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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-06-01 HPC MINCity of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 Present: Howard Lieberman, Chair, Jeff Johnson, Roger Tomten, Scott Zahren and Council Liaison Micky Cook Staff present: Planner Mike Pogge Absent: Phil Eastwood and Gayle Hudak Chair Lieberman called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Approval of minutes Mr. Zahren, seconded by Mr. Tomten, moved approval of the minutes of May 4, 2009 OPEN FORUM Mike Robinson, 801 W. Pine St., raised a concern about St. Croix Boat and Packet's new boat, The Majestic Star. He said he did not think the boat reflects the historic nature of the City's riverfront. PUBLIC HEARINGS Case No. DEM /09 -25 A demolition request for a garage at 510 Sycamore St. W. in the RB, Two Family Residential District. John Zoller, applicant. The applicant was present and stated the existing garage is collapsing from the inside out. He stated he would like to tear down the existing structure and build a garage that he can actually use. Mr. Johnson asked if the intent was to replace the structure, noting there are several other vehicles and other equipment on the property. The applicant stated the semi trailer on the property is being used for storage as his house suffered water damage; he said the City wants the trailer removed. Mr. Pogge stated the City became aware of the trailer last fall and noted the zoning code is silent on the issue of storage on private property. Mr. Pogge stated the City has been in contact with the applicant regarding his plans for removal of the trailer. Mr. Lieberman opened the public hearing. No comments were received, and the hearing was closed. Mr. Johnson noted that typically the HPC looks for a purpose for a demolition. If the purpose is to provide storage, he suggested adding a condition that the trailer be removed within a year. Mr. Johnson moved approval of the demolition for the purpose of constructing a new garage or addition to the house, with the condition that the trailer be removed from the property within a year of the date of the HPC action. Mr. Zahren seconded the motion. Mr. Tomten asked that the applicant look at the infill guidelines when considering plans for the replacement structure. Mr. Johnson pointed out there is a lot of opportunity to pick up details of the existing house, for example, roof details, when constructing the new garage or addition. Mr. Lieberman said he would not be comfortable with placing conditions on a demolition permit; he said granting of a demolition permit should be on the basis of an application only. The applicant stated he would like to get rid of the trailer as soon as he possibly can. Mr. Johnson amended his motion to remove the condition; Mr. Zahren agreed to that action. Mr. Lieberman moved to grant the demolition permit. Mr. Zahren seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Case No. DEM /09 -27 A demolition request for a 5'x13' addition at 505 W. Maple St. in the RB, Two Family Residential District. Levi Brueegemann, applicant. City of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 The applicant was present. He said an existing 5'x7' addition is in very poor condition and an eyesore from the interior. He said they would like to replace the existing addition to provide a laundry area and more room for the kitchen. Mr. Johnson asked if there would b e an issue with the side yard setback; Mr. Pogge stated that would not be an issue. Mr. Lieberman opened the public hearing. No comments were received, and the hearing was closed. Mr. Lieberman questioned the completeness of the information regarding the cost of any alternatives to demolition. Mr. Tomten suggested the scale and size of the existing addition is so unique as to make it not viable to restore /renovate, and Mr. Johnson noted the addition is likely not an original part of the main house. The applicant pointed out replacement would require a new foundation, floor joists and other costly requirements. Mr. Lieberman moved approval of the demolition permit, pointing out that although a detailed cost estimate was not provided, the HPC determined that the existing structure is of an inappropriate size and not historically significant. Mr. Johnson seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. DESIGN REVIEWS Case No. DR/09 -13 Review of final colors for the addition to the existing building, The Lowell Inn, at 102 N. Second St. in the CBD, Central Business District. Richard Anderson, applicant. Rich Munson, DBA Architects, representing Richard Anderson, provided the colors samples for the brick and accent colors, precast stone and stucco. Mr. Tomten asked about the size of the brick. Mr. Munson stated the ramp brick is 4x12, while modular is used on the Lowell Inn. Mr. Johnson asked about lighting in the entry; Mr. Munson said there may be recessed can lighting in the entry. On a question by Ms. Cook, Mr. Munson said the entry will be of a more residential style with double doors. During discussion, it was noted that the window trim will be a sandstone color. Mr. Tomten moved approval of the color samples as submitted (brick, stucco, precast stone), along with the sandstone for the window trim, the proposed door style and recessed can lighting above the entry way. If lighting other than the recessed can lighting is proposed, it will have to come back to the HPC for review and approval, according to the motion. Mr. Johnson seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Case No. DR/09 -19 Design review of the proposed new U.S. Post Office at 107 Third St. N. in the PA, Public Administration, and CBD, Central Business District. HAF Architects, Mike Monn, applicant. Representing the applicant were Mike Monn and Kevin Kiel. Mr. Monn reviewed what he saw as the remaining outstanding issues — location of the tower feature, landscaping, lighting, colors and materials, and signage. He stated since the first meeting with the HPC, they had met with Post Office representatives who had approved a second entrance to the post office through the main lobby of the building, thus the change in the location of the tower feature as indicated in the drawings. Mr. Johnson suggested that the entry under the tower works well. Mr. Monn reviewed the proposed landscaping, including the different tree species. Mr. Johnson noted that due to visibility issues with the intersection of Third and Myrtle, trees in that area should be of a 2 City of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 lower height. Ms. Cook asked about maintenance; Mr. Monn responded that the building tenant association would hire a building management firm. Mr. Monn reviewed the proposed window details, colors and materials. Mr. Monn noted that they picked the rain curtain first, which resulted in the selection of a darker brick color to provide a desired contrast; that selection in turn affected the choice of window colors — blcck in the brick and sandstone in the rain curtain elevation. He provided color samples. Mr. Johnson confirmed the window details, specifically that the south elevation would have the smaller, sash style window which is historically appropriate for the brick, along with other details such as limestone cap and soldier coursing. Mr. Tomten asked about the materials for the various retaining walls and questioned the continuity of the materials. Mr. Monn reviewed the proposed lighting and signage. Mr. Johnson suggested the proposed signage seems excessive, and Mr. Tomten suggested that the proposed use of the blade signs may not be appropriate for this building. Mr. Monn spoke of the desire to provide visibility to the lower -level tenants. There was discussion of various signage possibilities. Mr. Johnson spoke of providing an identity for the building as a whole and suggested using the Post Office as an identifier. Mr. Lieberman suggested identifying the building as the Post Office building with tenants, as opposed to a building with the Post Office as a tenant. Mr. Monn responded that is the building owner's decision, and stated he would have to speak with his client regarding that. During discussion, there were several comments regarding the inconsistencies in the drawings provided to the Commission. Mr. Tomten pointed out that only one color rendering had been provided and said it would be hard to format an approval based on what had been provided. Mr. Monn spoke of their timeframe and Aug. 7 deadline for the Post Office. Mr. Johnson pointed out that plans provided to the Commission had not been updated and also spoke to the discrepancies in the plans provided; he also noted that the location of mechanicals are not indicated in any of the drawings. Mr. Lieberman moved to table pending submission of final plans and to invite public comment because of the significance of the Post Office to the community. Mr. Johnson asked whether the City would extend the 60 -day decision deadline; Mr. Pogge responded in the affirmative. Mr. Pogge pointed out that the HPC had granted approval of the footprint of the building and that should enable the applicant to move forward with site work and come back to the HPC in July for final approval. Mr. Lieberman moved to table this case with the applicant to come back to the HPC in July with a complete submittal, stating that the HPC had approved the building footprint enabling the applicant to move forward with site work. Mr. Tomten seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Case No. DR/09 -24 Design review for a wall sign at 132 Main St. S(Dairy Queen) in the CBD, Central Business District. Paul Williquett, applicant. 3 City of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 The applicant was present. He stated the request is for a projecting sign over the walk -in entrance on Chestnut Street. He said there would be no change to the sign on Main Street. Mr. Johnson confirmed there will be no lighting of the signage. Mr. Johnson moved approval as submitted. Mr. Lieberman seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Case No. DR/09 -26 Design review of a Tuscan -style urban patio (Marx Wine Bar and Grill) with outside seating at 243 Main St. S. in the CBD, Central Business District. Mark Hanson, applicant. Representing the applicant were Mark Hanson and Mark Balay, architect. Mr. Johnson suggested the biggest issue to address is the staff's finding that the Tuscan style is not in keeping with the downtown design guidelines. Mr. Balay responded that the design is a neutral one that makes use of materials already on the building — brick, stucco, stone and iron. He pointed out that both walls in the alley are stucco. He showed a sample of the proposed brick and stated the stucco would match the existing stucco material. Mr. Lieberman and Ms. Cook both spoke in favor of a more contemporary look in keeping with the interior of the business. Mr. Balay responded that this uses old materials in a more contemporary way. Mr. Balay reviewed the 9 conditions of approval. Regarding the condition for a detailed lighting plan, he stated that the light fixtures would be similar to those at Images of the Past and placed in four locations. Regarding the conditions for a curb and ADA accessible corridor, Mr. Balay noted there is a tree growing there and there is no way to provide an ADA corridor; he said they do intend to do a new curb. Regarding the requirement for a trash enclosure, he said the proposal is for a temporary structure as the City is working on a community solution to the problem of dumpsters in the area. Regarding the condition of fire department approval for a fire pit, Mr. Balay stated it is not likely they will be able to have a fire pit. Mr. Johnson suggested the Tuscany style is dating and doesn't speak creatively to the surroundings. He suggested eliminating the brick around the arches and window openings, saying he was OK with the rest of the proposed materials and colors. Mr. Johnson moved approval as conditioned, approving the materials as proposed, including the light color stucco, with round openings but no brick around the perimeter, with the specific light fixture style to be approved by staff. Mr. Tomten seconded the motion; motion passed unanimously. Case No. DR /09 -04 Design review for an amendment to a planned unit development for the sign guidelines and sign ordinance for the Village Commercial District, Liberty Village, at the southwest corner of County Roads 12 and 15. Marc Putnam, Putman Planning and Design, applicant. Mr. Tomten stated he would be abstaining from the discussion and any action. Michael Oreck spoke of the conditions which resulted in the business owners contacting Mr. Putnam to develop a sign plan. Marc Putnum reviewed his previous work with the Liberty development and suggested that when the original master plans were adopted, not enough was known about the 0 City of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 dynamics of a neighborhood village commercial district and the plans, specifically for signage, were a formula for failure. He said the intent in the proposed sign plan is to be aware of and sensitive to neighborhood concerns. He noted that he had talked with Todd Remely, president of the development's master board, and the board supports the concept of the signage plan. Mr. Lieberman invited comments from those in attendance. Dr. Ginger Garley, Rivertown Veterinary Clinic, spoke of the need for the commercial district to have a brand, so folks know where it is and what it is. She pointed out some folks thought Liberty was a gated community. Ray Sharp and Brian Scott, of Liberty Wines and Spirits, spoke of the need for adequate signage, speaking to the number of businesses that have left and suggesting that people don't know their business exists or where it is located due to the lack of signage. Dan Connelly, First State Bank of Bayport, said their business does better when their neighbors do better. Salvatore Rosa, of the coffee and ice cream shop, said people can't see their building or signage from Myrtle Street; even in print advertising, he said, folks don't know where the businesses are located. Rita Jackson, Kwik Trip, said their business has been successful and agreed with the importance of branding. Sol Squire spoke of plans for a coordinated on -line marketing effort, including special events, and making the branding presence known physically. Paula Kroening, 213 Pine Hollow Green, urged the Commission to consider allowing more and better signage but also noted that residents do have concerns with how signage meshes with the neighborhood. Ms. Kroening provided a petition of Pine Hollow residents asking that commercial signage be limited and not allowed on the clock tower, light pole at Settlers Way and Pine Hollow Green and at the tennis courts. David Korte, 3515 Pine Hollow Place, suggested that if one part of a community doesn't survive, the whole doesn't survive; he said residents' issue is with the proposal to place signage on the tower clock and light poles, which he said crosses the boundary. The resident of 140 Liberty Parkway, said she wants the businesses to be successful but does not like the intrusion of signage into residential areas. Mr. Pogge stated staff had spent a lot of time reviewing the proposed plan. He said the main concern is not whether more signage is needed, but with the proposed number of pylon signs along Myrtle and Manning and the proposed approval for roof signs. He noted that the plan addresses every type of signage and would allow double what is permitted in any other part of town. Mr. Putnam responded that the signage proposal is project and site specific; he also pointed out that the businesses are hidden behind Kwik Trip, and the attempt is to layer the signage for more visibility. Mr. Johnson pointed out there is a highway side and pedestrian side to the commercial district; he agreed that a strong identity is needed from the highway, but suggested that once inside the development, a different type of signage is needed. Ms. Cook agreed that signage on highways 12 and 15 is critical, but pointed out that everything the HPC does is setting a precedent and the desire is to be as consistent as possible. Mr. Lieberman agreed with the need for additional signage at Myrtle and Manning but expressed a concern about bleeding over into the residential areas. Mr. Johnson suggested focusing on the effectiveness of the signage, suggesting that sometimes too much signage is distracting; he suggested selling the district and Liberty Village and then visually directing customers to the individual businesses. Mr. Putnam referred to the 5 City of Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission June 1, 2009 signage package plan and spoke of trying to invite folks off the trail system utilizing structural elements, including branding. After additional discussion, it was noted this request will require an amendment to the PUD and action by the Planning Commission /City Council. It was decided to form a subcommittee to refine the proposal and work on remaining issues. Mr. Zahren and Ms. Cook agreed to represent the HPC on the subcommittee. Case No. DR/09 -28 Design review for signage, Karma Clothing, at 126 Second St. S. in the CBD, Central Business District. Amy Carr, applicant. The applicant as not present. The staff report noted that the proposal meets the requirements of the zoning ordinance. Mr. Lieberman, seconded by Mr. Tomten, moved approval as submitted and conditioned. Motion passed unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Johnson pointed out Sherburne Jewelers has had a temporary sign displayed longer than allowable. Mr. Johnson asked about an issue with a "temporary" structure at the Water Street Inn; Mr. Pogge noted the City is working on cleaning up trash enclosures. There was a question about how to deal with Mike Robinson's comments about the new boat; it was decided this was an issue outside of the Commission's purview. The recording secretary left at 11:20 p.m Respectfully submitted, Sharon Baker Recording Secretary N