HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION 2011/06/22 MinutesThe City of Lake Forest
Historic Preservation Commission
Proceedings of the June 22, 2011 Meeting
A regular meeting of the Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission was held
on Wednesday, June 22, 2011, at 6:45 p.m., at the City of Lake Forest Municipal
Services Facility, 800 Field Drive, Lake Forest, Illinois.
Historic Preservation Commissioners present: Chairman Kurt Pairitz,
Commissioners Bill Ransom, Susan Rafferty Athenson, Jim Preschlack and Guy
Berg.
Commissioners absent: Commissioners Fred Moyer and Mary Ellen Swenson
Staff present: Megan O’Neill, Planner and Catherine Czerniak, Director of
Community Development.
1. Introduction of Commissioners and staff, overview of meeting procedures –
Chairman Pairitz
Chairman Pairitz introduced the members of the Commission and staff and
reviewed the procedures followed by the Commission. He noted that due to a
power outage at City Hall, the meeting is being held at the City’s Municipal
Services Facility.
2. Approval of the May 25, 2011 meeting minutes.
The minutes of the May 25, 2011 meeting were approved as submitted.
CONTINUED PETITIONS
3. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving signage, awnings
and lighting at Caribou Coffee, 620 N. Western Avenue.
Owner: Deerpath Western LLC
Tenant: Caribou Coffee Co.
Representative: Emily Heuring, Caribou Coffee
Ms. Heuring reviewed the signage as presented to the Commission at the last
meeting. She discussed the changes made to the proposal in response to the
comments from the Board. She stated that a mockup of the signage was
installed at the site to provide an understanding of the signage as now
proposed. She noted that the wall sign and proposed lights were shifted lower
on the wall to avoid impacting the architectural elements of the building
façade. She noted that the signage fits directly above the door. She stated
that the lettering on the 8” valance of the awning was originally proposed at 5”
but in the current proposal, only the first letter “C” is 5“ in height and the
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June 22, 2011 - Page 2
remaining letters, 4”. She provided a sample of the proposed letter sizes. She
discussed how the signage will be fastened to the building noting that a thin
stainless steel screw will be used to minimize the impact to the building. She
stated that the sign will be light weight. She provided photos of other buildings
in the business district and noted the signage used. She noted that outdoor
tables are proposed as part of this request. She stated that she believes that the
store will fit in well with the community.
Ms. O’Neill reiterated that this petition is continued from the previous meeting
and noted that at that meeting, a concern was expressed about the thickness
of the sign. She discussed the mock up that was provided at the site noting that
it illustrated that the sign, as now proposed, responds to the Commission’s earlier
comments. She discussed the request for an illuminated sign and pointed out
that the area is well lit by the nearby street lights. She stated that as a result,
staff recommends that lighting for the sign itself not be approved. She noted
the taper of the building façade and commented that in response to the taper,
some refinements to the sign may be necessary at the time of installation. She
noted that at this time, it is not clear whether there is sufficient space on the
sidewalk for tables. She stated that a minimum of 5 feet of unobstructed
sidewalk is required to allow for safe pedestrian traffic. She recommended that
a condition be added requiring a dimensioned plan to verify whether there is
space for tables.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Ms. Heuring stated that
lighting is important to the corporate image of the store. She explained that the
store will have early morning and late evening hours. She acknowledged that if
the lighting is objectionable to the Board, it can be eliminated.
Commissioner Berg stated that the building is historically significant and that the
proposed lighting may impact the building’s character. He stated confidence
that residents and College students will find the store.
In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Ms. Heuring stated that
the brown awnings are proposed for compatibility with the building and
because brown is one of the corporate colors. She stated that planter boxes
between the tables could be considered to soften the area if there is sufficient
space. She confirmed that the outdoor furniture will be metal.
Chairman Pairitz invited public comment.
Jan Gibson, 59 E. Franklin Place, agreed that green awnings might be more
compatible with the community than the brown. She expressed concern about
the proposed lighting noting that no other signage on the building is lite. She
questioned whether the sign over the door is necessary in addition to the
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signage proposed on the awning. She expressed concern about the outdoor
seating encroaching on to the sidewalk raising safety concerns for pedestrians
and bicyclists.
Hearing no further public comment, Chairman Pairitz returned the petition to the
Commission for final comments and discussion.
Commissioner Athenson stated support for the wall sign over the door as
proposed, 4” lettering on the awnings and the replacement of the existing
planting beds with some form of planter boxes along the front façade. She
stated that she cannot support the lighting proposed for the sign noting that it
would be inconsistent with the building and character of the area.
Commissioner Berg stated that the scale of the sign is appropriate and noted
that in his opinion, it adds to the character of the building. He expressed
concern about adding planters between the outdoor tables noting that it may
add clutter to the front façade and may be contrary to the commerce aspect
of the building. He stated support for replacement of the plywood above the
windows with black glass. He stated that he cannot support the lights proposed
above the sign noting that the lights could impact the residential tenants
upstairs as well as the character of the streetscape. He noted that there is street
lighting in the immediate area and that there is a sufficient level of lighting to
illuminate the sign. He suggested that lighting could be added to the entry
area, behind the wooden beam.
Chairman Pairitz agreed that there will be sufficient illumination in the area and
agreed that a concealed light, behind the beam at the entrance, may be
interesting.
Commissioner Ransom stated agreement with many of the comments of the
other Commissioners. He stated that the planters may or may not be
appropriate and suggested that issue be resolved at the staff level. He agreed
that the proposed gooseneck lighting above the sign is not needed.
Commissioner Preschlack stated support for a green awning and for the
elimination of the lighting. He noted the importance of consistency with the
character and subtleness of the community. He stated confidence that people
will find the store. He recommended minimalist details. He suggested that a
condition be added regarding outdoor furniture to assure that it is appropriate
in character and quality.
Chairman Pairitz stated support for the brown awnings noting that they are
appropriate given the coloring of the building. He stated that in his opinion,
there is room for some variation in the community. He noted the importance of
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understanding how the existing planter areas will be infilled. He raised questions
about the methods used to affix the sign. He pointed out that the profile of the
sign should conform to the building. He invited a motion from the Commission.
Commissioner Ransom made a motion to grant a Certification of
Appropriateness based on the findings in the staff report and approving the
signage and disapproving the lighting request subject to the following
conditions of approval.
1. Detailed drawings of how the sign will be attached to the building shall be
submitted for staff review, in consultation with the Chairman. The review
shall confirm that attachment of the sign shall not interfere with the
architectural features of the bay window above the front door. The
profile of the sign should follow the profile of the building.
2. The lettering on the valances of the awnings shall be no more than 4” in
height.
3. A dimensioned site plan for the outdoor seating shall be submitted and
staff shall verify whether there is sufficient space between the building
and the streetscape elements to provide for a minimum of 5’ of
unobstructed sidewalk.
4. Outdoor tables and seating should be of high quality and constructed of
metal.
5. Consideration shall be given to adding lighting behind the beam, in the
entrance alcove.
4. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving alterations to
existing window and door openings at 815 Barberry Lane. (Consideration of
the garage element of this petition is postponed to allow further study.)
Owners: Willard and Jeannette Bunn
Contract Purchasers: John and Bridgette Doheny
Representative: John Krasnodebski, architect
Chairman Pairitz asked the Commissioners for any conflicts of interest or Ex Parte
contacts.
Commissioner Athenson stated that she has worked with Mr. Krasnodebski in the
past but that her previous experience will not impact her ability to review this
petition impartially.
Mr. Krasnodebski explained that this petition was presented at the last meeting
with a larger scope. He stated that based on the Commission’s comments at
the last meeting, the garage element of the original petition is being re-worked
and is not part of the present request. He confirmed that it is the intention of the
peitioners to return to the Commission with the garage as a separate project in
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the near future. He explained that to allow work on the existing house to get
underway as soon as the petitioners close on the house, this proposal involves
only proposed modifications to existing doors and windows to go along with
interior renovations. He reviewed the proposed window changes on the front
façade noting that the new windows will be consistent with original window
details and with the proportions on the home. He reviewed the changes
proposed to the east elevation, facing Woodbine Place, and also to the west
elevation of the garage wing. He stated that salvaged brick will be used to
allow the modifications to be seamless. He reaffirmed that all of the details will
be consistent with those on the existing house.
In response to questions from Ms. Czerniak, Mr. Krasnodebski reviewed the
modifications to the east elevation in greater detail acknowledging the
tightness of the wall in the area where the changes are proposed. He stated
that to ease the tightness, the shutters of the replacement window were
removed after the materials were prepared for the Commission’s packet and
the new door down sized to allow it to fit appropriately into the east elevation.
In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Krasnodebski
confirmed that the windows on the front elevation will be the same size as the
existing windows on that same elevation. He noted that on the east elevation,
the new window is sized to fit into the opening of the existing door which will be
removed.
Commissioner Ransom stated support for the removal of the shutters on the east
elevation but questioned whether the window should be further downsized. He
noted that the elevation appears crowded.
In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Krasnodebski explained
that if the window is further reduced the size, the elevation may appear off
balance.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Krasnodebski
reviewed the relationship of the new door and the existing door to the floor
plan. He stated that a casement window would not be appropriate.
Chairman Pairitz invited public comment. Hearing none, he returned the
discussion to the Commission.
Chairman Pairitz stated that the corner of the house is not easily visible and that
in this case, the plan appears different from the “real life” views of the house.
He stated agreement with the staff recommendation in support of the project.
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Commissioner Berg stated support for the project noting that the work proposed
on the front elevation will greatly benefit the house. He noted that the east
elevation is less prominent than the front elevation and is more function driven.
Based on that, he stated support for the modifications proposed to the east
elevation as well.
Commissioner Athenson stated support for the project as presented with the
elimination of the shutters as presented by the petitioner’s architect. She
commended the use of true divided lites.
Commissioner Berg made a motion to grant a Certificate of Appropriateness
based on the findings in the staff report approving the window and door
modifications as presented including the recent change to eliminate the
shutters and downsize the doors slightly on the east elevation. He stated that
the approval is subject to the following condition.
1. Plans submitted for permit shall be reviewed by City staff to confirm that
the detailing is consistent with the plans presented to the Commission.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Preschlack and was unanimously
approved by the Commission.
NEW PETITIONS
5. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving partial demolition of
the existing family room and garage, and approving replacement additions
at 950 Maplewood Road.
Owners: Stewart and Marianne Swift
Representative: Brian Goehle, architect
Mr. Goehle introduced the petition and presented a massing model. He stated
that the plan is configured to meet the zoning setbacks and noted that the
foundations for the piers will be hand dug to minimize impact on the nearby
trees. He stated that the existing garage doors will be reused. He noted that
originally, the ridge of the garage was planned to be increased in height, but
noted that instead, just enough height will be added to the garage roof to hide
the element being added to the rear of the garage. He discussed the staff
comments with respect to the rear windows. He reviewed the elements of the
home that would be demolished with the proposed work. He stated that the
intent is to preserve the overall character of the residence.
Ms. O’Neill discussed the changes proposed to the rear elevation noting that
the changes will impact a later addition to the house, not the original structure.
She stated staff support for the partial demolition in this area and noted that the
proposed massing will be very similar to the existing massing. She stated that the
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work proposed at the rear of the house will be more compatible with the original
elements of the home than the existing condition. She discussed the garage
noting that there is no information that indicates that the garage is not original
to the home. She acknowledged the intent of the petitioner to balance the
historic integrity of the house while at the same time, making the garage more
functional. She described the limitations of the existing garage due to its size.
She noted that the City’s Certified Arborist visited the site and encouraged use
of construction methods that will provide protection to the existing vegetation.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Ms. O’Neill confirmed
that in past decisions, the Commission has recognized the importance of
preserving historic integrity not only of main structures, but also of accessory
structures, including garages.
In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Swift stated that two
cars currently fit in the garage, but noted that once they are in the garage, the
doors cannot be opened. He noted that the garage is very tight for a two car
garage and pointed out that space is needed for bicycles and other
equipment used by his four children.
In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Goehle discussed the
proposed changes in the height of the garage. He stated that efforts were
made in the design to delineate the elements of the existing structure from what
will be added.
Commissioner Ransom expressed concern that the front façade is being
changed radically with the proposed plan.
Chairman Pairitz summarized the comments of the Commission to date
observing that the concerns appear to pertain to the front of the house. He
commented that the changes proposed to the rear elevation are an
improvement over the existing conditions. He noted that his concerns are less
about the garage being historic, and more about the front of the house being
appropriately designed. He acknowledged that part of the garage will be
screened by existing trees. He noted that two parts of the proposed form fight
with the overall character of the house, the brow, and the “squareness” of the
form at the end.
Commissioner Athenson stated concern about the garage becoming the focal
point of the house due to its complexity.
In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Goehle stated that
various alternatives were considered to gain space in the garage. He noted
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June 22, 2011 - Page 8
that the dormers and the ridgeline are carefully preserved with the proposed
design.
Commissioner Berg stated that there may be ways to make appropriate
accommodations to get the owner what is needed while still achieving a strong
design. He suggested that a change in the massing may be helpful. He
suggested consideration of locating the two garage doors on different planes.
Chairman Pairitz invited public comment.
Ed Hamming, 966 E. Maplewood, stated support for the project noting that he is
aware of the difficulties presented by the existing garage. He noted that
previous owners of the house have suggested demolition of the structure due to
the difficulty of the floor plan.
Hearing no further public comment, Chairman Pairitz invited final comments and
discussion by the Commission.
Commissioner Preschlack commented that the massing model presented
appears to better reflect the proposed massing than the plans.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Goehle reviewed
the massing model and discussed the proposed massing of the garage in
relation to the rest of the house. He described the existing columns at the front
entrance to the house and explained that the additional columns as proposed
will be secondary and understated.
Commissioner Ransom noted concern about lowering the roof form resulting in a
radical departure from the rest of the house.
In response to questions from Commissioner Ransom, Mr. Goehle provided an
illustration of an alternative roof form that was originally considered.
Chairman Pairitz stated that in his opinion, the changes beyond the ridgeline are
not a concern, but rather, the changes to the front portion of the roof.
Mr. Swift commented that the narrow width of the garage is the major limitation
and greatest concern from a functional perspective.
Commissioner Berg clarified that it is not the Commission’s role to re-design the
project, but rather, to suggest ideas that could be explored by the architect. He
offered some further options for consideration.
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At the request of a member of the audience, Chairman Pairitz accepted
additional public testimony.
Stephen Douglass, Washington Road resident and member of the Preservation
Foundation, observed that the extension of the roof may make the garage
more compatible with the house. He suggested that consideration be given to
extending the dormers to better align the various elements.
Chairman Pairitz reiterated support for the work proposed to the rear of the
house. With respect to the garage, he suggested respecting the hierarchy of
the architectural elements. He stated that he could accept the lack of
symmetry with a consistency of style and a design that improves the overall
appearance of the house. He commented that the swooping roof element
may not be the right approach in this case. He suggested that consideration be
given to continuing the current slope of the roof line. He suggested that it would
be appropriate for the matter to be continued to allow further study of the
design options that could be used to increase the size of the garage.
Commissioner Preschlack stated that the roof line proposed for the garage is a
concern as presented. He suggested that as the garage is re-considered,
attention be paid to respecting the hierarchy of the main entrance door,
providing consistent detailing and creating a secondary entrance with
appropriate simplicity. He asked whether the petitioner and his architect have
sufficient direction and a clear understanding of the Commission’s concerns.
Chairman Pairitz commented that the recess of the service door may be part of
the struggle, noting the inconsistency of that element with the style of the house.
He encouraged the petitioner and architect to think holistically in reconsidering
the best design for the garage expansion. He observed that the house reads
flat in its existing form. He suggested that bringing the garage forward could be
a positive outcome. He noted that it will be important to find an appropriate
place for the seam as the new bricks connect to the older bricks. He suggested
consideration of an inside seam for this transition.
Commissioner Ransom made a motion to continue the petition to allow further
study of the garage element based on the comments and discussion of the
Commission and input from the public.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Athenson and was unanimously
approved by the Commission.
6. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness to allow construction of an
addition at 970 Deerpath.
Owners: Peter and Elizabeth Hamilton
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Representative: Terry Tackbary, Contack Construction
This item was postponed at the request of the petitioner.
7. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness approving the demolition of the
existing structure and construction of a replacement structure at 881
Rosemary Road.
Owner: Michael Tracy
Representative: David Poulton, architect
Chairman Pairitz asked the Commission for any conflicts of interest or Ex Parte
contacts, hearing none; he invited a presentation from the petitioner.
Mr. Poulton introduced the petition and commented that this is the second
house he has designed for Mr. Tracy noting that the first was 20 years ago. He
reviewed an air photo of the property and noted its relationship to surrounding
properties. He discussed the configuration of the property noting that it is a lot-
in-depth with only a narrow frontage on Rosemary Road. He pointed out the
location of the ravine along the south and east edges of the property. He
discussed the front entrance pillars noting that as part of this proposal, no
changes are proposed to the pillars. He stated that further research is being
conducted on the pillars to determine whether they have historic significance.
He stated that a plan for replacement pillars may be brought back to the
Commission for consideration at some time in the future. He reviewed photos of
the existing house noting that it is a brick and frame residence. He stated that
the existing residence is “tired” and shows evidence of stress over one window
and deterioration of the wood elements. He presented photos of the open
area of the lot. He noted the arbor vitae along the west side of the driveway
which provides a significant buffer between this house and the original house to
the west. He showed a photo of the garden wall near the ravine which remains
on this property from the original historic estate. He stated that it is believed that
the wall was once part of a tennis court associated with the main house. He
noted that as the site is currently configured, this historic element seems
forgotten. He pointed out that in the design of the replacement house; the wall
is an integral part of the redesign of the site. He showed a photo illustrating the
grade change on the site and stated that the proposed plan is designed to
work with the existing grades. He reviewed the site plan noting the location of
the steep slope set back within which no habitable structures can be
constructed. He also noted the zoning setbacks and the buildable area that
results after consideration of all of the applicable setbacks. He noted that in
early discussions, consideration was given to remodeling the existing house and
retaining the original foundation. He noted that geotechnical engineers and
steep slope specialists were hired in an effort to examine the opportunities to
work with the existing structure. He stated that working with the existing structure
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June 22, 2011 - Page 11
required some work to be done within the steep slope setback and stated that
the City Engineer could not support that approach. He noted the difficulty of
working within the building pad while also presenting an appropriate front of a
replacement structure to the driveway approach. He noted that the idea of
using the historic wall became a focus of the design. He noted that the
proposed plan uses the wall to create a terrace and then constructs a house to
relate to the terrace. He noted in order to work within the allowed buildable
area, a detached garage is proposed. He reviewed the proposed site plan for
the replacement house in detail. He provided a perspective drawing showing
how the building massing relates to the ravine. He reviewed each elevation of
the house and provided samples of the proposed exterior materials and
reviewed the various architectural elements and the detailing. He presented
elevations of the proposed detached garage. He reviewed the landscape plan
noting that vegetation is added in areas that are currently thin. He stated that
the landscaping will screen the new construction on every side to a large extent
limiting any views of the house from off of the site.
Ms. O’Neill stated that the Commission does not often hear requests for
complete demolition of residences, but noted that in this case, in the opinion of
staff, the criteria for demolition are satisfied. She stated that the replacement
structure is a creative solution on a very challenging lot, one with many
limitations. She stated that the City’s Certified Arborist is involved in the project
and has worked with Mr. Poulton to identify trees on the site that should be
preserved and to develop a plan to protect them during construction. She
reviewed the recommended conditions of approval noting that in particular, a
recommendation that a detailed plan for demolition of the existing structure be
provided. She noted that due to the ravine, the demolition plan will need to be
reviewed by the City Engineer to assure that the ravine is protected throughout
the demolition and the construction process.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Poulton confirmed
that great care will be taken to minimize any impact on the ravine during the
demolition activity. He stated that the experts hired by the property owner will
work closely with the City Engineer to evaluate whether the foundation for the
existing house should remain in the place, or be removed.
In response to questions from Commissioner Athenson, Mr. Poulton discussed the
existing driveway acknowledging that it is within the steep slope setback, but
noting that it does not fall under the same restrictions as a structure.
Chairman Pairitz stated confidence in the City Engineer to oversee the technical
aspects of demolition and construction occurring adjacent to the ravine.
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In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Poulton stated that
he has not researched the fountain, but believes that the fountain is original to
the estate. He noted that an engineered site plan will be prepared for
submission with the building permit application. He noted that his client is
knowledgeable about slope stability issues having lived on a bluff for 20 years.
He noted that Mr. Tracy has completed restoration work to protect his bluff. He
stated that the intention is to use the same careful approach with the ravine.
In response to questions from Commissioner Preschlack, Mr. Poulton stated that
in his opinion, the existing house is not consistent with and does not contribute to
the neighborhood. He discussed the selected architectural style of the
replacement home and its relationship to the surrounding historic homes.
In response to questions from Commissioner Berg, Ms. O’Neill confirmed that the
building scale calculations for the replacement house take into account the
required reductions for the portion of the lot within the ravine and driveway.
In response to questions from Commissioner Berg, Mr. Poulton offered further
comments on the style of the house noting that the design process was a long
evolution. He noted some English influence at the start, but acknowledged that
as the project progressed, the influence was taken more from French overtones.
He pointed out some similarities to the nearby Stanley Anderson residence.
Commissioner Berg observed that even in winter, the site has limited visibility
from nearby properties.
Chairman Pairitz invited public comment.
Jack McGinley, 855 Rosemary Road, stated that he has lived in his house, the
house in front of this property, for 18 years. He noted in that time, he has
carefully renovated the house preserving the historic integrity of his property. He
noted that over time, he landscaped the property to provide more privacy and
to enhance views from his terrace. He acknowledged that Mr. Tracy has been
very open with him about the proposed project and stated appreciation for his
efforts to communicate. He stated support for demolition of the existing
structure but noted two concerns. First, he noted that the replacement house is
significantly larger and taller than existing house. He noted that he is conscious
about the impacts redevelopment of the site, with a larger house, may have on
his house and privacy. Second, he noted that currently the landscaping screens
the existing house. He noted that the arbor vitae that provide the screening are
old and in some cases wired up. He stated that when they are replaced, the
new plantings will not be as large as the existing plantings, and may result in
views of the new house from his property.
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Mr. Tracy, 41 Stonegate Road, spoke on behalf of his son and daughter-in-law
stating that he purchased the property and will be building the home for them.
He stated that he has lived in Lake Forest for 19 years. He stated that he has
tried to reach out to the neighbors and tried to be open and transparent about
the project. He explained that his charge to David Poulton was to design a
house to meet his family’s needs, not one that would compete with the
surrounding significant properties. He noted Mr. Poulton’s experience and his
ability to design unique homes, appropriate for each particular setting. He
noted a willingness to plant additional landscaping and noted that some new
plantings have already been completed to take over as existing trees die. He
discussed the height and massing of the house and stated an interest in
respecting the neighbor’s privacy.
Hearing no further public testimony, Chairman Pairitz commended the plan and
the ways in which the challenges on the site are addressed.
Commissioner Ransom agreed that the project meets the challenges well and
he commended the creative integration of the historic garden wall into the
project. He noted that with respect to the height of the replacement residence
and the need for new or replacement landscaping, he stated a confidence
that the petitioner will work with the neighbors to address their concerns.
Commissioner Athenson stated support for the demolition noting that the criteria
for demolitions are satisfied. She commended the architect for designing the
replacement house in the context of the site. She noted the simplicity of the
plan and commended the proposed landscaping and the willingness to work
with the neighbors. She made a motion to grant a Certificate of
Appropriateness, based on the findings in the staff report, approving the
demolition of the existing residence and approving the replacement residence,
the overall site plan and the landscaping subject to the following conditions of
approval.
Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the following conditions shall be
satisfied.
1. Further review and as appropriate, refinement of the roofline shall be
considered.
2. Given the location of the existing structure within the steep slope setback,
a demolition plan, outlining the proposed demolition process, the steps in
the process, the area impacted by demolition activity and the type of
equipment necessary to demolish the existing house shall be submitted
subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. The City Engineer
shall verify that the process and equipment proposed and make every
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June 22, 2011 - Page 14
effort to minimize impact to the ravine. Further, the City Engineer shall
require that all appropriate protection measures are taken to preserve the
stability of the ravine area.
3. Comprehensive digital photographic documentation of the existing home
and site shall be submitted and be subject to a determination by staff that
the photos adequately document the site.
4. A pre- and post-construction Tree Preservation and Protection Plan shall
be provided by a Certified Arborist outlining the steps that will be taken
before, during and after construction to protect and care for the two
large Maple trees in proximity to the new foundation for the replacement
structure.
5. A detailed landscape plan, depicted on the approved grading plan, shall
be submitted for review by the City’s Certified Arborist. The Arborist shall
confirm that the plan achieves the following goals before approving the
plan:
a. The plan shall identify all existing plantings, those that will remain, and
those intended for removal.
b. The plan shall identify all new landscaping proposed.
c. Any trees over 8” removed shall be replaced on the site at a ratio of no
less than 1” for 1” replacement consistent with the City’s Tree
Preservation and Landscape Ordinance and subject to the approval
of the City’s Certified Arborist.
d. If preservation of the two large Maple trees in proximity to the
proposed foundation is not feasible, double inch for inch replacement
shall be provided for the loss of these trees.
6. A plan for the staging and storage of construction materials and
equipment reflecting the proposed access to the site and any on site
parking of construction vehicles shall be submitted and subject to
approval by staff.
7. Protective fencing, as determined to be necessary by the City’s Certified
Arborist and the City Engineer shall be erected to protect vegetation and
prevent stormwater runoff on to neighboring properties and over the top
of the ravine during construction activity. The fencing shall remain in
place and properly installed until removal is authorized by the City.
8. All applicable fees or fines shall be paid in full including the Demolition
Tax.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
June 22, 2011 - Page 15
Other conditions.
9. If replacement entrance pillars are proposed, an application shall be
submitted requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness. Final approval of
the replacement piers must be received prior to removal of the existing
wooden piers.
10. An engineered grading and drainage plan is required as part of the
permit process. If significant grade changes are proposed that were not
clearly represented at the hearing on June 22, 2011, resulting in changes
that impact trees, neighboring properties or overall character of the site,
this item will be brought back to the Commission for further review.
11. City staff is directed to conduct periodic, pro-active inspections of this site
to assess and confirm that the work on the site is proceeding consistent
with the approved plans.
12. In the event that landscaping cannot be completed prior to the issuance
of a Certificate of Occupancy due to the time of year, only a conditional
Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued and a financial guarantee in the
amount of 110% of the full cost of materials and labor shall be posted with
the City. All plantings shall be completed during the first available
planting season as determined by the City’s Certified Arborist.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Ransom and was unanimously
approved by the Commission.
OTHER ITEMS
8. Opportunity for the public to address the Historic Preservation Commission on
non-agenda items.
There was no additional testimony from members of the public.
9. Additional information from staff.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Catherine J. Czerniak
Director of Community Development