HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-13-2008 Historic Preservation Commission
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Thursday, March 13, 2008
City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street
Lobby Conference Room
6:00 p.m.
1. Call to Order
2. Public discussion of anything not on the agenda
3. Certificate of Appropriateness:
430 Oakland Avenue
4. Discussion of 2008 Work Plan
5. Discussion of Melrose Neighborhood
6. Election of Officers
7. Consideration of minutes for February 28, 2008
8. Other
9. Adjournment
Staff Report
March 7, 2008
Historic Review for 430 Oakland Avenue
District: Longfellow Historic District
Classification: Contributing
The applicant, Carl Hirschman, is requesting approval for a proposed project at 430 Oakland Avenue, a
contributing property the Longfellow Historic District. He is seeking approval to construct an addition to the
rear of the main structure of the house, and construct a new detached two-car garage with an accessory
apartment above. The Commission reviewed an application for enclosing a side porch at the December 12,
2007 meeting and recommended that the applicant explore alternatives. The applicant has proposed the rear
addition as an alternative to the porch enclosure.
Applicable Regulations and Guidelines:
5.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for Additions
5.1 Expansion of Building Footprint
6.0 Iowa City Historic Preservation Guidelines for New Construction
6.2 New Outbuildings
Staff Comments
This Dutch Colonial house was built in c. 1925 and has been well maintained with few changes on the
exterior. This is one of the many houses in the vicinity that have been built with Dutch Colonial influence.
The applicant is proposing an addition to the east (rear) side of the existing house. The proposed addition
extends from ground level to attic level. The proposed addition has a gambrel roof, but it has a different
prof1le than the existing roof, due the location a shed dormer on the east side of the house. The applicant
intends to use fiber cement board siding and trim that matches the prof1le of the existing wood siding and
trim on the house. The new windows are also intended to match the existing windows on the house. The
applicant would also like the option of replacing the windows on the north eastern portion of the house with
smaller clearstory windows (see attached email).This would allow for this space to be more efficiently used
as a laundry area. To allow the attic to be converted to a bedroom the applicant is proposing to replace the
existing double hung window with a larger window to meet code for an egress window.
The applicant also is proposing to construct a new detached two-car garage to the south of the primary
structure. The proposed garage has an apartment located on the second level. The proposed garage is
accessed from Grant Court on the south and is designed to reflect the style of the primary structure. The
applicant intends to use fiber cement board siding and double hung windows to match the siding and
windows on the primary structure. The applicant also intends to use carriage house style garage doors, but
the specifics have not yet been determined.
The guidelines allow for additions to historic houses provided the addition is compatible in design with the
historic building and does not detract from the structure. In staffs opinion the proposed addition is designed
to be compatible with the house and is located to the rear of the existing structure. This will allow for
additional square footage with minimal change to the most visible sides of the house.
The guidelines also allow for the construction of new outbuildings, including garages, which are subordinate
in size and ornamentation to the primary structure, yet reflect the style. In staffs view the proposed garage is
designed to be compatible with the historic structure. It has features, such as a gambrel roof and double
hung widows, which are consistent with to historic structure.
Staff was originally concerned with the location and orientation of the garage. Several alternatives were
explored and the proposed alternative seemed to be the most compatible with the house and the
neighborhood. The garage doors face Grant Court, a side street rather than Oakland Avenue. Staff has also
expressed to the applicant concerns about the stair to the apartment above the garage. Although a stairway
enclosed within the garage would be ideal, the construction of such could harm the large tree on the
neighboring property. To minimize disturbance of the tree's root system, the applicant proposes an exterior
stairway that would not require a foundation. The applicant proposes the use of lattice screening to help the
open stairway blend with the character of the historic property.
In general staff finds that the application meets the guidelines. More details are necessary regarding the
specifications for the new windows, exterior doors and the garage doors. If the applicant does not provide
these details prior to the March 13 commission meeting, the proposal could be approved subject to approval
of specifications by staff and/ or the commission chair.
Staff recommends approval of this project subject to:
1. All windows being wood or metal-clad, solid-wood. The size and style of the new windows
must match the historic windows. Original windows should be salvaged and reused
whenever possible.
2. The carriage house style garage doors must be compatible with the style of the property.
3. Cement board or wood siding and trim matching the prof1le of the existing siding and trim.
---~~-- ~-~_._,~-----_.~~--~.~--_.."-_.,...._.-
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. Guidelines for the Historic Review process. explanation
of the process and regulations can be found in the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Handbook. which is available in the PCD office at City Hall or online at:
www.icgov.org/HPhandbook
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 in the PCD Office by noon on Thursday two weeks prior to the meeting.
See attached document for application deadlines and meeting dates.
For Staff Use:
Date submitted .......................................................
o Certificate of No Material Effect
o Certificate of Appropriateness
o Major review
o Intermediate review
o Minor review
Applicant Information
(Please check primary contact person)
~ Owner ..~M~.....H:\.R~Hn.~N..........................
Phone....5.l5....~~.I.....~Ue..I.......................................
Address ..lQ.?:4.....~~l.:J~$aJ.~L.......
LO'wA...k!..ra:;....J.o..w..A......................zip 5.z?A.-o
email.c.:..~..:J.~.h!r~.tn.~.~.~.dyk.b...~t1....
o Contractor ................................................................................
Add ress .................................... ......... ........... ........... .............. .........
.................................................................................zip...................
Phone..... .... ...... ...... .......... ... ... ... ... .......... ........ ....... ............ ..... .... .....
email................................................................................................
o Consultant .t1M'flN..W~NGg..Q~16lN................
Address ..41EA...~Dd...E9.Q~....~.~.......................
..(.Q~~..?~f.)t...,....tQ.W~..............................zip :?.~.o.
Phone...$J..~..s38...P...!2I3.?-.............................................
................~.!..~...~~Q...k.7.<R.l.............................................
email...~.W.~.X.W.lr(..~:.~.f....................
Application Requirements
Attached are the following items:
..Ql Site plan
[Sl Floor plans
t5J' Building elevations
I)l Photographs
o Product information
o 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 ..4.3.Q..Q~~D...~.................
...I.OY.-:J..a...c..,.t.y...,....l.tb.l.a.........5..zzA..Q.........................
Use of property ....ow.n.g,.r.:~:?......'Y.:~.$L~.~.............
Date constructed (if known) .........I.4'.Z::?....................................
Historic Designation
o This property is a local historic landmark
OR
o This property is located in the:
o Brown Street Historic District
o
o
~
o
D
o
o
o
College Green Historic District
East College Street Historic District
Longfellow Historic District
Summit Street Historic District
Woodlawn Historic District
Clark Street Conservation District
College Hill Conservation District
Dearborn Street Conservation District
Governor-Lucas Street Conservation District
Within the district, this property is classified as:
.rsa- Contributing
o Noncontributing
o Nonhistoric
Project Type
o Alteration of an existing building (ie. siding and window
replacement. skylights, window opening alterations. new
decks, porch reconstruction, baluster repair or similar)
~ Addition to an existing building (includes decks and ramps)
o Demolition of a building or portion of a building (ie. porch,
chimneys. decorative trim, baluster or similar)
~ Construction of new building
o Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not
change its appearance
o Other ..............................................................................................
~6~~i\~:1d~~hQO...+Q....~g.~J:.C~~.J.?~'.J~....gf.......~.I:$d1.v.!b...h.~...Er..Q.Y.YL..........
.$t.:'A:d.e......J~V.t.:.\.....tQ...dor.:m.er...::..ty..p.e.....tcQ..F.......B.~.o~.zJ.::~......~xt?t!.~h....ki.t~Ja.I......
..Y.:e."..I.P~o.-Ie.....e~.l.$+(r.?b.....roOl.b....f.~oor......I2~f.b.rg.Q~.~.......~~kJ.o..~.....pp~..p.n...w.~r.:t.b
.~I...~.((....Q..f.....h.ro~....~.i.t:hln....~){'~:hh.b..~JM.m.n~....~.J......tr.;(...l).i.~....~+.:r..y.,{;(.~r..?f;,.I..............
(11" porth ("lId#'1"1'\ 11M ~b' rtM~ fr~ .h... ,,/lfJ!rCfA,...(I4 afJ-v C/:1lC4H'''"''.r .........).4'1 s/..-alf)
...... ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ..............
..Add....Y.leMJ......2~...'..~r....ba.~oy....tl?......~:th.::.~.~1.....~...Q..f.......gr.Q~tt~.~.........\.::Y.~....
.~+qs,~f..~0:t:62>e....b...h~~...~f?q.?f....ef...gp.~tf.~f::.Jy.pi:t...~....f?r..~.m.~.b:.\y...~D...
.u.FP~Y.....~.knf...O't...r(X).f.....~fp~'.y:....g,f....!>.i.ra~G..,.......F,;'y.'c.k1.~....g.\'.1.J....w.g.kY.:............
.b~~.k;f.....l.o....b'f..9d.~.....l~y.~..l....l~\.Y.d.e:.d.....1D.....~.ua~.....~1...qE....gpar..+.m(..r.l..t..........
g.r..~.:..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
NQrtb...Y.-,!.9.l!...1..excl~... b~J.:t:b...f,?ar.c.-h...:ta..ke... .01;....2.. ~.h.(hI.r.....f.ir.L..........................
.rQ;t~.~...~.....~~.~...............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................................................................................
Materials to be used
.6.~.~...~.~~.~.p.t....b!?~.rd.....~:\9.\!.b~...rr.?.9+~b.,.~b..ed.,1.~.:h.'nb..::2.I.~!:~....I.a..f?....~.d......................
.t~tu.r.e.,.....W.Q.Q.d......2X.....W.QJ.I.~.,...t2~.bJ..~.::..h.M'Ob...wj.(.),cln~..s....tQ...Q}~tQ.h..e.;,.t7..fl;,.'b..
.f.0..~~:b.O'..~.hd.....rnu..\.lJ..o.V)...(.o::tt~y..~t.....~~.~l..IO.t...~br.~.~.....W.,~.~.~..d.t....bed.~.Q;?W\.......~ (~""1'-J
~!?Qy(,...;;a.v.:?J.b~..!...A);?.:h~+.~.~.~.J..-:.~f.y..J.~...~h.'.t1hl.~.$.o.!......N~..d.co~~....Qn..~.....t:~..,.v.t.l............. J.~" ,
t~...Y.b.~f~....f4.,.~t'~tlc5...Lw.oo.d)~.....C.A.6pha.!:I::..~.h.,~tJ~.e$,.)......~wd...ro.l.\rn.;....a:t...~+~lr... ~I.nJ I
.f.!.~.~k:~.(,;..lev.~.J...Qf.:.t9r..~~...tq...QPQ.r.:.im~Y.l.:t....Je.~J:..............................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
Exterior appearance changes
.~.~.:..~~...y.~.~~..9.f....b..~.J.....AQd..~~..QQr..~tJ...~.),tb.~~...~~.~~....OY.l....~~tjVlb
.y.a.?.F.....a.r...~.i;?.GMe......WO.\.~....~t.~.nJ.':Ob...Q.f.f).m..e.~~tJ.b~.....po.rc!:1.~.................................................
.N.~.v::tb..:.......~t.I.:7.),n....no:r.th..e",,~.,..n.Q..~.\.O~.O~?:J....\..():p...?I.d.l.hh.....~t.'I..~..ed....~h.~
.U?luv.n t:l.5... .~.d.. ..tr:f<.' .1.\S...~ 'i.~t~.f.t1A"" (0..~.. .I.?~~.~~..e~ ~..~f. .~f..~~.~~~:~)... ... ..... ..... ........ ...... ............ ........ ......
..kJ.~t...-:....}J.Q....~b.iW).!r~.~..~~~.l..Ea~.J.e.................................................................................................
.~~.~.tb..:...~Y.:~..W.\:o.d~..3.t...a.tt.K:-...l~~\....tQ....m.o.tc.-.h...~:~.~1!.~b..~..............................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
~l~~...2ft~.gb~....t.Q...~.j1...~~~.t.....W.lt0.....t2Ukk1...CAI.an.i.~.l...g~.'i.(.Y..Q..I.:'...tit?.f..............
.Y::Q.Q..f.:............. ... ....... ... ........ ....... ............. ... .............. ........... ............ ................ ........... ...... .... ... ............ ..... ..... ............ ....... ........ ....
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................................................................
~?1
, "'\or<:rrJ'~<~~...<
~~l
VJ r., 51
~t:) JJ 11-1
Wfh'l
~I
Page 1 of 1
Bob Miklo
''" ""--"'--"'""-~---'_.'-'--"~'---'-'''--''''_._'-'''--'."~"--'-~~'-''''-'''._''""'''"-''""'''"'"-'-~''--",,--,",,-,--"---'_"'_"_.._.."..._".._~-"--"".,-"""_..__.,,,,.,,_...."--,..-"-_...__.,""-"---_.",-~,,,._.--",,.
From: Carl Hirschman [carl@xwires.net]
Sent: Friday, March 07, 200811:16 AM
To: Bob Miklo
Cc: Marty Wenck
Subject: 430 Oakland Application Addition
Bob,
Please add this to the Historic Preservation application as we discussed today:
The windows located on the room at the North East corner of the house may be replaced with windows and trim
matching the smaller window in the stair way on the North side of th~ house. This will be done to provide more
usable wall space on the interior of the house. If it is decided that enough usable interior wall space can not be
added with the proposed additions and changes, then it will be proposed that the exterior porch on the North side
of the house be enclosed. If that is the case, fiber cement board matching the existing siding will be used to
enclose the porch. Foundation materials and trim work will be used that substantially match the rest of the
house. Windows and window trim will chosen to match the rest of the house and be placed in a manner that is
most historically consistent.
Carl Hirschman
Cell: 515-321-3161
3/7/2008
z .,
OVZZ'i "Mor 'A.1JO 'VMOI JBU'UOl~ lWO'9C€.6~C 'YMOl 'oW? 'YMOl '3"1f1N3AV (]NV1)fYO 0\;1- S ~ a ~ 55 ~I
38 O'VOl::l ON'V'S 6BLv NOIS3Q >lON3M Nlll:lVW , o I I: 1:
N~lsjJIIJIII NVVIlH8Sl:JIH ll:JV8 oJ) ~ ~ .. g ~ ~ ~ O~I
~
III ~~~~ ~
:1:I0.::ll300V\J31:1 ~ NOLLlOO'v' ~ ~ oil
ili ~ ~ ~ ili
~~~
~UE
~~~~
o~ "
~~~~
5~~~
"~l--C'i
- .~.~
9 ~~~~~
~h~n
w ~~~~~
I k~~~.
~ ~~~~~
Z
:5
en 0-
Zzer
0":0
zf=...JO
000.-,
-WerLL
r-enO-'
:;<>/JOw
wZ-'>
u:J::5~~Z
WD-~ffi::5(/)
<.?zwo.D-Z
":0-'0.-'0
~i=~::J~f=
<.?;:3":OW":
enoz::;;Z-'~
<.?Z::JO":~-'
Z":OZ~l=w
:i:ZLL<(w..:er
<(::5~~::;;<>/JQ
ero...:..:h::LLffi
~werer..:or-
O!::":":o.OX
enClCl..:erw
X
w
~oUi;;:~~:f
~
~
~
-1---
a
Lm_~ . II
Elh I
h~~ ~
~~~~ ~
nd ;
~~!(
~
~
~
t
I
I
~
~
t-
a:
::J
o
()
t-
~
"
3nN3A\I aN\Il~\lO
-fl
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
II
-u
Z
o
f=
..:
>
w
-'
w
I
r-
::J
o
en
o
w
(/)
o
a.
o
er
a.
(
\ r \1 '\
\ Olin
ZI)
LD:5~
z\J7~ ~
OPl'l'9 "'MOl 'A.1J:)VMOI lOO'UOl'e.w@lpU8NOW e:ggo'BfX'6~C ~ 'J-!)? ~ '::r100A'9' CINV1>!'9'O 06? ~~3~~~~ -r-I
3S O\iOlj ON\iS 6eLt> NOIS3a )!':lN3M Nlllj'Wv-l
IIIII ~I N'v'VIIH8S1:1IH 11:l'v'8 ~ ~ '" lL S'::,:: ~ (f)'G
N~IS3J \!) Z" In to
1ll 9n2 ..~~ ~ I
:l:JO.::ll30011\13l:J 'b> NOI.l..IOOV ~ ~aJif~~ (lj iIi
(J)
W
f-
a
z
...J
<(
a:
w
z
w
CJ
~ ~ ~ ~~ !: ~ ~ ~
I I ~Ii I~ IE ~. ~ ~!
~~ ~ ~2~ ~~ ~~ ~~ R~ ~~
5' ~ ~>. ~~ ~~ ~E ~~ ~~
~~ 5 8~~ S~ ~~ ~~ jE ~t~
~~ ~ 2gffi ~~ ffi~ ~~ ~ ~l~
~g ~ ~~~ ~~ ~~;~ ~ ~~~
w~
~~
3
~ 'w
$ ~~.
~. @g~
.$
n h~
"<,
o. .
---,
I
I
I .
I .~
I
I
___.J
...J
...J
<(
:s:
I r::
f-
:J
a
(J)
@I
z
a
i=
()
w
(J)
CJ
z
o
...J
5
CD
:s:
w
-=-
r
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
L_________________
-----------,
I
-t=-~~I
I
I
i-:oc.-~ l
I ~
: :;~
: 0,:-:;:
I "
1-_-, "
I.~/L ~.." ',;: ..~
: O(./",~
I ;f~
:P,?!
tk
"'I,
li~W.
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
p=~;,==r;.T---~.:::::.l_.: I'
.( ----~--~.-._-----"O:'..~i- --.-o::;.:'---r
><
x
z
o
i=
()
w
(J)
CJ
z
o
...J
5
m
r
ffi
z
:5
"-
z
Cl
Z
LL
W
CJ
<(
a:
<(
CJ
Cl
W
(J)
a
"-
a
a:
"-
><
x
z
a
i=
()
w
(J)
CJ
z
o
...J
5
m
Q1;t(2g 'TIMOI 'A..UO \fMOI leo.n.JOl~ ~.oct"6~C
3$ OVOl::l ONVS 6BLv NOIS30 >l:JN3M NIll:lVW
""'-'Ol 'All? ""'-'Ol ';J1Il1f1A.. aNYl>r9'O 06v
N~IS~111111
N'1V'-IH::>S8IH 18'18
:t10::J l300V\l3t1 ~ NOI.lIOOV
8
!Ii
~
~i
~
~~
I
*~~~ U~
~g~~ ~ ~~
I!: ~ t.
~
"
o
----~-
<9-
<9-
jJm
.(---'
----:c;:.-:q--
J- .... -J --L
-0-.. .0-.. -O-L I
(
I p?55
. j!l 0; :>::>:
; ~~ g ~;: g
\i~~~~~i i
-----,
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
-~
~I
,..--,
~,~)
---0
,..-',
(,~)
---0
~I
<(IS
I
I
"
2
EB
z
:'5
0..
..J
W
>
W
..J
Z
4:
::;:
Cl
w
~ ~
0.. "-
o c
a:: ~
0.. ~
~
2
EB
z
:'5
0..
..J
W
>
W
..J
W
Cl
<l:
a::
<l:
Cl
Cl
W
(f)
o
0..
o
a::
0..
OtrZZ9 VMOI 'A1K) VMOI leo..rUO,IM8@)fOl..I8NOW 19S(rQEE-6lE:
35 O'VOl::l ON.....S BeLt" NDIS30 >4:JN3M NIIUVW
'9'MOI . JJY.) '9'MOI '31I1N3AV ClNV"DHO 0<;1>-
N'v'v.JH8StlIH 18'v'8
:l:lO.:ll300V\l31:1 'b> NOI.lIOO'v'
8
!ll
~
~OC~l!l~55 I
Ii: It' I) ';>:;>: C\J
~ ~ ~
;lI.. S -;:.}.: ~ <C ~
~~~~~i~ ~ I
Ji D ~ Ji
N~ISjJllllll
---:.~i:;il::"'-r
Q
8, ~ ~
P \?
~ EB
\?
EB z
:s
0...
Z -'
:s w
0... >
W
-' -'
W
0> t-
WW oz i;>
(fJ-' Ww
ooc (fJ:::;: ~
Ot-
c..w 0... a:
Oc.. 0<( ~
oco... a: 0...
c..::l 0...<(
i~----------------------------------:~~
-t'ir- --
:c=J
1
1
1
1
1 1
1 I
1 I
1 I
1 1
1 1
1 1
(,)+: -~}~Ia c i~ ~
in: (j i ;:~~11 ,~"
&t: - I ~ ..J ->.- _I =<9
' c~l---~~--:J--~,~~t~n=_---rj--'
/---~-- .e>,j;;: -,f
r-~'i.
I _
: 9
I 'l"
----';.;
~,
M
:::::
OVZ~g '\rIMOl 'A..UQ VMOI la\.nJOlIJ.w@~ C::e90'~-5~E ~ 'JJ.J? ~ ';n(1N3AV QHVl>f'o(O O€~ ~~~g~~~ I
3S OVOt:l ONVS 69lv NDIS3Q )(:)N3M NllI;jV~ ('t)
N~IS~ 1111_1 N'1V\IH8S8IH 18'18 on ~ D- n" 15
~ ~. Q Iii ~ g <(
\.l () .
!D ~ z ji! ~ ~ ~ I
:t10::ll3001l'.J3t1 "bl NOLLlOOV' ~ i<IL~a ('j ili
j~
z
D
[0]
~
g
10 ) EB
z
:s
a.
...J
w
>
W
....J
0
i=
<(
0
w
en
0
a.
0
II:
a.
~
0-
.1-
I
I
1-
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
-w
-0
~
g
EB
z
<(
....J
a.
lL
o
o
II:
OVU:;9 'o;t'MOI 'AlJO "v'MOI )eUUOI8f\B@)fOU8MOW ~88(n~tt.6~€
3S OVOl;t QNVS 6BLv NDlS3a >l:)N3M Nlll:fY~
N~IS~IJIIJ I
NVV'lH8Sl:lIH 1l:lV8
:l:::IO.::ll300V\J3l:::1 "'i? NOLUOO'v'
~ '" vi
~ ~~~~
8 ~ ~ g ~}: 0 <(~
~g~~~ r-
III ~ ~ I
~ Ji ~ ~ ~ Ji
'I'MOI 'All? VMOI '3"1I1N3AV <IN'ofl)fVO oe..
-I-~
1
9
~ z
. 0
.
~ f=
<(
j- > z
w 0
...J ~
w
J: >
f- W
a: ...J
0 W
Z f-
~ 0 ~ Z
~ w w.
en :s: !
_L 0
Cl.. ~n
0
a:
Cl..
----,
,
---j
--,....,
--....J--1
----, ,
__...I ,
---1
___...I
~~~~ ~~~~~
~ __ 't
i ~ z ~
---------fl g
" <(
l! ~
!! uj
!! ~
:: a:
" 0
!! z
:: w
:: ~
1: [(
l! C3
"
---------U 0
w
en
o
Cl..
o
a:
Cl..
Historic Preservation Commission
DRAFT
2008 Work Plan
1. To improve communication with property owners in historic and conservation districts
the Commission plans to conduct District Forums. These will be an opportunity for
property owners to:
1) Learn about historic preservation requirements,
2) Learn about techniques for maintaining their properties,
3) Exchange of ideas and
4) Identify problems and seek solutions.
Communication efforts will also include an annual letter sent to all owners of
historic properties providing them information about the regulations and letting
them know where to get additional information or help.
Use neighborhood newsletters, Channel 4 and the City's website to inform the
public about preservation matters. .
2. Revise the historic preservation guidelines and streamline the review process.
To help streamline the historic preservation review process the guidelines will be
reviewed with the goal of identifying common building alterations that could be
reviewed by staff rather than having to be placed on an agenda and reviewed by
the full Commission. Projects will be categorized into three levels of review:
Minor applications that could be reviewed by staff - examples might
include replacement of steps, handrail designs and similar projects that
do not alter the defining character of a structure.
Intermediate applications that could be approved by Staff and the Chair of the
Commission - an example might be window replacement that meets set standards.
Major applications that would have to be reviewed by the Commission -examples
might include additions, new buildings and demolition.
Illustrate the guidelines to make them easier to understand.
3. Develop guide maps and walking tours to help provide public education and promote
an appreciation for historic resources. This will require cooperating with other entities
which have role in heritage tourism, such a Friends of Historic Preservation, the
Downtown Council and the Johnson County Historical Society.
4. Meet with the Campus Planning Committee to discuss the Historic Preservation Plan
and goals for the preservation of the University's historic structures.
5. Apply for grant funding to conduct a study of the economic impacts of historic
preservation in the local economy.
~~AFT
Memorandum
To the City Council of Iowa City
In Support of the Melrose Neighborhood
The Melrose Neighborhood Association ofIowa City addressed the city's Historic
Preservation Commission on February 28,2008. In their address they presented a 37-
page document titled "Reasons Why the Melrose Neighborhood Should Be Preserved".
The attachments include letters of support from the Neighborhood Council and Friends of
Historic Preservation.
The document is an insightful and detailed summary of past interaction between the
Melrose Neighborhood Association and the University of Iowa regarding UI purchases of
property within the neighborhood which, as the Melrose neighbors assert, tend to be used
briefly for faculty housing, then are converted to other uses while the building slowly
decays. Beyond the concern for proper stewardship and routine maintenance, the Melrose
Neighbors are concerned the UI will continue to acquire properties in the neighborhood
and eventually demolish these properties in order to facilitate expansion of the campus
and the UIHC medical facility. Land purchases continue even though assurances have
been made that no further purchases would occur.
The Melrose neighbors document that repeatedly in the past buildings that once occupied
formerly charming and centrally-located neighborhoods between the General Hospital
and the River have been purchased and demolished for campus expansion. They also
document the recent plan to build a Hope Lodge on a lot at the heart of the neighborhood
which was successfully diverted to a location near to the Ronald McDonald House-a
win for everyone. Similarly, in the more distant past, extended negotiations led to a three-
lane, instead of a five-lane expansion of Melrose Avenue with wide sidewalks and bike
routes which has been proven to be adequate for transportation needs. In both cases, the
neighbors sought and gained assistance from other organizations such as the American
Cancer Society and the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Because the Melrose Neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places,
and because neighbors are in the process of designating the neighborhood as a historic
district, and because the economic and residential impacts on the city of the
neighborhood's decline and disappearance would be significant, the Historic Preservation
Commission asks that you consider this issue and seek to find ways to open and
strengthen communication between the City of Iowa City, the Melrose neighborhood, and
its neighbor, the University of Iowa, looking toward an agreement that would assure the
neighborhood's integrity and survival. The 37-page document is attached.
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28,2008
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
DRAFT
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, William Downing, Lindsay Eubanks, Pam Michaud, Jim Ponto, Tim
Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Brennan, Ginalie Swaim, Tim Toomey, Alicia Trimble
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Helen Burford, Shel Stromquist
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Weitzel called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
DISCUSSION OF 2008 WORK PLAN:
Weitzel stated that the Commission prepares a work plan each year to be submitted to City Council. He
said that the work plan documents what the Commission would like to achieve in the coming year and is
also a yardstick for measuring its progress.
Miklo said that at the public hearing for the Preservation Plan last week, one of the City Council members
liked the Plan but said there was a lot in it, asked how it would be accomplished, and asked if an annual
work plan would done.
Weitzel said there seems to be some general concern about the Commission not accomplishing all of its
goals. He said the Commission should select goals that are achievable and work on them over the next
ten to fifteen years. Weitzel said the Commission should prioritize what needs to be done first. Weitzel
said that public input is a good place to start. He said the Commission should analyze what needs to be
done to get its goals accomplished and assign its members to tasks. Weitzel said that some things may
need to be handled by subcommittee or small groups.
Miklo said that from staffs viewpoint, it would be good to review and revised the guidelines fairly early on.
He said that the Commission has worked with the guidelines for some years now, and they have served
fairly well. However, Miklo said that some problem areas have been identified by a need for more
flexibility or more specificity. He said it would therefore be good to have one of the goals to be to
reexamine the guidelines to see what was worked and what could be better.
Miklo stated that a new staff person has been hired for historic preservation and planning and zoning, and
she will start full-time in May. He said that she would be working part time for now and would be focusing
on historic preservation during that time and could therefore do some work on the goal of refining the
guidelines. Miklo suggested the Commission hold one or two district forums to identify things to change in
the guidelines and after that focus on reworking the guidelines and streamlining the process.
Burford suggested the Commission review the public comments submitted during the process of adopting
the new Preservation Plan and identify the public priority. She also encouraged doing a sfudy of the
economic impact of historic preservation on Iowa City.
Weitzel said that the economic impact study would be something that a small group of people could write
a grant proposal for so that the Commission could hire a consultant. Miklo said that there will be a CLG
and HRDP grant cycle coming up, and this is certainly something that would fall into one of those
categories. Weitzel said that CLG applications receive a first review on August 3rd, and HRDP
applications are due May 15th.
Historic Preservation Commission
February 28, 2008
Page 2
Eubanks asked how accessible the guidelines are on the internet. Weitzel said they are available on the
City's website. He said the Commission may want to apply for a grant to hire someone to compile a
design review manual. Miklo said that he was hoping that the new staff person could work on that, as she
has some experience in that area.
Michaud suggested putting a list of frequently asked questions on the website. Weitzel said the website
could also incorporate a menu of pre-approved items so that some projects could simply be
administratively approved. Miklo said those things could be one aspect of the streamlining of the
guidelines.
Miklo said that in the past, the work programs h~ve been somewhat ambitious. Weitzel suggested the
Commission propose three or four attainable goals for the year.
Michaud referred to a book entitled University of Iowa: Guide to Campus Architecture. She said that the
University's architectural tourism could be promoted, as it is a goal of the plan to work with the University,
and the University encompasses a huge variety of architecture.
Michaud suggested that there be a walking tour of University buildings, perhaps one a month to highlight
five to ten buildings each time. She said that the University is an incredible resource, and these walking
tours could be fairly easily accomplished. Downing, Michaud, and Eubanks volunteered to work on the
goal of organizing some kind of walking tours of architecturally significant buildings.
Burford suggested that Humanities Iowa would be a source of funding for maps emphasizing the cultural
aspects of the City.
Michaud said that another goal could be to make the guidelines more acceptable of green and innovative
technology. She asked if there is information about this on the Secretary of the Interior's website. Weitzel
said there is some subjectivity in those issues as well. Miklo said that would be something that could be
addressed in the guidelines. Weitzel suggested that the staff person watch for green issues while the
guidelines are being revised.
Miklo said the Commission had come up with four goals at this point: 1) the district forum(s); 2) revising
the guidelines including streamlining the process, opportunities for green building materials, and making
the guidelines more easily accessible on the web; 3) an economic impact study, which require a grant
application and therefore a one to two person subcommittee to compile a draft application; and 4) a
walking tour of architecturally significant buildings.
Miklo said that the Johnson County Historical Society and Friends of Historic Preservation could be part
of the walking tours, and Downing said that the local NAIA chapter would also be interested. Weitzel said
that the walking tours could be ongoing from year to year.
Regarding the grant application for the economic impact study, Baker said that she would be willing to
work on it. Weitzel said that the grant application is mostly a narrative, along with preparing a budget,
which is done primarily by staff.
Eubanks asked how and how well the Commission communicates with other bodies, including other
commissions and The University of Iowa. Weitzel said that is a critique in the Plan, that communication
with other entities needs to be improved.
Weitzel suggested the Commission spend some time discussing how to pursue better communications.
Regarding the Planning and Zoning Commission, Miklo said that when working on the district plans and
the Comprehensive Plan, staff reminds the Planning and Zoning Commission to take preservation into
consideration as an element of the planning.
Regarding the University, Weitzel said there are several issues to discuss. Miklo stated that the University
has a campus planning committee that meets on a regular basis. He suggested that the Commission go
before that committee and present the Preservation Plan to the committee once it is adopted. Miklo
Historic Preservation Commission
February 28, 2008
Page 3
suggested adding as a fifth goal the initiation of contact with the University's campus planning committee.
The Commission agreed by consensus that Miklo should write up the discussed five goals and present
them to the City Council as the Commission's work program.
Eubanks suggested that the economic impact study results also be presented to the University to show
what preservation can do. Weitzel said that the Commission can raise awareness with the University of
what its impact is on buildings and residents who are stable participants in the neighborhood.
Miklo said that one of the ideas in the Preservation Plan is that the University promote close-in housing
for its faculty and staff and possibly provide funding in the form of low interest loans, etc. He said the
older, historic neighborhoods where one can live and walk to campus could be a recruitment tool for the
University.
Miklo said that some City Council members questioned why the Preservation Plan has goals and
objectives for other groups that the City has no control over. Miklo said he responded that this is a
community-wide plan and that the Commission is not responsible for all of this. He said the goals and
objectives fit together, and there is a web to take into account the actions of others.
Miklo said that another concern was that because there is no control over the University, perhaps it
should not even be in the plan if there is no regulatory influence. He said that all the Plan is a way of
putting forward the communities expectations for historic buildings on and near the University campus.
DISCUSSION OF MELROSE NEIGHBORHOOD:
Stromquist, representing the Melrose Neighborhood, referred to Jean Walker's report regarding
preservation of the Melrose Neighborhood. Stromquist said the neighborhood is at a crisis point, and the
main threat to the neighborhood at this point is the University, although the neighborhood is very much a
creature of the University in a lot of ways.
Stromquist said that the affordable, close-in housing in a stable neighborhood has been a very attractive
factor to prominent faculty and staff with the University who value proximity to work. He said that the
University will always be growing, and the question is how can its growth be shaped in such a way so as
not to undermine the very community that the University is integrally a part of. Stromquist said the
neighborhood wants to encourage the University to heighten its awareness and appreciation of the
neighborhoods that it shares so much with.
Stromquist said that the neighborhood has accomplished a number of things. He said that there was a
confrontation with the University when the issue of widening Melrose Avenue was discussed. Stromquist
said the University wanted a five-lane road, but the neighborhood persuaded it to go to a three-lane
expansion, which has proven to be satisfactory without too much of a disruptive effect.
Stromquist said that a second item of contention with the University was the plan to put in a multi-story
Hope Lodge on an enclosed University property in the heart of the neighborhood. He said that after some
alternatives were proposed, the University finally conceded that the area by the Ronald McDonald House
is a much more logical place for this type of facility to be located.
Stromquist said that Walker has been instrumental in getting the neighborhood designated as a National
Register Historic District, which has been a source of neighborhood pride. Stromquist said that there is a
very strong sense of community in that neighborhood.
Stromquist said that in the last several years, the neighborhood has faced a piecemeal acquisition by the
University of properties on Melrose Avenue. He said that is a permanent thing, and the neighborhood's
hope is that the University will preserve those properties and make them a part of the architectural pride
and sense of history that the University has in itself.
Stromquist said the real concern now is the University's piecemeal acquisition of properties in the interior
of the neighborhood, when the University has repeatedly promised that it has no long-range plan and no
Historic Preservation Commission
February 28, 2008
Page 4
intentions of consuming the neighborhood. Stromquist said, however, that the purchase of property
continues. He distributed a map highlighting the property that the University has acquired.
Stromquist pointed out on Melrose Place, Melrose Court, and Oak Park Court where the University has
acquired property. He said the University claims that its intentions are only to use these properties for
faculty housing, although a number of them have already been turned into student housing and in some
cases are not all that well taken care of.
Stromquist said that this is a central neighborhood that offers a variety of housing at a variety of prices.
He said that, because of its proximity to the University, the neighborhood housing allows people to reduce
their carbon footprint by virtue of not having to commute to work. Stromquist said that if the housing is
maintained, it is a very attractive area in which to live and gives an opportunity to preserve historic
housing stock that is part of the community's heritage.
Stromquist said that neighborhood representatives have been to campus planning and have been to the
University in a variety of forums and settings and have not felt that they received a very satisfactory
response and have not discerned any willingness to make a commitment to the neighborhood and its
preservation. He said that has contributed to the sense of crisis that the neighborhood now feels.
Stromquist said that at this point public bodies, the city government in particular, have few tools with
which to regulate the University's acquisition and use of property. He stated that the only real tool is one
of moral suasion, of trying to appeal to the University to live up to its civic responsibility and see itself as
part of the community, and to make that case as strongly as possible by appealing to public bodies that
have an interest in neighborhood preservation.
Stromquist said the Neighborhood Council is drafting a resolution of support for the neighborhood. He
said the neighborhood is asking that the Commission discuss this and be prepared to draft a similar
resolution of support to affirm the importance of neighborhood and historic preservation. Stromquist said
that ultimately, the neighborhood intends to go to the City to make this same case.
Stromquist said that a lot of this is a question of drawing the community's attention to this problem and
elevating the moral case that can be made to the University. He pointed out that Walker's report suggests
alternative ways in which the University may grow, including infilling and expanding into areas where
there is neither a historic footprint nor an established sense of neighborhood that would be violated.
Stromquist said the report represents a cumulative record of neighborhood concerns, steps undertaken to
preserve the neighborhood, and potential steps that could be taken on behalf of the neighborhood. He
said the report includes a pledge regarding the shared assets of the historic neighborhood. Stromquist
said the pledge lays out the history and character of the neighborhood and makes a point that there is a
shared interest with the University in the neighborhood's preservation and integrity.
Stromquist said the neighborhood sees the report as an appeal to the University and other public bodies
that have an interest in these concerns for cooperation. He said the University is also asked to agree to
end its acquisition of residential property in the neighborhood; to use the property it has acquired for the
stated purposes; to not destroy housing or structures on properties it has acquired, particularly historic
structures; and to work closely with the neighborhood and the City to develop a long-range plan to meet
the needs of the University but also preserve the integrity of the neighborhood.
Stromquist said the report also lays out the things the neighborhood will do: to continue to maintain
Brookland Park, to place historic markers, to work to maintain good traffic flow, and to work with
homeowners to maintain their property values.
Miklo pointed out that the Commission does not pass resolutions but could draft a memo to the City
Council to express its support for the neighborhood. He said that when the neighborhood representatives
go before the City Council, there would then be a memorandum from the Commission available.
Stromquist added that the Preservation Plan does address the Melrose Neighborhood directly.
Historic Preservation Commission
February 28, 2008
Page 5
Ponto said that this neighborhood is a National Register district but not a locally designated district.
Weitzel confirmed this. Stromquist stated that the neighborhood hopes to eventually be a locally
designated district. He pointed out, however, that neither designation gives them real leverage with the
University except that designation enhances the moral case. Ponto said that local designation would
show that the City supports preservation of the neighborhood.
Weitzel said that when there is local jurisdiction, anyone but the University has to apply for a permit for
demolition of a building. He said that Marlys Svendsen, a preservation consultant, has also contended
that local designation gives one more reason that the University would not want to do things that might be
detrimental to neighborhood preservation.
Weitzel said the Commission would need to discuss whether such a letter to the City Council should be
sent, and if so, what the content should be.
Burford said that the Board of Friends of Historic Preservation feels that are at least three tactics the
Historic Preservation Commission could employ to make preservation of the neighborhood a topic of
discussion within the community. She referred to the items mentioned in the letter sent to the Commission
by Friends.
Burford said that the proposed resolution is pretty inclusive to the Melrose Neighborhood. She said that
there is a new zoning ordinance that does address some of these things in other areas, not just RS-5
zoning.
Weitzel said that with a focus on preservation and looking at the whole issue, the Commission has two
ways to deal with the University. He stated that one way is to use diplomatic means to discuss this with
the University, and the other way is to fight the University. Weitzel said he believes it would be preferable
to work with the University, and that should be the tenor of the Commission's recommendation to City
Council.
Stromquist said the neighborhood certainly doesn't intend to break off communications with the
University. He said, however, that it would be helpful to have more participants in that conversation, and
the City and historic preservation community are logical participants in that conversation.
Weitzel said that he can certainly see the need for the Commission to do something. The rest of the
Commission agreed with Weitzel. He volunteered to draft a letter to bring before the Commission to be
voted on.
OTHER:
Miklo stated that two new Commission members have been appointed to replace Brennan and Weitzel,
whose terms will soon be expiring.
Miklo said he wanted to bring to the attention of the Commission an issue regarding the brick house at
829 Kirkwood Avenue. Miklo said that the Commission approved the project to jack up the house and
rebuild the foundation. He said that the contractor had explained that there would be a concrete
foundation, and for the portion of the foundation above grade, the contractor would use the existing stone,
cut it down, and make a veneer so that the appearance of the foundation would not be radically different
from the historic foundation.
Miklo said that the concrete foundation is done, but the mason decided that the stones were too big and
would be too difficult to cut into a veneer to place back on the house. He said that without consulting with
the City, someone gave the go ahead to have those stones hauled away' and dumped. Miklo said the
certificate stated that the foundation shall be, "... faced with reclaimed limestone such that the exterior
appearance matches the existing limestone foundation in size, color, composition, and joint profile."
Miklo said that Shelley McCafferty is now consulting on this project. He said the mason and proposes to
use a new stone veneer that is more regular in size and shape than what was there in terms of the
Historic Preservation Commission
February 28, 2008
Page 6
random sizes. He said McCafferty has consulted with a mason supplier and suggests that another
alternative would be to use salvaged foundation stones from another property that would be larger and
less regular in appearance than the new cut stone and would more closely mimic the original.
Miklo said the certificate states that the foundation shall be faced with reclaimed limestone. He said that
although it does not state that it must be from this property, that was clearly the intent and that was the
statement given by the contractor. Miklo said his thought is that the City should require that the
contractor get the reclaimed material and reface it with that so that it has more of the original appearance;
otherwise the City will pursue this violation.
Weitzel said that the guidelines discuss looking at remedies and standardizing and possibly increasing
remedies for teardowns that were denied. Miklo said that the maximum fine for violation, by State law, is
$750. He added, however, that the zoning code states that the owner can be required to replace
whatever has been destroyed.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES: JANUARY 10, 2008.
The Commission approved the minutes of the January 10th meeting, as written, by consensus.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
s/pcd/mi ns/h pcl20 08/2.28.08
c
o
tI)
,~
E-c
E ...
o 0
U (,)
G)
co::
,2 G) co
+'(,)0
cuco
~CUN
G)-C
tI) C
e!
a.<(
(,)
'I:
o
+'
,~
:I:
ClO UJ UJ UJ UJ
N >< 0 >< >< >< >< 0 0 0 ><
-
N
0 >< UJ >< UJ
:!: >< >< 0 >< >< >< >< 0
....
fJl Ol ClO 0 ClO Ol I'- Ol 0 Ol ClO
E.~ 0 e ..- e 0 e e ..- e 0
05 -- -- - 05
Q)Q. Ol Ol Ol Ol Ol en en Ol
1->< ~ ~ ;;S ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
W M M M M M M M M M
s::: Cl UI "C >-
l'O s::: ~ ::l G> G> <ii
W ... s::: 'i: s::: l'O 0 E :c
E G> s::: ~ l'O .r:. ... ~ E E .1::1
~ l!! ,g u s::: 0 'ii)
co l'O 0 :;:s i 0 ';: 0 3:
z !Xl !Xl C W D. l- I-
"'C
W
III
::l
U
><
UJ
:;::,
............m
c: c: III
WWoo
1Il1ll<(
WoO
,.0::<( II
1i> II II !!!
~><oo