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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-04-07 HPC PacketTHE B I R T H P L A C E OF M I N N E S O T A Monday, April 7, 2014 - 7:00 P.M. Council Chambers at Stillwater City Hall, 216 North Fourth Street . 1 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES March 3, 2013 4. OPEN FORUM The Open Forum is a portion of the Heritage Preservation Commission meeting to address subjects which are not a part of the meeting agenda. The Heritage Preservation Commission may take action or reply at the time of the statement or may give direction to staff regarding investigation of the concerns expressed. Out of respect for others in attendance, please limit your comments to 5 minutes or less. 5. CONSENT AGENDA (ROLL CALL). All items listed under the consent agenda are considered to be routine by the Heritage Preservation Commission and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion on these items unless a Heritage Preservation Commission member or citizen so requests, in which event, the item(s) will be removed from the consent agenda and considered separately 5.01 Case No. 2014 -09 Request for Design Permit to put up an LED sign for G Force Fitness flush at 1650 Market Place Drive. BP -C Business Park Commercial. Geardo Aguirre, owner and Brite Image Sign Company /Grady McCorkel, applicant. 5.02 Case No. 2014 -10 Request for Design Permit to replace current Papa Murphy's signs (front and back) to new design. 1754 Market Drive Suite 300. BP -C Business Park Commercial. KFP Investment Properties Stillwater LLC, owner, Albrecht Sign Company /Kathy Ostrom, applicant. 5.03 Case No. 2014 -11 Request for Design Permit for a sign at Tin Bins at 413 Nelson Street East. CBD- Central Business District. Michael McGuire, owner and Sherri Hopfe, applicant. 5.04 Case No. 2014 -12 Request for Design Permit for proposed signs for rue21, rue21 etc!, rueGuy located at 1870 Market Drive. BP -C Business Park Commercial. Chase Properties Ltd, owner, Crosstown Sign/Betsy, applicant. 6. NEW BUSINESS 6.01 Historical District FAQ Draft Review HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING March 3, 2014 7:00 P.M. Chairman Larson called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. Present: Chairman Larson, Commissioners Johnson, Brach, Welty, Krakowski, Mino, Council Representative Menikheim Absent: Commissioner Goodman Staff City Planner Wittman APPROVAL OF MINUTES Possible approval of February 3, 2014 meeting minutes Motion by Commissioner Mino, seconded by Commissioner Krakowski, to approve the minutes of the February 3, 2014 meeting. Motion passed, 6 -0. @' _► 0 There were no public comments. CONSENT AGENDA Case No. DP/2014 -7. Request for a Design Permit for replacement of aluminum sign panels at 1300 Curve Crest Boulevard (Courage Center) located in the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District, BPI Business Park Industrial. Chuck Knoerk, applicant. Case No. DP/2014 -8. Request for a Design Permit for a 2' by 20' blue channel -lit lettered sign at 1280 Frontage Road West (Valley Ridge Mall) located in the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District, BP -C Business Park Commercial. Duane Downey, applicant. Motion by Commissioner Brach, seconded by Commissioner Welty, to adopt the Consent Agenda. All in favor, 6 -0. PUBLIC HEARINGS There were no Public Hearings. DESIGN PERMITS Case No. DP /2014 -4. Request for a Design Permit for an unlit wall sign for Lemke Anderson PR located at 102 Main Street North. Chauncey Peterson, applicant. Case No. DP /2014 -5. Request for a Design Permit for two unlit wall signs for KLBB Radio located at 102 Main Street North. Chauncey Peterson, applicant. Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting March 3, 2014 City Planner Wittman noted the property owner requires additional time. The 60 -day deadline is March 21, 2014. The City may extend the deadline an additional 60 days if needed. Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Brach, to continue Case No. DP/2014 -4 and Case No. DP /2014 -5 to allow the applicant to submit permit application materials no later than April 18, 2014. All in favor, 6 -0. NEW BUSINESS Case No. ZAT /2014 -10. Consideration of a recommendation to the Planning Commission regarding a Zoning Text Amendment establishing design review standards for certain seasonal food vending facilities. City Planner Wittman presented a proposed zoning text amendment drafted at the Council's request for design review standards for mobile seasonal trailers that are not removed nightly. Chairman Larson stated the Commission may want to allow bright colors as long as it is not unnecessarily distracting or inappropriate. Perhaps neon "painting" should be changed to "neon/fluorescent." Also, "or other bright painting" should be omitted. (Section b) Commissioners suggested that the word "obscure" be changed to "mimic /obscure" (Section c) and that the word "color pictures" be changed to "color photos or renderings." (Section 1) Motion by Commissioner Brach, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to recommend approval to the Planning Commission with wording changes noted. All in favor, 6 -0. Preservation Awards City Planner Wittman reminded the Commission that May is National Historic Preservation month. She presented examples of award categories and led discussion on possible nominees. The awards could be presented at one of the City Council meetings in May. Councilmember Menikheim asked if property owners' work on the interiors of their buildings could be considered for awards. Chairman Larson responded that since the HPC doesn't review interiors, other organizations would be more suited to recognize interior preservation efforts. Walking Tour Routes City Planner Wittman reviewed the two walking tour routes suggested by Dan Hoisington. Commissioners suggested adding BI and B2 to the A route, and renumbering B3 through B9 backwards with entrance from the Chestnut Street stairs. COMMISSION REQUEST ITEMS Follow up on HPC comments to MnDOT regarding loop trail design and associated handrails and fences City Planner Wittman noted the trail has been postponed to 2016. She will request an update. Page 2 of 3 Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting ADJOURNMENT March 3, 2014 Motion by Commissioner Krakowski, seconded by Commissioner Brach, to adjourn. All in favor, 6 -0. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Julie Kink Recording Secretary Page 3 of 3 HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7,204 CASE N0.: DP/ 2014-9 APPLICANT: 8rite Images Sign Co, representing G Force Fitness Design Permit request for u45 square foot interior-lit sign atl65UMarket Drive located in the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: DP-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY: Abbi h Wittman, City Planne The applicant is requesting aDesign Permit for a new, white, interior-lit channel letter sign with aG-ForceFitness company green logo tobe located ou the north elevation of the building. The proposed sign is 3' tall (at the max) by /appzoxizoabelv\I5'long for e total of45 square feet. APPLICABLE GUIDELINES, REGULATIONS AND FINDINGS: Signs to the BP-C zoning district must conform to an adopted multitenant sign plan but the City does not have o multi- tenant aignplaofortbi structure. Therefore, the sign must conform ho the existing zoning regulations for yignagebn this district. The proposed sign meets the requirements of8zeznoing code (of one square foot per one linear foot of building frontage). The sign also conforms to the lg89 West Stillwater Business Park Plan. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Commission approve the Design Permit as submitted with the following conditions: I. The sign may not project more than l6" from the wall which the sign is affixed. 2. Teopucmysignage must be removed upon installation of the new sign. New temporary aignago shall conform to the City's temporary eignagepolicy. S. Substantial changes shall be reviewed by the Heritage Preservation Corm-fdssion. ATTACHMENTS: Site and Sign Specifications ater,,,,,,, HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7,204 CASE N0.: DP/ 2014-9 APPLICANT: 8rite Images Sign Co, representing G Force Fitness Design Permit request for u45 square foot interior-lit sign atl65UMarket Drive located in the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: DP-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY: Abbi h Wittman, City Planne The applicant is requesting aDesign Permit for a new, white, interior-lit channel letter sign with aG-ForceFitness company green logo tobe located ou the north elevation of the building. The proposed sign is 3' tall (at the max) by /appzoxizoabelv\I5'long for e total of45 square feet. APPLICABLE GUIDELINES, REGULATIONS AND FINDINGS: Signs to the BP-C zoning district must conform to an adopted multitenant sign plan but the City does not have o multi- tenant aignplaofortbi structure. Therefore, the sign must conform ho the existing zoning regulations for yignagebn this district. The proposed sign meets the requirements of8zeznoing code (of one square foot per one linear foot of building frontage). The sign also conforms to the lg89 West Stillwater Business Park Plan. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Commission approve the Design Permit as submitted with the following conditions: I. The sign may not project more than l6" from the wall which the sign is affixed. 2. Teopucmysignage must be removed upon installation of the new sign. New temporary aignago shall conform to the City's temporary eignagepolicy. S. Substantial changes shall be reviewed by the Heritage Preservation Corm-fdssion. ATTACHMENTS: Site and Sign Specifications 175 1/2" pV f 7.,,,. 3i r r fY I �r( LED Flush mount channellletter section detail �:In rn cap w /acrllyr face CY)C©O Q a : Channel letter (.040 aluminum return, of .050 aluminum back) O: LEDs (-O:Wall OF :Low-voltage conneting wires (� Power pack O: Power disconnect switchi j): connect service Wre D: Mounting hardware (3 /16 "x2 -3/4" �� !J non- corrosive Tapcon studs) CHANNEL LETTERS FACE: TRIM: BLACK RETURNS: BLACK MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014 CASE NO.: DP/2014-10 APPLICANT: Albrecht Sign Company, representing Papa Murphy's Pizza REQUEST: Design Permit request for front and rear signage located at 1754 Market Drive located within the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: BP-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner� 1754 Market Drive (Papa Murphy's Pizza) Case No. DP/2014 -10 (HPC: 4-7-14) Page 1 of 2 ater-, F 8 1 A T H P I A f. F 0 F M INN ESOIA MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014 CASE NO.: DP/2014-10 APPLICANT: Albrecht Sign Company, representing Papa Murphy's Pizza REQUEST: Design Permit request for front and rear signage located at 1754 Market Drive located within the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: BP-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner� 1754 Market Drive (Papa Murphy's Pizza) Case No. DP/2014 -10 (HPC: 4-7-14) Page 1 of 2 r 111water-", 7 H F 0 I R T H P I A f, E O F M 1 N N 1 5 0 1 A REQUEST The applicant is requesting a Design Permit for two new signs, one on the front and one on the rear of the structure. The signs are constructed of red and green, internally -lit channel letters reading'Papa Murphy's Pizza.' Both signs, proposed to be raised 5" from the wall face, are (approximately) 21 square feet. APPLICABLE GUIDELINES, REGULATIONS AND FINDINGS Signs in the in the BP -C zoning district must conform to an adopted multitenant sign plan. The proposed signs meets the multitenant sign plan approved by the HPC with the adoption of DP/2013 -35. The signs also conform to the 1989 West Stillwater Business Park Plan. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Commission approve the Design Permit as submitted with the following conditions: 1. Prior to installation, the landlord shall remove all existing, non - conforming signage including unpermitted and expired temporary banners. 2. Substantial changes shall be reviewed by the Heritage Preservation Commission. ATTACHMENTS Sign Specifications 1754 Market Drive Comprehensive Sign Plan 1754 Market Drive (Papa Murphy's Pizza) Case No. DP/2014 -10 (HPC: 4 -7 -14) Page 2 of 2 /' nor; v .�/ ..., .,/ VON/ ,. /.. r,.l r r,./ / /r/ r // /r / / �r / / // /// / r r r / r r� //r /r / ✓ r �/ // .c„ r ✓, �amnrIr,,, SMALL STACKED LETTER SET 4 sr. uuc rvrerlr euew¢rm —,. nar�rc.wsra�rnc rorc P' nm:samaca wm �... „ �r Fr LETTER SECTION I M OCS16A * CAB41 CAT Or" * INS rAI. I.AT I ON M ek.rz U 7775 Main St. N, E. Fridley, MN 55432 Office; 763 -754 -2899 Fax: 763 -767 -7316 Client Name P,r, lrchmphy', Location: 7734 frft.,ir3Yf Glrlt'4� Suilv:fl�Cl F4f iPnufr;r, Mlrl ;'>';AGXS1 ... ............................... Clienl Flppro�ral ' I ........ .. ..................... Landlord Appmval Stare M,: 31::IN ¢ Last Revlmon: OM'0109O0 I.: r DOM Arawimg Rev #: 'I Page: Sales Rep Irnt'u f ra,,u'h Designer aN rrrYlu LISTED 91111A, I P 1,4 Lki h ' errs PIZZA" SMALL STACKED LETTER SET sav M FABPJCA-[0N M hxALLAT;C)N 9 SERVICE 7775 Main St. N.E, Fridley, MN 55432 Office: 763 -75 <t 2899 Fax: 763-7677316 Client Name P',Cxn wu,pr,,, Location: M54V,1t(M1,,, S "! I , :!(lO 56,10 ........................ Client Approval Landlord AppmvAl Stan D;iN: 3104 Last Re,mw: 00C�',','M J.I,#: 0"00"1 Dni.nq R,.V P,g,: 1 M 1 Sales Rep: S xm r1u,"I Des,grmr: 0 LISTED LETTER SECnON NAS. M FABPJCA-[0N M hxALLAT;C)N 9 SERVICE 7775 Main St. N.E, Fridley, MN 55432 Office: 763 -75 <t 2899 Fax: 763-7677316 Client Name P',Cxn wu,pr,,, Location: M54V,1t(M1,,, S "! I , :!(lO 56,10 ........................ Client Approval Landlord AppmvAl Stan D;iN: 3104 Last Re,mw: 00C�',','M J.I,#: 0"00"1 Dni.nq R,.V P,g,: 1 M 1 Sales Rep: S xm r1u,"I Des,grmr: 0 LISTED A. Tenant Signs: 1. All Tenants on properties west of Market Drive may have one sign on the front of the building and one sign on the rear of the building. 2. Tenant signs shall consist of individual, internally [it channel letters or individual unlit raised letters (minimum 318" thick, plastic or � - fUAlu metal, no wood) vertically centered on the sign band on front face of building and directly below the row of off -white colored blocks on rear of building. Building north of Curve Crest Drive will be reviewed individually. 3. Tenants may have building signs on street frontage and signage on the west side for buildings facing County Road 5. 4, The length of each rear sign, lettering and logo shall not consume more than 60% of the store width of each Tenaht and the front sign not to exceed 80% of store width. 5. Signs may contain a company logo not exceeding 12sf and must conform to width and height requirements. 6. Tenants may use any letter style desired, but must be the same on the front and back. 7. Letter details: a) Basic lettering and logo not to exceed 36" high on front signs and 24" height on side and rear signs. b) Lighted letters to have Plexiglass lenses with Tenant's choice of color. Side and rear elevation signs must conform to same color as on front. c) Trim and returns on lighted letters shall be consistent on front and rear elevations. d) All channel letters shall be 5" in depth. e) Unlit raised letters, whether plastic or metal, shall be at least 3/8" thick. No wooden letters are allowed. Plastics (\I-A,V—? allowed -are acrylic, plexiglass, polycarb, PVC (sintra) or HDU foam. No low density foam or handcarved letters shall be allowed. Individual raised letters must be pin mounted to sign fascia, not simply glued to surface. N/ HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014 CASE NO.: DP/2014 -11 APPLICANT: Sherri Hopfe, representing Tin Bins REQUEST: Design Permit request for a Tin Bins wall sign located at 413 Nelson Street East ZONING: Commercial Business District COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Downtown Mixed Use Abbi Jo Wittman, City Pla The applicant is requesting approval of a Design Permit for one wall sign to be located at 413 Nelson Street East. Six, one -foot square metal signs will read 'Tin Bins' and will be raised (approximately) 2" off the galvanized facade. The (approximately) 17 square foot sign will be hung one the north wall face of the Commander Mill; the proposed sign is unlit. 114 : ., 74 1 Lei 64 FINDINGS Wall signs are permitted by the sign ordinance at a ratio of one square foot per one linear foot of the structure, parallel to a lot line. The Downtown Design Manual indicates the following guidelines: • Signage should be located in such a way as to not obscure any architectural features of the building. • Use painted wood where practicable. It is the authentic material and will look appropriate against the weathered brick of Stillwater's commercial facades. • Choose tones with sufficient contrast to be clearly legible: dark on light or light on dark. • The storefront sign should be used to display the primarily name of the business only. 413 Nelson Street East Case No. DP/2014 -11 (HPC: 4 -7 -14) Page 1 of 2 jilwater T ii F B R 7 H P L A F E O F M I N N F 5 0 1 A, HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014 CASE NO.: DP/2014 -11 APPLICANT: Sherri Hopfe, representing Tin Bins REQUEST: Design Permit request for a Tin Bins wall sign located at 413 Nelson Street East ZONING: Commercial Business District COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Downtown Mixed Use Abbi Jo Wittman, City Pla The applicant is requesting approval of a Design Permit for one wall sign to be located at 413 Nelson Street East. Six, one -foot square metal signs will read 'Tin Bins' and will be raised (approximately) 2" off the galvanized facade. The (approximately) 17 square foot sign will be hung one the north wall face of the Commander Mill; the proposed sign is unlit. 114 : ., 74 1 Lei 64 FINDINGS Wall signs are permitted by the sign ordinance at a ratio of one square foot per one linear foot of the structure, parallel to a lot line. The Downtown Design Manual indicates the following guidelines: • Signage should be located in such a way as to not obscure any architectural features of the building. • Use painted wood where practicable. It is the authentic material and will look appropriate against the weathered brick of Stillwater's commercial facades. • Choose tones with sufficient contrast to be clearly legible: dark on light or light on dark. • The storefront sign should be used to display the primarily name of the business only. 413 Nelson Street East Case No. DP/2014 -11 (HPC: 4 -7 -14) Page 1 of 2 �._ ater T 9 1 F ( H P I A f' E O F M I N N F: 0 1 A As no other business signage is located on this 30' long wall face, the sign is in compliance with the zoning regulations. Given the proposed metal sign is to be located on a metal building, the material and tone are an appropriate design. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Commission approve the Design Permit as submitted with the following conditions: 1. All revisions to the approved plan, including future lighting of the sign, shall be reviewed and approved by the HPC. ATTACHMENTS Sign specifications Commander Mill facade sketch 413 Nelson Street East Case No. DP/2014 -11 (HPC: 4- 7 -1.4) Page 2 of 2 .......... � � � \� \ / © -_.. . � .....��� .. wZl'� OUT NOW, ny !w, ater.- HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7,204 CASE NO.;DP 204-I2 APPLICANT: Crosstown Sign Company, representing Rue stores REQUEST: Design Permit request for signage atI90lMarket Drive located within the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: D9-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY; AbbiToWittman, CitvPla REQUEST The applicant is requesting a Design Permit for unew sign set tobe located mn the front ofthe structure. The signs are constructed of white and black, channel letters reading 'rneZ1,''roe2letc!,' and 'rueGny.' All three signs, proposed hobe raised 3" from the wall face , are (approximately) 86 square feet which is less than 80% of the sign band area. Additionally, the request includes two (2) temporary window decal clings announcing the opening of the store. 5inoebothebntbeBP-{� �istrictzozmtcooforortoou znnl�te�ez� ' plan. The =, " ^ ~ ^ proposed sign meets the requirements of the znoltiteuunt sign plan approved by the H9[. As per the zoning regulations, window signs that encompass greater than one-third oftbetotal window area must have design review. The signs also conform to the I989 West Stillwater Business Park Plan. z9m Market Drive (Rue stores) Case N^op/zm4-1zyPo4-r-1u Page /mz HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7,204 CASE NO.;DP 204-I2 APPLICANT: Crosstown Sign Company, representing Rue stores REQUEST: Design Permit request for signage atI90lMarket Drive located within the West Stillwater Business Park Design Review District ZONING: D9-C: Business Park Commercial COMP PLAN DISTRICT: Commercial PREPARED BY; AbbiToWittman, CitvPla REQUEST The applicant is requesting a Design Permit for unew sign set tobe located mn the front ofthe structure. The signs are constructed of white and black, channel letters reading 'rneZ1,''roe2letc!,' and 'rueGny.' All three signs, proposed hobe raised 3" from the wall face , are (approximately) 86 square feet which is less than 80% of the sign band area. Additionally, the request includes two (2) temporary window decal clings announcing the opening of the store. 5inoebothebntbeBP-{� �istrictzozmtcooforortoou znnl�te�ez� ' plan. The =, " ^ ~ ^ proposed sign meets the requirements of the znoltiteuunt sign plan approved by the H9[. As per the zoning regulations, window signs that encompass greater than one-third oftbetotal window area must have design review. The signs also conform to the I989 West Stillwater Business Park Plan. z9m Market Drive (Rue stores) Case N^op/zm4-1zyPo4-r-1u Page /mz r° ater 'I' H E B�I R 7 H P( A C 6 0 h MI N N F R 0 1 A Staff recommends the Commission approve the Design Permit as submitted with the following conditions: 1. Design approval for the window signage in excess of one -third of the window area shall be limited to submitted designs. Any additional window signs in excess of one -third of the total window area shall require a design permit prior to the issuance a building permit. 2. Any additional temporary signage shall be in conformance with the City's temporary sign policy. 3. No additional permanent signage shall be permitted. 4. Substantial changes shall be review by the Heritage Preservation Commission. ATTACHMENTS Site and Sign Specifications (3 pages) 1901 Market Drive Comprehensive Sign Plan 1901 Market Drive (Rue stores) Case No. DP/2014 -12 (HPC: 4 -7 -14) Page 2 of 2 L.E.D. Channel Letterset Flush Mounted i IN i..,. fig in „..., y14_ ......... ..... -- 6 it 1 n ..._..... .... ----- v r ..:hears Ic.Vemitt Yea Install "D In ...,. frr 1 1 "a iI Al ...... W �... ...... o (3Q CkIIi) 50H, ���� L� Ikllr� LI ��ti/1� )� 3>JOii -T n ri . r, .,.,.., ...nI Dom s'Io liras rr=r7ycav:�� €9 Nay GC MM w1md—ch.g, 7—p.-ySig,age wA wa wn NIA Revision Date: 027114 Rev, Details: Temporary Coming Soon Clings 6 ft Temporary Coming Soon Clings 140YRI lovelm� -IX. STILLWATER :MARKETPLACE CENTER II COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PLAN A. TENANT SIGNS: 1. All Tenant signs to consist of individual, internally lit channel letters attached to a raceway vertically centered on the sign band on the face of the building. 2. The length of each sign shall not consume more than 85% of the sign band over each Tenant. 1 Signs may contain a company logo not exceeding sixteen square feet. 4. Tenants may use any letter style desired. 5. Letter Details: a. Basic lettering not to exceed 48" in height except OfficeMax which will be 72" in height. b. All letters to have Plexiglas with Tenant's choice of color. C. Trims and returns with Tenant's choice of color. d. All letters to be 5" in depth. Before installation, all signs must be approved by Landlord. B. PYLON SIGN: 1. OfficeMax, its successor and /or assigns may have a sign on the existing project pylon sign on Highway 36 as allowed for in the Stillwater Marketplace Operation and Easement Agreement. r water E 8� R T H A C E a F M I N N E c{ ; a HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: April 7, 2014 RE: Historic District Frequently Asked Questions Draft PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner Attached is a draft of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about historic districts; this was compiled from a variety of resources and tailored to existing and (potential) historic districts in Stillwater. Staff has prepared this to be utilized for general education purposes but is the start of promotional materials to be used for the (potential) creation of a locally - designated, residential historic district(s). Commissioners should review the FAQ paying attention to: • Does the FAQ address items you would be concerned about if you lived in a historic district, if your home was proposed to be located in a historic district and /or you wanted more information about Stillwater historic districts? • Should the FAQ address the differences between this historic district and existing design review (i.e. Downtown Design Review District, Neighborhood Conservation District, and the West Stillwater Business Park District) provisions in the City of Stillwater? • Are there questions that need additions to and /or removal of answers? • What could possibly be missing? Is more information needed? The FAQ, once finalized, will be added to the City's website to further help educate the community on the types of historic districts in the City of Stillwater. The FAQ questions and answers will be linked to other website pages (i.e. maps, neighborhood histories, etc.). STILLWATER HISTORIC DISTRICTS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is a historic district? The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) defines a historic district as a "geographically defined area with a concentration of historic buildings, structures, sites, spaces and objects unified by past events, physical development or design'. Historic districts may be designated on a local, state or national level. What is a local historic district? Locally - designated districts are areas that meet the designation criteria set forth in City Code Section 22 -7, Subd. 4. They are areas that, with a recommendation from the Heritage Preservation Commission and consultation from the Planning Commission, are determined by the City Council as worthy of preservation. Local designation encourages sensitive development in the district and discourages unsympathetic changes from occurring.' This local legislation is one of the best ways to protect the historic character of buildings, streetscapes, and neighborhoods from inappropriate alterations and incompatible new construction, as well as outright demolition. Local historic districts are about guiding change and preserving community character as an area grows and evolves over time.2 What areas in Stillwater have been designated as a historic district? The Downtown Commercial Historic District is the only historic district in the City of Stillwater. Although the district has been designated on the National Register of Historic Places, meaning Stillwater's downtown area was determined to be of national significance, in 1989 the Stillwater City Council designated this district as a Local Preservation District prior to national listing. Additionally during Highway 36 reconstruction endeavors, the City of Stillwater's first archaeological district was created. This district, too, has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. What is the National RegisterV A Nation Register historic district is historic district that is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register is our country's official list of historic places worthy of preservation. It includes individual buildings, structures, sites, and objects as well as historic districts that are historically, architecturally, or archaeologically significant. The National Register is maintained by the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Parks Service. I Georgia Department of Natural Resources Historic Preservation Division. "What's the Difference between a National Register Historic District and a Local Historic District ?" September, 2005. '- New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. "Local Historic Districts FAQ." 2007 3 Georgia Department of Natural Resources Historic Preservation Division. "What's the Difference between a National Register Historic District and a Local Historic District ?" September, 2005. Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 1 of 6 What is the difference between a Local and National Register? 4 Where the National Register District identifies historic resources, a local district protects those resources. The Local Register: • Designates historic areas on the basis of local criteria and local procedures • Protects the historic character and quality of the district with specific design controls and through a design review process • Does not restrict the use to which property is put in the district or require property owners to make improvements to their property • Provides for review of proposed demolitions within designated areas; may prevent or delay proposed demolitions for specific time periods to allow for preservation alternatives The National Register: ® Identifies significant properties and districts for general planning purposes ® Designates historic areas based on uniform national criteria and procedures ® Sets district boundaries tightly, based on the actual distribution pattern of intact historic properties in the area ® Makes available specific federal and state tax incentives for preservation purposes ® Does not restrict the use or disposition of property or obligate private property owners in any way ® Does not require conformance to design guidelines or preservation standards when property is rehabilitated unless specific preservation incentives (tax credits, grants) are involved Does not prevent the demolition of historic buildings and structures within designated areas What gives the City of Stillwater the authority to designate a local historic district? Minnesota Statutes (471.193) authorizes local governing bodies to engage in a comprehensive program of historic preservation. The governing body of a city may establish a heritage preservation commission to preserve and promote its historic resources including, but not limited to, the survey and designation of districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects that are of historical, architectural, archaeological engineering, or cultural significance. In 1980, the Stillwater City Council adopted Ordinance No. 720, declaring that the preservation, protection, perpetuation and use of areas, places, buildings, structures and other objects having a special historical, community or aesthetic interest or value is a public necessity and is required in the interest of the health, prosperity, safety and welfare of the } Georgia Department of Natural Resources Historic Preservation Division. "What's the Difference between a National Register Historic District and a Local Historic District ?" September, 2005. Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 2 of 6 community. The ordinance created the Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC). What is the Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC)? The regulations of the Stillwater HPC can be found in City Code Section 22 -7. The Section indicates the purpose of the HPC is to: (1) Safeguard the city's heritage by preserving sites and structures which reflect elements of the city's cultural, social, economic, political, visual or architectural history; (2) Protect and enhance the city's appeal and attraction to residents, visitors and tourists and serve as a support and stimulus to business and industry; (3) Enhance the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interest of the city; (4) Foster civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the past; and (5) Promote and preservation and continued use of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the city's residents. The seven HPC members are residents of the City of Stillwater who are appointed by the City Council. Members are regulated by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and must have a demonstrated interest, competence or knowledge in historic preservation. One member of the HPC must be a designated representative of the county historical society. What is the difference between the Stillwater Neighborhood Conservation District (NCD) and a historic district? The NCD has been established to help protect and preserve the unique character of Stillwater's residential neighborhoods, by regulating and providing Design Guidelines for new infill development within the NCD. Its purpose is to conserve the traditional neighborhood fabric, guide future infili development within the district, and discourage unnecessary demolition of structures that contribute to the district's historic character. The NCD only applies to new construction and does not apply to exterior alterations of existing structures. Do we really need more regulations? Isn't this just zoning in disguise? 5 Zoning regulates use; historic districts do not. Local historic districts also do not restrict the sale of the property, require improvements or restoration of the property, require approval for interior changes or alterations, prevent new construction within historic areas, or require approval for ordinary repair or maintenance. If my neighborhood is proposed for local historic district designation, do I have any say in whether or not it is established? 6 5 New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. "Local Historic Districts FAQ." 2007 6 Miruiesota Historic Preservation Office. "Frequently Asked Questions About Local Designation " htt www.nu�lis.or slip o�local fa .Min. 15 March 2014 Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 3 of 6 Yes. Public participation is an important part of the designation process. By law, property owners in a proposed historic district must be notified of the proposal so that they may testify for or against it during public hearings to assess the impact of designation. How does local designation affect me as a property owner? 7 Local designation of a historic building or district will not prohibit you from making changes to your property. However, any exterior changes you make must meet local preservation guidelines, based on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards, and must be approved by the Stillwater HPC. This review process ensures that proposed alterations are compatible with the nature of the property. My town looks fine the way it is - what is the value in having a historic district? 8 As population grows and development pressure increases, local citizens actually have less influence on how their communities evolve - unless there is some sort of local design review in place that oversees development. Creating an historic district is a way of singling out the special places within a town or city. It ensures that those unique attributes will remain for future generations. It prevents the gradual erosion of those places that help define those special places. Historic districts encourage reinvestment. When you are part of an historic district, you have some certainty that any new construction or renovation activity will be respectful of the existing character of the community and its architecture. Historic district regulations are quality assurance standards, so that if you invest in your building, you are assured that your investment won't be negated by a thoughtless renovation next door. Local historic districts encourage better design. There is generally a greater sense of cohesion, more innovative use of materials, and greater public appeal within historic districts than in areas without historic designations. Why should I support local designation? s Designation has many benefits. It: • Helps maintain neighborhood property values. • Brings recognition to your building and neighborhood. • Keeps you informed about proposed changes in your neighborhood. • Demonstrates your community's support for the preservation of its historic properties and neighborhoods. 7 Minnesota Historic Preservation Office. "Frequently Asked Questions About Local Designation." http;f /wyw_nu111s .erg /Shpt_ /local�faq.htm.15 March 2014 s New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. "Local Historic Districts FAQ." 2007 9 Minnesota Historic Preservation Office. "Frequently Asked Questions About Local Designation." httl : //www.au-ths.org /shoo /local /fag.htrn. 15 March 2014 Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 4 of 6 hat will happen to the value of my property? 10 Studies around the country suggest that property values increase faster in local historic districts than elsewhere. In Fredericksburg, Virginia, for example, commercial property values located within the historic district increased by an average 480 percent compared to an average 281 percent elsewhere in the city. In some areas, local designation may help turn around a decline in property values. A study of St. Paul's Historic Hill District found that residential property values rose 31 percent compared to an 18- percent decrease elsewhere in the city. One study found that buyers valued the extra protection offered by local historic districts and so were willing to pay higher prices. Will my taxes go up? 11 Property taxes are tied to real estate values. Property taxes for buildings in historic districts are taxed no differently than those outside the district. If my building is to be locally designated, does that mean I have to fix it lip? 12,13 No. Designation is not designed to prevent changes. You may maintain the current look of your building; you are not required to restore it. If you wish to snake significant changes to exterior architectural features of your historic building, those changes must be reviewed and approved by the Stillwater HPC. HPC provides assistance to property owners to ensure exterior changes are appropriate to the architecture of the building as well as the character of the district. Am I going to be told what colorl can paint my house? While the Stillwater HPC does regulate the painting of contributing structures in a historic district as well as previously unpainted masonry, the HPC does not regulate color - or many other changes that are considered cosmetic and can readily be reversed. There are colors which are appropriate to the age and style of the building; city staff and the HPC is prepared to assist a property owner in color selection. Is interior work or routine maintenance reviewed? 14 The Stillwater HPC only has jurisdiction over the exterior of properties. Review of routine maintenance work is performed at staff level as quickly as possible. 10 Minnesota Historic Preservation Office. "Frequently Asked Questions About Local Designation." htti):/ /www.nLnhs.orR /shpo /local /faq.htm.15 March 2014 11 New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. "Local Historic Districts FAQ." 2007 12 Minnesota Historic Preservation Office. "Frequently Asked Questions About Local Designation." 11ttp:. /�www_mnhs.o /sh_ o local fa .htm.15 March 2014 13 City of New Orleans Historic Districts Landmarks Commission. `Frequently Asked Questions." ht : _ /www.nola.gov /hdlc /fagL 15 March 2014 14 City of New Orleans Historic Districts Landmarks Commission. "Frequently Asked Questions." htt : _www.nola.Qov/hdlc fa 15 March 2014 Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 5 of 6 Will designation as a local historic district make repairs and alterations to my building more costly? It shouldn t. Historic districts are not adopted to impose hardships on people. Nor do commissions insist that buildings be "restored" or become museum structures. The purpose of a district is to keep as much of the historic fabric as is feasible, and when alterations are necessary, that the underlying historic character of the building not be lost in the process. 15 Many property owners think that a local designation requires the owner to make costly improvements, or that they will be forced to spend more money to comply with the appropriate preservation treatments than they would otherwise spend. While in some cases the initial changes may be more costly, it is hoped that those changes, if done correctly, will save money in the long run and increase the value of the building. Technical assistance offered by the staff and the Architectural Review Committee often result in savings to the home owner. 16 What about buildings in deteriorated condition? If a property owner deliberately fails to maintain a structure and allows neglect and deterioration to occur, the owner could be cited for "demolition by neglect." Can I call the HPC with my questions? Can they provide technical help in maintaining my property? Yes. One of the major purposes of the HPC is to "promote and preservation and continued use of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the city's residents," the HPC provides a series of handouts, free of charge, that provide rules, regulations and guidelines for the various districts in the City, Additionally, the HPC is willing to conduct pre - application conferences with property owners planning structural restoration and rehabilitation projects. City staff serve as a liaison to the HPC and are also happy to assist you. They can answer technical questions, suggest solutions to problems, explain the review process and assist with application development. Call the staff in the early planning stages with any questions or concerns you may have. 1s New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources. "Local Historic Districts FAQ." 2007 16 City of New Orleans Historic Districts Landmarks Commission. "Frequently Asked Questions." http: / /www.nola.. ov /hdlc/faciL 15 March 2014 Stillwater Historic Districts: Frequently Asked Questions Draft Date: April 3, 2014, Page 6 of 6