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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-06-17 HPC Packeti11wa tr. THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA PLEASE NOTE: Heritage Preservation Commission meetings are streamed live on the city website and available to view on Channel 16. Public can participate by logging into zoom.us/join or by calling 1-312-626-6799 and enter the meeting ID number: 503 594 024 AGENDA HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING June 17th, 2020 CONFERENCE PLANNING WORKSHOP - CANCELLED 6:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M. I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Possible approval of minutes of May 20th, 2020 regular meeting IV. OPEN FORUM - The Open Forum is a portion of the Commission meeting to address subjects which are not a part of the meeting agenda. The Chairperson may reply at the time of the statement of 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. V. 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 commission member or citizen so requests, in which event, the items will be removed from the consent agenda and considered separately. VI. NEW BUSINESS 2. Case No. 2020-16: Consideration of a Design Permit for exterior building modifications on the property located at 401 Main St S in the Downtown Design Review District. Dennis Kilbane of DCK Enterprises WI, property owner and Todd Konigson, applicant. VII. OLD BUSINESS 3. Case No. 2020-03: Consideration of a Design Permit for a new retaining wall near the Main Street stairs. City of Stillwater applicant. VIII. OTHER DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. HPC Ordinance Policy Direction and Review Process IX. FYI — VERBAL UPDATE ONLY 5. 2020 Preserve MN Conference X. ADJOURNMENT The Birthplace of Minnesota Public comments from the virtual meeting: 19:17:34 From todd : im here as well. the siding is not permanent. i I I \ i's'Ater THE OIRTIIPLACE OF NINNESOTA HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING May 20, 2020 7:00 P.M. Chairwoman Mino called the meeting to order via Zoom at 7:06 p.m. Present: Chairwoman Mino, Commissioners Finwall, Heimdahl, Larson, Thueson, Walls, Council Representative Junker Absent: Commissioner Krakowski Staff: City Planner Wittman, City Clerk Wolf Chairwoman Mino welcomed new Commissioner Fitzie Heimdahl. She acknowledged the contribution of Commissioner Steinwall who stepped down and joined the Planning Commission. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Motion by Commissioner Larson, seconded by Commissioner Finwall, to reappoint Mino as Chair. All in favor. Motion by Commissioner Larson, seconded by Chairwoman Mino, to appoint Thueson as Vice Chair. All in favor. Commissioner Finwall requested that staff notify the Commission annually the month previous to elections to put everyone on notice to think about these positions. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Possible approval of minutes of April 15, 2020 Meeting Motion by Commissioner Thueson, seconded by Commissioner Finwall, to approve the minutes of the April 15, 2020 meeting. All in favor. OPEN FORUM There were no public comments. CONSENT AGENDA Case No. 2020-15: Consideration of a Design Permit for business signage at 223 Main St N, located in the Downtown Design Review District. Chris Siedow, property owner and Christie Wanderer, applicant. Motion by Commissioner Larson, seconded by Commissioner Walls, to adopt the Consent Agenda. All in favor. PUBLIC HEARING There were no public hearings. NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. OLD BUSINESS Case No. 2020-13: Consideration of a Design Permit for facade changes and new signage at the property located at 103 Main St N in the Downtown Design Review District. PAC Holdings LLC. property owner and Hamilton LLC, applicant. Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting May 20, 2020 Ms. Wittman stated that at the last meeting the Commission approved a Design Permit for facade renovations for the Lucky's Station with the condition that the design conform to the 1990s approved design. The 1990s design included painting the building facade band and pump canopies black. This condition of approval has not been accepted by the owner and affiliates, citing that Amoco no longer uses black as part of its branding scheme. Additionally, it is argued this condition of approval considerably altered the proposed design. Thus, the owner is requesting a reconsideration of the original request. The applicant is requesting approval of a Design Permit to: paint the building's black sign band area in white; replace the existing "Lucky's Station" wall signs with new, 52" unlit signs to read "To Go" in white lettering on red; change the gas pump canopies to white with red and orange and contrasting blue stripes with black channel letters to read "AMOCO" where the "Gulf" logo currently is; change the existing, free-standing "Lucky's Station" sign to an approximately 64 square foot unlit sign to read "AMOCO"; and change all existing pump canopy fluorescent lights to 3000- 3500K LED lights. Building lights behind the sign fascia band would be 3500K. There are a few changes from the last request. The applicant is no longer interested in painting any brick nor installing interior -lit signage. Staff realizes there is concern that white would stand out from the surrounding environment and historic context. Staff asserts the proposed signage would not create a traffic hazard and is in harmony with adjacent development. Staff recommends approval of all proposed signage with eight conditions. Staff is recommending the Commission determine if changing the pump canopy and building fascia to white will be in conformance with the Architectural Character standards set forth in City Code. Jim Hamilton, the property owner's representative, stated via phone that after the last HPC meeting, he went back to Amoco with the black fascia and Amoco denied it, so he is coming back with the original proposal because there is no other option. Amoco is aware that the building is in the middle of an historic district. Councilmember Junker asked, what about the freestanding pylon sign? City Planner Wittman reviewed the design proposed for the freestanding sign. It is proposed to be a 50 square foot white square sign with the Amoco logo centered in it. It will be in compliance. Any lighting would need to be external and the applicant is aware of this. Commissioner Finwall asked if the City requires photometrics for the new lighting. Ms. Wittman replied photometrics are required only in larger land use development projects but not in the design permit process. Ms. Finwall said photometrics might help ensure the lights don't cause nuisance to surrounding properties. She asked if this could be a condition of approval. Ms. Wittman replied it would be hard because there are not specific guidelines for photometrics. Commissioner Heimdahl asked, will the lighting be a cool light or warm light? Ms. Wittman replied it was determined that the max of 3500K has a more orange glow and would be more acceptable downtown than a higher intensity light. Commissioner Larson said the heart of the issue is corporate design standards versus City design standards. There is nothing in the City guidelines requiring the HPC to accept something because something else was there that was also unacceptable. He has an issue with the colors of blue, orange and red. According to the design manual, trademark building design is not a good enough reason to approve something simply because it is a corporate design standard. He feels Amoco is showing inflexibility. Other franchises have been able to adapt to historic locations with subdued signs. Page 2 of 5 Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting May 20, 2020 Commissioner Thueson referenced the design guidelines stating that trademark or logo signs may not be acceptable if the color or character of the sign is not in keeping with the historic character of the area. There are about six ways in which this application doesn't meet the guidelines. Commissioner Finwall agreed the biggest concern is the canopy with blue and orange. She shares the concern about the applicant's lack of flexibility. Councilmember Junker suggested the applicant convert the canopy to solid white or white with red which would not stick out as much as blue and orange. A white canopy cleans up the look. Ms. Wittman responded that a plain white canopy has challenges as well. Both options were before the HPC last month but the applicant indicated their preferred design is the red, white and blue. Mr. Hamilton said he thinks Amoco approved of the white canopy. However if there is no red band on the building there cannot be the "To Go" logo. Joe (no last name given), the lessor of the property, said they are trying to make the place look nice. Chairwoman Mino clarified that the Commission is not asking for removal of the "To Go" logo on the building. She is more comfortable with the white canopy. Commissioners Larson, Walls and Finwall agreed white is better than red and blue for the canopy. Ms. Wittman summarized that most Commissioners feel a black brand name on a white canopy is in substantial conformance with design guidelines, as is the white fascia band on the building. There is the question of whether "To Go" conforms with design guidelines. Commissioner Finwall asked if the applicant would be willing to have a black band on the building. Mr. Hamilton said he will check with Amoco to see if they would approve a white canopy and white fascia on the building. If they put a black band on building, he does not think they can also put "To Go" there. If they do not have the red band they cannot use the "To Go" logo. He thinks Amoco probably would not allow the black band because it goes against their color schemes but he will verify. They may agree to an all white fascia band. Either the business name or an Amoco decal like on the canopy would probably be used. Joe said his actual business name is "To Go Amoco." Ms. Wittman summarized that a white pump canopy and white building fascia are more in conformance with the neighborhood character and the HPC would recommend approval of white canopy with black Amoco on pump and black lettering for the business name. Motion by Larson seconded by Finwall to approve the originally submitted design with the following changes: the pump canopy shall be white, the building fascia shall be solid white (the red accent band shall not be permitted on the building fascia). The motion includes that it could be a black band or no band, all white. One conforming sign on each street -facing side of the building would be acceptable. Commissioner Thueson said the white is closer than red and blue but the guidelines say subdued color and dark tones, and he does not think it fits that guideline. The same corporation has compromised before and he is surprised they are not being more flexible to work within the guidelines. Mr. Hamilton stated Amoco wants to be a good neighbor. They want to try to keep their identity without completely changing all their colors. He thinks they will agree to the white with black decals. Motion passed 5-1 with Commissioner Thueson voting nay. OTHER DISCUSSION ITEMS Page 3 of 5 Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting May 20, 2020 Chestnut Street Plaza Project Ms. Wittman introduced the Project Team working on the Chestnut Street Plaza. Kathleen Anglo, TKDA, explained that this project came out of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This is a $2 million joint project with funding split between the City of Stillwater and MnDOT. The City has signed a lease agreement with MnDOT. MnDOT has stipulations on what may and may not happen on Chestnut Street. She showed a map of the project, which will not include the circular area at the end of the lift bridge. Some of the things it will involve are managing the intersections, considering bicycle and pedestrian traffic, considering bumpouts, signal modifications, and additional pedestrian safety enhancements at Mulberry, Myrtle, Olive and Nelson Streets. Vehicular traffic across Chestnut at Water will have to be accommodated and she believes the City plans to make Water Street a one-way but that will be a subsequent project. The project schedule includes community engagement and design May -November, with conceptual design going before the City Council in late July and bidding in early 2021 for construction in spring/summer 2021. Councilmember Junker suggested that the Gartner Studios building that runs from Main Street to Water Street on the south side may be a good place for a unique mural. Commissioner Larson said he is excited about this project, especially looking at bumpouts and other ways to make the area more pedestrian friendly. Circulation of vehicles, bikes and pedestrians will drive the design. He also is interested in knowing what will be programmed there, if the City will try to accommodate anything other than casual seating, such as events. He hopes it ends up being a place that feels like it's people first, not cars. He would like to see vehicular traffic on Water Street discouraged. Commissioner Thueson remarked it would be interesting to ask the community if the vista from the top of Chestnut down to the bridge is important to them. He is aware of some pedestrian plazas that are not successful i.e. Seventh Street Place in St. Paul. It seems like a lot of these places live and die with the vitality of the businesses beside them. He is also interested in whatever can be done to beautify the blank wall of the former drugstore. Commissioner Walls said biggest thing for him is being consistent with the public spaces that the City has already designed i.e. the pedestrian plaza. Councilmember Junker added that the City has not been good at making lighting consistent and attractive. He would like to see attractive lighting that actually lights for safety from Main Street to the bridge. Commissioner Finwall said this plaza presents a great opportunity for decorative trash and recycling containers, native landscaping, seating for current and future restaurants. The design should take into account all the flooding that happens there and utilize some sustainable designs such as pervious pavement and other sustainable elements reflective of Stillwater being a GreenStep City. Commissioner Heimdahl pointed out that really successful cities have vibrant public spaces designed for people not cars. He would like to incorporate outdoor seating into more long term city planning to make downtown more pedestrian friendly. Regarding the sustainability aspect, he would like to see landscaping like trees and native plants, and acknowledgement that all the water eventually runs to the river. He offered a personal plug for a project he has been working on with local artists wrapping and painting utility boxes. He would like to see this project incorporate public art. Chairwoman Mino added it would be good to include things that help facilitate other pedestrian related activities like dog walking. She thanked the presenters for sharing the information on the project. Interpretation Planning Ms. Wittman said she was approached by residents Lowell Thompson and Judy Gulden about doing more interpretation of historic sites via plaques, display panels, etc. Now may be the time that the City consider an ad hoc committee to work on developing an interpretation plan for downtown. She asked if the HPC has interest in forming a small committee to work on this. Page 4 of 5 Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting May 20, 2020 Commissioner Heimdahl noted that he coordinates Wisconsin's historic marker program. It's important to recognize the indigenous people who lived in the valley before the European settlements and incorporate that history as well, and to look at the full and complete picture of the community, past, present and future. Commissioner Finwall asked if there is a budget for this work. Ms. Wittman replied that the HPC has a $5,000 annual budget that is usually used for matching grants. There are some funds remaining. Commissioners Thueson, Larson and Finwall voiced support for the concept. Commissioner Finwall recognized that staff is already very busy. Ms. Wittman said perhaps in the fall or winter staff could look for some funding for this. Maybe one Commission member wants to facilitate the formation of a committee. Commissioner Heimdahl said he would not mind helping in some way. 2020 Preservation Awards Ms. Wittman stated that the Council has not opened up meetings to the public yet. She will keep the 2020 Preservation Awards in the "to be discussed" file until in -person meetings resume. FYI Miscellaneous Development Projects Ms. Wittman informed the Commission that the consultant has assessed the Lowell Park Pavilion and is developing recommendations with the goal of completing a draft plan within the next month. The Council has postponed some capital improvement projects including the sunken garden and Bergstein buildings. The North Main stairs by Warden's House museum still are on schedule to be repaired this year. Design modifications are still being considered for the South Main Street wall. Ms. Wittman also said Commissioner Thueson alerted her to a grant opportunity through the Minnesota Digital Library to obtain funding to scan historic surveyor records that the City has. There are about 118 surveyor field books dating back to 1854. This could be a phased project over time. She will submit a grant application and is hopeful of receiving funding. HPC Ordinance Ms. Wittman stated she anticipates having something for review at the next meeting. 2020 Preserve MN Conference Ms. Wittman stated that the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) staff still has not cancelled nor confirmed whether the 2020 conference will occur. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Walls, seconded by Commissioner Heimdahl, to adjourn. All in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 8:53 p.m. ATTEST: Abbi Wittman, City Planner Amy Mino, Chairwoman Page 5 of 5 Ilwater T F1 E 6cRIH PEA C E Of M INNE S E T A PLANNING REPORT TO: REPORT DATE: MEETING DATE: APPLICANT: LANDOWNER: REQUEST: LOCATION: DESIGNATION: DISTRICT: REPORT BY: Heritage Preservation Commission CASE NO.: 2020-16 June 10, 2020 June 17, 2020 Todd Konigson, representing Stillwater Provisions Dennis Kilbane of DCK Enterprises WI LLC Consideration of a Design Permit for exterior remodeling and semi- permanent seasonal outdoor food vending stand 401 Main Street South N/A Downtown Design Review District Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner Main Street View (Google — May, 2019) SPECIFIC REQUEST The applicant is requesting approval of a Design Permit for exterior remodeling and a semi- permanent seasonal outdoor food vending stand. Details include: 1. Main Street/front (western) facade and entryway: a. Install stained cedar, nickel gap wood ship lap siding on the front (western) and a portion of the northern facade; and b. Install an aluminum clad take-out food window. 401 Main Street South HPC 2020-16 Page 2 of 6 2. Front entrance: a. Replace the front entrance with wood clad and glass sidelights. 3. Nelson Street/side (northern) facade: a. Remove the western loading dock, stairs, and "Stillwater Farm Store" mural replacing it with four, aluminum clad windows of the same dimensions as the front facade. An overhang is proposed over these new windows; b. Remove the eastern loading dock and stairs, enlarging the loading area to a glass paneled garage door. An overhang is proposed to be installed over the loading bay; and c. Installation of a recessed doorway and stairs; and d. Replace the existing glass block with tempered/laminated glass. 4. Rear (east) facade: a. Replace the existing overhead door with one identical to the new loading bay. 5. Installation of a 15' wide by 6' deep wood and metal seasonal food vendor. a. This would be located onsite until such time as the to -go food window was installed. Nelson Street View (Google — May, 2019) ANALYSIS Site History and Significance The property is located in the Downtown Design Review District, adjacent to the Stillwater Commercial Historic District. While it has not been designated as a Heritage Preservation Site, staff has reviewed local files and historical images to help determine the significance of the structure. The review determined the site was a part of the Minnesota Flour Mill Company as early as 1905; it later was used in operations associated with the Commander Mill, located at 413 Nelson Street East. However, it is clear the structures present in the early 1900s is not what is onsite today. In a 1946 photo published by the Minneapolis Star Journal, a gas service station appears to have been located at this site. Staff's preliminary review has determined the structure may have been constructed as part of the Stillwater Historic Context VIII: Development of Downtown Stillwater (1850s-1940s). However, the structure is not indicative of representative properties of that period of significance. Design Review - Structure 401 Main Street South HPC 2020-16 Page 3 of 6 City Code Section 31-209(f) indicates the following applicable standards for review must be considered when granting a Design Permit: • Architectural character: i. The suitability of the building for the intended purpose. ii. The consistency of the applications design with approved design guidelines. iii. The compatibility of the character of the design with adjacent development. Front Entrance View (Google — May, 2019) • Historical structures, vistas, sites and the impact of development on these resources. • Special design guidelines for areas or districts of the city officially adopted by the city council. The Downtown Design Review District guidelines indicate the following: REAR ENTRANCES ■ The rear facade entrance should be clean and well maintained and present a welcome appearance. A small sign, awnings, display windows and planter boxes can improve the appearance. The existing rear facade is located on the shared property line. No facade changes are proposed for this area. The side facade changes are proposed to allow for the business's proposed use, removing unnecessary improvements to the site. Awnings proposed for this facade are addressed in a subsequent section. FACADE OPENINGS • The size and proportion of windows and door openings...should be similar to those on the adjacent facades. • For an infill building, window frames should be wood, or appropriately colored aluminum or The installation of a to -go food window on Main Street is not traditional. However, the applicant is proposing to frame the sliding window with aluminum cladding similar to existing. The original dimensions of the window will be retained. New window openings on the side facade will help make this area more pedestrian friendly. Their size, vinyl clad. 401 Main Street South HPC 2020-16 Page 4 of 6 • Reflective glass is prohibited. • Recessed entries should be...required in new storefront construction. • Painted wood doors and food framing are preferred...colored anodized aluminum is acceptable. shape and materials are proposed to be consistent with the front facade. These will also help improve the pedestrian experience along this side of Nelson Street when the sidewalk is extended adjacent to the building. The City has not scheduled this improvement. The existing, undersized western loading bay will be enlarged to accommodate business operations. It will be separated from the new north facade window bays by a recessed doorway and stairs, helping to delineate and define a rear entrance to the building. Mirrored or heavily tinted windows are not proposed for the first floor windows. MATERIALS • Infill building and face should be composed of materials similar to original adjacent facades. • New buildings should not stand out against the others but be compatible with the general area. The applicant is proposing to face the front facade and entrance with vertical lap siding; the wood is proposed to cover existing brick. Wood is not a common sheathing material along Main Street; wood is generally reserved as any accent material. The applicants chose this option as the Commission's guidelines and standards are not favorable to painting brick, which was one option discussed. COLOR • The color of buildings should relate to the adjacent building colors to create a harmonious effect • The color of brick or other natural building materials should dictate the color family choice. • Painting new infill buildings is prohibited. The weathered wood stain in a neutral gray tone is in harmony with the colors of the surrounding area and site. AWNINGS • Retractable or operable awnings are encouraged. Fixed awnings should mimic the profile of The applicant is proposing a fixed overhang on the north elevation to be somewhat consistent with the existing overhang on the front facade and entrance. The width of the awning is proposed to be the width of the proposed windows. This will help visually frame this "exterior side" portion of the building. However, the overhang is projected to be placed in the right-of-way. operable units. • The width of awnings should fit the geometry of the building facade. Design Review — Seasonal Food Vending 401 Main Street South HPC 2020-16 Page 5 of 6 City Code Section 41-7, Subd. 2(1)(b)(2)1 indicates that if the food vending cart or vehicle is proposed to remain in place for a period of 20 hours or greater, the exterior facade design shall require a design permit as reviewed and approved by the heritage preservation commission. The design permit standards shall include the following: a) The food vending cart or trailer shall generally follow the adopted Commercial Historic District Design Manual and not be generic in design. 1. White utility trailers are not permitted without significant exterior design improvements. b) The exterior of the food vending cart or trailer shall not contain neon colored/fluorescent paint. c) The food vending cart or trailer shall not contain neon lighting, display any moving parts, be illuminated with any flashing or intermittent lights, nor may it incorporate any animation. No device may be illuminated to obscure or mimic an official traffic sign or signal. This includes indoor lighting which is visible from public streets. d) The food vending cart or trailer shall not use outside sound amplification, televisions or other similar visual displays, nor may it use noisemakers such as bells, horns or whistles. The proposed food vendor design includes horizontal cedar ship lap siding with galvanized roof flashings and toe kick. It will have a flip -up metal and glass window opening. ALTERNATIVES HPC has alternatives related to this request. A. Approve. If the proposed application meets the Downtown Design Review District standards, and the standards set forth for Design Permits, the HPC should move to approve Case No. 2020-16. Staff recommends the following conditions for approval: 1. Plans shall be consistent with those submitted to the Community Development Department and are on file with HPC Case No. 2020-16 unless modified by the conditions herein. 2. The lap siding shall be stained with a darker weathered gray. 3. HPC Design Permit approval does not constitute building permit approval. A building permit shall be obtained prior to construction. The building permit shall be in compliance with accessibility codes. 4. All minor modifications to the plans shall be approved in advance by the City Planner. All major modifications shall be approved in advance by the HPC. Determination of the distinction between "major" and "minor" is defined in the Zoning Ordinance. B. Approve in part. C. Deny. If the HPC finds that the proposal is not consistent with the Downtown Design Review District standards, then the Commission may deny the request. With a denial, the basis of action is required to be given. Furthermore, a denial with prejudice would prohibit the applicant from resubmittal of a similar application for one year. D. Table. If the HPC needs additional information to make a decision, the request may be tabled to the following hearing. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION 401 Main Street South HPC 2020-16 Page 6 of 6 The owner is proposing to change the front facade and entrance of the building, aiming to update its look. However, the material choice and application is not entirely consistent with the District guidelines. While first floor wooden storefronts are not common on Main Street, these would not have been constructed with horizontal lap siding. If wood comprises the storefront window surround, it is typically flat panel. The nickel gap installation, where there is only a nickel width gap between the boards, can help provide the feel of flat panel, which is the material currently above the windows. The exclusive use of the lap siding creates a boxy storefront design. While, yes, this will stand out in the downtown district, it may have less to do with the material and its application but because the building itself stands out. One way to reduce this would be to stain the wood a slightly darker color. Darker colors are more in line with the Victorian nature of downtown Stillwater. There are no other elements in conflict with the City Code standards set forth for design review nor the Downtown Design Review District's adopted guidelines. Therefore, staff finds that, with certain conditions, the project substantially conforms to the Downtown Design Review District guidelines and recommends conditional approval of HPC Case. No. 2020-16 with the conditions outlined in Alternative A. ATTACHMENTS Narrative Request Proposed Elevations (5 pages) Site Photos (5 pages) Food Truck Design Food Truck Concept Photos (2 pages) May 18, 2020 Heritage Preservation Committee 216 4th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 RE: HPC Application for 401 Main Street South, Stillwater, MN 55082 River Provisions is proposing a buildout of the old Stillwater Farm Store on the corner of Main Street and Nelson. The northwest store -front area of the space would serve as a retail and rental facility for various types of bikes, kayaks and paddleboards as well as custom wood furniture. The storage / dock area on the east side of the building would house the retail and rental stock for the kayaks, paddleboards and bikes. The southwest storefront area would house a To -Go Food interior counter and exterior walkup window initially serving soft serve ice cream, gourmet grilled cheese, Belgian waffles, smoothies and various juices and beverages. The business will be servicing the outdoor river activities on the St. Croix. Local kayak and paddleboard rental would shuttle customers to and from the areas of the St. Croix where paddle boarding and kayaking launch ramps are available and safe. The building fagade is dated and the glass brick is in need of repair/replacing. I would propose the following changes: 1. A new front entrance with wood cladding and tempered / laminated glass sidelights. 2. Where there is existing wood fascia above the windows, we are proposing a horizontal nickel slat lap siding of weathered cedar. 3. The brick below the storefront windows would also have the same lap siding applied to a furred base and attached to the brick grout so as to be removable, if necessary, for any future renovations. 4. The roof overhang and surrounding building metal fascia would get a fresh coat of paint. 5. The current brick sills under the storefront windows would have an aluminum sill cover painted the same color as the fascia. 6. On the Nelson street side, the existing brick would remain. 7. To accommodate the shipping and receiving requirements of the business as well as exiting requirements, the eastern dock door would be replaced with a commercial garage door and man door with no overhang past the property line. The existing exterior metal steps would be removed. (The back dock door across from The Commander is only accessible from private property and not available for shipping or receiving.) 8. The western dock door would be removed along with the exterior metal stairs and replaced with storefront windows with the same dimensions as the street storefront. The entire area of the north wall will be in compliance with building code restrictions for fire walls. 9. Replace the existing clerestory block windows with tempered / laminated glass. 10. On Main Street, creation of a takeout window with queue management. Thank you for your consideration. Kind Regards t Todd Konington River Provisions c. 651-775-0783 e. konigson32@gmail.com ':Z.= eZCI=MT , a=e+.`'t �.iC,�..�.�`---� momp • Tr Imo. r.A - firZar Current Exterior and Surrounding Buildings • • • Current Exterior and Surrounding Buildings Current Exterior and Surrounding Buildings Current Exterior and Surrounding Buildings Current Exterior and Surrounding Buildings ?pro\i'\Si)31(\i‘ a3 \,S �z` Mir -7 :=_ b Ilwater T F1 E 6cRIH PEA C E Of M INNE S E T A PLANNING REPORT TO: REPORT DATE: MEETING DATE: APPLICANT: LANDOWNER: REQUEST: LOCATION: DESIGNATION: DISTRICT: REPORT BY: Heritage Preservation Commission June 11, 2020 June 17, 2020 City of Stillwater City of Stillwater Consideration of a Design Permit for a retaining wall Adjacent to the South Main Street Public Stairway N/A Stillwater Commercial Historic District Downtown Design Review District Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner CASE NO.: 2020-03 INTRODUCTION In February the HPC denied a City of Stillwater Design Permit application for the new Main Street retaining wall design and staining. The Commission cited the wall as uncharacteristic of any wall along Main Street and that it is not compatible with the historic district it is located in. The City's Public Works Department has explored costs associated with staining the new wall or applying a 4- 6" veneer to the front face of the structure. It has been determined application of the stone veneer would be twice the cost, at $56,000, than it is to stain the wall. SPECIFIC REQUEST Preconstruction Photograph (May, 2019) — Google Images HPC 2020-03 Page 2 of 3 The applicant is requesting the Commission discuss staining versus veneer application. ANALYSIS The site is located in the Downtown Design Review District. The District is silent on retaining walls. However, some guidelines the Commission should consider as part of their review: • Landscape Guideline: If walls are used, their material should be compatible with the walls of existing adjacent buildings. • Building Materials: Compatibility with similar exterior construction materials in the immediate area is recommended in order to maintain the distinct character and harmony of the area. Historic walls existing within the direction vicinity of the newly installed wall. Flanking the wall system are stacked limestone walls, both in a circular pattern. Altered and unaltered sandstone and limestone bluff walls exist within 50' to the south of this new wall. Additionally, the base of the Main Street stairs is located within 50' to the north of this wall. RECOMMENDATION HPC 2020-03 Page 3 of 3 A. Approve, whole or in part. If the proposed application meets the Downtown Design Review District standards, and the standards set forth for Design Permits, the HPC should move to approve Case No. 2020-03, with or without conditions. B. Deny. If the HPC finds that the proposal is not consistent with the Downtown Design Review District standards, then the Commission may deny the request. With a denial, the basis of action is required to be given. Furthermore, a denial with prejudice would prohibit the applicant from resubmittal of a similar application for one year. C. Table. If the HPC needs additional information to make a decision, the request may be tabled to the following hearing. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION As discussed, the wall is uncharacteristic of any wall on Main Street. The application of stone veneer on the wall would help reduce the visual impact this wall has in this location. Staff would recommend the HPC approve Case No. 2020-3, authorizing the application of a limestone veneer to the wall face. GEORGE IEGFRIED CONSTRUCTION COMPANY Commercial Industrial ■ Residential S ! 0 Pe;rro Creek,, Drive, 5 ypert, 'Vi 155003 PROPOSAL 06/09/2020 TO Attention: Project: Documents Location: Tim, Stillwater Public Works 216 North 4th Street Stillwater, MN 55082 Tim Moore Main Street Wall Upgrades Site Visit Main Street Stairs Stillwater We submit our scope of work and cost as follows: 651 -r i fox " ,r�rww.siecs ri. dconstrr;r. for Option #1: Install natural limestone veneer. • Mobilize to site. • Excavate existing gravel in front of modular block retaining wall. • Pour reinforced concrete grade beam on top of bedrock to create level stone ledge. • Furnish and install stone veneer (4" to 6" depth) in front of existing concrete retaining wall. Veneer will be tied back to the new concrete block wall. The stone will be similar in size and texture to the stone adjacent to it. • Install limestone cap at top of wall. Total Labor and Material $56,160.00. Option #2: Color Stain Modular Block Retaining Wall. • Color stain with an acetone base color staining system (color to be approved by owner). • Seal the stained wall with a compatible stain sealer. • Grout all the stone joints with a masonry joint filler with a coarse aggregate similar to that work adjacent to the new wall. Total Labor and Material $28,250.00. Excludes: • Permits • Safety signage • Design or engineering Submitted by: Tim Siegfried Date: 06/09/2020 Contact Info: Tim Siegfried 510 Perro Creek Drive, PO Box 84 Bayport, MN 55003 651-275-1112 office 651-303-7366 cell tim@siegfriedconstruction.com iliwater THE Elf FITHPLAGE OF MINNESOIA HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING DATE: June 17, 2020 REGARDING: HPC Ordinance Summary and Discussion PREPARED BY: Abbi Jo Wittman, City Planner Staff is in receipt of a draft set of ordinances designed to update and improve the City's heritage preservation programs. However, these have not been publicly -released as they have not yet been reviewed by City Attorney Kori Land. This memo is intended to summarize the changes to the City's existing preservation program. Proposed Changes Section 22-7: Heritage Preservation Commission Definitions Several new definitions have been created. These include: alter or alteration, building or structure of potential historic significance, contributing, heirloom home, historic context, integrity, inventory, landmark site, non-contributing, and staff Power and duties of the commission This outlines all of the powers and duties of the commission including record keeping, surveying, designation, advocacy, permit review, recommendations and annual reporting. The only major change to this section is it clearly defined the types of permits the HPC reviews: Site Alteration Permits for heritage preservation sites which include contributing buildings and Design Permits in zoning overlay districts. Neither of these are substantial changes. The substantial change is the creation of preservation -based zoning overlay districts; these help tie the functions of the HPC to the City's Zoning Code. There are two districts proposed: the Downtown Design Review District and the Neighborhood Conservation District. Each of these districts defined its purpose, boundary, requirements for permitting, design standards, and reference adopted guidelines. Nominations The new text identifies anyone can nominate a property to be considered for designation as a heritage preservation site. Criteria for heritage The new criteria includes the requirement the areas, lands, places, preservation site buildings, structures, districts or other objects be at least 50 years old designation/historic district designation Designation of Heirloom Homes and Landmark Sites Site Alteration Permit — Exemptions Site Alteration Permit — Findings Site Alteration Permit - Amendments or older and meet ones physical integrity criteria and one significance criteria. More discussion on these criteria is in a subsequent section of this memo. The new ordinances also propose additional criteria for the designation of a historic district. The basic of this is a majority of the areas, lands, places, buildings, structures, districts or other objects be contributing to the special character of the district, or together represent periods of styles of architecture in a period of significance, or are a visually noticeable section of the city. This section reaffirms the City's local recognition program. It clearly separates it from its designation process though noting these properties are encouraged for protection and enhancement. This section reaffirms City practice to allow exemptions or for minor work to be approved by staff. Exemptions include interior work and emergency repairs; the commission will be advised of authorized emergency work. Minor alteration administrative approval includes: ordinary routine maintenance, siding similar to the existing finish and form, 1:1 window and roof replacement, landscaping, fencing and trash enclosures, and awning replacement While the Secretary of the Interior's (amended) standards are still included in the proposed code, the findings section is amended. Added a section to clarify minor amendments can be reviewed by staff but that major amendments would be brought back before the HPC. Inventory Removal Defines a process for removal from the inventory. Chapter 31: Zoning Code Design Permitting — While some of the existing standards for review are kept in the code, Findings staff has placed them in the Findings section of the code and added additional standards to align with the HPC ordinance findings. Design Permitting - Added a section to clarify minor amendments can be reviewed by Amendments staff but that major amendments would be brought back before the HPC. Chapter 31: Design Review District Overlays Downtown Reduces by consolidation the type of projects needing review. Generally speaking, however, the Commission will continue to review the same types of projects it has reviewed in the past. Downtown — Design Several guidelines have been converted to district -specific standards. Standards These include: • allowance of Main Street front and side yard setbacks to be zero without having to obtain a variance; • requirements for first -floor facade transparency; • prohibiting exposed concrete masonry units; • requires lighting to be concealed or integrated into overall design • Limits only one sign containing the business name to face the street but clarifies the exception would be for window signage and projecting signs. In other words, someone could have the business name on both a wall sign and a projecting sign; • Prohibits neon on the exterior and all backlit, internally lit, signs with flashing or moving parts, or signs with changeable or movable letters or graphics. NCD No standards have been codified; all guidelines are continued to be used as reference for review and approval. Discussion Items There have been areas of the code the HPC has been focused on: criteria for designation and standards and findings required for the granting of a permit. The following outlines existing and proposed code for each of these. Criteria for heritage preservation site designation Proposed (One From Each Category) Physical Integrity i) Retains original design features, materials, and character. ii) Maintained the original location or same historic context after having been moved. iii) Has been accurately reconstructed or restored based on documentation. Significance iv) The character, interest or value as part of the development, heritage or cultural characteristics of the city, county, or state. v) The location as a site of a significant historic event for the city, county, or state. vi) The identification with a person or persons who significantly contributed to the city's culture and development. vii) The embodiment of distinguishing characteristics of an architectural style, period, form or treatment associated with the city, county, or state. viii) The identification as work of an architect or master builder whose individual work has influenced the city's development. ix) The embodiment of elements of architectural design, detail, materials or craftsmanship that represent a significant architectural innovation for the city, county or state. x) The unique location or singular physical characteristic representing an established and familiar visual feature of a neighborhood, community or the city. Design Permit Standards and Site Alteration Permit Findings Proposed — All Permits • • Special design guidelines for areas or districts of the City officially adopted by the City Council. • Historical structures, vistas, sites and the impact of development on these resources. New buildings shall not materially impair the architectural or historic integrity of buildings on adjacent sites or in the immediate vicinity within the historic preservation site. • Site layout: Alterations or additions to an existing building must not materially impair the architectural or historic integrity of the building. These findings should consider the orientation and location of buildings and open spaces in relation to the physical characteristics of the site, character of the neighborhood, and appearance and harmony of the buildings with adjacent development. Site layout elements include: o Setback & rhythm (location to the street) for primary and secondary structures o Height, scale/mass and proportion (including openings) o Detailing and materials (to include four-sided design) o Appropriate screening (including lighting, service areas, and parking) • Landscaping (if applicable): The location, height and material of walls, fences, hedges, trees and screen plantings to ensure harmony with adjacent development and the environment or to conceal areas, utility installations or other unsightly development. • Outdoor advertising (if applicable): The number, location, color, size, height, lighting and landscaping of outdoor advertising signs and structures in relation to the creation of traffic hazards and the appearance and harmony with adjacent development. • Demolition (if applicable): (2) Prior to approval of any building demolition, the commission shall make written findings of the following: Architectural and historic merit of the building, the effect on surrounding buildings, the effect of any new proposed construction on the remainder of the building (in case of partial demolition) and on surrounding buildings, the economic value or usefulness of the building, as it now exists or if altered or modified in comparison with the value or usefulness of any proposed structures designated to replace the present building. The HPC may include conditions in its decisions that it deems reasonable and necessary to carry out the intent of this chapter and this section. Upon findings by the HPC that the application, subject to conditions as it deems necessary, will meet the above criteria of a design permit, secure the purpose of this chapter, the comprehensive plan, and the heritage preservation ordinance, the HPC may approve the design permit. If findings are made that an application would violate the criteria of a design permit, the HPC must deny the application. The Commission should discuss the proposed changes to see if it encapsulates the Commission' s desirable designation criteria and findings changes. Other Items of Discussion As noted, all other changes to the code are — at least at this time — merely intended to clean up the relevant preservation related laws. There are two policy -related recommendations the consulting team is making: o Removal of West Stillwater Business Park review. The consultants are encouraging the city to remove the HPC-related design review requirements. The reason for this is two- fold: when sufficient standards are in place, urban design review is traditionally carried out by the Planning Commission and its staff; and freeing the HPC of design review in modern districts would encourage the HPC to focus exclusively preservation -related matters. o Inclusion of Interim Protection. Interim protection is the ability for the commission to require Site Alteration Permits for any structure that is currently in the process of being reviewed and considered as a heritage preservation site. Staff would like to gauge the Commission's opinion on these two items. They will be placed on the City Council's next workshop agenda for discussion. Next Steps City staff must submit the draft ordinances to the Minnesota Historical Society and State Historic Preservation Office for 30-day review. It will be during this review time staff will solicit feedback from the Council, Commission and members of the ordinance update committee. The ordinances have yet to be reviewed by City Attorney Kori Land. However, it is the hope City staff will have draft ordinances for the Commission at the June 17th meeting.