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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 Historic District Commission MinutesCITY OF LANSING Historic District Commission and Old Town Temple Historic District Study Committee 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 MINUTES CALL TO ORDER — The meeting was called to order at 5:33 p.m. A. HDC Members Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott, and Nathalie Winans. HDC Members Absent: Kara Wood (excused). B. HDSC Members Present: Alan Hooper, Phil Mondro, and Cassandra Nelson. HDSC Members Absent: Kara Wood (excused) C. Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Manager. D. Also Present: Dorothy Boone, Development Manager 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Toshach, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. 6. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske discussed several upcoming matters: • The Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee is set to be established by City Council on Monday, March 14, 2011. • The HDC may have a sign permit to review regarding the Marshall Street Armory. • There will be a webinar on Historic Preservation and Form Based Codes on Thursday, March 10, and he needs to know who's interested in attending. Ms. Winans indicated her interest. PRESENTATIONS — None. BUSINESS SECTION A. Old Town Temple/First United Methodist Episcopal Church Historic District Study Committee Preliminary Report i. Public Comment and Discussion. The discussion about this report involved staff and all commission members present. Mr. Hooper estimated the rehabilitation cost at $1 million. The main points of the discussion included: The report needs a boundary justification, and greater discussion of the history of the building (in addition to that of the Methodist church). Some elaboration on the context of the design would be useful. There aren't many Edwardian buildings in Lansing. A discussion ensued about the architectural style ensued, and neo-classical and beaux arts were also suggested as possible styles. • Mr. Hooper stated that he couldn't find information on the architect. (Note: Ms. Toshach provided some information later that evening.) • Exterior changes to the building should be noted to document what's original, and what's not. • A description and photo of each fagade would be helpful. • The Leavenworth Collection at the State Archives may be a useful source of information. ii. Old Town Temple Study Committee Action - Old First Methodist Church Historic District Study Committee Preliminary Report — Approval for distribution. It was moved by Ms. Nelson, seconded by Mr. Hooper, and CARRIED unanimously, to delay action on this item pending further information. iii. Historic District Commission Action — Endorsement of HDSC Recommendation — NO ACTION TAKEN. A joint meeting was scheduled for Wed., March 16, 2011, at 5:15 p.m. i. The Old Town Temple Study Committee meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m. B. Historic District Commission 1. Minutes for approval — December 6, 2010 Meeting. It was moved by Mr. Truscott, seconded by Mr. Toshach, December 6, 2010 meeting as printed. 2. DISCUSSION ITEM — HDC Work Program — Master Plan Context Mr. Rieske and Ms. Boone started, but did not finish, a PowerPoint presentation on the Master Plan. They a number of issues, including: ■ The City of Lansing's population and income have been declining, resulting in shrinking demand for housing and virtually all types of real estate. ■ The foreclosure crisis has depressed real estate prices even further. ■ The assumptions of the previous master plans (manufacturing economy and auto -oriented land uses) are less valid today, and are being supplanted by the when the "knowledge economy", mixed land uses, and walkability. ■ Lansing residents were asked what should be preserved, enhanced, and transformed, and their responses closely paralleled the principles of smart growth and new urbanism. Completion of the work program, including the discussion of the Master Plan context, will continue at subsequent meetings. C. Other Business — Special meeting set for Wednesday, 3/16/2011, at 5:15 p.m., in the PND Conference Room. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. HDC-1-09, 509 Cherry Street, Riley Real Estate, Window Replacement. D. Neighborhood Pattern Book. E. Work program and historic preservation planning and Master Plan context. 10. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS. 11. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. PIPLANNING OFFICE\Historic District Cmsn\HDC 2011\2011 Minutes\HDC-Old Town Templel HDSC Minutes March 7, 2011.doc CITY OF LANSING Historic District Commission and Id First Methodist Church (A.K.A. Old Town Temple) Historic District Study Committee and J.W. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee 5:15-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 MINUTES 1. CALL TO ORDER — The meeting was called to order at 5:21 p.m. A. HDC Members Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott, and Nathalie Winans. HDC Members Absent: Kara Wood (excused). B. Old First Methodist Church HDSC Members Present: Alan Hooper, Phil Mondro, and Cassandra Nelson. Members Absent: Kara Wood (excused) C. Knapp's Building HDSC Members Present: Mark Clouse, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott Nathalie Winans D. Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Manager. D. Also Present: None 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. 6. STAFF COMMENTS — None. 7. PRESENTATIONS — None. 8. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — March 7, 2011 Joint meeting of Old Town Temple HDSC and HDC — It was moved by Mr. Truscott, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the March 7, 2011 minutes as corrected. 9. BUSINESS SECTION A. Old Town Temple/First United Methodist Episcopal Church Historic District Study Committee Preliminary Report — Approval for distribution. Mr. Hooper reviewed the comments of the Committee members at the March meeting, and the revisions he made to the report to address those comments. A discussion ensued regarding the role of the HDC in this process. Mr. Rieske stated that past practice has been for the HDC to endorse the HDSC action. It was decided by consensus that HDC action was not necessary at this step in the process. It was moved by Ms. Nelson, seconded by Mr. Mondro, and CARRIED unanimously ((3- 0) that the Old Town Temple/First United Methodist Episcopal Church Study Committee approve the Preliminary Report for distribution B. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee Preliminary Report — Approval for Distribution. Mr. Clouse introduced the report to the Study Committee. Ms. Toshach clarified the spelling of her surname. She also gave Mr. Clouse a copy of the Downtown Lansing National Register nomination, and said there was information in that nomination that should be included in the Study Committee report. A discussion ensued, including the following points. P. 2. Under Charge of the Committee, a typo was found in the 51h line. Under Composition of the Committee, Mr. Truscott is also a member of the Michigan Historical Commission. Under district boundaries, Mr. Clouse said that the district boundaries are the above -ground footprint of the exterior walls. A discussion followed regarding the building above the first floor and below ground level. P.3 Under History of the Proposed District, second paragraph, fourth line, a question was raised about Lt. Baker's first name (Luther, or Lafayette?). Elsewhere in this section, mention the designation of both the building and the district on the Nation Register of Historic Places. P. 4 Check the accuracy of the first paragraph. Second paragraph — move all but the first sentence to "Design and Construction." P. 6 Move much of the Criterion C information to the "History of the Proposed District" section. Committee members suggested that there should be a Criterion B discussion about the role of J.W. Knapp's personal role in designing and constructing the building. Another suggestion was to place a Michigan Historical Marker on the building's exterior. Mr. Clouse described the building's condition and proposed rehabilitation. The first floor is planned for retail use. There's parking in the basement, and offices proposed for the second, third, and fourth floors. The fifth floor would have apartments or condominiums. It was moved by Ms. Toshach, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously (5- 0) that the J.W. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee approve the Preliminary Report for distribution. 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Work program and historic preservation planning and Master Plan context. 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS. 12. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. PAPLANNING OFFICE\Historic District Cmsn\HDC 2011\2011 Minules\HDC-Old Town Templel HDSC Minutes March 7, 2011.doc CITY OF LANSING Historic District Commission 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2011 Planning & Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 North Capitol Avenue, Suite C3 Minutes CALL TO ORDER — The meeting was called to order at 5:32 p.m. Members Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans Members Absent: Kara Wood (Excused) Staff Present: Bill Rieske Also Present: Jason Kildea, The Gillespie Group APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Mr. Truscott, seconded by Ms. Toshach, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the agenda as printed. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS - None PUBLIC HEARINGS -- HDC-1-11 — Marshall St. Armory, 330 Marshall St., Free-standing Sign. A. Public Hearing Mr. Kildea reported that the City and Gillespie Group coordinated on closing the end of Elvin Court changing the address from 300 Elvin Court to 330 Marshall. He presented an arched entrance sign that extends across the driveway entrance. The design depicts features such as spires and mounted guns on each side, all to create a distinctive entrance to the property while harkening to the historic character of the building. In this design, a spire reaches upward from the top of the sign, with a circle saying "25" to signify the year built (1925). A smaller sign extends from the bottom of the arch, containing the address "330 Marshall'. Removable banners are shown on each of the sign poles. Ms. Toshach suggested a more contemporary design with the spires and the date removed and no "faux history". In the ensuing discussion, Commission members recommended that the full date should be used, and represented in a historical marker rather than on the entrance sign. They recommended that the historical marker and firearms be located in the lawn area in the SE corner of the property. B. Commission Action During the discussion, Nathalie Winans sketched a conceptual design for the sign that depicted the Commission's recommendation. It was moved by Ms. Toshach, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the design concept as depicted in the diagram. The applicant and each of the commissioners initialed the diagram to indicate their concurrence, and the diagram is attached to these minutes to document the decision. STAFF COMMENTS - Mr. Rieske reported that some people were interested in purchasing 221 E. Hillsdale. 7. PRESENTATIONS — None. BUSINESS SECTION A. Minutes for approval — March 16, 2010 meeting. No minutes were presented for approval. B. Old Business - DISCUSSION ITEM — HDC Work Program — Master Plan Context. TABLED - NO ACTION TAKEN. C. Other Business — None. 9. PENDING ITEMS: NO ACTION TAKEN A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. Work Program 10. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS Ms. Nelson noted that the Lansing's Historic Districts Ordinance calls for Commission membership to include an architect, if one is available. This prompted a discussion about Barry Wood, an architect who was appointed to the Commission, but not confirmed by City Council. Ms. Toshach suggested that the Planning Board membership include an HDC member. Mr. Rieske stated his belief that this dual membership is not permitted in the Michigan Planning Enabling Act P.A. 33 of 2008). Mr. Truscott noted that 2011 is the sesquicentennial anniversary of the start of the Civil War, and encouraged the celebration of history. 11. COMMISSION MEMBER PRESERVATION RECOGNITIONS — None. 12. ADJOURNMENT — The meeting was adjourned at 6:52 p.m. Next regular meeting - 5:30 PM, Monday, May 2, 2011, in the PND Conference Room P:\PLANNING OFFICE\Historic District Cmsn\HDC 2011\2011 MinuleslHDC Minutes April 4, 2011.doc ry � PN CITY OF LANSING Historic District Commission 5:30 p.m. Monday, May, 2, 2011 Planning & Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 North Capitol Avenue, Suite C3 MINUTES CALL TO ORDER — The meeting was called to order at 5:33 p.m. Members Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans Members Absent: Kara Wood (Excused) Staff Present: Bill Rieske APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Mr. Truscott, seconded by Ms. Toshach, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the agenda as printed. COMMUNICATIONS • A Media Advisory form MSHDA regarding 2011 Governor's Awards for Historic Preservation. • An e-mail from the National Trust Midwest Office regarding the Michigan Legislature's appropriation for the state historic tax credit. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske reported that Sandy Allen has been appointed by the Mayor to fill one of the vacancies on the Commission. She is awaiting Council confirmation at this time. 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. BUSINESS SECTION A. Minutes for approval — March 16, 2011, April 4, 2011 meetings. It was moved by Ms. Nelson, seconded by Ms. Winans, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the March 16 minutes as corrected. (Commission members had pointed out numerous corrections.) The minutes for the April 4 meetings were not presented for approval. B. Old Business - DISCUSSION ITEMS a. HDC Work Program — Master Plan Context. Mr. Rieske completed the presentation on the Master Plan, and focused on the Plan's PET (preserve, enhance, transform) analysis. He state that given the resources available, not everything can be preserved to Secretary of the Interior's Standards. The Commission can therefore have an important role in prioritizing resources for preservation. b. Historic Properties Rating Table. Mr. Rieske presented a table depicting the rating systems of Oakland and San Francisco, CA; the Vieux Carre Commission; and the City of New Orleans, and a draft column for Lansing. A discussion ensued regarding the validity of such a rating system, and the data and expertise required for making these determinations. Ms. Toshach reported that the selected communities utilized "The Evaluation of Historic Buildings", by Harold Kalman, as a source for their rating system. Mr. Truscott noted that Jefferson City, MO may be a good resource as well. C. Other Business — None. 8. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. Work Program COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS - None 10. COMMISSION MEMBER PRESERVATION RECOGNITIONS — None. 11. ADJOURNMENT — The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m. Next regular meeting - 5:30 PM, Monday, July 11, 2011, in the PND Conference Room PRLANNING OFFICE\Historic District Cmsn\HDC 2011\2011 Agendas\HDC Agenda May 2, 2011 Meeting.doc CITY OF LANSING Historic District Commission 5:30 p.m. Monday, July, 11, 2011 Planning & Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 North Capitol Avenue, Suite C3 MINUTES 1. CALL TO ORDER — The meeting was called to order at 5:37 p.m. Members Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans, and Kara Wood Members Absent: Sandy Allen Staff Present: Bill Rieske Also Present: Waylon Sanford, Planning Office Intern, and Rachel Klegon 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS - Rachel Klegon expressed her interest in preservation, her interest in the east side of Lansing, and in the Armory building. She added that she is a student at Grand Valley State University and a relatively new Lansing resident, and works for the Michigan Nonprofit Association, which will be a major tenant in the building. A discussion ensued about a potential historic district on the east side. Mr. Mondro and Mr. Truscott said the project is currently in the idea stage, and needs a "champion", and that historic preservation in general needs a champion. Other future tenants of the Armory building include the Michigan and Capital Area United Ways. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske noted that the City has attempted to prevent demolition of two buildings: one located at Capitol and Hillsdale, behind the Michigan Catholic Conference; and the other near Michigan Optometric Association. The City has no tools to prevent demolition, unless the property is already located in a historic district. 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. BUSINESS SECTION A. Minutes for approval — April 4, 2011 and May 2, 2011 meetings. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the April 4 minutes, including the diagram of the approved Armory sign concept. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the May 2 minutes as presented. B. Old Business - DISCUSSION ITEMS a. HDC Work Program Mr. Sanford presented some composite GIS maps showing Lansing historic resources with their various designations. A discussion ensued about possible historic preservation applications of GIS mapping and effective ways of depicting Lansing's historical resources. Mr. Rieske presented the draft SWOT analysis (dated July 11, 2011), beginning with the HDC's accomplishments. The accomplishments include an atmosphere of cooperation, the creation of six local historic districts (with one in progress), and permit reviews, most notably the Power Station and Armory. The analysis listed three challenges: design standards, outreach to property owners, and partnering on initiatives. Ms. Nelson noted that the Commission is active as a board, but not active between meetings working on projects. The analysis also lists a dozen strengths, beginning with the leadership of the Commission; and expertise on the Commission, EDC, and SHPO; and ending with the addition of "the protection local districts offer to property owners and the community". Mr. Rieske began weaknesses with a discussion of the additional requirements placed on property owners due to public hearing and notice requirements, and the delays that result. A discussion ensued about whether this concern can be addressed through education. Mr. Truscott said that the Commission should work to its strengths, not its weaknesses. Mr. Rieske replied that a SWOT analysis includes both strengths and weaknesses, so weaknesses should be part of the discussion, without necessarily dwelling on them. The remainder of the SWOT analysis will be discussed at a subsequent meeting C. Other Business - None �. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. Historic Properties Rating Table. 9. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS Mr. Truscott noted that Paul Cook is a longtime resident and historian on the east side of Lansing, and would be a good person to consult for information for an eastside historic district. 10. COMMISSION MEMBER PRESERVATION RECOGNITIONS Mr. Mondro noted that the June 1 City Pulse showed a rebuilt front porch at 201 Lathrop, and that project should be considered for a preservation award. Ms. Winans added that there should be some comparison to the original porch and the Secretary's Standards prior to giving out an award. 11. ADJOURNMENT — It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Ms. Wood, and CARRIED unanimously to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:58 p.m. Next regular meeting — A Joint meeting with the Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee - 5:30 PM, Monday, August 1, 2011, in the PND Conference Room. PAPLANNING OFFICE\Historic District Cmsn\HDC 2011\2011 Minutes\HDC Minutes July 11, 2011.doc 2 Minutes JOINT MEETING Lansing Historic District Commission and J.W. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday Wednesday, August 1, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 CALL TO ORDER A. Introductions: B. Roll Call: Historic District Commission Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans, and Kara Wood Absent: Sandy Allen Historic District Studv Committee Present: Mark Clouse, Cassandra Nelson, Mary Toshach, Tom Truscott, and Nathalie Winans Staff Present: Bill Rieske Also Present: Waylon Sanford, Planning Office Intern; Lis Knibbe, of Quinn -Evans Architects (RE: Knapp's HDSC report), Karl Dorshimer, Lansing Economic Development Corporation (RE: Knapp's HDSC report) 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — Mr. Clouse introduced Lis Knibbe of Quinn -Evans. 5. STAFF COMMENTS 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. 7 HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) A. J.W. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee i. J. W. Knapp's Building Historic District Study Committee — Preliminary/Final Report. a. Public Hearing — Mr. Mondro opened the public hearing. No member of the public commented on the report. b. Committee Action Discussion • Ms. Knibbe stated that the report addresses the key concerns of the SHPO comments, but several of the comments suggest information that would be useful, but is not required under the guidelines for study Committee reports. • Ms. Toshach noted that the Downtown Lansing National Register District report, a potential source of information, was not consulted or cited. • Ms. Nelson said some of the SHPO suggestions went beyond the requirements, and added that she is happy with the report, • Mr. Truscott noted that John Wilkes Booth's captor purchased the building with anticipated reward money • Ms Winans said that it would be good if the report included more information on Streamline Moderne architecture, but the report currently meets the requirements. Action: It was moved by Ns. Nelson, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the Final Report. The Committee adjourned its meeting at 5:50 p.m., and Mr. Clouse and Ms. Knibbe departed. C. HDC Endorsement of Final Report. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Winans, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to endorse the Study Committee report. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — July 11, 2011 meeting. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the minutes as revised. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Sanford presented copies of some maps generated by the City's GIS system, including National Register properties, local districts, and historical markers, and continues to work on resolving problems with different data formats, obsolete parcel numbers, and SHPO-identified potential districts. In the ensuing discussion Ms. Winans said that she is on board with designating the potential district properties into local districts. Historic properties need protection from demolition and insensitive rehab work.. Mr. Rieske noted that the top -down approach to designating local district has not worked. Government needs the consent of the governed, and that the support of residents, businesses, and property owners is critical. The pros and cons of National Register districts (tax incentives, prestige) vs. local districts (protection) were briefly discussed. The consensus of members was that, especially with reduced permit activity, the Commission should take a more active role in encouraging historic preservation. A discussion ensued about possible HDC initiatives, including: • A toolbox approach to encouraging historic preservation. • Walking tours with historical markers (in conj. with Downtown Lansing, Inc. (DLI), the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), the Economic Development Corporation, etc, • QR codes, to avoid the expense of State historical markers. • Geocaching, • Matching properties with preservation -minded purchasers. • Informational meetings with neighborhood organizations. It was agreed that the next meeting would be devoted to pursuing the partnerships and making the connections with these organizations. 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. SWOT Analysis, Historic Properties Rating Table 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS 12. ADJOURNMENT Next Regular Meeting: Monday, September 12, 2011, in the PND Conference Room 2 Minutes Lansing Historic District Commission 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, September, 12, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 Minutes CALL TO ORDER — 5:34 p.m. A. Introductions and Roll Call: Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans, and Kara Wood Absent: Cassandra Nelson and Kara Wood (excused): and Sandy Allen Also Present: Mary Chris Hotchkiss, Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau Brenna Maloney, Michigan Historic Preservation Network Gene][ Scheurell, National Trust for Historic Preservation Bob Trezise, Lansing EDC Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Manager Waylon Sanford, Planning Intern 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. 5. STAFF COMMENTS — None. 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. 7 HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — August 1, 2011 meeting. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the minutes as printed OTHER BUSINESS Discussion about Preservation Advocacy and Heritage Tourism. An informal discussion ensued involving all persons present. The main points were: • Rieske: Ideas raised at the last meeting included: • A toolbox approach to encouraging historic preservation. • Walking tours with historical markers (in conj. with Downtown Lansing, Inc. (DLI), the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), the Economic Development Corporation, etc, • QR codes, to avoid the expense of State historical markers. • Geocaching, • Matching properties with preservation -minded purchasers. • Informational meetings with neighborhood organizations. • All: The HDC is primarily a regulatory and education body, and cannot effectively play an advocacy role. • Trezise: Absent income tax credits, local districts offer property owners little incentive to be in a district. Pride and protection are the only incentives remaining in exchange for regulation. • Winans: The Historical Society of Greater Lansing and partne, . are raising funds for Historical Museum. GLHC fundraiser "Views from the Top" October 1. • Hotchkiss: The Convention and Visitors Bureau has the Certified Tourism Ambassadors program, which encourages and trains participants to welcome and guide visitors to Lansing. Part of this training pertains to knowing, finding, and using tourism resources. • Winans: The Historical Society of Greater Lansing conducts monthly tours of the Lansing area. There could be a tour of historical houses or even rental properties. • Truscott, Rieske: Historical markers display information about historical resources on site, and are a source of pride for property owners, and provide interest and information to pedestrians, and therefore could play a role in encouraging preservation and tourism. Laura Ashlee wrote the book Travelling Through Time which quotes all the Michigan historical markers as of the time of publication. • Maloney: Saginaw has 11 national register districts. She has assisted them with GIS mapping. They have newsletters, fact sheets, blogs, a Facebook page with "what does it mean to be in a historic district?" • Trezise: Neighborhood newsletters could be a good resource. • Winans: The HDC can educate, and be a resource to get people to be proud of their community. • Tour of historical markers. • One community did a historic pub crawl. • Maloney: Resources available to the Commission include creating materials, going to meetings, free social media, and networking (identifying leaders, influentials, and resource - centered preservation groups ( e.g. "Friends of the Cemetery"). Make lists of these people with contact information. • Possible partners include the CVB, HDC, LEAP, the Chamber, the educational community, etc. • The HDC could produce educational materials for the CVB. Get that material to hotels. 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. SWOT Analysis, Historic Properties Rating Table 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — None. 12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:59 p.m. Next Regular Meeting: Monday, October 3, 2011, in the PND Conference Room Minutes Lansing Historic District Commission 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, October 3, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 Minutes CALL TO ORDER — 5:34 p.m. A. Introductions and Roll Call: Present: Philip Mondro, Cassandra Nelson, Tom Truscott, and Nathalie Winans, Absent: Kara Wood (excused), and Sandy Allen Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Manager 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Mr. Truscott, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. 5. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske said he would call Sandy Allen, gauge her interest in serving on the Commission, and follow up with the HDC and Joe McDonald at the Mayor's Office. 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. 8. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL —September 12, 2011 meeting. It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the minutes as printed. 9. DISCUSSION/ACTION - Preservation Advocacy and Heritage Tourism. An informal discussion ensued involving all persons present, and included these points: • A fundraiser is scheduled for October 8 to raise money for a historical museum. • The HDC, being a regulatory body, is not well -suited for a prominent role in advocacy. • Is there a role for the MotorCities Auto National Heritage Area for heritage tourism in Lansing? • Historical Society does education, not advocacy. • Tom Truscott has provided information on historical markers which could be used for a tour of Lansing historical sites. • The information from Jeff Stivenson given to the Commission last year could be used for • Preservation Wayne is the only local advocacy organization which focuses on preservation. 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. SWOT Analysis, Historic Properties Rating Table HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION October 3, 2011 Meetinq Minutes Paqe 2 of 2 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS • Mr. Mondro reported on the status of the Marshall Street Armory. Approval of the cannons is pending. The arch is at the galvanizer and should be ready within a week. Mr. Truscott will talk with Larry Griffin, president of the Friends of Michigan History, about HDC membership. Ms. Winans noted that Brenna Maloney has started a blog, which can be found on the Planetizen web site (httiD://www.r)lanetizen.com). 12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:42 p.m. Next Regular Meeting: Monday, November 7, 2011, in the PND Conference Room Minutes Lansing Historic District Commission 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, November 7, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 CALL TO ORDER — 5:34 p.m. A. Introductions and Roll Call: Present: Philip Mondro, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans, and Kara Wood Absent: Cassandra Nelson (excused). Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Mgr., and Waylon Sanford, Planning Intern 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. COMMUNICATIONS — None. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. STAFF COMMENTS Mr. Rieske reported that he talked with Commissioner Sandy Allen, who said that she has been ill, has been unable to attend meetings, and does not foresee being able to be an active HDC member. He also communicated this to Joe McDonald at the Mayor's Office. Mr. Rieske also announced the Planning Board's public hearing regarding the proposed Design Lansing Comprehensive Plan, scheduled for Wednesday, November 9, 2011. 6. PRESENTATIONS Heather DeKorte, an architect at Cornerstone Architects, discussed plans for the ReoTown depot renovation. This presentation was made as a matter of courtesy — HDC approval is not required. Ms. DeKorte reported that the restoring the roof tile is not economically or practically feasible, so the tile will be replaced. The windows will be preserved, and the exterior masonry will be repointed. The interior will be used as the LBWL board room. The wooden beams will be restored, and the plaster replaced due to deterioration. A LEED designation is proposed for the building, which is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2012. The expected cost for this renovation is between $3 and $4 million. The building is on the site of LBWL's proposed power plant, which due to its scale, will dwarf the depot building. Commission members were generally pleased with the presentation and accompanying project summary sheet. Ms. Winans said the proposed renovation appears to meet the Secretary's Standards. Mr. Mondro asked that a state historical marker be placed on -site. A discussion ensued about other historic sites in the general area, particularly the Moores Park Natatorium. No action was taken. HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — October 3, 2011 meeting. It was moved by Ms. Wood, seconded by Ms. Winans, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the minutes as corrected. DISCUSSION/ACTION: A. Schedule work session for goal setting and work program. A discussion ensued regarding goal setting, including the following points. • Mr. Mondro suggested a year-end review, and interim goals by quarter. • Ms. Winans suggested a 5-year vision with short- and long-term objectives. • Mr. Rieske reported that Waylon was working on compiling and categorizing the activities discussed at the last three meetings. He would send it to the Commission for comments upon completion. HISTORIC DISTRICT COMIV,,6SION November 7. 2011 Meetina Mi...Aes Paqe 2 of 2 The Commission by consensus scheduled a short goal setting session for the next meeting, and to plan for a special meeting to complete the task. The Commission also agreed on the desirability of an impartial facilitator. Mr. Rieske said he would look into availability. B. Election of officers. The Commission by consensus scheduled the election of officers for the next meeting. Mr. Mondro requested that the Rules of Administrative Procedure be distributed to all members. 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED A. Discussion of potential policy regarding the designation of single resource properties that have already pulled building permits for renovation. B. HDC Guidelines and Review Procedures. C. Neighborhood Pattern Book. D. Historic preservation planning and its relationship to the Master Plan Project. E. SWOT Analysis, Historic Properties Rating Table 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS • Mr. Truscott reported on a Veterans' Day Celebration featuring four WWII veterans. • Ms. Winans reported that the Historical Society raised funds for a feasibility study for a Lansing Historical Museum. • Commission members complimented Mr. Sanford on his work and expressed their appreciation. 12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:59 p.m. Next Regular Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, December 12, 2011, in the PND Conference Room Minutes Lansing Historic District Commission 5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, December 12, 2011 Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room 316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933 CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Mondro opened the meeting at 5:35 p.m. A. Introductions and Roll Call: Present: Philip Mondro, Tom Truscott, Nathalie Winans, and Cassandra Nelson. Absent: Kara Wood (excused). Staff Present: Bill Rieske, Asst. Planning Mgr.; Dorothy Boone, Development Manager; Waylon Sanford, Planning Intern, and Harmony Gmazel, of Tri-County Regional Plannning Commisssion. 2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as printed. 3. COMMUNICATIONS — Mr. Rieske distributed copies of "LANSING — CITY ON THE GRAND", by James MacLean and Craig A. Whitford, to Commission members. 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None. 5. STAFF COMMENTS Mr. Rieske reported that City Council is scheduled to approve the Knapp's Building Historic District at its meeting later that evening (12/12/11). He also reported that architect Barry Wood was appointed to the Building Board of Appeals. 6. PRESENTATIONS — None. 7 HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) — None. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL —November 7, 2011 meeting. It was moved by Ms. Winans, seconded by Mr. Truscott, and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the minutes as printed. DISCUSSION/ACTION: A. 2012 Meeting Schedule. The Commission, by consensus, approved the 2012 meeting schedule based on 2nd Monday of each month. B. Election of officers. The Commission elected the new officers for 2012. The new officers are: Nathalie Winans, Chair; and Tom Truscott, Vice Chair C. Work session for goal setting and work program. a. HDC mission according to ordinance. Mr. Rieske ran through the purposes of the HDC Ordinance, and noted that while the purposed are rather broad, the powers granted to the Commission are mostly regulatory in nature. Ms. Winans pointed out that the provisions of the ordinance are regulatory, but do not preclude Commission activities of a non -regulatory in nature. b. Accomplishments. Mr. Rieske presented the SWOT analysis dated July 11, 2011 containing accomplishments dating back to 2005 (which was discussed by the Commission during the summer), a summary of the Commission's 2011 activities, and a summary of Development Office criteria for selecting rehab/infill. A discussion ensued with suggestions on preservation -friendly changes to these criteria. c. Action items. Mr. Rieske introduced a sheet with work items ideas generated in the last several meetings, divided into general categories: Planning & Organizing, Partnerships, Preservation Education, Effective Regulation, Heritage Tourism, and Promotion & Advocacy. Ms. Gmazel guided a discussion among the Commission, placing each work activity as a short, medium, or long term objective. She will present the results at an HDC meeting in the near future. HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION December 12. 2011 Meetina Nuoutes Paqe 2 of 2 10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED Ms. Winans offered to work on the Historic Properties Rating Table and present it to the Commission at its next meeting. Mr. Truscott offered to work on a walking tour map of historic resources and historical markers. 11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — None. 12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:59 p.m. Next Regular Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, January 9, 2012, in the PND Conference Room 2