HomeMy WebLinkAbout6.13.24 HPC agenda packet
Thursday
June 13, 2024
5:30 p.m.
Emma J. Harvat Hall
City Hall
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Thursday, June 13, 2024
City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street
Emma J. Harvat Hall
5:30 p.m.
Agenda
A) Call to Order
B) Roll Call
C) Public discussion of anything not on the agenda
D) Certificate of Appropriateness
1. HPC24-0038: 426/430 Church Street – Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District (garage
demolition)
2. HPC24-0040: 728 Ronalds Street – Brown Street Historic District (new construction)
3. HPC24-0045: 1210 Sheridan Avenue – Longfellow Historic District (rear addition)
E) Report on Certificates issued by Chair and Staff
Certificate of No Material Effect –Chair and Staff review
1. HPC24-0035: 722 East College Street – College Green Historic District (mechanical venting)
2. HPC24-0036: 903 Iowa Avenue – College Hill Conservation District (mechanical venting)
3. HPC24-0042: 1501 Center Avenue – Longfellow Historic District (siding replacement)
4. HPC24-0049: 515 Rundell Street – Longfellow Historic District (concrete stoop replacement)
Minor Review –Staff review
1. HPC24-0017: 818 Rundell Street – Dearborn Street Conservation District (railing replacement and
exhaust venting)
2. HPC24-0047: 830 E Davenport Street – Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District (enlarged rear
stoop and stairs)
Intermediate Review –Chair and Staff review
1. HPC24-0037: 820 Park Road – Local Historic Landmark (roof shingle replacement with shingle-style
metal roof)
F) Consideration of Minutes for May 22, 2024
G) Commission Discussion
Work Plan and subcommittees
H) Commission Information
I) Adjournment
If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact Jessica Bristow, Urban
Planning, at 319-356-5243 or at jessica-bristow@iowa-city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time
to meet your access needs.
Staff Report June 6, 2024
Historic Review for HPC24-0038: 426 and 430 Church Street
General Information:
Applicant/Owner: Kari Kozak kariapril@gmail.com
William Nixon will.lewis.nixon@gmail.com
District: Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District
Classification: Contributing
Project Scope: Demolition of existing garage/outbuilding and construction of a
parking pad on each property connected to the shared driveway to
allow each property owner to park one car on their property.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
4.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Alterations
4.12 Site and Landscaping
7.0 Guidelines for Demolition
7.1 Demolition of Whole Structures or Significant Features
Property History:
The houses at 426 and 430 Church were built ca. 1924 to replace a house that was
located on the combined lots. Both houses are likely catalogue homes at 1 1/2 stories
with front facing gables, an east-facing wall dormer, and a full width front porch with a
gable roof. They each have battered porch columns and a solid porch balustrade and a
gang of three four-over-one windows centered in the gable. There are several
differences between them including some of the decorative windows, the use of
dormers, front porch piers and front doors. While both had been clad in metal siding at
some point, the house at 426 Church recently removed theirs.
The houses share a driveway and a small garage that dates to the construction of the
houses. This garage is 16 feet by 16 feet with a front-facing gable similar to the houses,
and a pair of historic folding doors.
Detailed Project Description:
This project removes the garage, which is too small to park a modern car (a legal
parking space is 9 feet by 18 feet). The property owners will each construct a concrete
parking pad on their side of the property line with a 6-inch space between them. The
existing shared driveway will lead to each parking pad.
Guidelines:
Section 4.12 Site and Landscaping recommends:
• Providing parking behind the primary structure on a lot where possible.
• Constructing new driveways to be similar to historic driveways in the
neighborhoods. Typically, these driveways are 8-10 feet in width and may have
only a three foot section for each track paved, leaving grass in the center of the
drive.
• Providing vehicular access from an alley when available. Driveways leading from
the street to garages or parking at the rear of the property should be one lane in
width, but can be widened toward the back of the lot to provide access to multi-
stall garages or parking spaces.
Section 7.1 Demolition of Whole Structures or Significant Features recommends:
• A decision to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of
outbuildings on contributing and noncontributing properties, and primary
buildings on noncontributing and non-historic properties, will be made on a case-
by-case basis. For these cases, the Commission will consider the condition,
integrity and architectural significance of the outbuilding or noncontributing
building.
• Retaining historic garages. If the period garage is insufficient for modern-day
vehicles, efforts should be made to construct a new garage on another portion of
the site.
• Designing replacement garages to be compatible in design with the primary
structure and/or other outbuildings in the neighborhood.
Analysis:
When considering garage demolition, the Commission considers the condition of the
garage and the design of the new garage. Many historic garages and parking situations
are non-conforming to the current zoning code. We often find that historic garages are
located within required setbacks. In addition, some are smaller than a modern garage or
do not meet codes for a variety of reasons. Existing, historic garages are “grand-
fathered-in” and do not need to meet codes until they are substantially altered or
replaced. Often this means that historic garages are repaired instead of replaced.
Since providing parking on a property is typically a requirement of the zoning code,
demolition of a garage usually leads to the construction of a new garage. Removing a
garage and creating a parking slab is not consistent with the character of a historic
neighborhood. For this reason, garage demolition is most often reviewed by the
Commission in a manner similar to the demolition of a primary structure, with the new
garage reviewed in tandem with the demolition application.
The shared garage at 426 and 430 Church Street is a contributing historic structure. It
has been repaired in the past and is currently in need of repair, however, it not beyond
repair. This garage, however, is not a legal parking space, it is shorter by two feet,
preventing either of the current owners from using it to park. In addition, since the
driveway is also shared, only one of the properties could park in the driveway at a time.
Staff has been working with these property owners to find solutions to the situation. A
new garage that is large enough to park one or two cars, or two single-car garages is
not possible on these sites. The zoning code will not allow a building to straddle two
properties or reduce the side setback to zero. Properties also need to include a specific
amount of open space to comply with the zoning code. For these reasons, it was
determined that the only solution that allowed each property to have a place to park was
to demolish the existing building and create a parking slab on each property.
The parking slabs will be behind, to the north, of the houses and accessed by a
driveway that is 8 feet wide, complying with the guidelines in Section 4.12. While the
project proposes to demolish the garage, regardless of its condition, staff recommends
approval of the project through the use of an exception for uncommon situations. In this
case, this solution is the only way to provide parking for both properties due to the site
constraints. Existing photos already document the structure, so staff does not
recommend the need for further documentation.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 426 and
430 Church Street through the use of an exception for an uncommon situation.
426 and 430 Church Street – Google 2022
Johnson County Property Information viewer image
2023 Aerial image
Garage – south façade – 2020
Garage – West side – 2020
Garage – general interior west side – 2020
Garage – general interior east side – 2020
Garage – interior of folding doors – 2020
Staff Report June 3, 2024
Historic Review for HPC24-0040: 726 Ronalds Street
General Information:
Owner: The Housing Fellowship
Applicant: GT Karr, gtkarr4@gmail.com
District: Brown Street Historic District
Classification: Noncontributing/Non-historic
Project Scope: Construction of a new 2-story, single-family house on the east half
of a subdivided lot
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
4.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Alterations
4.1 Balustrades and Handrails
6.0 Guidelines for New Construction
6.1 New Primary Structures
8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines
8.4 Northside Neighborhood
9.0 Design Guidelines for Multi-Family Buildings
9.1 Site Elements
9.2 Architectural Elements
Property History:
This property is currently a vacant lot and one half of an original lot. Historically, a
single-story side-gabled house that was said to have been built in August 1866 by D.A.
Dewey occupied the east portion of entire lot 7 of Block 12 in the original town plat of
Iowa City. The house was also pictured on the 1868 bird’s-eye view map of the city.
With many alterations over its 150-year history and lacking historic integrity, the
Commission reclassified the property from contributing to noncontributing in 2016.
Already severely deteriorated, the non-historic garage was demolished in 2018 and the
house in 2022. While the Commission has not formally reclassified the property since
the recent demolitions, the property would be considered non-historic at any future map
update. In 2023 a vernacular house in an I-House form was approved and then recently
built on the west half of the lot. The east half is the location of the current project.
Detailed Project Description:
The proposed project includes the construction of a Foursquare House. The house will
be 26 feet window and 36 ½ feet long with a full width front porch, a hipped roof with
asphalt shingles, stucco-coated concrete foundation, smooth LP lap siding, and
aluminum-clad double-hung windows (Andersen E Series). Since the site drops off
dramatically from the front sidewalk to the rear and the house must have a zero-step
entry, the front porch will be concrete with a slightly sloping sidewalk leading up to it and
the rear of the house will have a walk-out basement. The windows are organized as
individual openings in a window pattern similar to historic Foursquares. The house will
also have typical trim including corner boards, a watertable, flat casing at all windows
and doors with a slight crown above first floor openings, and a frieze board around the
porch and at the top of the wall. The proposed roof has 24” overhangs and closed soffits
(which would be clad in beadboard plywood mitered at the corners of the house).
Guidelines:
Section 4.1 Balustrades and Handrails recommends:
• Installing top and foot rails that are at least 2 inches in thickness and square
spindles that are 1 ½ inches or greater in width. It is recommended that the top
and foot rails are sloped slightly (on the upper surface) to allow water to be shed
from these surfaces and help prevent deterioration of these members. It is
disallowed to use unpainted treated wood for elements that would have been
painted in the historic application, such as balustrades.
Section 6.0 Guidelines for New Construction recommends:
• Proposed new buildings must also comply with 8.0 Neighborhood District
Guidelines … The content of 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines is used to
determine the appropriate size, scale, site location and architectural style of the
new building. These factors are dependent on the character of the surrounding
neighborhood and district.
Section 6.1 New Primary Structures recommends:
• Following the guidelines for new balustrades in section 4.1.
• Unique surface area guidelines exist for street elevations in the Northside
Neighborhood, generally restricting surface area to no more than 1200 square
feet.
• Unique height and mass guidelines exist for single-family houses or duplexes in
the Northside Neighborhood, restricting the height to one-and-a-half or two
stories.
• For new primary buildings, locating the building a distance from the street so that
the setback is consistent with the setbacks of existing principal buildings located
along the same frontage.
• Adding exterior doors on front or side elevations of buildings that have half- or
full-light windows and/or raised panel construction and are consistent with the
architectural style.
• Constructing front porches that are consistent with the architectural style of the
building.
• Constructing new porches that are more than 18 inches above grade using
traditional porch construction with wood joists and wood flooring.
• Using siding that is consistent with the architectural style of the new building.
Fiber cement siding with a smooth finish is an acceptable substitute for wood
siding in most circumstances.
• Specifying the window type, proportion, shape, profile, divided light pattern, and
placement based on the architectural style of the new structure and contributing
structures of a similar style. The use of metal-clad, solid-wood windows is
acceptable.
• Windows and trim must accept paint.
• Adding wood (or an acceptable wood substitute) window trim that is three to four
inches in width if the exterior walls are sided with wood. Generally, it is
recommended to use wood or an approved wood substitute for building trim and
features such as corner boards, window trim, frieze boards, columns, brackets
and similar features.
• An exception exists for properties in Conservation Districts that says porch floors
may be concrete if the floor is nor more than 18 inches above grade.
Section 8.0 Neighborhood District Guidelines states:
• The size of a primary building on a site, the size of the yard, as well as the
architectural character of the building are defining characteristics of historic and
conservation districts and vary according to the neighborhood.
• Proposed projects on buildings within a neighborhood listed in this section must
meet the respective Neighborhood District Guidelines in addition to the other
applicable standards of the Iowa City Preservation Handbook.
Section 8.4 Northside Neighborhood states:
• Architectural style is a defining characteristic for historic and conservation
districts. A new primary structure must reflect the historic styles of its
neighborhood.
• Although new construction may adapt and mix some elements of different styles,
a single style should dictate the height and mass, rooflines, fenestration, and
overhangs for the new building.
• In the Northside Neighborhood: A new building must reflect the Greek Revival,
Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, American Foursquare,
Prairie School, Vernacular, or Eclectic style.
Section 12.0 Residential Architectural Styles of Iowa City states:
• New construction in historic and conservation districts should reflect the size,
proportions, fenestration, trim, and other ornamentation of a building style typical
of that district. These guidelines will be used in evaluating new single-family
houses and multi-family buildings.
12.1 American Foursquare:
• The American Foursquare style is typified by its cubical mass and hipped roof.
Roof pitches vary from 6/12 to 10/12. Often, the roof pitch at the eave will be
less than the pitch of the main roof forming a “sweep” at the roof edge.
• Overhangs are often 24 inches or more with boxed-in soffits and a wide frieze
board.
• Foursquare houses have hipped, wide attic dormers on one or more sides.
Windows tend to have wider proportions than other styles, but they are still taller
than they are wide.
• Although not always strictly symmetrical, the front facade is very regular.
Ornamentation is typically simple and is usually expressed in the design of the
porch.
• Foursquare porches typically extend the entire width of the front facade and have
a low-pitched hip roof. The porch may have two or three large, square columns
on masonry piers to support the roof.
• Other Foursquare porches have Classic Revival style details with round tapered
columns.
Analysis:
In Staff’s opinion, the American Foursquare is an appropriate style for a house in the
east end of the Brown Street Historic District because of the prevalence of the style in
the area. The proposed siding, roof, eave, and windows fit the Foursquare form and
details evident in other houses of the style in the neighborhood. The location of the
house on the lot, including the front setback were all determined by the division of the
lot and the location of the house approved at 724 Ronalds. This project will continue this
front setback. This house will be larger than the earlier project.
Generally, the proposed design complies with the guidelines for new construction in this
district, since it uses many of the same material approved with the neighboring house.
There are some exceptions. Site conditions, notably the drop off immediately north of
the sidewalk, inform some of the design choices. For new construction, a zero-step
entry is required for accessibility. The guidelines require that the first floor of a new
house is located at least 18 inches above grade, similar to most historic houses. In past
projects, this entry was located at the rear door, near the parking area, allowing the front
of the house to comply with the guidelines. In this case the change in elevation from
front to back would not allow for a zero-step entry to the main floor from the rear of the
house. Instead, the proposal includes this entry at the front porch. Staff recommends
that this condition is approved for the project through the use of an exception for the
uncommon situation created by the site. Similarly, staff recommends that the concrete
construction for the porch floor is approved even though the project is located in a
Historic District rather than a Conservation District. A railing is not required on a porch
that is less than 30 inches above grade.
While many Foursquares have roof dormers, there are also numerous example that do
not. The proposal does not include dormers to help reduce construction costs and staff
finds that this is acceptable because of existing examples. The proposal includes
Classical Revival, round, columns but states that simple rectangular columns would be
preferred. Staff finds that this would be acceptable with a square column that is clad in
wood mitered at the corners, has a simple base and capital and is proportionate to the
rest of the elevation, likely 12 inches across each face.
The rear of this house will include a sunken patio delineated by a retaining wall and
surmounted by a railing that will be constructed of wood, painted and configured to
comply with the guidelines in Section 4.1. Also, it should be noted that the basement
plan includes a window in the west wall, however, a window is not show in the west
elevation in that location. Staff assumes that this window will be a smaller rectangular
window similar to typical basement windows. Staff would not recommend a larger
window and window well since it is not required by code and the north wall is fully
exposed, allowing a full height egress window for the bedroom in the rear wall.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 728
Ronalds Street as presented in the staff report with the following conditions:
Door product information and porch column design are reviewed by staff.
ATTIC
FIRST FLOOR
SECOND FLOOR
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FIRST FLOOR
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DATE:
SHEET:
DESIGN BY NORBECK AT CWISE
MAY 14, 2024
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SOUTH ELEVATION01
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WEST ELEVATION02
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NORTH ELEVATION03
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OWNER: HOUSING FELLOWSHIP
BUILDER: SUEPPEL'S
MATERIAL NOTES:
·Exposed foundation: cement stucco coating over insulated concrete forms.
·Siding: Smooth LP lap siding with 5” reveal
·Trim: painted smooth cedar
·Windows: aluminum clad wood double hung, black exterior. (Andersen E-Series)
·Roof: asphalt shingles
·Gutters: metal downspouts and standard edge mounted with metal downspouts, color to match background color
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DATE:
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DESIGN BY NORBECK
MARCH 16, 2024
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LIVING ROOM
13'-0" X 23'-9"
BEDROOM
11'-5" X 11'-6"
TOILET
8'-8" X 6'-2"
MECHANICAL ROOM & STORAGE
16'-5" X 10'-10"
LAUNDRY ROOM
8'-10" X 10'-10"
KITCHEN
13'-3" X 16'-0"
LIVING ROOM
19'-10" X 16'-0"
BEDROOM
11'-2" X 11'-3"
TOILET
9'-8" X 6'-6"
BEDROOM
9'-6" X 12'-0"
BEDROOM
10'-6" X 9'-10"
BEDROOM
14'-0" X 10'-0"
LOBBY
5' WIDE
BEDROOM
10'-6" X 10'-3"
TOILET
8'-4" X 5'-0"
WB. AREA
8'-4" X 4'-8"
DINING AREA
14'-3" X 11'-6"
DNUP
1/8" = 1'-0"
BASEMENT PLAN01
1/8" = 1'-0"
FIRST FLOOR PLAN02
1/8" = 1'-0"
SECOND FLOOR PLAN03
MUD ROOM
BUILDING FOOT PRINT
26 x 36 FEET
PORCH
8'-0" x 23'-0"
GROSS AREA 2598 SF
BEDROOM AREA 717 SF
BEDROOM AREA 28%
SHARED LIVING AREA 930 SF
Four Square Precedent – 726 Ronalds St
Features of the proposed elevaƟon include:
cubic mass
6:12 hipped roof
24" overhangs with boxed in soffits and wide frieze board.
Wider windows
Simple ornamentaƟon
Full-width porch with 4:12 hipped roof.
Shown with round Classic Revival columns.
The raised porch and railing were omiƩed due to visit-ability requirements.
Notes:
Aƫc Dormers: while aƫc dormers are common, examples on page two show Four Square homes without dormers. Dormers were omiƩed from this
proposed design for cost-saving purposes and to discourage future conversion of the aƫc to habitable space.
Columns: a simple rectangular column would be preferred over the round if this were acceptable.
Band board: the examples on page 2 show a band board between floors. This was omiƩed for the purpose of simplicity.
Round column Rectangular Simple square columns
All sizes | Harris Ready Cut House || Four Square | Flickr - Photo Sharing!
hƩps://www.pinterest.com/pin/420523683928765779/
Aladdin homes "built in a day" : catalog no. 29, 1917 : Aladdin Company
Pin by David Carr on Homes | Square house plans, Four square homes, American four square house (pinterest.com)
Staff Report June 10, 2024
Historic Review for HPC24-0045: 1210 Sheridan Avenue
General Information:
Applicant/Owner: Diana and Mark Russo, dianarussoic@gmail.com,
markrussoic@gmail.com
District: Longfellow Historic District
Classification: Contributing
Project Scope: rear addition with open porch
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
4.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Alterations
4.1 Balustrades and Handrails
4.3 Doors
4.7 Mass and Rooflines
4.10 Porches
4.13 Windows
4.14 Wood
5.0 Guidelines for Additions
5.1 Expansion of Building Footprint
Property History:
This house was built in the late 1930s as a Minimal Traditional house with English
Cottage influences. This is a side-gabled single-story house with a projecting, gabled
entry, reminiscent of Tudor Revival styles. It has a smooth foundation and a roof with
narrow overhangs and asphalt shingles. The house has 6-over-6 double-hung windows,
lap siding mitered at the corners, and flat casing. There is no watertable and the narrow
frieze board includes a crown molding that almost obscures it.
Detailed Project Description:
This project is an addition that extends 20 feet north from the main rear wall of the
house. On the west side, it is set in 12 inches from the west wall of the house. On the
east side, the construction is flush with the existing rear bump out but incorporates a
new open porch. The existing roof on the bump out is removed and a new, north-facing
gable roof, matching the pitch, eave condition and material of the main roof is
constructed over the entire rear portion. The open porch will have a single column in the
outer corner and a square spindled balustrade with a stoop and step on the east side
near the existing house. The siding, trim, and windows will match the existing house.
Guidelines:
Section 4.1 Balustrades and Handrails recommends:
• Constructing or replacing missing balustrades by using historic photographs or
by choosing a style that is consistent with the architectural style of the building.
• Installing turned balusters in balustrades that have an actual diameter of 2 inches
or greater, or square spindles that are 1-1/2 inches or greater in width.
• Installing top and foot rails that are at least 2 inches in thickness.
Section 4.3 Doors recommends:
• Adding new door openings that are trimmed to match other doors and windows in
the building.
Section 4.7 Mass and Rooflines recommends:
• Preserving the original roof pitches and spans.
• Preserving the original walls and vertical corners that define the massing of a
historic building.
Section 4.13 Windows recommends:
• Adding windows that match the type, size, sash width, trim, use of divided lights,
and overall appearance of the historic windows.
• Adding new windows in a location that is consistent with the window pattern of
the historic building or buildings of similar architectural style.
Section 4.14 Wood recommends:
• Substituting a material in place of wood only if the substitute material retains the
appearance and function of the original wood. The substitute material must be
durable, accept paint, and be approved by the Historic Preservation Commission.
Section 5.1 Expansion of the Building Footprint recommends:
• Distinguishing between the historic structure and the new addition. This may be
accomplished easily by offsetting the walls of the addition from the walls of the
original structure.
• Matching key horizontal “lines” on the existing building, such as water table, eave
height, window head height and band boards, in order to provide continuity
between the addition and the historic structure.
• Using a palette of materials that is similar to that used on the historic structure.
• Placing building additions at the rear of a property, if possible.
• Constructing an addition foundation that appears similar to the historic foundation
in color, texture, unit size, and joint profile.
• Constructing additions that are consistent with the massing and roofline of the
historic building. This requires that the wall areas and corners, as well as the roof
pitches and spans are all consistent with the existing building and have a
proportion that is similar to that of the existing building.
• Constructing the roof overhang, soffits and eaves of the addition so that they
match the roof overhang, soffits and eaves of the existing building. When the
eaves of an addition intersect the eaves of the existing building, care should be
taken to assure that the two eaves align properly. The trim details of a new eave
should match the eave details of the existing building.
• Applying siding to a new addition that appears similar in size, shape, texture, and
material to the existing siding on the historic building.
• Constructing new porches that are consistent with the historic building or similar
to porches of the same architectural style.
• Constructing new porches that are more than 18 inches above grade using
traditional porch construction with wood joists and wood flooring.
• Adding skirting to fill the space between the porch floor and grade if this space is
24 inches or greater. The skirt should be constructed between the porch piers.
Analysis:
In Staff’s opinion, this will increase the living space in this house while also adding a
bedroom and bathroom with openings appropriately sized for accessibility since the
existing bedroom and bathroom entries are too narrow.
While the addition is set in from the west side, it extends from the existing east side with
an open porch area, preserving the corners of the existing house. By including the
existing bump out and the new addition under one new roof construction, the form and
massing of the house remain simple rectangular forms like the original house.
The drawings included some additional lines that were edited for clarity showing that the
porch will have a frieze board (beam) under its roof edge. Also, note that the balustrade
will have a bottom rail 3-4 inches above the porch floor so that the spindles will not
extend to the floor. In addition, in order to comply with the guidelines, this porch will
have a pier under the column in the corner, skirting between the pier and foundation,
and a traditional tongue-and-groove porch floor.
Window product information was submitted and can be approved without brickmold trim
and with all windows separated by framing to allow jamb trim between them.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 1210
Sheridan Avenue as presented in the staff report with the following conditions:
The porch follows traditional porch construction
Windows are revised as noted
Door product information is reviewed by staff
1210 Sheridan Avenue – front façade and east side – Google 2022
1210 Sheridan Avenue – rear elevation
1210 Sheridan Avenue – southwest corner
1210 Sheridan Avenue – northeast corner
NOTES:
Ceiling Height 96"
Existing Walls
Main Entry Ceiling: 87"
Wi
n
d
o
w
s
@4
5
"
A
F
F
Closet
Down
Closet
Closet
43 1/2"
48
"
95"
12
9
"
2
1
/
2
"
41
"
21
"
71"37 1/4"30 1/4"
5
1
/
4
"
12
8
"
32
1
/
8
"
29 1/2"38
"
24 1/4"
28
"
35
1
/
4
"
27
1
/
4
"
28"35 3/8"27 5/8"
50 7/8"35 3/8"48"
49
3
/
4
"
35
1
/
4
"
29
1
/
2
"
8
1
/
4
"
75
"
29
1
/
2
"
59"35"
35"94"
31 1/2"
12
3
/
4
"
21
1
/
2
"
36
1
/
2
"
35
1
/
2
"
49
1
/
4
"
13 1/2"38 1/2"82 1/4"
3"36"
104 1/2"
90
1
/
2
"
63
3
/
4
"
32
1
/
8
"
26
1
/
2
"
15"
27
1
/
8
"
13 3/4"
Down Landing
Wi
n
d
o
w
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
Wi
n
d
o
w
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
Cl
o
s
e
t
MAIN
ENTRY
Exterior
Door
35
1
/
4
"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Approved by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A1
Sheridan House -As-BuiltMark Russo
5/21/24
E.K.
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
M. Russo
Wa
s
h
e
r
Dr
y
e
r
DN
NOTES:
Ceiling Height 96"
Existing Walls
New Walls
Wi
n
d
o
w
s
@4
5
"
A
F
F
Closet
Down
Closet
Closet
43 1/2"
48
"
95"
12
9
"
2
1
/
2
"
41
"
21
"
71"37 1/4"30 1/4"
5
1
/
4
"
29 1/2"
24 1/4"
49
3
/
4
"
35
1
/
4
"
29
1
/
2
"
8
1
/
4
"
75
"
59"35"
35"
94"
31 1/2"21
1
/
2
"
36
1
/
2
"
35
1
/
2
"
49
1
/
4
"
13 1/2"38 1/2"82 1/4"
32
1
/
8
"
24
0
"
AC
UNIT
Closet
92
"
Refrig.
Covered
Porch
12"
6"174 13/16"
28 9/16"117 3/4"28 1/2"
35 1/4"35 1/4"35 1/4"
42"
6"
Tall
Linen
26
1
/
2
"
Casing-to-Casing
27
1
/
4
"
32
1
/
8
"
63
3
/
4
"
35
1
/
4
"
NEW
EXTERIOR
DOOR
3/0
WI
N
D
O
W
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
28
1
/
2
"
35
1
/
4
"
15"
35
1
/
4
"
13 3/4"35 1/4"
WI
N
D
O
W
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
2x
6
Kn
e
e
W
a
l
l
18
"
68
1
/
4
"
4
1
/
2
"
3/0
Pocket Door
W
I
N
D
O
W
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
W
I
N
D
O
W
27
-1/
4
"
A
F
F
27
1
/
4
"
70
1
/
4
"
40
"
Cl
o
s
e
t
3/0 Door
6x6
Column
6"6"
28
3
/
8
"
35
1
/
4
"
28
3
/
8
"
91 13/16"
14
2
7
/
8
"
35
1
/
4
"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Approved by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A2
Addition -Plan AMark Russo
5/21/24
E.K.
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Mark Russo
104 1/2"
33
3
/
4
"
60
1
/
2
"
54 3/4"37 3/4"56 3/4"36"3"34"37"33 1/2"
188 1/4"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Reviewed by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A3
As-Built - North Exterior Elevation
Mark Russo
5/21/24
E.K.
M. Russo
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
5 1/2"
143 1/2"97 1/4"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A5
Plan A -East Exterior ElevationMark Russo
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
5/21/24
E.K.
Mark Russo
12"186 13/16"92"
63
"
36"
5 1/2"
34 1/8"
34 1/2"6"35 1/4"35 1/4"6"35 1/4"34 9/16"
80
"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Reviewed by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A4
Plan A - North Exterior Elevation
Mark Russo
5/21/24
E.K.
M. Russo
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
240"
63
"
63
"
Scale
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
Mailing Address:
Mark Russo Kitchen and Bath Design
614 Clark St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Contact
Mark: 319-430-0038 | markrussoic@gmail.com
Erica: 319-464-6458 | ericaakite@gmail.com 1/4" = 1'-0"
A6
Plan A -West Exterior ElevationMark Russo
1210 Sheridan Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
5/21/24
E.K.
Mark Russo
noah.walsh@
gilcrestjewett.com
Customer
Unassigned
5/22/2024 9:38 AM
Customer Information:Delivery Information:
Phone:Fax:
Unassigned
None2760687
QUOTE #STATUS
TERMS
CUSTOMER PO#DATE PRINTED
PROJECT NAMECUSTOMER JOB NAME
Phone:Fax:
QUOTE EXPIRES
QUOTE DATE
Quote Not Ordered
BID BY
5/21/2024
PRICE BOOK
GILCREST JEWETT - CORALVILLE
758 CAMP CARDINAL BLVD
CORALVILLE IA 52241
319-338-0089 319-338-2418
Phone:Fax:
Short Form
CREATED
PK # 309
QUOTE NAME
Price Book 2023
Quote
N/A
(A1) DDH CustomCustom - (A2) DDH CustomCustom - Standard Mulls
(A1)-Pinnacle Wood Prime Double Hung XXXX Complete Unit LoE 366 IG 6-9/16 Jamb
Ext (Setup (Standard))(Glass Stop Profile: Ogee)(FD: 37.5 x 60)(Pine Species)(Grey Spacer)
(White Jambliner)(Bronze Hardware)(WM 180 Brickmould)(No Sill Nosing)(7/8" Standard
WDL w/Inner Bar)(Ogee WDL Interior Profile)(Colonial Pattern 3W2H/3W2H)(Full Screen)
(Bronze Screen - Not Applied)(BetterVue)(Energy Star: Meets in SC, S Zones)(LC-PG30-H)
Performance Data:(U-Value: 0.28)(SHGC: 0.18)(VT: 0.41)(CR: 60)
(A2)-Pinnacle Wood Prime Double Hung XXXX Complete Unit LoE 366 IG 6-9/16 Jamb
Ext (Setup (Standard))(Glass Stop Profile: Ogee)(FD: 37.5 x 60)(Pine Species)(Grey Spacer)
(White Jambliner)(Bronze Hardware)(WM 180 Brickmould)(No Sill Nosing)(7/8" Standard
WDL w/Inner Bar)(Ogee WDL Interior Profile)(Colonial Pattern 3W2H/3W2H)(Full Screen)
(Bronze Screen - Not Applied)(BetterVue)(Energy Star: Meets in SC, S Zones)(LC-PG30-H)
Performance Data:(U-Value: 0.28)(SHGC: 0.18)(VT: 0.41)(CR: 60)
ExtendedPriceOverall ROLine #
$2,220.52100None Assigned $2,220.5275 3/4" X 60 1/2"
QtyRoom ID
175" X 60"
Overall Frame
* Units viewed from exterior.
Pinnacle Wood Prime Double Hung XXXX-1 Complete Unit LoE 366 IG 6-9/16 Jamb Ext
(Setup (Standard))(Glass Stop Profile: Ogee)(FD: 37.5 x 60)(Pine Species)(Grey Spacer)
(White Jambliner)(Bronze Hardware)(WM 180 Brickmould)(No Sill Nosing)(7/8" Standard
WDL w/Inner Bar)(Ogee WDL Interior Profile)(Colonial Pattern 3W2H/3W2H)(Full Screen)
(Bronze Screen - Not Applied)(BetterVue)(Energy Star: Meets in SC, S Zones)(LC-PG30-H)
Performance Data:(U-Value: 0.28)(SHGC: 0.18)(VT: 0.41)(CR: 60)
ExtendedPriceOverall ROLine #
$3,364.32200None Assigned $1,121.4438 1/4" X 60 1/2"
QtyRoom ID
337.5" X 60"
Overall Frame
* Units viewed from exterior.
2of1Page2760687Quote #:Windsor Windows and Doors
Pinnacle Wood Prime Double Hung XXXX-1 Complete Unit LoE 366 IG 6-9/16 Jamb Ext
(Setup (Standard))(Glass Stop Profile: Ogee)(FD: 35 x 42)(Pine Species)(Grey Spacer)
(Obscure Bottom Sash)(White Jambliner)(Bronze Hardware)(WM 180 Brickmould)(No Sill
Nosing)(7/8" Standard WDL w/Inner Bar)(Ogee WDL Interior Profile)(Colonial Pattern
3W2H/3W2H)(Full Screen)(Bronze Screen - Not Applied)(BetterVue)(Energy Star: Meets in
SC, S Zones)(LC-PG35-H) Performance Data:(U-Value: 0.28)(SHGC: 0.18)(VT: 0.41)(CR:
60)
ExtendedPriceOverall ROLine #
$1,041.46300None Assigned $1,041.4635 3/4" X 42 1/2"
QtyRoom ID
135" X 42"
Overall Frame
* Units viewed from exterior.
SUB-TOTAL:$6,626.30
LABOR:
SALES TAX:
TOTAL:$6,626.30
$0.00 FREIGHT:
Submitted By:
Accepted By:Date:
Date:
$0.00
Quote Comments:
Disclaimer:
* Units meeting Egress size conform to 2018 IRC Section R310.2 Egress requirements; Local codes may differ.
Customer is responsible to confirm units meet all applicable requirements..
We appreciate the opportunity to provide you with this quote!
Messages:
$0.00
2of2Page2760687Quote #:Windsor Windows and Doors
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MAY 22, 2024 – 5:30 PM – FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Noah Stork, Christina Welu-Reynolds, Deanna Thomann, Frank Wagner,
Jordan Sellergren, Andrew Lewis, Nicole Villanueva, Margaret Beck
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carl Brown
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow
OTHERS PRESENT: Thomas Agran, Mary Bennett, Karen Crane
CALL TO ORDER:
Sellergren called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Thomas Agran stated he lives in the Northside neighborhood and was on the Commission for seven
years and overlapped with some of the current Commissioners but not everybody. Agran wanted to talk
about the Council meeting last night and some things he’s been thinking about both based off of
conversations he’s had with the mayor pro tem right before the meeting. First, he noted was last night
was a huge victory and everybody should be congratulated on that, but it also brings forward what the
next step is. One of the things that he talked about in his speeches to Council on the issue was that
most of downtown is not protected and if this is the level of battle that they have to go through to
landmark a property then downtown just doesn't stand a chance. If the whole supermajority thing is the
only approach it's going to be really hard. As part of the effort of landmarking downtown this
Commission should not even focus on the buildings at this stage, but really focus on increasing staff
time and talking to Council and to the City Manager about getting staff hours back up. That will make
all kinds of issues with the Preservation Commission, and the interfacing with the public better.
Second, people get frustrated with preservation because the answer is always no they can't do this or
that. However, the reason that they have these districts is because they are a blunt force action to
save property and preserve neighborhoods, they exist as the only thing that they have, because they
do not have a form-based code to otherwise protect and preserve neighborhoods while also allowing
them to evolve. Agran encourages the Commission to really think about how the Preservation
Commission works with the Zoning Commission and advocate for form-based code. He feels it would
be a good look for the Preservation Commission to say they are open to seeing the neighborhoods
evolve, and are open to that avenue, rather than the current ways to stop people from tearing things
down and doing bad stuff to buildings. He noted when he was on the Commission, one of the reasons
that he stayed on it for seven years was because so many people on the Commission really just
seemed to get off on telling people no for what they wanted to do with their properties. Maybe because
they had a really labor of love and fixed up their properties forever and ever and ever but he owns
historic houses and thinks that it creates a lot of enemies when they say no to projects so part of why
he stayed on the Commission was because he felt if his voice wasn't on the Commission it was
skewing to the most conservative interpretations of the standards. His priorities were to preserve the
character of the neighborhood, not like the trim, although he thinks it's great to preserve the trim, but a
lot of what created the friction at the Council level for the supermajority is an interpretation that's all
preservation cares about, saving the trim. And all the Commission does is say no and that homeowners
have to do it the same way it was done in the 19th century. Agran thinks they can look at the standards
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 22, 2024
Page 2 of 15
and think about what they are really trying to preserve. He is not saying to remove the expectations or
the requirements, just in his experience over those seven years there were often different ways to think
about things and different ways to talk about what was approved. If this Commission can be more open
minded they will create more allies, because the enemies created talk to the Council members and if
any one of them ends up listening it only takes one vote to trip things up. So again, as they look
towards what will happen if they really try to landmark buildings downtown, they are going to be looking
at a lot of supermajority votes so they have to figure out a different strategy so people don't get weary
and ultimately so that these buildings don't fail, because they can't be taking every single thing to a
supermajority vote every single time.
NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINATION – IOWA CITY COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER, 220
SOUTH GILBERT STREET:
Bristow stated they got a letter that accompanies the nomination that explains what the Commission is
supposed to do. The process for National Register Nomination is that once it has been gone through
the State, which is just the National Register Coordinator and the State staff, they work with the writer
to come up with a finished nomination and then it goes to the State Nomination Review Committee
(SNRC). In this case, it will go before that Committee on June 14 and anyone can watch it via zoom.
Part of the nomination is this review and then afterwards it will go to the National Park Service and
they're the ones that determine whether or not it's listed in the National Register. As a certified local
government, they review it because of the fact that the local government is familiar with the building and
are familiar with the significance of the building to the community. Staff will fill out the appropriate form
and mark the applicable criteria and then will note whether or not the City recommends that it's listed in
the National Register or not. They can also make comments if they would like. Bristow noted the staff
recommendation includes some suggested comments.
The nomination is for the rec center located between Gilbert and Van Buren and College and Burlington
Streets. It's a mostly rectangular building and is basically intersecting rectangular blocks as well as
some overhangs. Bristow showed one of the design drawings at one of the steps during the process of
building the building because part of what was going on with this building is it was going to be a portion
of a new civic corridor that started with the construction of the police and fire stations around 1961 and
then the rec center in 1964, and then City Hall. Bristow also showed some exterior photos noting the
rectangular volumes with the flat planes cantilevering. It is a flat plane now but wasn't originally. She
pointed out the intersecting boxes and forms as part of modern architecture and the idea of working
with the geometry and repeating geometry. The nomination talks about how the architect did some of
the other buildings during this time like the Lemme school and others with a different type of geometry
that was intersecting, this one just happens to be rectangular. Some of modernism of the building also
has to do with the unadorned planes, walls without windows, and more modern clean lines but then
also has an emphasis with glazing and glass.
Bristow explained the National Register eligibility consists of two parts, integrity, or the existence of the
original materials and forms, and the building's significance. For integrity, they must have sufficient
integrity to convey their significance so depending on how the building is significant, it needs to have
the integrity related to that. For example, if a building is significant for its architecture, or its engineering,
then those things should be apparent. If it's significant for something else, then maybe more alterations
of the architecture do not diminish its significance, so it depends on how the building is considered
significant. A building also only needs to be significant in one area to be eligible. If a building is
significant in multiple areas, it's fine to include them all in a nomination but only one is actually required.
Bristow noted the seven aspects of integrity are location, design, setting, materials, workmanship,
feeling and association. The nomination does go through and includes a short paragraph for each of
them explaining how it has either good or excellent integrity in each of those areas. For this building the
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 22, 2024
Page 3 of 15
nomination includes two areas of significance, criterion A which is generally an event and that a
property associated with events has made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of history.
Second is criterion C, architecture, that a property that embodies the distinctive characteristics of a
type, period or method of construction, or that represents the work of a master or that possess high
artistic value. In this case, with this building, they are not going with the approach of the work of a
master because it's more difficult to evaluate that. The architect is still living and is here tonight, he is
retired as it is preferred to discuss their work at least after they finished practicing but preferably after
they are no longer here because that gives the distance to evaluate all of the works that they have
done. Again, this nomination does not attempt to say it's a work of the master but it does say that it is
eligible for its architecture as an example of a style and a specific use of the style. It basically states
the significance is a local, not state or national, example of mid-20th century architecture, community
planning and development, social history and recreation entertainment.
Reading from the nomination Bristow quoted “The Iowa City Community Recreation Center is eligible
for the National Register of Historic Places under criterion A as an excellent local example of mid-20th
century architecture, community planning and development, social history and recreation
entertainment. Built in 1964, it represents the construction of civic and municipal buildings following
World War II when the economy was robust and was propelling the "Golden [economic] Age" of the
1950s forward into the 1960s. The American public was looking for additional recreation activities to fill
the increasing amounts of leisure time available to them, while Iowa City was catching up on long-
delayed municipal improvements.” Bristow also noted the nomination includes a history of recreation
buildings in Iowa City, including the destruction by fire of two earlier recreation buildings and the section
also describes the conditions in which the building was built, including a strong community desire to
replace the previous facility, local and broad cultural needs for expanding recreation opportunities, and
the construction of the new Civic corridor. The nomination talks about how there was an interest in
having a recreation center and it does grow out of progressive movements, interests in health and
cleanliness, improving things, but also after the war when people had more leisure time. The first
recreation center built was the American Legion building, built in 1928, and destroyed by fire in 1936.
The next one was the community building which they started working on it right after the fire in 1936 but
then it was also destroyed by fire in 1955. As all of this is going on the City had community recreation,
but also had have a need for a swimming pool. The history of Iowa City includes many people
swimming in the river but the dam changed how the river flows, there were child deaths, etc., which all
lead to the eventual construction of the City Park pool in 1949. Along with the idea of creating the new
Civic corridor after the second recreation center burned, came the plan for the new recreation center
and at that time it was determined that the City needed more pool places so a pool was designed into it.
Why it is significant to the building is because it really represents a great interest in recreation. There
was a history of open space in this area, community need for recreation building, increasingly interest in
pools and swimming and doing that safely lead to the need for a pool in the downtown area and for all
those reasons it became significant.
Bristow stated the other way that the building is listed as significant is because of its architecture.
Again, reading from the nomination it is described as follows “The Iowa City Community Recreation
Center is also eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under criterion C as an excellent local
example of Modern Movement municipal architecture. The building represents the architectural style of
low, horizon-hugging profiles with clean lines, little ornamentation, and functionality of interior space.
Through its large windows the plan merges interior space with the outdoors and its use of prefabricated,
industrial materials enabled increased open interior space and circulation, while also allowing for swift,
cost-efficient construction. Using Modern Movement schematics and innovations, architect Roland C.
Wehner combined aesthetic, functional, and decorative ideas into a custom design with distinctive
characteristics and high artistic values.” The nomination includes a history of the education and
practice of the architect and his work in Modern Movement design. The use of a grid system and design
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 22, 2024
Page 4 of 15
modules based on geometric shapes were an important aspect of his designs. As the nomination states
on page 29 “Wehner began by applying form-follows-function principles and concepts where
relationships between site, materials, and the people who use the buildings are considered. By using
the natural sloping geography to his advantage, Wehner efficiently laid out the two-story structure
allowing it to present as a long, low building from its west facade. He designed the structure using
concrete, brick, and glass to achieve a natural harmony." Bristow showed one of the construction
photos which showed the pre-stressed concrete beams, the T-shaped concrete beams that provide
structure and allow a long span, and the concrete block and brick are modular allowing that module and
to expand it and everything will then work together and the brick walls will not end up with little pieces.
She showed an image of the interior of the west entry and the terrazzo flooring which is one of the
important aspects. It's very durable and a modern material. As is the high ceiling and the long span in
the social room. All of the glazing to the exterior as well as the interior glazing between the rooms lets
light come in and all of these are very modern aspects of the building. Bristow acknowledged they do
have a significant number of changes to this building for safety and security, adding accessibility, fire
code changes, and other certain things that would happen with a community building.
Bristow also mentioned that every building listed in the National Register also has what's considered a
period of significance. In this case, the period of significance extends from the time that it was
constructed in 1964 until basically 50 years ago, or in this case 1974. 50 years is typically the cut off. It
has been continually used as a recreation center with just some minor changes to how the spaces are
used inside. Changes done within that period of significance are allowed if they are to not detract from
the significance of the building. Typically, changes that are made after that could detract from the
significance of the building. Staff noted that they have some concerns about some of the changes,
partly because they altered some of the main areas where a person would approach the building, enter
the building, or of how the building interacts with the public who are entering it. The west façade had
an accordion profile of the inverted part of the T-truss and the cantilever canopy, it was an thin line and
the original color was dark so it really accented that thin line. Since then it's been converted so that it
has a flat roof and they don't have that same accent on the structure, so that was one of the concerning
changes. Another was the fact that originally the facade was a curtain wall but it had areas of panel
that one couldn't see through and the areas of glass tended to be very horizontal with the panel. There
also was a concrete block screen and those concrete blocks were mass produced at that time and it
was a decorative feature but also was a screen letting light and air through while also creating a little bit
of a sense of privacy for offices there. Now without the screen on that wall, the vertical columns still
remain that were between the screen, but now is basically a glass curtain wall and the panel and
glazing doesn't have that same horizontal emphasis. Bristow acknowledged because it was designed
in the modern era, the architect did use experimental materials so there are cases where some of those
materials might have needed to be replaced. Some of those changes are to be expected but the curtain
wall design is different than what it was before.
On the east side, originally it was not the same as the canopy as on the west facade but did have that
emphasis on the thin line of the roof edge, the T-shaped structure, and the planes that intersected with
the emphasis on the brown facia edge. There is also a patio with the screen repeated again. Bristow
noted some of this change needed to happen because of accessibility issues and how this space was
used but the overall change the curtain wall caused the loss of the horizontal area that intersected with
the cantilever of the entry. Also the roof edge has changed and it doesn't emphasize quite the same.
Moving inside, the glazing of that wall that was hidden by the screen continues on to the inside and the
reception desk area where the public would come in was a very light-filled space. The area reflected a
lot of the glazing that was between the viewing area and the pool and the social hall which increased
the interaction between staff and the public. Now the same staff area has become more like a common
office, they still have the glazing area, but it has changed. This could just have to do with the modern
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curtain wall construction, but they have a structural member that bisects the glazing that did not exist in
the original area. Some of the other changes are there was always an emphasis on the vertical part of
the curtain wall. There have been some changes, that may not be as significant, in the area of the
game room which became a weight room, they basically divided the space but including more glazing,
something that is a part of the architecture and it doesn't obstruct the view and makes two define
spaces. She stated a change like that does not negatively impact the architecture the same way as the
other changes. There have also been some changes to the pool area, there have been some changes
to the wall because of sound and acoustics. So, part of the comments relates to the fact that staff is
concerned about some of the changes and how they impact the integrity of the building. Staff does not
think that the changes impact criterion A only criterion C so the recommendation would be to have the
SNRC committee evaluate that specifically.
Staff also noticed an error and wanted to point that out from Marlise Winston's 2001 study of downtown.
When she did that study, she used a boundary for the study and every property within that boundary
she studied for its eligibility as a district. Winston determined that there were two historic districts in that
area in 2001, one is the Jefferson Street district, and one is downtown. Her caption says the map of
Iowa City showing survey boundaries for potential Downtown Historic District and East Jefferson Street
Historic District shaded. The concern was that this caption seemed to imply that the recreation center
was part of the district that Winston had found in 2001 and it was not. Multiple staff members noticed
this and thought that it said that the Rec Center was part of a downtown district, and the study did not
so that is another comment that staff would just like to include to clarify the caption for that map.
Bristow stated the recommended motion is that the Iowa City Community Recreation Center at 220
South Gilbert Street is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic places in Criterion Category A
and C at the local level and meets the criteria for both significance and integrity.
If the Commission wanted to suggest that they thought it was only eligible in one or the other they could
modify the motion. The Commission could also decide whether or not they wanted to include either or
both of the staff comments or make their own comments. Again, the comments from staff are to ask
that the State Nomination Review Committee carefully evaluate the Modernist elements of the design to
determine if the building has enough integrity in this regard to remain eligible under Criterion C. And
also note that the caption for map four implies that the 2001 study found a historic district that included
the recreation center which is a misinterpretation of the map from the study where the district areas are
shaded, not outlined.
Sellergren opened the public comment.
Mary Bennett prepared this nomination and wanted to thank the Commission for taking the time to
review this document. She also wanted to thank Linda Bradley of the State Historic Preservation Office
who helped with this nomination. To try to address some of the concerns that staff brought up, Bennett
would like to acknowledge the architect role and say Wehner is here today and gave them much of
insider advice about the building and its construction and design. Bennett acknowledged this is an
unusual opportunity, because they have a modern building under consideration and this is probably one
of the first times that this type of building has been brought before the Commission. Bennett stated she
worked nearly 50 years at the State Historical Society of Iowa and have prepared several National
Register nominations, she was also a City employee who taught deep-end aerobics and other aerobic
classes at the pool and in the social hall for about 18 years. Bennett wanted to be clear that this is not
about the pool, it is about the building, because it offers many amenities, and they need to look at it as
a whole thing. Bennett wanted to review the historical integrity and the seven points that Bristow
mentioned. Again, this has been written in concert with the State Historic Preservation Office and
they're in agreement with what is on this page. Location, the building retains its original address and
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therefore the integrity of the location is intact. Design, it is excellent as the footprint forum plan and
interior room arrangement although a glass partition wall has been added to the game room and the
reception counter has been enclosed on the upper level and relocated to the lower level. Of greater
importance is a loss of visual integrity the removal of the exterior concrete screens from the west
façade, south of the main entrance and from the terrace near the east entrance area, still leave the
exterior with good but not excellent integrity. Nonetheless, the principles based on Modern Movement
architectural style still define the most prominent design features and characteristics and match some
of the elements in this building itself. Number three was setting and the character, the setting has
determined to be good because it's centrally located in downtown Iowa City and as defined by that
1839 City Planning map it’s an area that was identified for public recreation municipal use since 1839.
Number four was materials. Most of the buildings structural and exterior materials remain intact and
have excellent integrity. Windows were changed due to wear and tear but also because of the tornado
damage in 2006, which raised concerns about the pool windows in particular. They remain as
commercial type windows made of similar sympathetic aluminum framing and insulated glass and they
feel the same fenestration openings of the original design. Number five is workmanship, the
workmanship is excellent with fine brickwork and precast pre-stress beams intact and exposed for
public viewing and examination. There are no significant structural problems existing in the building, nor
are there deteriorating finishes on the interior or exterior, even after 50 years of active use. Number six
is feeling and the feeling has been determined to be excellent. In reflecting the low horizontal and cubic
lines of Mid-century Modern Movement architecture the building can evoke an emotional response or
memory that cannot be expressed in words. This is conveyed by familiar unchanged spaces.
Association is excellent and intact with development of commercial precast pre-stressed concrete
construction of Mid-century municipal and non-residential buildings. It also demonstrates the history of
Iowa City and continuous provision of services for citizens with a community center at this location for
approximately 100 years, as well through its association with innovative architect Roland C. Cleaner
and retired recreation superintendent Robert E. Lee. Both were instrumental in the current facilities
development. Bennett also wanted to emphasize again that as a municipal building in Iowa City the
property is eligible under criteria A as a significant example of how modernism and careful methodical
city and comprehensive planning helped to change the broader built environment and also contributed
an enduring and versatile structure for many generations of Iowa citizens to use. The building has good
integrity and has retained much of its original appearance, feeling, and association with only minor
alterations to design elements, setting, materials and workmanship. It continues to serve the community
as a recreational, cultural, social and municipal building. Its central location and accessible design and
interior spaces continue to make it Iowa City's most use recreational facility, as noted from an October
22 recreational comprehensive plan. As far as criterion C, it is representative of Mid-century Modern
Movement architectural style, again the low horizon hugging profiles with cubic lines and efficient
functionality of interior spacing, resulting from modular design elements. Key reasons why Bennett
thinks the Commission should consider preserving this building are it is structurally sound and it's a rare
example of municipal planning in Iowa and the original functions have been retained for the most part.
The architectural integrity is intact and despite changes it’s proven be versatile and adaptable. Yes,
some functions have changed within the building but the central location favors goals of walkability in
the community, retaining the structure favors sustainability goals, because they don't end up with
demolished materials in the landfill, and probably most importantly the community memories and
stories are preserved. The history, which is the richest part of the nomination, includes that it honors the
vision of Robert E. Lee, who was involved in the D Day invasion of Northern France in World War II,
and Roland Wehner who has created many beautiful structures in the community, whether it be
schools, churches, or public buildings. So when they look at the history of the community and ways in
which buildings can tell stories, and remind them of the past and the experiences that their
grandparents had, or that they hope their grandchildren to have, remembering these two men is very
significant.
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Regarding the maps, Bennett noted she said this was part of the 1839 plan and looking at a map of the
1868 bird's eye view of the area this is largely an open space. The 2001 study map points out that the
building was not eligible to be on the National Register, because it was not old enough as in 2001 it not
yet 50 years old. Bennett next wanted to talk about the whole idea of using the windowless cubic form
and the geometry that Wehner uses on the north side of the west façade. It is important to modern
architecture design. The concrete blocks were originally intended as a wall of glass shielded by the
concrete block screens and the newer replacement windows there are sympathetic in style lining that
walkway or terrace. The structural elements that were used to support those concrete blocks are still
there so it'd be very easy to replace or restore the decorative block if someone determined they had the
money to do it, or they wanted to restore the original appearance of the building. On the southwest
corner of the building again the windows are in exactly the same fenestration as they originally were,
there were no new openings made, the original windows were more vertical in nature and not just
horizontal as these modern ones look. The large window wall or curtain wall on the south side of the
pool has a solar effect and warms the pool. One of the letter writers said the sunlight dances on the
water when they're in the pool. It's a very important element about the feeling of the building when
they're in that space along that south wall because it allows both natural light into the building and
illuminates a pool area but again, they're in the same fenestration. Bennett noted this is something that
the State Historic Preservation and she discussed repeatedly, they believe that it still retains the overall
aesthetic as the design intended. They'll also notice there's protruding brick wall that helped define that
space and terrace area. Now they have a garden space in that area but even as long as 10 years ago
that was just a flat patio out there. The design was incredibly clever in order to support the weight of
that south wall and the east facade contributes to the dynamic geometric appearance of the building
and the celestial windows between the T-beams allow natural light to enter the space from both the
east and the west side, it's a virtual wall of glass. Bennett explained because of the length and height of
that wall, which is actually 24 feet high, Wehner had to have additional wind bracing and stability and
they did that by filling cells with a concrete block with reinforcing rods and grout and dedicated basically
masonry pilasters to hold that wall up. That's a very important design feature on the structural integrity
of this building and is still very visible today. Over to the right are the cantilever things, the upper
transom and the T-beams also provide light into the gymnasium from both the east and the west side,
which again makes that space an inviting place. On the east side there were significant changes
because of ADA and the need to put a ramp in there. Bennett noted it was a little clever thing as the
original floor plans called that area the teen terrace, and it was specifically an entrance for teenagers to
use and when thinking about the 1950s and 60s and the emergence of teen culture is very clever for
the architect to have responded to that. The north side clearly shows how the beams are allowing the
light into the gymnasium, there is also a little cut out allowing for the north wall of the arts room to have
that curtain wall of windows, again contributing to the geometric effect.
Bennett reiterated they don't need to necessarily always worry about the interior on a National Register
application, but they discussed it because it is something that's been subjected to change. The original
layout of the floor plan and the design remain essentially the same, they have a transition zone
between the lobby and the outside area. She also wanted to point out that the buff-colored brick of the
building exterior is introduced into the interior walls as a transition. Additionally, the original globe
shaped light fixtures hang in the lobby, the terrazzo flooring and the wooden doors are stained a dark
brown, these all appear on the upper level where room functions might include more formal business,
and public areas. Everything on the lower level is pretty much concrete block, but they definitely dress
this particular part up. It also is the gateway into the building where one can enter into all the other
areas including the stairwell. Bennett acknowledged it was originally a very light-filled space, now
because of security and COVID and other reasons that office has become one common office and
closed off. The reception desk, which was there up until just maybe eight or nine years ago was altered
because of the administrative offices. The entire south wall of the social hall is exactly the same as it
was when it was built in 1964, there's high celestial windows and there is a chance to look down into
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the pool area that was created as an extra space for spectators who might be wanting to look at
competitive sports in that area. There was a weekly “paper doll” dance that went way back to the 1930s
for teenagers in junior high and high school and the kinds of memories that can't be encapsulated when
looking at bricks and mortar, but they're very important to the integrity of the building and how they
might evaluate it. Adjacent to the lobby is a balcony that was a visual extension of the lobby and a key
link into one of the buildings most significant features, the swimming pool on the lower level. The only
thing that really changed on that balcony was the railing for it and again those windows on the south
she would consider the vertical windows that allowed a lot of light to come in as well as the ones along
the ceiling level to be important to the integrity of the building. The to speak about the pool itself, it's a
145,000-gallon swimming pool with six lanes 25-yards long. There's a 10-foot-deep diving well and a
wading pool that’s 1 7/10ths feet in depth. This is a pool that was supported by creosote treated wood
pilings that were capped with concrete so this construction produced a pool that has not leaked to this
day. Bennett stated if they had better management and vision going on in the parks and rec department
they would not restrict the hours of this pool because it’s the prohibited use and participation with the
limited hours that have been in place now for four or five years after the pandemic. Bennett
acknowledged this pool is very special to people as many stated in their letters. Again, the beauty of it
is the direct sunlight generates enough heat to warm the water in the pool on sunny days reducing
overall energy costs. The lighting in there is just magnificent and is really a magical place. Looking at
other changes the staircase was originally an open riser staircase and that was enclosed, and
sympathetic terrazzo flooring was put in, and also an elevator was installed. Those were part of the
accessibility between the upper and lower levels and those modifications were necessary and improve
the functioning of the building but don't really interfere too much with the design. The exercise room
was remodeled in a sympathetic manner in March 2015 and the glass enclosure allows the area to
retain a sense of openness as in the original floor plan. Along the north wall of the pool are the windows
that on the south part of the exercise room, are still used by parents watching their children's swim or
could be used for spectators watching competitive swimming. Other changes have been made like
single use restrooms have been modified to be ADA. The restroom that was on the deck of the pool
was also modified in a different way so it can be a private dressing room. The other key feature of the
building is the enormous block that houses a gymnasium, which measures 82 by 94 feet and
accommodates two full size basketball courts and serves multiple functions relating to competitive
sports, fitness, recreation, entertainment, and education. The maple flooring is set on rubber cushions
which is forward thinking in terms of versatility and durability because the hardwood floor on the
gymnasium was laid down with 5 ¼ inch thick boards instead of the usual thickness of ¾ inch boards.
This was done purposefully so the floor could be maintained by sanding and refinishing without causing
excessive wear but more importantly, it withstands the rigors of roller skating, which was very popular in
this building, and the scuffs of ordinary street shoes, and other intended uses of that space. One of the
clever things that Mr. Wehner included was an observation port so if someone is up on the upper level
there's a curved Plexiglas window that they can look down and see all the activities on both sides of the
court. So in terms of the alterations, the footprint and primary functions of the building remain
unchanged. The original design characteristics based on Modern Movement architecture style and
methods persist in the building's distinctive visual identity. In terms of interior changes, the floorplan
remains the same with most of the room functions remaining the same for more than 50 years, the
exception would be in what was a rifle range at one time is now a weight room. But it was It wasn't even
a rifle range when it was first built, that was added later. The original design characteristics based on
Modern Movement had been retained and the interior spaces are linked visually with the use of interior
glass curtains and sidelights next to any entrance doors that are there.
Bennett stated this nomination was prepared for the benefit of the State Review Committee so they
could do exactly what they need to do, which is to weigh and balance what those changes really mean
about the use of the building and its look. The arts and crafts room is virtually unchanged except for
the curtain wall of windows has changed, meeting room A and meeting room B have essentially the
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same look that they always did. There's an emergency exit out of meeting room B to that small terrace
that was next to the concrete blocks and in the social hall there's a back stairwell which has another
emergency exit. So again, the architect took public safety into consideration at all times. The kitchen
was designed cleverly as well because above the sink is an opening that would allow one to pass food
or materials over to meeting room A during meetings.
In closing, Bennett reiterated this building has a very rich history. The original community building that
was built there in 1928 was 10 years after World War I and there's an entire spread of newspaper that
talks about the significance of this building to that community at that time which laid the groundwork
historically for why they now have as such a well-functioning building today that has proven to be
versatile, adaptable and enduring. She encourages the Commission to approve this nomination.
Karen Crane stated she is from Iowa City and is going to read a letter written by her friend Mitzi Reed
that speaks for her them both. “Dear Historic Preservation Commissioners on behalf of my family, I'm
writing to express our support for listing Iowa City's Robert E. Lee Recreation Center on the National
Register of Historic Places. The Lee Recreation Center located at 220 South Gilbert Street in Iowa City
represents the ideal community rec center. It's a marvelous example of the underrepresented and
sometimes underappreciated Modern Movement architectural style and for more than six decades it
has continued to bring together area residents of all ages and from all walks of life to a central location
to build a healthy community, just as it was intended. The recreation center was a significant
consideration when my family recently chose to move to Iowa City and make our home within walking
distance of downtown. We join many other residents who have repeatedly shown a deep appreciation
for all forms of artistry in public spaces. The unique qualities of its efficient simplicity and innately
welcoming atmosphere, filled with natural light and room to breathe, enable the Robert E. Lee
Recreation Center to attract an incredibly diverse and joyful cross section of our community. It is and
has always been a special place where lifelong connections and memories are made because it was
designed to do exactly that, provide a sustaining place of community for all. In response to comments in
the City's May 15, 2024, memo describing how minor alterations to the building's interior and exterior
have changed public perception or interaction with the building we offer our considered feedback
firsthand. While we cannot compare our current perceptions or interactions to what might have been in
1962, after reviewing the nomination and historical images in their entirety, we can say with new eyes
and a fresh public perspective that we do not find these adaptations to be any impediment whatsoever
to our perceptions or interactions with the building's modernist design principles as employed by the
masterful hands of Mr. Wehner. If any of these minor elements have been diminished, it seems a
nominal amount of restoration would alleviate the City's concerns. The recreation center stands out as
an excellent example to all other communities of how art and function in historical public structure can
coexist and flourish as well as support the health and well beings of generations of Iowa City residents.
So it is with respect and admiration for architect Roland Wehner that we convey our support for the
listing of the Robert E. Lee Recreation Center on the National Register of Historic Places, and thank
him for facilitating our participation in the special community that continues to thrive within. Thank you
for your consideration and for your efforts to preserve Iowa City's vibrant legacy of architecture and
community building.”
Sellergren closed the public comment.
Bristow mentioned that staff did get numerous letters and she forwarded them to the Commission. They
cut it off at noon so anything that came from noon on, because of timing and getting it ready for the
meeting, have not been forwarded to Commission and there might have been three that came in later
this afternoon.
Thomann has a clarifying question, they’re considering this building for the National Register of Historic
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Places and if that becomes approved does this building then fall under the jurisdiction of this
Commission if there are exterior changes to the building. Are those things that this Commission will be
informed of and be able to discuss and to act on in any way. Bristow replied the answer to that is no, a
listing in the National Register is basically an honorarium, it acknowledges the history of the building
and the significance of the building. It does get that history documented and lets everyone know that
it's listed in the National Register. For non-government owners there is a tax credit (Iowa City is
already tax exempt) and there are grants available for rehabilitation and stuff like that. It does also
trigger a review anytime that federal money is involved in a project that impacts a building that is either
listed or eligible for the National Register. The agency that is using the money and doing the project
needs to evaluate whether or not their project will adversely affect the resource or not. Even if it does,
that does not necessarily mean that the project would be stopped, usually there's some kind of
mitigation and that agency or owner might have to do a study or something to mitigate for the loss, or
the agency could attempt not to have an adverse effect. It would trigger a review if federal money was
involved but generally the only way that it would come before this Commission would be if there was a
section 106 review related to it or if after this happened it was locally designated. A national registered
listing does not prevent demolition or alterations on their own.
MOTION: Wagner moves to recommend that the Iowa City Community Recreation Center at 220
South Gilbert Street is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places in criterion
category A and C at the local level and meets the criteria for both significance and integrity. We
would include the following comments, we would ask that the State Nomination Review
Committee carefully evaluate the modernist elements of the design to determine if the building
has enough integrity in this regard to remain eligible under criterion C. Note that the caption
format for implies that the 2001 study found a historic district that included the recreation
center this would be a misinterpretation of the map from the study where the district errors are
shaded not outlined.
Villanueva seconded the motion.
Thomann noted it is a building of significance to the community and this will just highlight it even more.
She acknowledged that space around the downtown can be a vulnerable place so she was hoping
maybe it would protect it from demolition. Another hope was that when she looks at the building she
sees elements of mid-century design and it would be great to enhance some of those elements or to
even restore some, that would be very exciting from a historical perspective. Thomann is convinced
that this building really should have its day and be on the National Register.
Bristow noted if the Commission wants to make comments, either use the staff comments or different
comments, they should make sure that they are clear on that as well because they do need to include
that in the form.
Thomann agrees with keeping the information about criterion C there. That committee will do its job, but
this is a nod to some of the things they are seeing. She understands what Bennett said about time
having passed so that now this building, maybe if a survey or study is to be done again, that this
building might be included.
Bristow noted the downtown is actually listed as a district and the boundaries do not extend far enough
to include this building.
Sellergren asked wouldn't there be some restrictions due to the time period that it was built, compared
to the time period due to urban renewal. Bristow explained that would be complicated. When the
downtown study was redone by Alexa McDowell, they originally reduced the boundaries from what
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Marlise Winston had, partly because the Jefferson Street Historic District had been listed along part of
the north edge and then the rest of that north edge was University buildings and the City didn't really
need to study them. Alexa McDowell did determine that parts of downtown were only eligible if included
the urban renewal context and these buildings are more preurban renewal. The destruction of the
historic City Hall could be considered a portion of urban renewal, but the new Civic quarter seems to be
outside of the historic downtown as the nomination for downtown was written by Alexa McDowell.
Bristow stated nominations can be modified, but there needs to be a compelling reason and changing
the boundaries out to the east edge just to capture the rec center with other non-contributing buildings
in between would not necessarily make a regular boundary and would be a little bit erratic and irregular.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect -Chair and Staff review
HPC24-0024: 215 Brown Street – Brown Street Historic District (west side retaining wall and fence
replacement):
Bristow noted this is the replacement of the retaining wall between that property and the one on
Dubuque Street. This retaining wall and the fence above it will be replaced. She stated there are some
zoning code issues so they couldn't extend all the way out to the streets.
HPC24-0028: 1022 East College Street – East College Street Historic District (deck floor and railing
repair and replacement):
Bristow stated this is to replace some deck materials.
HPC24-0033: 1041 Woodlawn Avenue – Woodlawn Historic District (soffit and fascia replacement):
Bristow stated much of the soffit and facia are going to be replaced and she showed some of the
photos that showed the evidence for the need.
HPC24-0034: 215 Brown Street – Brown Street Historic District (deteriorated shingle replacement):
Bristow stated this property recently changed hands and most of the roof is being replaced. There's a
section of metal roof on the top that will remain but that's a modern addition and not a historic roof. She
showed the shingle the roof will be replaced with noting it is kind of interesting because they tend to
approve a brown or gray but apparently this home was owned by an artist, and she had replaced it with
a green shingle because she really liked it. Now her grandson is the owner of the house and he wanted
to go with a green shingle in order to honor his grandmother and it looks gray so it was approved.
HPC24-0021: 538 South Gilbert Street – Local Historic Landmark (exterior wood repair and
replacement):
Public Space One has worked with the State to get an HRDP grant for some repairs to the Close
Mansion. They hired someone to evaluate the structure and they came up with a detailed punch list
with photos of areas showing what will be repainted and repaired, and/or replaced. Staff worked with
them to approve everything that they have marked either as repair or replace. They will continue to
provide documentation of the deterioration for those areas that need to be assessed and it was agreed
that they would just provide the City the documentation and then be able to proceed. They do also need
to do some work on some of the brick and that will be handled separately.
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Minor Review – Staff review
HPC24-0022: 531 Clark Street – Clark Street Conservation District (front step replacement):
Bristow noted this is a basic stoop and step replacement.
HPC24-0027: 533 South Summit Street – Summit Street Historic District (deteriorated attic window sash
replacement and rear window replaced with casement for egress):
Bristow stated this is actually Wagner’s project so it's staff review because of that. The attic windows
are deteriorated but it was also found out that they had brick mold trim which is a trim that is added to
the window and it steps out because a window in brick or stone is recessed into the wall. So when they
replace the windows they will also need to cover the gap for installing and make a transition from the
window out to the brick or stone partly to shed water and so it has that stepped out appearance.
Modern construction uses brick mold trim for all buildings. They would approve it only for masonry
construction and then they would have no trim and use flat casing. Additionally, one of the windows in
the back will also become a casement egress window because they're making the attic into an
occupiable space.
HPC24-0029: 425 Oakland Avenue – Longfellow Historic District (rear basement egress window):
Bristow noted this little brick house was recently sold and they are putting a bedroom and bathroom in
the basement so one rear window out of the pair will become an egress window which means that the
sill drops and they install a window well, matching the foundation material.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR APRIL 24, 2024:
MOTION: Thomann moves to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
April 24, 2024. Beck seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION/INFORMATION:
Work Plan and subcommittees:
Bristow included a copy of the Work Plan in the agenda packet. One thing they need to get started on
is the awards so it would be good to form a subcommittee for the awards. Staff is giving the
Commission and Friends an ultimatum that they need to be more involved so there's less staff time
involved in the awards if they want them to continue. Last year was the 40th anniversary of the awards
and after the ceremony Friends reached out to her and said that they do want to be more involved and
they're ready to be on the subcommittee and take a more proactive role. The Commission should form
a subcommittee, hopefully with at least three people or maybe four on that subcommittee. They would
meet in June with the Friends representative and start to figure out how to move forward. They would
need to find a location, set a date and then put out a call for nominations. In the past the awards were
done in September, but she thinks that they might be a little late to get this all done by September now
but that's something they can work out when the subcommittee meets.
Welu-Reynolds stated she has been helping with it and would be glad to continue to do so.
Thomann could helping with the writing but would likely be unable to make a meeting, especially if it's in
the afternoon during the week. Additionally, there are other subcommittees she excited about but would
help with writing.
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Sellergren asked if the subcommittee meets in June and then proceed with putting out a call for
nominations to the public at that meeting in June, could that be done in an email. It would at least that
get the process started and then she could be on the subcommittee.
Bristow stated it would be easier to do it over a Zoom meeting than to type out an email. Sellergren
stated they could start with an email just to get anybody who's willing to even consider being on the
subcommittee figured out.
Bristow stated traditionally the subcommittee first selects the winners that are then presented to the
Commission for approval and then write up the information. They are reaching out to all of the owners
to get information and then inviting the owners and the contractors to the event. They are also creating
invitations, a program and the slideshow for the event.
Beck, Lewis, Welu-Reynolds, Sellergren and Thomann have volunteered so Bristow will reach out to
them to set up a meeting with the representative from Friends. She does have a handy spreadsheet for
all of the tasks that need to be done.
Bristow asked the group if they have other subcommittees or things that they want to start working on.
Sellergren asked about the grant that Public Space One received, was that due to them being a
501(c)3 or is it available to any historic property. Bristow stated they didn't reach out to her so she
wasn't aware of it until they required review. It's a State grant but she doesn’t think that they have to be
a nonprofit for it and it is one of those grants that is available to any owner of a historic property.
Sellergren stated they should all make a promise to each other to look up and research form-based
code and try to wrap their heads around it. Bristow stated it has been discussed at past Planning and
Zoning meetings and City Council meetings so they could get some information from those past
meetings as well.
Sellergren reported they were successful in landmarking the 312 to 316 Bloomington Street properties,
which is exciting. It was a very long process and the Mayor Pro Tem brought up a number of things that
were concerns of hers, the main one was staff time, pushing for full time staff and all of them could be
advocates for that. Also she spoke with some property owners who were very anti Historic Preservation
just due to restrictive guidelines. Sellergren is unsure how to approach this but it would be very helpful if
they could provide more easy to digest education to the public. The City has started putting out social
media graphics that explain if someone is starting a project to reach out and also that there's grant
funding. That's helpful but she thinks it would be really amazing to have like one graphic a week that
explains the different aspects of things like why materials should be rebuilt rather than replaced, why a
window should be rebuilt rather than replaced, and anything else to bridge the gap between people
feeling like it's a purposeless inconvenience and what is important about historic preservation. That
may be a City Communication department kind of thing. Bristow noted they would have to work
through that at a staff level. The communications department does the website and the social media.
Sellergren acknowledged that by they also have to get the right information, educating the public is
really important to keep the goodwill high and not get too much pushback.
Beck wanted to mention at the Museum Studies program at the University there's someone coming in
again to offer the historic house management class. They don’t want people in this class to have
projects that burden City staff but what if part of what students generated is how to communicate more
effectively to the public. Perhaps assignments where people in those classes develop related materials
and do the legwork of generating some of the graphics or other posts that could just be a bank of things
that could be used.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 22, 2024
Page 14 of 15
Lewis noted there are also other places that have other graphics that they post, the City could just
repost things, that's a good possibility. General things about why they do Historic Preservation not
necessarily specific to Iowa City, but just information.
Sellergren suggested that is something that a commissioner could reach out to City communication
staff about to see what that process might be. Bristow thinks it would be helpful as education and
outreach are a part of the Commission’s directive and preservation plan.
Thomann asked about a subcommittee for more landmarking or steps to build up to landmarking.
There used to be a list of buildings and homes that are maybe landmark eligible. Now that the
Bloomington properties are done they have the time to think about some of these other properties and
work at it slowly and deliberately to see if there are property owners who are interested in doing
something.
Bristow noted there was a subcommittee that in late 2014 started compiling lists of properties that were
eligible but not part of districts. She can't remember how many properties that they felt they wanted to
move forward with but some of the basic information could be reviewed.
Thomann thinks that is a good starting point and maybe there are some property owners who don't
realize their property is eligible and maybe they want to be a landmark. As everyone knows the
property owner didn't agree with what happened at Bloomington so it would be nice to have a situation
where the owner wants it, the community wants it, and everyone sees how it's beneficial to have a
property be landmarked.
Sellergren noted on that subject she wants to get in touch with the realtor and send him some ideas
that he could include in the listing for the Bloomington property that might make it entice possible
buyers, like tax incentives and grant information.
Beck noted an earlier discussion of public signage in the area of the Iowa City barrio by the railroad
tracks. She stated there is a University of Iowa grad who's now a postdoc at Princeton in both history
anthropology who did some work on Mexican American communities in Iowa City and actually has
written some nice stuff about the barrio. Sellergren there is also a new staff member at Little Village
who also has shown interest in this area so they could have him work on this as well.
Bristow agreed and stated they should get in touch about that to get that rolling. She is keeping the
Parks and Rec director up to date on the fact that they’re interested in this area and not only the
signage but potentially renaming the park to tell this story.
ADJOURNMENT:
Thomann moved to adjourn the meeting. Wagner seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15pm.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD
2023-2024
NAME
TERM
EXP. 6/8 7/13 8/10 9/14 10/12 11/9 12/14 1/11 2/8 3/21 4/24 5/22
BECK,
MARGARET 6/30/24 O/E X X X O/E X X X X X X X
BOYD, KEVIN 6/30/23 X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
BROWN,
CARL
6/30/26 X X O/E X X O/E X O/E O/E X X O/E
LEWIS,
ANDREW 6/30/26 -- X X X X X X X X X X X
SELLERGREN,
JORDAN 6/30/25 O/E X X X X X X X X X X X
STORK, NOAH 6/30/24 X X X X X X X O/E X X X X
THOMANN,
DEANNA 6/30/26 X X X X X X X X X X X X
VILLANUEVA,
NICOLE 6/30/25 X X X X O/E X X X X X X X
WAGNER,
FRANK 6/30/26 X O/E X X X X X X X X X X
WELU-
REYNOLDS,
CHRISTINA
6/30/25 X O/E X X X X X X X X O/E X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a member