Woodbury Historic District Commission

Transcription

1 Woodbury Historic District Commission Woodbury, Connecticut MINUTES WOODBURY HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARINGS / REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, :30 PM SHOVE BUILDING CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT Susan Cheatham; Chairman Maureen Donnarumma; Vice Chairman Frank Sherer Lois Fiftal William Drakeley, Jr. ALTERNATES PRESENT Nancy Bailey Marc Kroll Robert Kolesnik, Jr. MEMBERS ABSENT ALTERNATES ABSENT Also Present: Lauren Rosen of Artfx signs, Robert Cristiano, Ed Winters, Jillian Griswold, Gary Nurnberger, Ben Anderson, Tracy Usher and Richard Snider The meeting was recorded and on file in the Land Use Office. I. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. #14-HD-1409 / Ballardo of Artfx Signs(agent) / Gogas, LLC (owner) / San Remo Restaurant / 135 Main Street North /signage/ lighting / Map 090 Lot 088 Chairman Susan Cheatham convened the public hearing at 7:30 PM and seated regular members herself, Maureen Donnarumma, Frank Sherer, Lois Fiftal and William Drakeley. Clerk read the legal notice into the record, Susan Cheatham read the application. She referred to CT Statutes and Conflict of Interest. Lauren Rosen of Artfx Signs came forward to represent the application. Certificates of mailing were presented. The proposed sign is 7'3" tall, with an aluminum post painted black. The wattage of the lighting will be 60 watts. A sample of the post was presented. The aluminum post is being used due to the location of the sign, it is stronger; electrical conduit will run through it. A rendering of the proposed sign was also presented. W. Drakeley noted the aluminum post is not consistent with other applications but this post takes more abuse, as it is a single post and the sign is below grade to the road. The Commission looks at each application on its own merit. Chairman Cheatham asked if anyone from the floor was either in favor of or opposed to the application. No one came forward. MOTION: Lois Fiftal moved to close the public hearing on Application #14-HD-1409, Ballardo of Artfx signs, agent, Gogas LLC, owner, San Remo Restaurant, 135 Main Street North for signage and lighting at 7:45 PM. Frank Sherer seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED.

2 B. #14-HD-1410 / Cristiano / 11 Orenaug Avenue / barn restoration / Map 103 / Lot 023 Chairman Cheatham convened the public hearing at 7:46 PM and seated regular members herself, Maureen Donnarumma, Frank Sherer, Lois Fiftal and William Drakeley. Clerk read the legal notice into the record, Susan Cheatham read the application. She referred to CT Statutes and Conflict of Interest. Mr. Cristiano came forward to represent his application for barn restoration. Certificates of mailing were presented. The barn is an 18 th century barn badly in need of repairs explained the applicant. Drawings were presented. Members of the Commission complimented Mr. Cristiano on his application, it should be used as a model! The Commission had no problem with the two choices of roofing material. Susan Cheatham asked if anyone from the floor was either in favor of or opposed to the application. Ed Winters stated he was in favor of the application, he had experience with the contractors chosen and felt they were masters of their work. Milian Griswold stated she respected the renovation of his home and had no doubt the barn would be as nice, she was in favor of the cedar shingles. MOTION: William Drakeley moved and Maureen Donnarumma seconded to close the public hearing on Application #14-HD-1410, Cristiano, 11 Orenaug Avenue, for barn restoration, at 7:55 PM. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. C. #14-HD-1411 / Kildahl / Nurnberger (agent) / 15 Judson Avenue / remodeling / roof / Map 104 / Lot 024 Chairman Cheatham convened the public hearing at 7:57 PM and seated regular members herself, William Drakeley, Lois Fiftal, Frank Sherer and Maureen Donnarumma. She referred to CT Statutes and Conflict of Interest. Clerk read the legal notice into the record, Susan Cheatham read the application. Gary Nurnberger came forward to represent the application for remodeling and roofing. Certificates of mailing were presented as was a revised drawing showing more detail. The application was amended, changing the door material from metal to wood. Mr. Nurnberger noted the house does not have old windows, all of them are wood, metal clad. The proposed windows are the same as existing. The house was redone previous to the current homeowners. It was built in the 1920's, possible a reproduction colonial. He also noted the height of the mudroom was made slightly taller, but the footprint did not change. MOTION: Maureen Donnarumma moved to close the public hearing on Application #14-HD- 1411, Kildahl, Nurnberger, agent, 15 Judson Avenue, for remodeling and roof. Frank Sherer seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. D. #14-HD-1412 / Hemingway (owner) / Anderson (tenant)/ 113 Main Street South / signage / remodeling / Map 105 / Lot 113 Chairman Susan Cheatham convened the public hearing at 8:09 PM and seated herself, William Drakeley, Lois Fiftal, Frank Sherer and Maureen Donnarumma. She referred to CT Page 2

3 Statutes and Conflict of Interest. Clerk read the legal notice into the record, Chairman read the application for signage and remodeling. Benjamin Anderson and Tracie Usher came forward to represent the application. Certificates of mailing were presented. A rendering of the sign was also presented. The sign will be one sided, attached with hooks and bolts. A new end wall will be constructed on the gabled ends, replacing the glass with wood siding. A path will be constructed made of flat stones and brick. The Commission asked for details of the door to be added. A drawing of the wood 9 light door was made on the back of the application. Lighting will be 60 watts, LED spots. Correspondence from the owner Margaret Heminway, dated September 12, 2014, was read into the record. She was in favor of the application. William Drakeley stated he asked for the owner's presence at the last meeting, there are a lot of unanswered questions regarding this property, especially the water feature. He felt some problems needed to be fixed before the application could go forward. The applicant noted the Fire Marshal and Building Official were contacted and reviewed the proposed changes. The handicapped bathroom is an issue. The Commission discussed compliance with the Fire Marshal and Building Official the impact with the Commission. Is there a written document from them? No one from the floor was either in favor of or opposed to the application. MOTION: William Drakeley moved to close the public hearing on Application #14-HD-1412, Heminway, owner, Anderson, tenant, 113 Main Street South for signage and remodeling. Frank Sherer seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. II. REGULAR MEETING A. Call to order; Seating of Members/Alternates Chairman Cheatham convened the regular meeting at 8:45 PM and seated herself, Maureen Donnarumma, Frank Sherer, Lois Fiftal and William Drakeley. B. Consideration of Minutes (7/7/14 & 8/4/14) Due to absence, Frank Sherer was unseated, alternate Nancy Bailey was seated for consideration of minutes. MOTION: Lois Fiftal moved to accept the regular meeting minutes of September 8, 2014 with the following correction: Page 2, last paragraph, last sentence should read "A letter from the homeowner... is also necessary and she needs to come to the meeting." Maureen Donnarumma seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. MOTION: Lois Fiftal moved to change the order of the agenda to accommodate those people present and consider the pending applications. William Drakeley seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. Page 3

4 D. Pending Applications 3. #14-HD-1411 / Kildahl / Nurnberger (agent) / 15 Judson Avenue / remodeling / roof / Map 104 / Lot 024 William Drakeley stated the proposed changes looked good. Maureen Donnarumma said she had an issue with the existing metal clad windows, when were those windows approved? They were probably not approved by the Commission. Robert Kolesnik noted if there was a violation with the existing windows a cease and desist action could be started. The proposed windows match the existing. Nancy Bailey asked why the new windows shouldn't be wood windows, they would at least be in compliance. We don't know that this house has ever been in violation, noted William Drakeley, the new windows match the existing. We're trying to maintain historic integrity. The wood windows should blend with the wood door continued Maureen Donnarumma. Style mimics. If we insist on wood, commented Frank Sherer, it won't look good over time, it won't match the existing. William Drakeley agreed with voting on principle, but the Commission needs to judge each application on its own merit. On merit Susan Cheatham agreed with William Drakeley, match existing. She then referenced Mrs. Neidel's fence, it's a 1950's house with a 1950's fence, and you have to think of the District on the whole. But, countered Marc Kroll, before it was always wood, wood, wood, now it's different? When the windows on the rest of this house need replacement what should the homeowner use, asked Maureen Donnarumma? Its principle versus precedent stated Robert Kolesnik, confusing. Maureen said it was more the principle of regulation. W. Drakeley felt Maureen had some strong points that made you think. MOTION: William Drakeley moved: WHEREAS the Woodbury Historic District Commission has received an application from John and Teresa Kildahl, Gary Nurnberger, agent, for remodeling and roof at 15 Judson Avenue; and WHEREAS the Commission has held a duly called public hearing on October 6, 2014; and WHEREAS the Commission has carefully considered all the evidence and testimony received at the duly called public hearing; WHEREAS, the permission granted by the passage of this Certificate of Appropriateness does not replace requirements for the applicant to obtain any other permits or licenses required by law or regulation of the Town of Woodbury, such as, but not limited to: Building Permit, Zoning Permit, Planning Commission approval, Fire Marshal approvals, Health District approvals, Driveway Permit, Wetland Permit, Vendor License; or from the State of Connecticut or the United States Government. Obtaining such permits or licenses is the responsibility of the applicant; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Woodbury Historic District Commission finds application #14-HD-1411 submitted by Kildahl, Nurnberger as agent, appropriate and issues a Certificate of Appropriateness. VOTE: FAVOR- Susan Cheatham, Frank Sherer, Lois Fiftal, William Drakeley OPPOSED: Maureen Donnarumma, as she did not feel it conformed to Section 8.1 of the Historic District Commission Regulations. MOTION CARRIED. Page 4

5 1. #14-HD-1409/Ballardo of Artfx Signs(agent)/Gogas, LLC (owner)/san Remo Restaurant/135 Main Street North/signage/lighting/Map 090/Lot 088 Lois Fiftal stated the sign itself looked very nice, it has a vintage look and she had no problem with the metal post. Members agreed there were special circumstances with this sign, the location of being below grade of the road and the single post against the elements means a stronger than wood post is needed. MOTION: Maureen Donnarumma moved: WHEREAS the Woodbury Historic District Commission has received an application from Ballardo of Artfx Signs, agent, Gogas, LLC, owner for signage at 135 Main Street North; and WHEREAS the Commission has held a duly called public hearing on October 6, 2014; and WHEREAS the Commission has carefully considered all the evidence and testimony received at the duly called public hearing; WHEREAS, the permission granted by the passage of this Certificate of Appropriateness does not replace requirements for the applicant to obtain any other permits or licenses required by law or regulation of the Town of Woodbury, such as, but not limited to: Building Permit, Zoning Permit, Planning Commission approval, Fire Marshal approvals, Health District approvals, Driveway Permit, Wetland Permit, Vendor License; or from the State of Connecticut or the United States Government. Obtaining such permits or licenses is the responsibility of the applicant; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Woodbury Historic District Commission finds application #14-HD-1409 submitted by Gogas, LLC with Ballardo of Artfx Signs as agent appropriate and issues a Certificate of Appropriateness with the following conditions: Because the location of the signage is 12 feet below the road grade and is exposed to harsher climates the post warrants a stronger structure than wood. The Commission also feels because the sign is going from two posts to one post that post also needs to be stronger and is accepting the aluminum painted post. Lois Fiftal seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR. MOTION CARRIED. 2. #14-HD-1410 / Cristiano / 11 Orenaug Avenue / barn restoration / Map 103 /Lot 023 Susan Cheatham commented, "fantastic job!" MOTION: Maureen Donnarumma moved: WHEREAS the Woodbury Historic District Commission has received an application from Robert Cristiano for barn restoration at 11 Orenaug Avenue; and WHEREAS the Commission has held a duly called public hearing on October 6, 2014; and WHEREAS the Commission has carefully considered all the evidence and testimony received at the duly called public hearing; Page 5

6 WHEREAS, the permission granted by the passage of this Certificate of Appropriateness does not replace requirements for the applicant to obtain any other permits or licenses required by law or regulation of the Town of Woodbury, such as, but not limited to: Building Permit, Zoning Permit, Planning Commission approval, Fire Marshal approvals, Health District approvals, Driveway Permit, Wetland Permit, Vendor License; or from the State of Connecticut or the United States Government. Obtaining such permits or licenses is the responsibility of the applicant; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Woodbury Historic District Commission finds application #14-HD-1410 submitted by Cristiano appropriate and issues a Certificate of Appropriateness. William Drakeley seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR MOTION CARRIED. 4. #14-HD-1412 / Hemingway (owner) / Anderson (tenant)/ 113 Main Street South /signage / remodeling / Map 105 / Lot 113 William Drakeley commented the applicants were trying, but we've asked Ms. Heminway to come before us before regarding the water feature and she hasn't. Maureen Donnanunma said based on the application they are getting ready to start their business, they need approval. There is little detail on the application W. Drakeley pointed out, he did not feel the owner had an idea as to what they were doing. The owner is letting the applicant do whatever they want, the applicant is speaking in lease ownership commented Mr. Kolesnik. The owner needs the cease and desist. The leasee can act on the owner's behalf, like a power of attorney. Maureen felt these changes are an improvement, to which Robert Kolesnik agreed. Frank Sherer did not feel the application could be turned down because of the owner, but is the quality of the information adequate? Susan Cheatham thought there was not enough detail, there is no rendering of the walkway, little pertaining to lighting, and the public hearing is already closed. The application is a record of the changes, evidence. After further discussion the Commission felt further information was needed as to the detail of the solar lights along the walkway. The Commission felt some parts of the application could be approved to get the business started. MOTION: Maureen Donnarumma moved: WHEREAS the Woodbury Historic District Commission has received an application from Heminway as owner, Anderson as tenant, for signage and remodeling at 113 Main Street South; and WHEREAS the Commission has held a duly called public hearing on October 6, 2014; and WHEREAS the Commission has carefully considered all the evidence and testimony received at the duly called public hearing; WHEREAS, the permission granted by the passage of this Certificate of Appropriateness does not replace requirements for the applicant to obtain any other permits or licenses required by law or regulation of the Town of Woodbury, such as, but not limited to: Building Permit, Zoning Permit, Planning Commission approval, Fire Marshal approvals, Health District approvals, Driveway Permit, Wetland Permit, Vendor License; or from the State of Connecticut or the United Page 6

7 States Government. Obtaining such permits or licenses is the responsibility of the applicant; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Woodbury Historic District Commission finds application #14-HD-1412 submitted by Heminway as owner, Anderson as tenant, appropriate and issues a Certificate of Appropriateness for Section 1, Section 7 and Section 9 but denies Section 2, Light Fixtures, due to not enough detail. The applicant is asked to come before the Commission again with more detail about the lighting, as to what the fixtures would look like. A new application is not necessary. Frank Sherer seconded. VOTE: FAVOR- Maureen Donnarumma, Frank Sherer, Lois Filial OPPOSED- Susan Cheatham, William Drakeley, both believed the applicant did not give enough detail. MOTION CARRIED. C. Privilege of the Floor Lois Fiftal wished to comment on the Community Theatre. Jennifer Miller of Parks and Recreation want to be certain the Commission was aware of some changes that need to be made to the interior of the Old Town Hall, particularly the installation of stage lights. It was duly noted the Historic District Commission has no jurisdiction over the interior of buildings within the District. Lois also noted that part of the original stage was knocked down during previous renovations and seating in the balcony is for about 12 people so they could see the production. No spotlights are possible. Robert Kolesnik reported the old house on Judson Avenue and River Road is getting a new roof! He also spoke of the new commission that would be created as a result of the recently discussed ordinance. The BEDC, an ad hoc commission will no longer exist. Mr. Richard Snider noted the two commissions that Mr. Kolesnik just spoke of are very important to the Town, don't discourage. They are an umbrella for the Planning and Historic District Commissions, making them more cohesive. He then referred back to the Zoning Commission's decision regarding signage. Zoning states they size, but do they trump the Historic District Commission? It's the size, not content. Ignorance is not an excuse. Also, townspeople need to step up the plate, where do young people go in Town? These two commissions, the Woodbury Community and Economic Development Commission and the Commission on the Arts are very beneficial to the Town. We need to move forward, be sure to vote! Nancy Bailey questioned the sign in front of the former Wayne Pratt house, is it within regulations? Robert Kolesnik stated Zoning does have the right to regulate the size of signs! That sign is temporary. Tom Arras' sign is too big. And, without an Enforcement Officer this is hard, added Susan Cheatham. Frank Sherer left the meeting at 10:10 PM. Alternate Nancy Bailey was seated. The Commission continued to discuss the Zoning sign size issue and the ordinances, what is in the best interest of the Town. What teeth does the Commission have with regards to signs was also discussed. Cease and desist letters? William Drakeley noted that First Selectman Butterly asked the Historic District Commission consider the little schoolhouse on Transylvania Road. What can be done about it? What is in the building that might be saved? Page 7

8 like. E. New Applications HD-1413/Marra (owner)/339 Main Street South/Replace Roof/Map 104/Lot 094 This application has been withdrawn as the applicant has decided to replace like with E. Other Business 1. Discussion of Condition of Rec House There was no discussion. F. Review of Historic District Commission Regulations There was no discussion. G. Correspondence MOTION: William Drakeley moved to accept the clerk's bill for 4.75 hours and four postage stamps and approve for payment. Lois Fiftal seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR MOTION CARRIED. H. Planning Office Reports There was no discussion. I. Pending Enforcement 1. Citgo: signage There was no discussion. J. Adjournment MOTION: Lois Fiftal moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:30 PM, Nancy Bailey seconded. VOTE: 5-0 FAVOR MOTION CARRIED. FILED SUBJECT TO COMMISSION APPROVAL Respectfully submitted, Linda Leigh, Cler RECEIVED & FILED IN WOODBURY, CT This /1 day ofl 20M Page 8 a M 40 Town Clerk