HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018 Historic District Commission MinutesMinutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, March 12, 2018
Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room
316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Truscott opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Cassandra Nelson, Carol Skillings, Curtis Sonnenberg,
Tom Truscott
Absent: Nathalie Winans
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was agreed by consensus to approve the agenda as
written.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
4. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske reported that the Mayor has appointed Paul Connors
to the Historic District Commission. Confirmation of his appointment is expected to take
place on March 12.
5. PRESENTATIONS — None.
6. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — December 11, 2017 meeting. It was agreed by
consensus to approve the December 11 minutes as printed.
7. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
8. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Michigan School for the Blind Campus National Register Proposal. Mr. Rieske
distributed copies of the report to the Commission members. This report differs from the
previous proposal (September, 2007) in that this proposal includes the entire campus
(demolished cottages notwithstanding). Ms. Nelson reviewed the parameters of National
Register designation, especially in that it is not regulatory and makes tax credits of up to
20% of qualified rehab costs available to the developer. Mr. Rieske added that the
Commission's action is to approve the National Register nomination, not the tax credits.
It was moved by Ms Nelson, seconded by Mr. Sonnenberg, and CARRIED unanimously,
to support the nomination.
B. Updates on:
• Cherry Hill Historic District — Mr. Sonnenberg reported that the Cherry Hill
neighborhood is scheduling a spring cleanup for mid-April (if MSU help is
available), or mid-May (if in conjunction with the Downtown Neighborhood Assn.)
• Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — Mr. Rieske reported that according to
the plans, the proposed deck will exceed the lot coverage requirements of the D-
1 zoning district. Mr. Sonnenberg said that CMH was also rethinking the deck
project.
• Cooley Haze House — Mr. Rieske reported that the City will reserve a restrictive
covenant as part of the sale of the building. Ms. Nelson said she saw a draft of
the RFP, which includes mention of a 30 -year covenant.
• CLG Grant possibilities —No ideas were mentioned.
• Preservation Lansing - Ms. Nelson reported that Preservation Lansing has been
on a short hiatus. There is an upcoming tour of the Walter French building with
Capital Area Housing Partnership.
9. OTHER BUSINESS — None.
10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED — None.
11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:15 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 9, 2017, Development Office Conference Room,
316 N. Capitol Ave.
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, April 9, 2018
Planning and Neighborhood Development Conference Room
316 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Truscott opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Paul Connors, Heather Goupil +, Cassandra Nelson, Carol
Skillings, Curtis Sonnenberg, Nathalie Winans
(+ Confirmation of appointment scheduled for April 9, 2018)
Absent: Cynthia Redman +, Tom Truscott
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — It was moved by Ms. Nelson, seconded by Mr. Sonnenberg,
and CARRIED unanimously, to approve the agenda as written.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
4. STAFF COMMENTS — None.
5. PRESENTATIONS — None.
6. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — Ms. Winans pointed out two minor errors in the March 12
minutes. It was moved by Mr. Sonnenberg, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED
unanimously, approve the March 12 minutes as corrected.
7. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
8. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Introduction to the Commission. All members had a chance to introduce themselves and
briefly discuss their interest in historic preservation.
B. Updates on:
• Michigan School for the Blind Campus National Register Proposal. Mr. Rieske
reported that the Certified Local Government National Register Nomination Review
Report was signed by Ms. Winans and will be forwarded to the Mayor's office for
Mayor Schor's signature. It will then be returned to the SHPO.
• Cherry Hill Historic District — Mr. Sonnenberg reported that the Cherry Hill spring
cleanup is scheduled for April 14.
• Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — Mr. Rieske reported that although the
building is owned by Community Mental Health, it is occupied by JIMHO (Justice in
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Mental Health Organization),.which has a bit of a falling out with the neighborhood
Cooley Haze House — An RFP for the purchase and restoration of the Cooley Haze
property is on the City's website, with a restrictive covenant as part of the sale of
the building. Ms. Nelson said that plans for an open house were in the works.
CLG Grant possibilities —One idea that emerged was a rehab planning grant for
Cooley Haze. Mr. Rieske said he would look into it.
Preservation Lansing - Ms. Nelson reported that she toured the building with the
Capital Area Housing Partnership.
9. OTHER BUSINESS
• Alternatives for future meeting locations- A number of possibilities were discussed,
including City Hall, the Marshall St. Armory, Foster Community Center, Michigan
Municipal League, Letts Center, Michigan Retailers Association, LCC, the BWL
depot, and the downtown Capitol Area District Library. It was agreed by consensus
to give CADL a try for the next meeting.
• HDC training event 5:30-8:30 Monday, April 23, in Jackson. Mr. Rieske asked if
everyone had received the information on this training.
10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED — None.
11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — None.
12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:45 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 7, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower
Level, 401 S. Capitol Ave.
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, May 14, 2018
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Ms. Winans opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson, Carol
Skillings, Curtis Sonnenberg, Nathalie Winans
Absent: Cynthia Redman, Tom Truscott
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Without objection, the agenda was approved as written.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
4. STAFF COMMENTS — None.
5. PRESENTATIONS — None.
6. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — Ms. Winans pointed out several errors in the April 9
minutes. Without objection the minutes were approved with corrections.
7. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
A. Introduction to the Commission. All members had a chance to introduce themselves and
briefly discuss their interest in historic preservation.
B. Updates on:
• HDC Commissioner training — Ms. Skillings and Ms. Nelson reported on the April
23 training event in Jackson. Both found the training to be beneficial. Ms. Redman
and Mr. Rieske also attended.
• Michigan School for the Blind Campus National Register Proposal. Mr. Rieske
reported that the Certified Local Government National Register Nomination Review
Report was signed by Ms. Winans and Mayor Schor, and was returned to the
SHPO.
• Cherry Hill Historic District — Mr. Sonnenberg invited Commission members to a
Lugnut game on May 27. He also reported that the Cherry Hill spring cleanup is
rescheduled for Thursday, June 21.
• Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — No report.
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Cooley Haze House — Ms. Nelson reported that no responses were received to the
RFP for the purchase and restoration of the Cooley Haze property, and that a new
RFP will be released. She speculated that the building was designed by Edwin
Bowd.
CLG Grant possibilities —One idea that emerged was a rehab planning grant for
Cooley Haze. Mr. Rieske said he would look into it.
Preservation Lansing — No report.
OTHER BUSINESS
• Ms. Goupil reported that the Local History Room would be available for
Commission meetings on a regular basis.
Ms. Winans said that this would be her last meeting. She cannot attend the June
meeting, and her term expires at the end of June. Mr. Truscott's term also ends at
that time.
10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED — None.
11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — None.
12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:15 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower
Level, 401 S. Capitol Ave.
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2018
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Ms. Winans opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson, Curtis
Sonnenberg
Absent: Cynthia Redman, Carol Skillings, Tom Truscott, Nathalie
Winans
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Without objection, the agenda was approved as written.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
4. STAFF COMMENTS — None.
5. PRESENTATIONS — None.
6. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL — Without objection the minutes for May 14 were approved
with corrections.
7. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
8. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Updates on:
Cherry Hill Historic District — Mr. Sonnenberg reported that the Cherry Hill spring
cleanup is scheduled for Thursday, June 21. He added that the neighborhood
meeting would take place that evening. Mr. Sonnenberg stated that the Lansing
Rotary Club donated $400,000 for naming rights to the stretch of RiverTrail
between Michigan Ave. and Shiawassee Street, and that the Community
Foundation donated another $400,000 donated $800,000 for riverfront
improvements between the Cherry Hill Boar Landing and the Brenke Fish Ladder.
Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — Mr. Sonnenberg reported on the security
measures discussed with CMH and JIMHO (Justice in Mental Health Organization)
including a security guard and badges.
Cooley Haze House — Ms. Nelson reported the new RFP was issued for the
purchase and restoration of the Cooley Haze property. This one requests
responses within 90 days (instead of the previous response period of 30 days), the
hopes being that the additional response time would give developers a better
chance at submitting a well thought-out proposals.
• CLG Grant possibilities — A discussion ensued, and one idea that emerged was the
designation of the ReoTown as a National Register District.
• Preservation Lansing — No report.
• Tax Credit legislation — Mr. Rieske reported that he forwarded the material to the
Mayor's Office for a response to the state. A discussion ensued about the chances
of the passage of this proposal and the several hurdles it still needs to clear.
• May HDC webinars. Ms. Goupil reported that she has PowerPoint presentations
for the three trainings she attended.
B. Upcoming meetings. Commission members, without objection agreed to the following schedule:
• July 9 - Cancel
• August 13 - Rules of Procedure
• September 10 - Local History resources tour, election of officers
9. OTHER BUSINESS
10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED — None.
11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS - Mr. Sonnenberg and Ms. Nelson reported on the
Michigan Historic Preservation Network (MHPN) conference.
12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:30 p.m.
Next Meeting; 5:30 p.m. Monday, August 13, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower
Level, 401 S. Capitol Ave.
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Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, July 23, 2018
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
1. CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Rieske opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson, Carol Skillings, Curtis
Sonnenberg
Absent: Cynthia Redman (excused)
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
Also Present: Tim Rowden, Jaclyn Lillis -Warwick, Marie Walker
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Without objection, the agenda was approved as written.
3. ELECTION OF OFFICERS (CHAIR AND VICE -CHAIR) TO FILL UNEXPIRED TERMS. It was agreed by consensus
that it would be simplest if Mr. Rieske chaired the July 23 and August 13 meetings until new officers are
selected in September.
4. HDC -1-2018, 306 E. Lenawee
a. Public Hearing. The hearing began with the applicant, Tim Rowden, explaining his proposal for:
• A green shingled roof with a ridge vent,
• Aluminum vented soffits,
• Removal of the chimney,
• Restoration of the gable decoration,
• Wood fascia,
• Remove of the satellite dishes,
• Eventually to vinyl side the building.
Marie Walker spoke of her experiences with the Commission on her properties, and expressed her
opposition to the vinyl siding.
b. Commission Action: In the ensuing discussion, the Commission found that:
• The Commission encourages the use of colors which are compatible with the history of the
building and historic character of the district, but it does not, per se, regulate color..
• The water damage reported by the applicant and evident from the photos provides
justification for the proposed soffit and ridge venting.
• The soffits are not a notable feature, and the existing wood soffits, which are damaged, could
be replaced with aluminum without an adverse effect on the building's appearance.
• The fascia and gable trim are notable features, and should be repaired and replaced with
wood.
During the discussion, Mr. Sonnenberg recommended that Mr. Rowden get estimates for both the paint
and siding alternatives prior to proposing vinyl siding.
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It was moved by Ms. Skillings, seconded by Ms. Nelson, and CARRIED unanimously (5-0) to approve the
applicants proposal, except for the vinyl siding.
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
6. STAFF COMMENTS — None.
7. PRESENTATIONS — None.
8. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL— It was moved by Ms. Goupil, seconded by Ms. Nelson, to approve the minutes to
the June 11, 2018 with corrections. Without objection, the motion CARRIED unanimously.
9. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
10. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. CLG Evaluation — Resumes/Resume form. Mr. Rieske requested that members send him their
resumes if they have not done so already.
B. Rules of Procedure—July, 2018 draft
After a discussion, several issues remain unresolved:
• A statement about tie votes,
• The possibility of electronic voting and voting by proxy,
• The appropriate use of Robert Rules of Order,
• The conflict of interest clause.
C. Updates on:
• Cherry Hill Historic District — Mr. Sonnenberg reported Brent Forsberg, of Urban Systems
conducted a charrette for Cherry Hill Park.
• Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — Mr. Sonnenberg reported that Laurie Baumer, of
the Community Foundation, Brent Forsberg, and Brian Wellwood of JIMHO attended a
neighborhood meeting at the old Cherry Hill School — a positive development in the
relationship between CMH & JIMHO (Justice in Mental Health Organization) and the
neighborhood.
• Cooley Haze House — Ms. Nelson reported there is interest since new RFP. This has not yet
resulted in a proposal.
• Preservation Lansing — Ms. Nelson that they are exploring 501(c)(3) designation.
• CLG Grant possibilities — ReoTown National Register nomination. Mr. Rieske reported that
he left a message for someone at the Board of Water and Light, but has not heard back as
yet. Neither he nor Cassandra Nelson have heard from SHPO staff since their site visit.
• Preservation Lansing — No report.
• Tax Credit legislation — Mr. Connors reported that despite efforts and political support, the
Historic tax credits are not slated for approval. This could change at the last minute,
however.
• Lansing Ward History Project. The deadline for applications is July 24, 2018.
11. OTHER BUSINESS
12. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED
• August 13 - Rules of Procedure,
• September 10 - Local History resources tour, election of officers.
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13. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS —None.
14. ADJOURNMENT was at 7:00 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, September 10, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol
Ave.
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, August 13, 2018
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Rieske opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cynthia Redman, Carol Skillings, Curtis
Sonnenberg, Jaclyn Lillis -Warwick
Absent: Cassandra Nelson (excused)
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Without objection, the agenda was approved as written.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
4. STAFF COMMENTS — Mr. Rieske a celebration of Central United Methodist Church's status as an historic
district to be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, September 13.
5. PRESENTATIONS — None.
6, MINUTES FOR APPROVAL— Ms. Goupil suggested several punctuation changes. Given those changes, the
minutes were approved without objection.
7. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
8. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Rules of Procedure — August, 2018 draft
A discussion ensued about excused absences, removal from the Commission, notifying the
Secretary, and compliance with the Open Meetings Act, etc. The discussion resulted in changing
Section 4.5 to:
4.5 Attendance
A. Commission members shall be regular in attendance, and should notify the
Secretary in advance of any absences.
B. Following the roll call of Commission members at any meeting, the Chairperson
shall inquire whether any absent member had requested that the absence be excused.
The Chairperson, Secretary, or any member of the Commission may inform the
Commission of any request for an excused absence and the reasons for that request. .
C. Any Commission member who is absent from three (3) consecutive regular
meetings, or absent twenty-five percent (25%) of the regular meetings in any calendar
year, may be removed from the Commission by a majority vote.
D. A member may voluntarily resign from the Commission. When a member adopts
a principal residence outside the corporate limits of the City, the Commission shall
consider the member as having voluntary resigned, and shall notify the member of this
consideration.
B Update of Preservation Standards. After a discussion, it was moved by Ms. Skillings,
seconded by Mr. Sonnernberg, and CARRIED unanimously to develop; a set of guidelines
for using the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
C. Updates on:
• Cherry Hill Historic District — No report.
• Old Cherry Hill School, 520 Cherry St. — No report.
• Cooley Haze House — No report.
• Preservation Lansing — Mr. Sonnenberg said he would attend an Ad Hoc Housing
Committee on Thursday. (Note: This meeting has since been cancelled.)
• CLG Grant possibilities — Mr. Rieske reported that absent other proposals, the focus will be
on a ReoTown National Register nomination.
• Tax Credit legislation — No news.
• Lansing Ward History Project — Ms. Skillings and Ms. Goupil reported they are both
participating.
9. OTHER BUSINESS
10. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED ,
• September 10 - Local History resources tour with Heidi Butler, election of officers, and
Rules of Procedure.
• October 8 — Focus on Guidelines.
11. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — It was noted that the November 12 meeting falls on Veteran's Day,
and will need to be rescheduled.
12. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:40 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, September 10, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol
Ave.
2
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, September 10, 2018
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
1. CALL TO ORDER — Mr. Rieske opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: James Bell, Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson,
Cynthia Redman, Carol Skillings, Jaclyn Lillis -Warwick
Absent: Curtis Sonnenberg (excused)
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
Others Present: Karen Alred
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Without objection, the agenda was approved as written.
3. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Local History resources tour with Heidi Butler
Ms. Butler discussed the resources available and how to access them, including aerial
photos, plat books, tax records, Sanborn maps, City directories, etc. A discussion ensued
about the former residence of Burt Reynolds in the Baker Neighborhood.
B. Lansing Ward History Project
Ms. Butler said the project is open ended, with no hard deadline for participating.
Submissions will be placed on the Department of Neighborhood and Citizen Engagement
web site.
C. Election of Officers
Cassandra Nelson and Carol Skillings were nominated for Chair and Vice Chair. Hearing no
additional nominations, the nominations were closed and the candidates were elected by
consensus. Ms. Nelson then assumed the role of Chair.
D. Minutes for approval —August 13, 2018 meeting
A correction was noted on Page 2, and the minutes were approved by consensus as
corrected.
E. Consideration of Rules of Procedure — September, 2018 Draft
Mr. Bell noted a correction on Page 7. It was moved by Ms. Skillings, seconded by Ms.
Goupil, and CARRIED to approve the Rules of Procedure — September, 2018 Draft as
corrected. Mr, Rieske said that according to the City Charter, the next step is to send the
Rules to the City Attorney for approval as to form, then to City Council.
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F. Updates on:
• Cherry Hill Historic District— No update.
• Old Cherry Hill School — No update.
• Cooley Haze House —The City received two proposals for the purchase and rehab
of the House, Ms. Nelson said that the proposal that had no contingencies was
the one that was accepted.
• CLG Grant — Neither Ms. Nelson nor Mr. Rieske reported hearing any comments
back from the SHPO on submitting a proposal to nominate ReoTown to the
National Register.
• Preservation Lansing— No update.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Karen Alred spoke, indicating her interest in Lansing history, historic buildings, and serving on the
Commission. Commission members suggested she apply online at the City web site.
5. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
6. STAFF AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
Ms. Nelson suggested that an architect be appointed to the Commission in accordance with the
HDC ordinance.
Ms, Nelson reported on a meeting regarding preserving the Glaister House at 402 S. Walnut in a
local district. Mr. Rieske stated that he felt conflicted because he supports the preservation of the
building and the comprehensive plan and proposed Form Based Code. They all for a more intense
land use at that location due to its proximity to state and school district properties.
Mr. Bell pointed out that in Phoenix, there are historic houses across the street from a sports
arena.
Ms. Redman reminded the Commission that the November meeting date needs to be changed
because the second Monday is Veterans Day, A discussion ensued, and the consensus of the
Commission was to hold the meeting on November 19.
7. PRESENTATIONS — None.
8. OTHER BUSINESS
9. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED - October 8 — Focus on Standards.
10. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:26 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, October 8, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower Level, 401 S.
Capitol Ave.
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Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, October 8, 2018
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Ms. Nelson opened the meeting at 5:33 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: James Bell, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson, Carol Skillings,
Curtis Sonnenberg, Jaclyn Lillis -Warwick
Absent: Paul Connors (excused), Cynthia Redman (excused)
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
APPROVAL OF AGENDA — Mr. Sonnenberg had an addition regarding the Ad Hoc Housing
Committee. Without objection, the agenda was approved as amended.
3. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Minutes for approval — September 10, 2018 meeting. Two corrections were noted, and
the minutes were approved by consensus as corrected.
B. Design Standards and guidelines
The Cherry Hill guidelines dated 2/7/1991 and the City of East Lansing's Historic District
Commission Policies dated 2/3/2017. Commission members acknowledged that this
process would take place over multiple meetings. A discussion ensued about the
appropriate approach to revising the guidelines, based on the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation.
The East Lansing guidelines primarily cover historic residential properties. Lansing has
some residential historic districts (e.g. Cherry Hill), but most of the local districts are office
or commercial
Commissioners had positive comments on East Lansing's disclaimer, illustrations, and
glossary and the fact that it is in Microsoft Word. They agreed that the target audience
for these guidelines would be both the Commission and the public.
Members agreed to tackle updating the start with guidelines for windows, using East
Lansing's guidelines and preservation briefs. Ms. Nelson offered to distribute the
preservation brief, and to contact Jessica Flores and Amanda Harrell-Seyburn about using
or excerpting the East Lansing's guidelines.
C. Updates on:
0 Cherry Hill Historic District, Old Cherry Hill School.
Mr. Sonnenberg reported that the Cherry Hill neighborhood had a meeting on
September 27, at which CMH was represented. Matt McNeil, from Urban Systems,
was also present. Two charrettes were held regarding Cherry Hill Park, and a
meeting on the results of these charrettes is scheduled for October 18. Urban
Systems has some property in the area that they may make available for parking.
• Cooley Haze House — The City sold the house to local realtor Joe Vitale for $20,000.
He plans to restore the building and turn it into a store that specializes in salvaged
building materials.
• CLG Grant—No update.
• Preservation Lansing— No update.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
5. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
6. STAFF AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
• Ms. Skillings reported that she installed motion sensors on her house because her car was
stolen out of her garage. Ms. Nelson noted that this installation is reversible, resulting in no
harm to the building.
• Mr. Sonnenberg reported that the HDC web page needs updating with regard to the
membership roster.
• Mr. Sonnenberg reported on attending a City Council Ad Hoc Committee on Housing. He
reported being asked about the types of historic districts and their potential as a housing
revitalization tool, A discussion ensued about potential residential historic districts in Lansing:
o Moores River Drive
o Moores Park Neighborhood
o East Side
o Westside Neighborhood.
o Green Oaks
o Old Fourth Ward
o Old Capitol Historic District areas
o Sagamore Hills Neighborhood
• Ms. Lillis -Warwick reported that Michigan Archeology Day is Saturday, October 13.
7. PRESENTATIONS — None.
8. OTHER BUSINESS
9. PENDING ITEMS: FUTURE ACTION REQUIRED — November 19 — Focus on Standards - Wood
Windows.
10. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:37 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, November 19, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower Level, 401
S. Capitol Ave.
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Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, November 19, 2018
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Ms. Nelson opened the meeting at 5:30 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: James Bell, Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson,
Cynthia Redman, Carol Skillings, Curtis Sonnenberg, Jaclyn Lillis -
Warwick
Absent: Carol Skillings (excused)
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
APPROVAL OF AGENDA—The agenda was approved by unanimous consent.
DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Central United Methodist Church Bike Rack — Mary Boudreau, Ms. Nelson introduced Ms.
Boudreau to discuss the bike rack proposed for the CUMC property. Ms. Boudreau noted
that the bike rack will be a decorative sculpture, 6'-7' in length, and located in the lawn on
the Capitol Avenue side of the building near the entrance. A discussion ensued about the
potential of bike racks as public art. It was agreed that the bike rack did not require HDC
approval (it is not a building permit item).
Minutes for approval — October 8, 2018 meeting. One correction ("Archeology Day") was
noted, and the minutes were approved by consensus as corrected.
C. MSU Planning Practicum proposal — ReoTown Intensive Level Survey. Mr. Rieske reported
on an opportunity to accomplish part of the ReoTown National Register nomination. The
SHPO has indicated their preference that nomination projects be preceded by intensive
level surveys. Mr. Rieske discussed a proposal in which MSU Urban Planning students,
under the coordination of Mr. Rieske and the guidance of HDC expertise, would complete
the survey this spring. The City would then be in a better position to complete the
nomination with CLG grand funds in the next round of funding. A discussion ensued in
which Commission members expressed their support for the proposal.
D. Design Standards and guidelines - Ms. Nelson provided a one-page suggested policy for
residential windows (attached). Mr. Rieske said that any guidelines should accommodate
window replacements due to the lead paint hazard. In the ensuing discussion, there was
general support for the attached guidelines.
E. Updates on:
• Cherry Hill Historic District, Old Cherry Hill School - No update,
• Cooley Haze House — No update.
• Preservation Lansing — No update.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
5. COMMUNICATIONS — None.
6. STAFF AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
7. PRESENTATIONS — None.
8. OTHER BUSINESS
9. PENDING ITEMS:
10. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:37 p,m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, December 10, 2018, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower Level, 401
S. Capitol Ave.
2
Minutes
Lansing Historic District Commission
Local History Room, Capital Area District Library
5:30-7:00 p.m. Monday, December 10, 2018
(Downtown Branch) Lower Level, 401 S. Capitol Avenue.
Lansing MI 48933
CALL TO ORDER — Ms. Nelson opened the meeting at 5:30 p.m.
A. Introductions and Roll Call:
Present: James Bell, Paul Connors, Heather Goupil, Cassandra Nelson,
Cynthia Redman, Carol Skillings, Curtis Sonnenberg, Jaclyn
Lillis -Warwick
Absent: None
Staff Present: Bill Rieske
Also Present: Rob Gibbs, prospective HDC member
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA —The agenda was approved by unanimous consent.
3. DISCUSSION/ACTION
A. Minutes for approval — November 19, 2018 meeting. One correction ("bike rake")
was noted, and the minutes were approved by consensus as corrected.
B. Design Standards and Guidelines — Doors and windows
The Commission review and discussed the City of Kalamazoo's guidelines for
windows (https://www.kalamazoocity.org/hdcstandards/113-historic-
preservation-standards-guidelines-windows/file) and doors
(https://www.kalamazoocity.org/hdcstandards/96-historic-preservation-
standards-guidelines-doors/file). It was noted that no guidelines for storm
doors are included.
A discussion ensued about the Commission's approach to guidelines. Ms.
Nelson said that clear guidelines on the most common problems, such as
residential windows, doors, roofs, siding, porches, and paint colors might be
more useful than an exhaustive set of guidelines. Most of the properties are
residential, and they generate the majority of permit reviews.
Mr. Sonnenberg said he would work on a letter to the Cherry Hill neighborhood
about HDC, its guidelines and procedures.
Ms. Skillings said she would start drafting something about windows.
Ms. Nelson said the next topic should be siding.
C. Updates on:
• Mr. Rieske had forwarded the link the article "Paving the Way"
(https://IansingcitypuIse.com/article-16766-The-road-not-taken.htmi) regarding the
history of 1-496.
• He also forwarded Ward History project links.
• https://lansingneiqhborhoods.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?CID=9
• https://lansingneiqhborhoods.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?CID=10
• https://lansingneiqhborhoods.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?CID=11
• https://lansingneiqhborhoods.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?CID=12
• ReoTown Intensive Level Survey — Mr. Rieske reported that he had submitted a
proposal to MSU for the assistance of a practicum class to complete an intensive
level survey of ReoTown.
• Cherry Hill Historic District, incl. Cherry Hill School — Mr. Sonnenberg reported that
a neighborhood meeting will be held on December 13, and that Matt McNeil was
recently elected chair of the Cherry Hill Neighborhood Association.
• Cooley Haze House — Ms. Nelson reported that Joe Vitale wants more clarity on
the timeline for the LBWL substation before proceeding with work on the Cooley -
Haze house.
• Preservation Lansing — No report.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
COMMUNICATIONS — None.
STAFF AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS — None.
PRESENTATIONS — None.
OTHER BUSINESS — None.
9. PENDING ITEMS — Continuing work on guidelines.
10. ADJOURNMENT was at 6:12 p.m.
Next Meeting: 5:30 p.m. Monday, January 14, 2019, in the CADL Local History Room, Lower
Level, 4015. Capitol Ave.