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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/13/2005 Historic Preservation Commission Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission ,'Y! I L ~\\ ,.] '"' :::-: -: . - ~\ .1\ ~. r.l ( Thursday, January 13, \ -- -- - C' ('I" -- 7:00 p.m. 0(' t""If"" C' . (...1 -- . --- -- . -- .--- - -' -- = - - . -- IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2005 City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center, Meeting Room B 220 S. Gilbert Street 7:00 p.m. A. Call to Order B. Public discussion of anything not on the agenda C. Items for Consideration (vote required) 1. Certificates of Appropriateness: 605 Grant Street 2. Minutes: December 9, 2004 D. Discussion and information 1. Preliminary Review: McCollister Homestead 2. Historic Preservation Myths 3. Frequently Asked Questions E. Other F. Adjourn Application for Historic Review Application for alterations to the exterior of historic landmarks or properties located in a historic district or conservation district pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 14-4C. Meeting schedule: The HPC meets the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the HPC may also meet on the fourth Thursday. Applications are due by Wednesday the week prior to the meeting. For Stoff Use: Date submitted ........................................................ (J Certificate of No Material Effect (J Certificate of Appropriateness (J Major review (J Intermediate review (J Minor review Applicant Information (Please check primary contact person) (J Owner E..eJJ....t....:;r~.'f.~..f!::.........!::f..~...E..'"!:!...'~/?H Phone ~.!.:~1:::-....3.~..Z..=..5r~R?..q....;-:;~;8....9'..~ # Address .~..Ç,?.'f.....ß:..ty,ll.r...?...r:.~.......:~.t....&:ö~ .- .......::c.q~y:1........~.f.r..'1J.....~(!,?.~...f.............. email ............c«II..ø.../¡:.r.L:I.'1k?(JI.1.................................... (J Contractor .................................................................................. Address ...L/.f9.....'#:...1:::..T.:t.:...~....~.i.r.?4.!!..4!.........ç.P.. .............þ:..~.2······:1·~·f.1·:?:·1~-¡;;qý/I:···· Phone .1........tf..7..7................£.f...........:&.3...8................ email...............................L............................................................... (J Consultant ................................................................................... Address ...... ......... ......................... ...................... ...................... ....... ........................................................................................................... Phone ................... ............. ......... ........... .................................... ... .... ........................................................................................................... email................................................................................................. Application Requirements Attached are the following items: (J Site plan (J Floor plans (J Building elevations a: Photographs (J Product information (J Other ................ ................... ...... ......................... ... ......... If the proposed project entails an addition, a new structure or a significant alteration to an existing structure, please submit a site plan, floor plans. building elevations and photographs. If the proposed project is a minor alteration to a structure, please provide drawings and photographs to sufficiently describe the scope of the project. Provide a written description of the proposed project on the second page of this application. Property Information Address of property......r.R.t?...t..(ÍC1.tl.i.....5&..r .................................................................................................................... Use of property ....p~id.t./.J..h.'ø..l............................... Date constructed (if known) .............................................................. Historic Designation (J This property is a local historic landmark OR )á. This property is located in the: (J Brown Street Historic District (J College Green Historic District (J East College Street Historic District )!1. Longfellow Historic District (J Summit Street Historic District (J Woodlawn Historic District (J Clark Street Conservation District (J College Hill Conservation District (J Dearborn Street Conservation District (J Lucas-Governor Street Conservation District Within the district, this property is classified as: ~ Contributing o Noncontributing (J Nonhistoric Project Type )á- Alteration of an existing building (ie. siding and window replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, new decks, porch reconstruction, baluster repair or similar) (J Addition to an existing building (includes decks and ramps) (J Demolition of a building or portion of a building (ie. porch, chimneys, decorative trim, baluster or similar) (J Construction of new building (J Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not change its appearance (J Other Project description ..!w/..)..J~.f,l....&..9..~........re....~...f...l...~....ç.....g;.......~..~.!J..:I:............................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................0 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... Materials to be used ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................................,....................................................... ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................'............ ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... Exterior appearance changes ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................'...................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... -'"~ .~_.__. ,mwu'1m ",.. >~~ '" ",. Staff Report Historic Review for 701 Oakland Street District: Longfellow Historic District Classification: Noncontributing January 7, 2005 The applicants, Ben and Joyce Hoffman, are requesting approval to replace their existing window sashes. The home is simple, Colonial Revival house. The original double-hung windows have 6/6 divided lights. The applicants intended to install replacement window sashes for nine windows. They contracted with Liberty Window Company from Des Moines, the windows were delivered and four were installed. The Housing Inspector issued a stop work order because a building permit and certificate of appropriateness was not issued. The single-hung replacement sashes are all vinyl and do not have divided lights. The applicants have stated that they were not aware that they lived in a historic district. Staff checked the mailing list, which was used to notify residents or the Longfellow Historic District designation, and their name and address were on it. IOWA CITY GUIDELINES FOR AL TERATONS 4.7 Windows Recommended: Historic windows · Preserving the historic windows by repairing sashes and frames. · Retaining historic window frames and replacing badly deteriorated sashes with new sashes that match the historic ones. Replacement windows · Replacing badly deteriorated windows with new ones that match the type, size, sash width, trim, use of divided-lights, and overall appearance of the historic windows. · Using new wood windows and sashes, if necessary, to replace historic wood windows and sashes. The use of metal-clad, solid-wood windows is acceptable. Replacement windows and trim must accept paint. Divided-lights may be created with muntin bars that are adhered to both sides of the glass, but not with snap-in muntin bars. · Replacing a bedroom window, if required for egress by the Building Code, with a new one that matches the size, trim, use of divided-lights, and overall appearance of the previous bedroom window or other windows in the house. Disallowed: New and replacement windows · Installing modern types of windows including sliding, awning, casement, and bay windows when they were not original to the building, consistent with the architectural style. or required for egress. · Installing metal, vinyl clad or vinyl windows when they were not original to the building. · Using snap-in muntin bars to achieve the appearance of divided-lights. MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION DECEMBER 9, 2004 - 7:00 P.M. EMMA HARVAT HALL - CIVIC CENTER DRAFT MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Gunn, Michael Maharry, Justin Pardekooper, Jim Ponto, Tim Weitzel MEMBERS ABSENT: James Enloe, Mark McCallum, Amy Smothers, Jann Weismiller STAFF PRESENT: Shelley McCafferty OTHERS PRESENT: Michael Brennan, Helen Burford, Jim Harris, Edward Leff, Emily Leff, Lisa Leff, John Shaw, Regina Bailey CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Maharry called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION: Certificates of Appropriateness. 701 Oakland Avenue. McCafferty stated that this is an application for a certificate of appropriateness for a project at 701 Oakland Avenue. She said this is a non-contributing property in the Longfellow Historic District. McCafferty said the owners submitted an insurance claim, because their aluminum siding was damaged by hail, and they have finally settled with their insurance company to reside the house with fiber cement board. She said the house was originally done in stucco, which was damaged when the aluminum siding was applied, so it really is not feasible to repair the stucco. Edward Leff said the five-inch fiber cement board is fine with him. He said the project will significantly improve the appearance of the house. Ponto asked if the chimney would be boxed in, and Edward Leff confirmed this. Gunn asked if the cornerboards and trim boards would stay in place, as much as possible. Edward Leff said that all of the trim will be fiber cement board, and the window trim would look like the wood. Gunn asked about the finish for the closing in of the chimney. Edward Leff said he assumed it would be fiber cement board. Gunn said that he would prefer something with a stucco finish boxed in but just a smooth finish of some kind. McCafferty said there is available a fiber cement board with a stucco texture that comes in panels. Gunn suggested using that for the chimney, because then it looks a little bit like masonry. Edward Leff said that made sense, and he would be fine with that. MOTION: Weitzel moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the siding at 701 Oakland Avenue, including the alteration of the chimney box to use something with a stucco finish or fiber cement board with a stucco texture. Gunn seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. 8 Bella Vista. McCafferty said this application includes a number of projects for this house. She said the house is a Prairie School style home with Classical Revival influence, and the applicant proposes changes to the front of the house. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes December 9,2004 Page 2 McCafferty said the existing house has a crumbling patio in the front and also has brick infill where double French doors were replaced. She said the house has an entry canopy, which is very likely not original, as it does not really quite fit the house. McCafferty said the owner proposes to replace the front canopy and also construct a new front patio that would extend the entire width of the house and therefore cover up some basement windows. She said the owner also would like to remove the infill brick and replace it with a French door and sidelights. McCafferty said there would be some site work for concrete steps. She stated that John Shaw is the architect for the project. Harris said he saw an article about a house that is exactly like his in Cedar Rapids, which gave him ideas as to what to do with his house. He said the house in Cedar Rapids had a 12-foot masonry original deck on the front. Harris said the patio deck would be consistent with those on the house in Cedar Rapids. Shaw said the entry canopy would be fairly close to the one on the Cedar Rapids house but would obviously need to be modified to fit this house. Gunn asked what color brick would be used.. Shaw said he intended to ask for a submittal at the time and select the closest match. McCafferty noted that there is a local supplier of historic brick and gave the contact information to Shaw. MOTION: Ponto moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the projects at 8 Bella Vista, as proposed. Weitzel seconded the motion. Maharry said this appears to fit the guidelines and would blend in nicely with the structure that is already there. Weitzel said the guidelines are very unclear on these kinds of porches, because there are not a lot of these in Iowa City. He said this porch has clearly become a maintenance issue, and for preservation of the main structure, something has to be done with it. Weitzel said the proposal to add drainage is a good idea, and the windows can't really be seen from any elevation. He said the existing design of the porch is not historically significant in and of itself so much that it couldn't be altered. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. GILBERT-LINN STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT. Maharry said there was not enough support at City Council to approve the district as proposed. He said that because it is a planning and zoning matter, it will move to a joint meeting between the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission for further discussion. Maharry said after that the issue would either be approved, denied, or sent back to the Historic Preservation Commission for revision. Maharry said he thought the City Council seemed hesitant to approve the district in the face of documented opposition by majority property owners. He said there were very passionate arguments encouraging approval on the basis that it would be good for the City. Maharry said that not enough City Council members agreed that the property owners' rights should be superseded by this becoming a local district. He said a supermajority vote, six of seven members, was required for approval. Maharry said there was not a lot of support for defeating this, even from those who were not in favor. He said he felt people wanted to have the district sent back to the Commission for revision rather than having it voted down outright. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes December 9,2004 Page 3 2005 WORK PLAN: Maharry stated that the Commission reviewed its past year's progress as well as projects for next year at its annual work session meeting. He asked members to review the work plan for amendments or adjustments before it is turned in to City Council. Maharry said the Commission will place finding financial incentives for the upcoming year on its priority list. Burford said the State has been lobbied to put money into its fiscal year budget for State tax credits. She said, however, that nothing has been done to change the process in order to streamline the paperwork. Burford added that the State is currently writing a homesteading act for historic homes to give some type of homesteading tax credit. She said this has not yet been proposed to the legislature. McCafferty stated that she would like to see local incentives for which the City could set its own parameters, including not requiring the high threshold of a substantial rehabilitation. She said there are some mechanisms by which local incentives could be done, one of which would be the area revitalization district. McCafferty said she would do more exploration on the incentives issue. She said that Dubuque provides several incentives and said she would do research into those local tax incentives. McCafferty added that the T ARP Program is available for those meeting the income guidelines. She said the advantage to the TARP Program would be that a homeowner would not have to comply with the HUD regulations. McCafferty said that next year staff will work on the Central Planning District, and preservation will be a significant part of that plan. She said the Commission may want to add it into the work plan as something that the Commission will wish to have involvement with. Maharry asked McCafferty, should she have time before her employment with the City ends, to collect evidence for increasing the amount of staff time to be allocated to historic preservation, possibly using comparisons to what other cities do. He noted that the amount of properties covered by Commission review has increased by 30% since McCafferty became the planner for the Commission. MOTION: Weitzel moved to approve the 2005 Work Plan, with the addition of Commission involvement in preparing the Central Planning District as a work plan item. Ponto seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. MINUTES: NOVEMBER 10. 2004. MOTION: Weitzel moved to approve the minutes of the November 10, 2004 meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission, as written. Ponto seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 5-0. DISCUSSION AND INFORMATION: 2005 HRDP Grant. McCafferty said the Commission may want to apply for an HRDP grant to update the Preservation Plan, as much of the survey and evaluation work has been done. She said, however, that the grant request is due January 18th. McCafferty said that Richard Carlson would be willing to assist in the grant writing, and Maharry and Weitzel also volunteered to help with writing the grant. McCafferty stated that this is a matching grant so that City Council approval would be needed. Iowa Cultural Community Grant. McCafferty said the State suggested applying for this grant to get additional staff to work on educational issues. Maharry noted that this grant application is due in March. Preserve America Communities Application. Historic Preservation Commission Minutes December 9.2004 Page 4 McCafferty said that she had not been able to review the requirements for this grant yet. Maharry said he was not certain that there are any benefits from this grant. He said one criteria of this is a private/public collaboration project that was done within the last three years. McCafferty said the Englert might qualify, and Maharry said that 925 Washington Street also might qualify. Maharry noted that the deadline for this grant occurs every quarter. Save America's Treasures. McCafferty said she included this article for Commission information. Letter from State Historical Society of Iowa. McCafferty said this is the official letter regarding the two historic districts that have been approved by the State. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte. s:/pcd/minuteslhpcl2004HPCminutes/hpc12-09-04.doc Historic Preservation Myths Draft, January 6, 2005 1. Myth: If a local historic district is created, I will lose rights to my property. Reality: Many codes and regulations currently apply to all property. These codes and regulations affect how and what may be constructed on a property, how the property may be used, the interest of the community and neighbors individual rights, and public health, safety and welfare, to name a few. ' The following is a partial list of local and state regulations with which property owners must already comply: · International Building Code · Building and Housing Code · Zoning Code · Fire Code · State Accessibility Code Compared to these complex codes, historic preservation guidelines are simple and straightforward. The preservation guidelines are published in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook, which is currently available online at www.icQov.orQ. On average, the preservation guidelines affect properties only once every 20 years. Once a district is established, changes are not forced on property owners. The regulations do not: · force owners to rehabilitate their homes · prevent routine maintenance · require owners to open their homes to the public · force the use' of a property to change. Historic preservation guidelines do not apply to many common projects, including the following: · painting · paint color · storm windows . landscaping · satellite dishes · fences that are less then 6 feet high · reapplication of shingles on single-family dwellings · any aspect involving the interior of your home. 2. Myth: Historic preservation is only for mansions and homes of famous dead people. These are only old dilapidated buildings that aren't worth saving. Reality: Historic preservation involves every aspect of Iowa City's past. To preserve our town's heritage, we must preserve the homes of the rich and the poor, the mansions and the cottage, the public buildings and the private. Just about any place that tells Iowa City's story. In Iowa City there are many old houses of questionable value because of their condition, construction, and/or location. Likewise, not everyone wants to live in an old house. However, old homes are a limited resource and many people find them desirable. Construction of new homes with the woodwork, craftsmanship, detail and old growth lumber of old homes is cost prohibitive for most people. The character of older neighborhoods with their mature trees, mix of architecture and proximity to downtown and the university cannot be reproduced. 3. Myth: If my property is in a historic district, I won't be able to use it as a rental property. It will have to be a single-family home. Reality: Current zoning already controls property use and density. Historic district desiqnation does not chanQe a property's use. 4. Myth: Rental properties are not compatible with historic preservation. Only owner-occupied homes should be preserved. Reality: Currently, many of Iowa City's historic and conservation districts have rental and multifamily properties. · College Hill Conservation District has 185 properties, of which 71% have a rental permit · College Green Historic District has 46 properties, of which 76% are rental · Governor-Lucas Street Conservation District has 145 properties, of which 77% are rental. All applications for historic review in these districts were approved, including alterations and additions to multifamily properties. 5. Myth: Historic preservation will lower the value of my property. Reality: Historic preservation protects the value of all properties by preventing significant changes to the neighborhood that can make the neighborhood less desirable and thus diminish property values. Both national and local studies have shown that the property values in historic districts appreciate over time at a greater rate than similar properties that are not in a district. Furthermore, because of the increased stability that districts offer, property owners are more likely to invest in a neighborhood and improve their property. 6. Myth: Historic preservation will increase my taxes. Reality: Taxes for properties located in a historic district are levied at the same rate as other properties. Taxes will only increase when the levy for all properties are increased. Re-assessment of property values occurs periodically on a city-wide basis. Inclusion of a building in a historic district will not trigger re-assessment nor cause it to be singled out for additional taxes. 7. Myth: If my property is in a historic district, I will not be able to do anything without permission. Reality: Most routine exterior maintenance does not require a building permit or historic review. Many other common projects also do not require review (see list above). If an exterior project does require a building permit, but will not change the appearance of any significant architectural features, the project may be approved by the Historic Preservation Chair and Planning Department staff. 8. Myth: Historic preservation is too expensive. Reality: Large, ornate homes can be expensive to rehabilitate. However, historic and conservation districts in Iowa City are made up of mostly simple, one- and two-story houses. Most of these homes can be repaired and maintained with readily available products. Many are even small enough to be rehabilitated by a skilled homeowner. The most common concern regarding the cost of preservation is vinyl siding. Many feel believe that installing vinyl siding is less expensive than maintaining the exterior of an old house. In fact, vinyl siding typically costs twice as much as a good quality paint job. If the surface is properly prepared and primed, good latex paint can last ten or more years. Although vinyl can be a good product for new homes, there are a number of reasons that it is not appropriate for old homes. Typically, when installing vinyl siding, any projecting surfaces such as window caps, sills, brackets and trim boards are removed so that the siding may be applied to a flat surface. The removal of these features can significantly diminish the historic character of an old house. Vinyl siding can also cause damage to the exterior walls by trapping moisture in the walls of older homes where interior vapor barriers are not used. This can result in the growth of mold and rotting of the studs and sill plate. Furthermore, such moisture problems are concealed by the vinyl and they may not be discovered until the damage is significant and expensive to repair. For many homes that do not have unique or ornate siding, old siding can be replaced with fiber cement board. Fiber cement board is a durable product that has the appearance of wood and may be painted like wood, but will not dent or crack. Fiber cement board also has the added benefit of be nonflammable and environmentally friendly. 9. Myth: Historic districts are arbitrary. Reality: Historic districts are carefully selected. Designation of any historic district requires extensive research and consultation with a professional architectural historian. Before any district is designated, the entire neighborhood is surveyed. The architectural features and history of all properties are researched. Based on this research, specific areas that have a cohesive historic context and architectural integrity are selected for potential historic district designation. These areas are further researched when they are nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. For local designation, proposed districts are also evaluated to determine if historic designation complies with the City's long term plans for the neighborhood. Therefore, only the most historically significant and cohesive areas are selected for historic district designation. 10. Myth: Historic preservation does not allow my neighborhood or property to change. It must look like it did 100 years ago. Reality: Historic preservation is not about living in the past or creating false historic houses. Our modern lifestyle often requires a new bathroom, larger contemporary kitchen, family room or two-car garage. Preservation is intended to manage these changes so that they do not detract from the historic character of the neighborhood or property. Furthermore, there is no requirement that additions and new structures imitate the historical. The focus is on appropriate proportion, mass, roofline, windows and materials. If located behind the primary building, many historic features may be simplified. Although most property owners prefer to have additions and new outbuildings look similar to the historic structure, more creative proposals may also be acceptable. 11. Myth: Historic preservation is being forced on citizens. The Historic Preservation Commission is only interested in imposing preservation on others. Reality: In 1992 Iowa City adopted the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan. The preparation of this plan involved many public meetings, surveys and input from citizens. Five years later, the Comprehensive Plan was prepared and it supported the goals and strategies of the Preservation Plan. The Comprehensive Plan was also based on the input and desires of numerous citizens. The process by which a historic district is designated is lengthy. The area must be researched, a survey and evaluation must be completed, and the district is typically nominated for listing on the National Register of Historic Places before it is rezoned to establish a local historic district. This process alone may take years and involves notification of the property owners. When the Commission proposes a local historic district, property owners are notified by mail of the public hearings and meeting held by the Historic Preservation Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission. Typically two or three letters are sent to each owner. Once it reaches City Council, at least three public meetings will be held to consider the district. Overall, local designation will take at least three months and at least seven public meetings. The Historic Preservation Commission is composed of citizens appointed by City Council that are dedicated to preserving Iowa City's historic neighborhoods and resources, and have relevant experience, expertise and interest. Each historic district has a representative on the Commission. There are also four at-large positions. The Commission strives to offer solutions, ideas and assistance to owners and contractors to ensure that any proposed project complies with the guidelines. To that end the Historic Preservation Commission has conducted over 250 historic reviews since 1984. On average, a property that is located within a district or has been designated a historic landmark will require review by the Commission once every 20 years. Of the 250 reviews, only 5 applications have ever been denied. The Commission also provides resources on architectural styles, construction, technical issues, paint color, Iowa City history and neighborhoods, which are available to all citizens. The Commission researches new products that may be compatible with historic houses and periodically reviews and updates the historic preservation guidelines. 12. Myth: Preservation is bad for business. Reality: Preservation is actually a good business -- and a big one. A recent travel industry survey found that more than 40% of Americans made visiting a historic place -- a building, battlefield or historic community -- part of their vacations, and that these people spent nearly 40% more than the typical traveler. Communities participating in the National Trust's Main Street program, which revitalizes traditional commercial districts, have generated more than $16 billion in private and public investment since 1980. Preservation is also better business than new construction. A study shows that $1,000,000 spent on rehabilitation will create more jobs and keep more money in the local economy than the same $1,000,000 spent on new construction. 13. Myth: Historic preservation is elitist and does not benefit most Iowa City citizens. Reality: The preservation of our traditional neighborhoods ensures that everybody may have the opportunity to experience and live in a historic neighborhood. Historically, Iowa City's neighborhoods are composed of worker cottages, student rooming houses, fraternities, small mansions, bungalows and homes of carpenters, professors, nurses, farmers and merchants. Because Iowa City's historic neighborhoods offer a mix of small affordable homes, large homes, apartments, and single-family dwellings, protecting historic neighborhoods also protects Iowa City's diversity. Moreover, historic preservation has economic benefits which are good for the entire community. Because preservation practices require more investment in labor than products (such as vinyl siding and windows) preservation creates more local jobs and keeps more money in the community. Stable and attractive neighborhoods close to downtown and the university make Iowa City more attractive to people considering moving to or visiting the community. Frequently Asked Questions. Draft, January 6, 2005 Historic districts, conservation districts and historic landmarks. Q: Why does the City have districts and landmarks? A: Local historic districts are created in response to the desire of the community to preserve its cultural heritage. Historic districts and landmarks are a source of community pride. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has found that local historic districts provide the following benefits to their communities: · They protect the investment of owners and residents of historic properties; · They enhance business recruitment potential; · They help the environment by contributing to the revitalization of neighborhoods and conserving the resources they contain; · They provide a tangible link to the past, a way to bring meaning to history and people's lives; and . They have a positive economic impact from tourism. Q: What is the difference between local historic districts and landmarks, and properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places? A: If a district or landmark has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it means that it is historically significant to the city or state and complies with the standards of the National Register as established by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior and National Park Service. Properties listed only on the National Register of Historic Places are: · not subject to any regulations unless federal funding is used to alter the property . may qualify for financial incentives and tax benefits. Properties in local districts and local landmarks are subject to local historic preservation guidelines. Certain changes to the exterior of these properties require review and approval by the Historic Preservation Commission before a building permit can be issued. Although many National Register districts and landmarks are also local districts and landmarks, state or municipal code does not require National Register properties to be designated locally nor do the two types of districts have to correspond. For example, the Melrose Historic District, Jefferson Street Historic Districts and Pentacrest Historic District are all listed on the National ·Register, but are not designated as local historic districts. Q: What is the difference between historic districts and conservation districts? A: State law requires that at least 60% of the properties in a historic district contribute to the context of the district. Generally, the context is the period in time in which the buildings were constructed. However, a historic district may also be significant for people that lived in the neighborhood or significant events that took place there. Areas that do not qualify as a historic district, but still retain a traditional neighborhood character, may be designated a conservation district. Conservation districts are similar to historic districts, however the guidelines for conservation districts are less stringent. Q: What's the difference between key, contributing, noncontributing and nonhistoric properties? A: Properties in historic and conservation districts are classified based on their historical or architectural significance. For properties classified noncontributing or nonhistoric, certain exceptions to the historic preservation guidelines apply. Key property: A property that is individually eligible to be a landmark or is particularly significant to the district. Contributing: A property that supports the historic context of a district. Noncontributing: A property that does not support the historic context, but is at least 50 years old (The Secretary of the Interior defines historic properties as being at least 50 years old.) Typically these properties have been substantially altered. Nonhistoric: Any property that is less than 50 years old. Q: My property is not very old, why is it in a historic district? A: Due to changes over time, in any historic district there will be properties that do not contribute to the historic significance of the district. To the extent possible, the boundaries are drawn to exclude nonhistoric and noncontributing properties from the district. Because historic districts need to be contiguous, some non historic or noncontributing properties are included if bounded by historically significant properties. Q: Why can't a property owner just opt out of a historic district? A: State law requires that all properties in historic districts be contiguous, which prevents individual properties from opting out of the district. Q: What is the difference between Residential Neighborhood Conservation (RNC) zones and conservation districts? A: RNC zones involve issues of density in neighborhoods. Conservation districts involve issues of maintaining and enhancing the historic character of traditional neighborhoods and do not address issues of density and use. Q: How do J know if my property is in a historic or conservation district? A: Maps of each district are published in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook, which is available on the web at www.icqov.orq or from the Planning Department. You may also contact staff at 356-5243. Historic review Q: How do J apply for historic review? A: Property owners or their representative simply submit an application for projects that require historic review to the Planning Department. Applications should be accompanied by any materials that may be necessary for the Commission to fully understand the proposed project. This may.include photographs, a site plan, architectural drawings, elevations and product information and samples. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Planning Department early in the project planning stage. Staff will discuss with you the applicable guidelines and answer questions. If staff feels that the proposed project will not comply with the guidelines, staff will provide assistance. Q: What is the fee for historic review? A: There is no charge for this service. The Historic Preservation Commission members volunteer their time. Planning staff has architectural expertise and will provide assistance when necessary. Q: What types of work are reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission? A: The Historic Preservation Commission reviews only exterior changes which require a building permit for historic landmarks and properties located in a conservation or historic district. These include alterations, additions, new construction and demolition. Because windows, siding, and decorative elements (such as trim, brackets, dormers, porches, chimneys, etc.) are what give older homes their charm, changes to these elements require a building permit if the property is a landmark or located in a district. Contact Housing and Inspection Services at 356-5120 if you are unsure if your project requires a permit. Q: What work does not need Commission approval? A: The Commission does not review the ordinary maintenance of the exterior unless it requires a building permit, nor does it review any of the following: · painting · paint color · storm windows · landscaping · satellite dishes · fences that are less then 6 feet high · reapplication of shingles on single-family dwellings · any aspect involving the interior of your home. To determine if a project will require a permit, contact the Housing and Inspection Services at 356-5120. Q: What happens at the Commission meeting? A: Before the meeting, staff will prepare a report on the proposed project, which is received by the Commission at least five days before the scheduled meeting. At the meeting, staff will briefly present the report to the Commission and the applicant, or his/her representative will also be asked to present any additional information. The Commission then discusses the project and makes comments and recommendations. If changes are necessary, they are often agreed upon during the meeting. The Commission will make one of the following decisions: 1. If the project meets the guidelines, the Commission will issue a Certificate of Appropriateness. 2. If there are recommendations, and the parties reach agreement regarding alterations to the design, the Commission will grant a conditional Certificate of Appropriateness, which delineates the changes that must be made to the plans. 3. If there are issues that cannot be worked out during the meeting, the Commission will defer the application and provide guidance regarding ways the project may be improved. If the application is deferred, it will be rescheduled as soon as the applicant has addressed the Commission's concerns. 4. The Commission also has authority to deny a Certificate of Appropriateness. If a Certificate is denied, the Commission must state the reasons for denial and provide specific recommendations regarding how the project can be made suitable. Applicants who are denied a Certificate may reapply, drop the project, or appeal the decision. Q: What is a Certificate of Appropriateness? A: A Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), issued by Planning Department staff, documents the Commission's approval of the applicant's proposal. Copies of the COA are issued to the owner, Housing and Inspection Services (HIS) and filed with the City Clerk. HIS will not issue a building permit until they receive a COA. COAs are typically issued the day following approval by the Commission. Q: Are all applications reviewed by the full Historic Preservation Commission? A: No. For landmarks and properties in historic districts, alterations that will not change the appearance of significant architectural features may be approved by the Chair of the Commission and Planning Department staff. Staffwill issue a Certificate of No Material Effect to document that the project was approved. All other projects require review by the full Commission. In conservation districts, there are additional projects for both contributing and noncontributing properties that may be approved by the Chair and/or Planning Department staff. Check with Planning Department staff at 356- 5243 or refer to the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook (www.icgov.org/pcd/urbanplanning/historicpreservation/handbook.htm) to determine if your project qualifies. Q: How long does it take for the Commission to review and approve my project? A: The Commission meets on the second Thursday of each month. During the summer months, the Commission typically has an additional meeting on the fourth Thursday. During the summer, it usually takes one or two weeks to review a project. Periodically, the Commission will hold a special meeting to expedite the review of a project if absolutely necessary. (Knowledgeable contractors usually include the review process in the overall project schedule.) Q: Does the Commission review my project for compliance with the building code? A: No. The Historic Preservation Commission does not review projects for compliance with the building or zoning code. Contact Housing and Inspection Services at 356-5120 regarding any building permit and compliance with other codes and regulations. Q: How are the Commission's decisions enforced? A: A Certificate of Appropriateness or No Material Effect is required before work on any landmark or property in a historic or conservation district may commence. Like any other building project, a building permit is required and inspections are performed by the City Buildng Inspector. The inspector looks for compliance with all building regulations and the certificate issued by the Historic Preservation Commission. Q: How often is a request denied? A: Very rarely. The Commission works very hard with the applicant. It tries to work with the applicant to make his or her proposal fit in with the neighborhood and overall district while meeting the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and the historic preservation guidelines. Since 1984, the Commission has reviewed over 250 applications. Only 5 were ever denied. Q: If my application is denied and we cannot come to a compromise, how do I appeal? A: For landmarks and properties in historic districts, decisions may be appealed to City Council. For properties in conservation districts, decisions may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment. Both of these bodies will evaluate the appeal to determine if the Historic Preservation Commission's decision was arbitrary or capricious. However, they cannot overturn the Commission's decision if it is found they reviewed the project in a manner that was not arbitrary or capricious. Historic preservation guidelines Q: What criteria does the Historic Preservation Commission use to review projects? A: The Commission makes decisions based on the Iowa City Guidelines, which may be found in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook (www.icqov.org) These guidelines are based on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, which are relied upon nationwide as the "gold standard." They provide recommendations for alterations, additions, new construction and demolition. Q: I heard that putting vinyl or aluminum siding on my house is disallowed. Is that correct? A: Sometimes. If your house already has aluminum or vinyl siding you can make minor repairs, if you use exactly the same material and color. In historic districts, because the Commission follows the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, substantial siding replacement and new vinyl or aluminum siding is not allowed on historic buildings (either contributing or noncontributing). Because the historic preservation ordinance allows for greater flexibility in conservation districts, synthetic siding may be allowed on any noncontributing buildings in a conservation district. In response to citizen concerns, the Commission amended the guidelines to allow synthetic siding on any nonhistoric property in February 2004. Q: I heard that I cannot tear down a structure in the historic district. Is that correct? A: Maybe. The demolition of a nonhistoric and noncontributing house may be allowed, but is considered on a case-by case basis. Before a Certificate of Appropriateness will be issued for any demolition, the new building that will replace it must first be reviewed and approved. Contributing buildings may only be demolished if it is determined by a qualified professional that they are structurally unsound and irretrievable. Demolition of outbuildings may also be approved if they are non historic or beyond repair. Q: Can I put an addition on my historic property? A: Of course! Guidelines for additions may be found in the Historic Preservation (www.icqov.org). The Commission encourages people to meet with staff early in the design process and get feedback on the design. Historic preservation information Q: Where is design assistance available? A: The Planning Department staff will provide pre-review guidance and assistance at any stage of the project, and can provide names of local design professionals. Applicants are encouraged to read the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook thoroughly before starting the design process. Projects which conform to the guidelines usually are approved by the Commission without delay. Applicants are encouraged to attend hearings to gain a sense of the kind of comments and questions the Commission voices. Q: Is there historical information about my house? A: Probably. The Historic Preservation Commission has surveyed most of the older portions of Iowa City and has information on each of the properties within the survey areas. Additional information may be available from the State Historical Society.