westcott) Representative: Mark Westcott, Market House Restaurant Acting Chairman Ransom asked the Commission for any conflicts of interest or Ex Parte contacts. Hearing none, he invited a presentation from the petitioner. Mr. Westcott introduced the petition and provided some background on the restaurant and reviewed changes made to the restaurant since he took over as the owner. He stated that with the other work completed, it is now time to address the patio. He stated that the patio was constructed 30 years ago and needs attention. He noted that the patio is settling and uneven and has limited lighting and no railings at the steps. He noted that the patio today has a significant slope and is slippery when wet. He stated that the plan is to remove the existing hardscape and replace it with new pavers which will be similar in appearance to the bricks in Market Square. He reviewed the existing lighting in the eaves and pointed out the two post lights on the patio. He stated that the existing lighting is harsh and provides too much light in some areas and too little light in other areas. He reviewed the proposed lighting plan noting that five Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 6 sconces are proposed on the wall to replace the lights in the eaves which will be removed. He stated that seven post lights are proposed along the perimeter of the patio along with six up lights in the trees. He reviewed the proposed light fixtures and stated that the posts will be slightly shorter than the existing lights. He stated the intent to have subtle lighting. He reviewed the proposed replacement umbrellas noting that they will be dark green and will be similar to the existing umbrellas in height. He stated that a key improvement involves leveling the patio . He stated that currently, it is at different levels and it is not unusual for people to trip. He stated that the existing fencing at the perimeter of the patio will be maintained. He stated that he is fortunate to have two large elm trees on the patio. He stated that he regularly maintains the trees but they are not in great shape. He stated that every effort will be made to avoid negative impacts on the trees. He stated that the smaller trees on the patio are proposed for removal to expose the building and remove clutter from the patio. He stated that adding new vegetation on the patio will add clutter noting that the patio is a focal point. He acknowledged that further work is needed on the plan and stated that after hearing input from the Commission, further work will be completed in preparation for final approval. Ms. Neuman explained that in order to position this project for completion before the next outdoor dining season, this petition is being introduced to the Commission at this early point in the process to allow the opportunity for input and direction. She stated that one of the goals of the project is to expand the patio by making use of the corner nearest Market Square which is currently a brick area. She reviewed the key elements of the project including a change of hardscape material, new lighting and modifications to the landscaping. She stated that the City’s Arborist is currently reviewing the condition of the mature Elm trees on the patio and the proposed removal of other vegetation. She noted that the Elm trees are in deteriorating condition and there is concern about reducing or modifying the planting beds around those trees. She said that suggestions will be offered on how best to balance the petitioner’s interest in increasing the size of the patio with preservation of the trees. She noted that replacing some vegetation along the streetscape would buffer pedestrians on the sidewalk from the people on the patio. She stated that staff is working to understand the grade change that is required on the site to achieve a level patio and to understand the impact of the grade change on the existing vegetation. She stated that those questions will be answered prior to this item returning to the Commission for action. She asked for Commission input on the proposed lighting. She noted that as proposed, the sconces appear to screen the source of the light from view. She questioned the up lighting proposed in the trees and how those lights would be shielded from view. She suggested that careful consideration should be given to how much is the right amount of light noting that this corner is viewed from Market Square. In response to questions from Acting Chairman Ransom , Mr. Westcott stated a desire to begin work on leveling the patio as soon as possible. He confirmed that Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 7 the umbrellas will be removable and stated that gas lines under the patio are being considered for portable heaters. He stated that no change is proposed to the sidewalk along Bank Lane. He commented that the number of lights now proposed is reduced from the original plan presented to staff. In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Westcott explained how the proposed layout for the post lights was developed. He noted that the posts are located to achieve a uniform dispersal of light on the patio. He noted that if fewer lights are proposed, each light will need to be brighter. In response to a question from Commissioner Swenson, Mr. Westcott stated that 25 watt bulbs are proposed for use throughout the patio. Commissioner Alfe suggested that further consideration be given to the light sources including consideration of frosted glass in the fixtures so the light is not as visible. In response to questions from Commissioner Alfe, Mr. Westcott stated that the blub proposed for use has a satin sheen. He stated that the idea is to achieve lighting that provides an amber glow and feeling of warmth. He stated that the height of the sconces will be consistent with the height of the post lights at 8 feet. Commissioner Athenson suggested that a mock-up of the lighting be installed. She noted that if the lighting is too bright, it will become the dominate feature of Market Square. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Westcott stated that installing a mock-up of the lighting would be difficult. He noted that the lighting needs to be bright enough so that diners can see what they are eating. In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Westcott stated that the intent is to have subtle lighting that will not spill over from the patio on to the streetscape. He stated that the idea is to not get the sense that lights are turning on as dusk occurs. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Westcott explained that brick is the look desired on the patio, rather than bluestone. He stated that the bricks proposed for use were selected to avoid the problems that are occurring with the bricks in Market Square. He acknowledged that settling of bricks will always be a problem. He stated that with proper installation, problems will be minimized. Commissioner Athenson commented that in her opinion, there is too much brick in Market Square. She stated support for the grade change to level the patio and remove tripping hazards. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 8 In response to questions from Commissioner Alfe, Mr. Westcott confirmed that the bricks are somewhat permeable to allow rain to dissipate. He stated that the use of bricks is good for the trees. In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Westcott said that the plan increases the number of seats on the patio from 140 to 150-52. He acknowledged that the existing understory plantings soften views of the area from the streetscape and stated that additional plantings could be added back later if needed. He stated that to finance the project, the patio needs to be increased in size. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Westcott stated that the intent is not to negatively impact the trees as a result of removal of the understory vegetation and reshaping the hardscape area. He noted that the Elm tree on the northeast side of the patio will gain some additional space in the bed around it. He noted that the reduction in the size of the bed around the other tree is far enough from the root zone to not cause a problem. He agreed that if roots are found while construction is underway, modifications could be made to minimize damage. Commissioner Athenson cautioned that installing underground gas piping may further impact the trees. She suggested that a plan be developed for perimeter plantings along Bank Lane to create a buffer between the patio and the sidewalk noting that there is already a significant landscape buffer along Southgate. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Ms. Neuman stated that clarification on the location of the property line along Bank Lane is needed to confirm whether there is an opportunity for plantings in that area. Mr. Westcott added that landscaping can attract bugs to the patio area. Commissioner Athenson commented that there should be some kind of landscape buffer between the diners and the public. Commissioner Swenson agreed noting that a fence should be maintained along the perimeter of the patio. Acting Chairman Ransom invited public comment. Hearing none, he invited final comments from the petitioner or staff, hearing none; he invited final comments, direction and input from the Commission on this petition noting that no action is requested at on this matter at this time. Commissioner Travers suggested that the questions about lighting could be resolved through a quantitative lighting study. He noted that there are opportunities to shield lights to preserve a dark sky while also maximizing safety on Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 9 the ground. Acting Chairman Ransom stated support for the forest green color of the umbrellas noting that the Commission has consistently supported that color in the Market Square area. Hearing no further comments, he asked for a motion to continue the matter. Commissioner Athenson made a motion to continue the petition to allow the petitioner to refine the plan taking into account the comments and direction offered by the Commission. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Travers and was approved by the Commission in a 6 to 0 vote. 4. Consideration of a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving a new detached garage at 901 Rosemary Road. Owner: Eugene Martin Trust Contract Purchasers: Brian and Michelle Flynn Representative: Gene Martin, Martin Custom Homes This petition was postponed at the request of the petitioner 5. Consideration of a request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving façade modifications and a detached garage addition at 326 E. Westminster. Owners: Marina and Maria Gipps Representative: Thomas Heinz, architect Acting Chairman Ransom asked the Commission for any conflicts of interest or Ex Parte contacts. Hearing none, he invited a presentation from the petitioner. Mr. Heinz introduced the petition and reviewed the neighborhood in which the house is located. He stated that considerable work was completed on the house before he became involved in the project. He noted that work started at the site without City approvals and a Stop Work Order was issued by the City. He reviewed some of the work completed to date including the removal of the stucco and installation of Tyvek. He noted that he was hired in part to design the garage. He stated that the intent is to restore the house to its original condition he noted however that in evaluating the house, it appears that the material below the stucco in some areas may not be an appropriate to support stucco. He noted that there is no foundation under any part of the porch. He stated that as proposed, the back porch will be finished in stucco and the front porch with shingles. He observed that the front porch may have been an open porch at one time in the past but noted that the current owners want to keep the porch enclosed and use it as an all season room. He noted that over the years, there have been many changes to the house and pointed out for example that the concrete stairs are likely not original to the house. He stated the intent to follow the elements of the Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 10 Four Square style noting that horizontal wood lines will be used. He reviewed the proposed replacement garage noting that the existing garage was a prefabricated building and is in disrepair. He provided some photos showing the existing condition of the garage. He stated that a two car garage is proposed to meet the needs of the owners replacing the one car garage. He reviewed the siting and design of the proposed garage noting the location of the house in relationship to the garage and the alley access to the garage. He noted that the owners of the property to the north have documents depicting the right of access to this property from the alley. He stated that the location of the garage is similar to the location of the existing garage however; the footprint of proposed garage is larger than the existing garage. He returned to discussion of the stucco for the house stating that smooth stucco is proposed noting that he tried to find an early photo of the house to identify the type of stucco that was used, but was not successful. He stated that there is no evidence that the front porch was originally stucco and questioned whether the structure could support the weight of stucco. He stated that the roof will be cedar shingles and stated that AZEK, a substitute for wood, is proposed for the soffit. He stated that some of the AZEK was installed. He stated that the single pane windows will be replaced with thermal glass panes. He stated that the insulation in the home will be improved and the HVAC units will be replaced. He acknowledged a comment from the property owner to the north on the alley about cars damaging a drain pipe and suggested that a bollard could be installed to prevent further damage. Ms. Neuman stated that this petition has two primary components, demolition and replacement of the garage, and exterior modifications to the house. She confirmed that work started on the house prior to City review, approvals or the issuance of permits. She stated that clarification is needed on the scope of the work that is proposed. She stated that the staff report reviews the various aspects of the projects as understood by staff. She reviewed some key elements of the project including the proposed change in exterior material on the front porch and the proposed use of synthetic material on the soffit. She noted that the City’s Design Guidelines and preservation standards support the use of natural materials. She stated that achieving the same look and texture is not possible with synthetic materials. She stated that as presented, the glass panes in the windows will be replaced, but the arrangement of the openings will remain the same. She asked for Commission input on the proposal to replace the existing one car garage with a two car garage and a porch, and input on the design of the garage. She stated that staff recommends continuing this petition to allow further refinement and clarification of the plans and scope of work. Acting Chairman Ransom stated appreciation for the discussion of the various components of the project by the petitioner and staff. In response to questions from Commissioner Alfe, Mr. Heinz explained the likely reasons for differences in the muntin patterns of the windows. He noted that changes were made to the house over time and that the current project is trying to Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 11 replace what exists today. He commented on the use of shingles on the front porch and stated the intent to take the shingles all of the way to the ground. He stated that the colors for the house have not yet been determined. He stated that he has not yet completed his investigation of the house and is not certain of the areas where stucco will work noting the bay windows in particular. He explained that the porch on the garage is intended as a place from which the owners can view the backyard. In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Heinz reviewed the north elevation of the garage, the grading plan and the area of the roof overhang. He reviewed an overlay of the existing and proposed garage. He noted a 7 foot stockade fence which provides screening. He stated that the garage is sized to accommodate two cars and to provide some outside, covered space. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Ms. Neuman confirmed that the project complies with the building scale provisions of the Code. In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Heinz reiterated that the owners want to maintain the enclosed front porch. He discussed the materials used in Four Square houses and stated that he is doing his best to guess what the original materials might have been. He confirmed that gutters will be installed and provided photos of the dormers with and without the AZEK product. Commissioner Athenson recommended further study be done of the Four Square style to examine the materials and treatments that are consistent with that style. Acting Chairman Ransom stated that the Commission’s standards call for natural materials for trim and soffits. In response to questions from Acting Chairman Ransom, Mr. Heinz pointed out a tree in the southeast corner of the property that would be retained. He pointed out other trees that would need to be removed to accommodate the new garage. He noted a row of pines along the west side of the property but stated that for the most part, the lot is in shade. He stated that the intent is to keep the front yard open to allow views to the train station and street. He noted that the house does not have a view to the rear, only out the front. He commented on the chimney acknowledging that a mix of old and new bricks were used. He stated that the views of the chimney from the street are limited. He stated that the copper cap was put on the chimney without the owners’ knowledge. In response to questions from Commissioner Travers, Mr. Heinz discussed the planned vehicle access to the garage door. He stated that he does not have information on the access driveway. He stated that as proposed, the new garage will encroach into the setbacks to a lesser extent than the existing garage. He stated that he does not believe that the siting of the new garage will interfere with Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 12 others’ use of the alley. Acting Chairman Ransom invited public testimony. Andrew Semmelman noted that his wife, Audrey, owns the adjacent property at 789 McKinley Road, on the north side of the service driveway. He referenced the 1930 plat of subdivision that identifies the alley and authorizes access to it by the adjacent properties. He stated that the development of this area predated the current zoning requirements. He stated objections to the project on behalf of his wife stating that the proposed garage is overly large for the property. He noted that over the years, people have backed out of the existing garage and have run into the downspout on Ms. Semmelman’s property. He questioned whether the larger garage will generate more stormwater runoff noting that the drainage in this area runs south to north. He noted concern that additional drainage will further impact Ms. Semmelman’s property, particularly the stairwell to the basement. He asked the Commissioners to consider the impact on the neighboring properties of the proposed project. Audrey Semmelman stated that she grew up in the neighboring house. She confirmed that the alley or driveway is 10 feet wide. Acting Chairman Ransom invited final comments from the petitioner. Mr. Heinz reviewed a photograph of the alley and the width and the turning movements required to get into the garage. Commissioner Athenson suggested that further study be done on the turning radius required for vehicles in comparison to the area available near the garage approach. Acting Chairman Ransom noted that staff will review drainage issues as part of the permitting process. He stated support for demolition of the existing garage due to its current condition. He suggested that the petitioners consider keeping the replacement garage as small as possible while assuring that it functions properly. Commissioner Athenson commented that the garage as proposed appears to dominate the property. She suggested that given the tight site, a one car garage may be more appropriate. She suggested that the garage may be more successful if it is designed in the context of the historic house. She suggested that consideration could be given to a porch, instead of a larger garage. She observed that the house is a Four Square style and suggested that other Four Square houses be looked at to better understand the appropriate detailing and materials for this style. She stated that significant landscaping will be needed at the rear of the property and along the sides to screen the new construction and replace trees that are proposed for removal. She acknowledged that the petition was only recently submitted and suggested that the petition be continued to allow Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 13 further refinement of the project. Commissioner Swenson commented that a desire for a two car garage is reasonable if it can be done within the parameters of the Code. Commissioner Preschlack agreed with the comments of Commissioner Athenson that the garage is too large for the site. He stated that a landscape plan is needed to assure that some softening of the buildings on the site will occur. He suggested that consideration be given to a garage design that is more in keeping with the character of the house and neighborhood. Commissioner Alfe agreed with the comments of other Commissioners observing that the garage as proposed is only two feet away from the house. He questioned whether consideration was given to attaching the garage to the house. He noted that the materials of the house could be continued to the garage. He commented that the mixture of muntin patterns in the windows calls attention to the inconsistencies on the house. Commissioner Athenson stated that AZEK is not an appropriate material and does not conform to the standards in the Code. Commissioner Swenson asked that the proportions of the front steps be reviewed. She stated that as proposed, the front stairs appear too wide. Commissioner Travers commented on the apparent difficulty of accessing the garage and the possible resulting impacts on the neighboring properties. He discussed possible alternative siting for the garage. Hearing no further comments, Acting Chairman Ransom summarized that the Commission has identified a number of issues that would benefit from further study and modification. He encouraged the petitioner to work with the City staff and invited a motion from the Commission. Commissioner Athenson made a motion to continue the petition to allow time for petitioner to respond to the comments from the Commission on various aspects of the project and to allow further study of the Four Square style. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Preschlack and was approved by the Commission in a 6 to 0 vote. OTHER ITEMS 6. Opportunity for the public to address the Historic Preservation Commission on non- agenda items. There were no additional public comments. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes October 23, 2013 - Page 14 7. Additional information from staff. Commissioner Travers made a motion to approve the meeting calendar for the Historic Preservation Commission for 2015. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Preschlack and was unanimously approved by the Commission by a vote of 6 to 0. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Catherine J. Czerniak Director of Community Development