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Home My WebLink About12-09-2010 Historic Preservation Commission IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION Thursday, December 9,2010 Lobby Conference Room, 410 E. Washington Street Emma J Harvat Hall 6:00 p.m. A) Call to Order B) Public discussion of anything not on the agenda C) Certificate of Appropriateness 1. Paul Helen Building - 207-15 E Washington Street 2. Consideration of Pre-approved item a) Ramps D) Update on City High Cupola E) Consideration of minutes for November 10, 2010 F) Other G) Adjournment Staff Report December 9,2010 Historic Review for 207-15 E Washington St Designation: Iowa Gty Local Landmark Building name: Paul Helen Building The applicant, Jon Taylor of Mary's Glass, is requesting approval for a proposed alteration project at 207-15 E Washington Street, the Paul Helen Building, one of Iowa Gty's Local Landmark and a National Register property. The project consists of replacement of the building windows. Applicable Regulations and Guidelines: .f. {} /OWtl Oiy Htstonc Presermtion Guidelines./or Alterations 4.13 Wmdows St4Comments The Paul Helen Building is a three-story brick commercial structure in Iowa Gty's central business district. It is one of the taller buildings in the downtown area and was built in 1910. The Paul Helen Building was the first "Modem" commercial building in downtown Iowa Gtyand exemplifies the stylistic impact of Chicago's architects on the Midwest. The architect, Frank X Freyder, followed the Chicago Commercial and Prairie School styles while utilizing steel frame and reinforced concrete construction techniques. The applicant is proposing to replace all windows in the building with historically accurate aluminum painted windows. The storefronts and doors are not included in this application. While the existing wood windows appear very similar to the windows shown in the historic photographs, they are not the original windows. The windows were likely replaced when the alterations were made the west elevation. After the demolition of the abutting building and conversion of this space into Blackhawk Mini Park, windows and an entrance were added to the west elevation. The applicant was able to find documentation in the National Register Nomination that the original windows were relatively simple, metal, triple-hung windows and intends to replicate this in the new windows. The new windows are proposed to be painted black, which according to the historic photographs is likely the original window color. It is. not anticipated that any of the window openings or window styles will need to be altered to meet egress requrrements. The guidelines recommend removing non-historic alterations to a building and replacing with historically appropriate materials. The guidelines state that metal windows are not allowed unless original to the building. In Staff's opinion, the applicant has provided sufficient evidence that the original windows were metal windows and that the proposed new windows will match the historic windows. Staff believes that the window replacement project will have minimal impact on the historic integrity of this property provided the new windows match the details of the historic windows shown in the photos. When the building underwent its renovation in the late 1980's, it may have received tax credits for the restoration and approval by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Since, the window replacement was part of this restoration if the owner received tax credits it is likely that SHPO had some input on the windows. Staff has forwarded the application on to SHPO and recommends that the applicant work with SHPO to ensure that the proposed work does not conflict with previous tax credit project approval. Recommended Notion Move to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the project at 207-15 E Washington Street as present.ed in the application with the following conditions: . The new windows retain the details, proportion, size, sash width, trim, and overall appearance of the historic windows . Determination of SHPO level of review, and approval if necessary, prior to the issuing of a building permit ,-_.,~--,.._,-'"-_."'''~--~,.,~.._'~-~--_....,-''''_.,--~-~_.<",-- Ap....~ication for Historic Re\ l~W Application for altlrations 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 secondThursday 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. ~~'::b~;;;"'...UJs.JI.9..................... o Certificate of No Material Effect ]1J.... Certificate of Appropriateness " Major review o Intermediate review o Minor review Applicant Information (Please check primary contact person) o Owner ......................................................................................... Phone.............................................................................................. Address ......................................................................................... .................................................................................zip................... email................................................................................................ m lA, G IB Contractor ...,..At\LL. ~I'i..I~~.Lh.Ii::O.a................. Address ...J.1.'b.......~h!fJi~.~~...rr....................................... .....1!:l..\!..~....C..\1.:1...1~.......~:k:1dn..............Zip ................... Phone ...3.S.1....2.k..~.J............................................................... email....;}oIt.\,..~..t6.r.:\.ito.;~{.e.ho}&.v.\:.\f..€R~............... o Consultant ................................................................................. Address .......................................................................................... .................................................................................zip................... Phone.............................................................................................. email................................................................................................ Application Requirements Attached are the following items: o Site plan o Floor plans l&] Building elevations ~. Photographs IXI Product information fZI Other..NIrt-r\....J.tm.f:tl...ffi~....&tiJ.~. 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 ..1..9.:.1.::J7.....~:!M:f.....~~~~.lV.~...~... ...1D..\.J.~....~ !:;t\....J. !\........ ........ ............. ...................... ........................ Use of property ....~~ffi!!b....................................................... Date constructed (if known).........J~J.O......................................... Historic Designation ~ This property is a local historic landmark OR o This property is located in the: o Brown Street Historic District D Co o Eas o D D D D D D Commercial J on Taylor . Store front Contract Manager . Glass Replacement 122 Lafa,ette Residential Iowa Cit" IA 52240 · Glass Replacement ph (3 1 9) 3 5 1 - 22 6 1 · Table Tops . Mirrors fax (319) 354-9044 · Custom Showers www.marllsglass.com Within the district, this property is classified as: fZJ Contributing [j Noncontributing D Nonhistoric Lor Sur We Cia Co De Go ~.~ 'S )' 11 LASS Marv 'S Glass Specialties, Inc. Project Type m Alteration of an existing building (ie. siding and window replacement, skylights, window opening alterations, new decks. porch reconstruction, baluster repair or similar) D 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) D Construction of new building D Repair or restoration of an existing structure that will not change its appearance o Other.............................................................................................. ,.w"___~_.~,~...._~~._~_.._----_.",,,~--_.,..-",-,-- Project description ...........................t!r.I?~~"'1I.:r.....~E.....Au......lrl.J.v..'f.r;?.~........LtJ.......7f4lIrrJ?.I^I.~.........!I..'?t....ibf::Tb(?.t.~...4:u\.(~..................... ........&v.tY.\LM/h.....f f!..iJ:tffJ2.....J:.t..!.1:M.(;.bI..i......Xr.df.;~JK....Jr.t:!l!....~41.{,~J.....,~......rl.If:I........f.I'l.@m.....i.&......:T!tJf................... .... .dff. \Jt;.nt.cJli._.............................................................. .......................... ................................................................ .............................................................. Materials to be used .....~fr.MK.~.....:l.J..5......~f:1.1.~~~.....bl.JM!1.1J1~....iI~....r.1:(.N:cr:-a.......C.l.e-~.....6.t..l:f:.(...!.~~......G.~1:1.~".....(:r.f'MG~ :!\S.....U.qM\Wi.).........J.".i.~.r.....tu:-V.m:lllJi.~......~.....Jb.ut:....::rl:l.....')~...~6::...../(dy.aw.&.......HurtIrit:.tt-.....v.~ ..1{!{......Q~lt..:::r."...;fi.t~t.i......~Ji'S.L.u::t;;o.:.{f(~:~.........{,\:.~~........f.i~Ra....J1?i;~...~....?~~..Y.,............ .~~......~IL....\.i::\.\k.L:1ldl......:::\.r:.....~....:kP.u.c.~.......~l:4.u.,l:""-...AP.t~..r.z:'S.........I.f.....Co.,;..c:.i.lJ!?IJ:....1:!!:i:............ ..Kt!.9J:f.~.....lr:~!X!.I.~.~.....~9.!:<,tJ.\~~......................................................................................................................................................... Exterior appearance changes ......1f.o.......li!AtJjo.L.....f:.H~r.1':U;tc.J........AH......./~~!Xki......::To..J1f:.....4f.....liJ.ifl)J!..a,~.....ttYrv~....'!fJ...f.t.UtdtL:........... " \ '" j ,; , ! I ,) ,I 'I '. Ii 1_":' , II " I, , 1 " ;1 I " I, ,i : I \. ) 1 I ,i, " " : ' , I I I " -'1~;\ ~. i: I " f' \' . , \ ~ ~. ! . I'!PS "~'m 10.900 (:",,-, United States Oepartment of the Interior National Park Service Jational Register of Historic Places Inventory-Nomination Form See instructions in How to Complete National Register Forms Type all entries-complete applicable sections OHS No. 1024-0018 Expic8S 10-31-87 For NPS use only received date entered 1. Name historic Paul-Helen Building and'or common 2. Location street & number 207-15 East Washington city, town ----- vicinity of - not for publication Iowa City state Iowa Johnson 019 code county 3. Classification code 103 Category _ district -XX. buildlng(s) _ structure _ site _ object Ownership _ public ..xx... private _ both Public Acquisition _ In process - being considered N/A Status ..xx.. occupied _ unoccupied - work in progress Accessible ~ yes: restricted -- yes: unrestricted _no Present Use - agriculture ..JOG- commercial ----- educational ----- entertainment - government - IndustrIal _ military - museum _ park - private residence - religious _ scientific - transportation _ other: 4. Owner of Property name Philip Mears and Arthur Small street & number #6. Paul-Helen Buildin~. 207-15 East Washington Street city, town Iowa Citv - vicinity of state Iowa 52240 5. Location of Legal Description courthouse, registry of deedS, etc. County Recorder's Office street & number Johnson County Courthouse, South Clinton city, town Iowa City state Iowa 52240 6. Representation in Existing Surveys N/A _yes _no tltle Urban Revitalization Area Surve has this property been determined eligible? ~ ,.8 1980 - federal _ state _ county .xxl<local depository for survey records city, town' Iowa City Plannin~ & Program Development. City of Iowa City state Iowa 52240 t- Z w :i f- a: -( ARCHITECTURAL c. w Q -J -( (J a: o I- (/J ::t: W l- e( t- en e( 3= o z o l- et > a: w rn w cc a. :J :c :;:) '" :c .I. J u .) .. .. ;) N A T, ION A L REG 1ST E R STATE NOMINATIONS M~'~ )F HISTORIC PLACES REVIEW C'OMMITTEE EVALUATION FORM HISTORIC NAME: COMMON NAME: LOCATION: OWNER: Paul-H~len Building_ .207-15 East Washington, Iowa City, Johnson County Phillip Mears, Art Small S I G N I F I CAN C E / P H Y SIC.A L DES C RIP T ION: The Paul-Helen Building is a three-story brick commercial structure in Iowa City's central business district. It is one of the taller buildings in the downtown area, and exceeds the height of its immediate neighbors. The Paul-Helen building is one of two buildings on its block built during the second decade of the twentieth century. The adjacent Englert Theatre was constructed in 1913. To the west is the Jefferson Hotel, also built in 1913. Further west on Washington Street is the Iowa State Bank and Trust Building (built in 1912). These four buildings are the major survivors of a substantial commercial building boom that occurred in Iowa City before World War I. The building occupies an entire lot, and is 80' x 150' with a 20' x 74' projection on the west side. The upper portion of the facade is divided into five bays by flat brick pilasters. A narrow concrete string course extends above the shop fronts, and a second strig course acts as an architrave molding below a plain concrete corner. Corbeled panels separate the second and third Gloor windows, and the third flqor windows from the corner. The windows J themselves consist of groups of four metal sash surmounted by blind transom panels. Cast iron columns flank each of the recessed shop entries, and one entry (Frohwein's) has a coffered metal ceiling. Two of the shop fronts are surmounted by wide horizontal panels of small glass blocks set in metal calmes. The onl exterior alternations consist Office Supply and ags oc. oth are acc signs for lenoch and Cilek Hardware and the Iowa City Gas and Electric (the buildlng's original tenants) are hidden under the present signs. The first floor is divided into three retail spaces, which extend the entire depth of the building. Ragstock now occupies the western-most section, Frohwein Office Supply the center, and F-Stop , the eastern portion. Frohwein's retail space still has a deeply coffered pressed metal ceiling. The second floor has a central corridor which runs the width of the building at the top of the stairs. Office spaces, which have seen frequent rearrangement, open off the corridor. The stair to the second floor retains its original marble treads and rod- like brass railing, affixed to the wall on each side. The landing (approximately half-way to the second floor) features a mosaic of white hexagonal tiles edged with a Greek fret motif in black and blue-gray tile. This original flooring is repeated in the second floor hall. 2 Most office doorways have large glazed transom panels and plain architraves with narrow molded cornices. Several are set in very deep paneled reveals and retain doors with horizontal panels below large translucent windows. The third floor orignally was occupied with a large, open dance floor with an orchestra pit in one corner. Current renovation plans include use of part of the third floor space for commercial offices. The building's foundation is reinforced concrete, and the exterior structural system is a combination of steel and masonry bearing wall. The interior structural system is similar. At the first level the floor is reinforced concrete, and the second and third levels have wood and tile floors over wood joists. Support for the major portion of the roof is ~rovided by steel trusses, with wood rafters and a composition roof surface. In construction technique, the building was the first modern commercial/office building in Iowa City. Although the building is not of fireproof construction, having floors that are wooden rather than tile or concrete, it was the first building in the c~ty to use steel frame and reinforced concrete construction techniques. Exterior treatment complements the innovative structural construction, with elements of the Prairie style to distinguish the building from contemporaneous Iowa City commercial structures, which were all more traditional in facade treatment. 1 The structural information is based on an inspection of the building by Hans Muesslg and by William Nowysz, AlA. See also Urban Renewal Assessment Report for Parcel 5-65 completed in the mid-1960s. 2 A detailed examination of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps confirms that the Paul-Helen Building was the first structure in the city (exclusive of the University buildings on the Pentacrest) to employ steel frame construction. lEV E L 0 F S I G 'N I F I C! '\ C E : OAT E( S) 0 F S I G N I F I \" A N C E: AREA(S) OF SIGNIFICANCE: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Local 1910 Architecture~ Criterion C The Paul Helen Building has a two-fold significance in Iowa City's development. This three story, five bay-wide edifice was the first "Modern" commercial building in downtown Iowa City. It illustrates the wide ranging impact of Chicago's architects, builders, and architectural periodicals on bu i I ding pract ices and techn i ques in Iowa and the M i dwes tin genera 1. In designing the building, the presumed architect Frank X. Freyder not only followed the styl istic models of the Chicago Commercial and Prairie Schools but followed the lead of Chicago's architectural and building professions as well in util izing steel frame and reinforced concrete construction techniques. The construction of this building in 1910 sparked a downtown building boom that marked the last major phase in the development of Iowa City's central business district until the onset of urban renewal in the late 1960's. The stylistic elements of the Chicago Commercial school. are apparent in the very clear expression of the steel framing and the rational organization of the building's five bays. The architect took advantage of the framing to provide the buildings with large windows on all three floors that were particularly suited to the needs of the original tenants. Freyder was also influenced by the Prairie School and choose, in what was the tallest building in the downtown, to emphasize the horizontal aspects of his building rather than the vertical. The windows are banded together rather than being set apart by columns or pilasters. The cornice is also a series of horizontal bands. The final result is a pleasant and attractive commercial building that belies its true size. Following the turn of the century the economy of the Midwest began to improve significantly. Iowa City shared in this general improvement. By 1910 the city had grown by several new subidivisions and street car lines were under construction. The construction of the Paul Helen Building in 1910 marked the first significant new commercial construction in the central business district since the 1880's. As part of the boom, three other major commercial buildings were built following the Paul Helen; Iowa State Bank and Trust Company (1912), Jefferson Hotel (1913), and the Englert Threater (1913). A number of smaller and less ambitious buildings were also built including the Dey Building (ca. 1915) and the remodeling of the First National Bank (1911). The building's architect is unknown but presumed to be Frank X. Freyder. Freyder also was the contractor. He was the proprietor of the Iowa City Planing and Molding Mil I, which was the successor firm to J. M. Sheets and Company. Freyder had joined Sheets and Company in 1885 as their architect, and became the sole owner of the firm in 1905 following the death of Sheets. 1 Sheets and Company are known to have built the following structures in Iowa City: Boal-Maine House (806 East College; not extant); T. NOMINATION NOMINATION SPONSOR: PREPARER: Owners Hans Muessig/DMR Iowa City 4 C. Carson House (906 East College); Iowa City Public Library (SE corner College and Linn Streets); the Close Mansion (Gilbert and Bowery Streets); Calvin Hall, University of Iowa campus; I~wa City City Hall (NW corner of Washington and Linn Streets, not extant); the First United Methodist Church (NE corner of Jefferson and Dubuque Streets); the Summit Street Apartments (NE corner of Summit and Burlington Streets); the Coldren O~era House (SE corner of College and CI inton Streets, substan~ially altered). Freyder died at the age of 82 on June 7, 1944 in Iowa City. At the time of Its construction the building was owned by the Schmidt- Kurz Improvement Company. The principal officers of the company were G. W. Schmidt, C. A. Schmidt, and Will lam Kurz. G. W. and C. A. Schmidt were the sons of German immigrants; both were born in Iowa City. G. W. was the owner of the Iowa city Iron Works (a supplier of structural and decorative iron and steel), and was active in local pol itics, serying as an alderman. The Schmidt brothers' sister was married to william Kurz.~ William Kurz was the proprietor fo a saloon and billiard hall on College Street. After the Paul- Helen Building was completed, Kurz moved his business to one of the storefronts in the building. Following the turn of the century the economy of the midwest began to improve significantly. Communities whose economies were primarily agricultural began to diversify and grow in population. Like its neighbors to the north and east, Iowa City enjoyed this boom. Several new subidivisions were establ ished in the city and by 1910 city fathers were actively encouraging the construction of street car lines ang seeking to build interurban lines to the east, south, and southwest. lLinda Wescott Magnusson, "Sheets and Company: An Iowa City Builder/Architect Firm 1870 - 1905," unpubl ished Masters Thesis, University of Iowa, 1980. Page 46. 2 Ibid, passim. 3 Irving Weber, Historical Stories about Iowa City, volume 2. Iowa City: Iowa City Lion's Club, 1979. Pp. 261-264. 4 Iowa City Press-Citizen, June 7, 1944, page 9. 5 Charles Volumes. pp. 219. 6 The local newspapers for the period 1908 - 1912 were full of descriptions of Ray Aurner, Leading Events in Johnson County History. Two Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Western Historical Press, 1912, 1913. Vo I. 2., 5 No new major c~mmercial buildings had been built in Iowa City since the 1880s , and by 1910 the time was appropriate. G. W. Schmidt, C. A. Schmidt, and G. W. Kurz formed the Schmidt-Kurz Improvement Company in 1910 with the express purpose of building a new commercial building in downtown Iowa City. In large part the Paul-Helen Building was built at the urging of T. C. Carson, owner of the Iowa City Gas and Electric Company. Carson felt that his company needed larger offices to serve an increasing number of customers. Carson, whose house is on the National Register (906 East College)S organized the Iowa City Gas Company in 1857 and the Electric Company in 1886. The Gas and Electric Company remained one of the major tenants of the Paul-Helen Building until the late 1970s. Construction of the Paul-Helen Building (named after the children of the brothers Schmidt and Kurz) began in April 1910 and the building was ready for occupancy in late December. Three other major commercial buildings were built in downtown Iowa City following the Paul-Helen; Iowa State Bank and Trust Company (1912), Jefferson Hotel (1913), and the Englert Theatre (1913). Together, these four buildings stand as a testament to the hopes of Iowa City during the second decade of th is century. the latest subscription plan for iterurbans to the south, southwest, and east. C. T. Main was actively promoting his subidivision in and around Rundell Street in eastern Iowa City, and promised to build a street car line from the subdivision to the center city if enough people purchased house lots. 7 This is upported by a detailed examination of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps for 1874, 1879, 1883, 1888, 1892, 1899, 1906, and 1912. 8 Irving Weber, Historical Stories about Iowa City. Iowa: Iowa City Lion's Club, 1976. Pp. 65 - 66. 214. Vo lume 1. Iowa C i t y, Weber, Volume 2, pp. 213 - l___ 'I ( f ~ , 1 ,....~,\, ~;.I~ -, - ..... ...'.... ~ " ..~.:~ , f i fl ! q q11!\ Iii TqTf~TD II PI II I It Ifill '1111111 11 11 j 1111 11 PI1Pjli Ijlllli!ljll1!ij!jij". · , I 41 l 51 I 6 7 8" ..I\,_l9 \ 1:0 11;1 1'2 1"3 -f4 1'5 'fIe i7 ..s f f91 ~o r g1 ~~ . L .:Iiil'tl'\i!,lll;'i;:,: \T~!;' !~':rl,,: t"fr~IIII'llIl." lillI''''' ,I r. , If ,\ I .; fill" 'i~lill'" 'ITilP\! Ifllllllll,Ullm'~..JIJI.lI I !Il'i!l ,11,.11.\1 'Ill I . j ,1111 I 1,1" I ! I ' 1'1, III Ill' . I .' I . 1111. I.' I I I . ' , II I. \ " I. I ~~~.l.i..u.~~J.....'~1 J.. '~ . - , \.>... I I~ I ~,:"," ~ ~ .... ..: l. "', ~.. . I ,,'#'j /' . w~ . ~.... v*~ ',~'~ ~_LiiI(" I "". _,_~v~'.".."."..I.....' ..._""., M ""fiIIIl ... - --: .. J. ~..~ ~....,~ 4;.' ~" I<. . , ~~;,~t~.~~ '~ ~ ~ t ""'~~ K r , " 11EMORANDUM Date: December 9,2010 To: Historic Preservation Commission From: O1ristina Kuecker, Associate Planner Re: Minor Review - Pre-approved items The recently adopted Historic Preservation Handbook allows for the Commission to consider items to be placed on a "pre-approved item" list. These items can then be approved by staff without consultation with the HPC Chair or the HPC This was envisioned to include things, such as windows, doors, railings, and decks. This could be items that are universally acceptable or that are acceptable if certain conditions are met. Nter the consideration of the ramp at the meeting last month it was indicated that temporary access ramps could be eligible for Minor Review. Staff proposes the following condition for ramp approval by Minor Review Ramps Staff recommends approving new temporary ramp construction as a pre-approved item eligible for a Minor Review if the following conditions are met: . The new ramp is constructed without footings in order to emphasize the temporary nature of the ramp and to facilitate removal after the ramp is no longer needed. . The ramp being removed once it is no longer needed. . The ramp being placed on a side or rear door if possible Preservation F 1\1EMORANDUM Date: December 9,2010 To: Historic Preservation Commission From: Christina Kuecker, Associate Planner Re: Certificates of No Material Effect, Intermediate Reviews, and Minor Reviews The recently adopted Historic Preservation Handbook requires a report to the HPC at each meeting of any projects that have been approved administratively. Below are the projects approved since the November meetmg. Certificates of No Material Effect - Chair and Staff review 1. none Intermediate Review - Chair and Staff review 1. 827 Dearborn St - window installation and small rear addition Minor Review - Pre-approved items - Staff review 1. none Iowa C:ity Historic Preservation Conl1nission (:ity 1 hlL 41 OF. Washington Street, low.1 IA 52240 1VIEMORANDUM Date: December 9,2010 To: Historic Preservation Commission From: Christina Kuecker, Associate Planner Re: Oty High Cupola At the November meeting, it was decided to have the Chair and Staff write a letter to SHPO regarding the antenna installation on the Oty High Cupola. Attached is the letter and responses from SHPO and the Iowa Oty Community School District Superintendent. [owa Citv / Historic Preservation COlnlnission City.HaU, 410 E Washington Street, Inwa City. It\. 52240 November 19, 2010 Jerome Thompson Interim State Preservation Officer State Historic Preservation Office Iowa State Historical Building 600 East Locust Street Des Moines, IA 50319 Dear Mr. Thompson, The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission was recently notified by the surrounding neighborhood of alterations to the cupola at City High. Although this property is not one of Iowa City's Local Historic Landmarks, it is a cultural and historical resource, eligible for the National Register, that we believe needs protecting. The Commission did review antenna placement on the cupola in April 2009. Based on what was submitted for review the Commission felt that the proposed antennas would have minimal impact on the appearance of the structure. The Commission did send a letter to GSS, Inc regarding the installation in which the Chair stated, "we would like to encourage you to be discreet and cautious when making the installation. The antennas should blend in with the existing materials as much as possible and should not detract from the building. Minimizing damage to the structure is also of utmost importance." We do not believe that the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties were met with the installed antennas. We agree with the neighborhood that the historic integrity of the City High cupola has been compromised with the installed antennas. We do not feel that care was taken to minimize damages to the structure and in fact believe that the installed antennas detract from the building significantly. The Commission has in the past approved of antenna installations on historic landmarks that were installed in a sensitive manner. There are examples locally and nationally of antennas being installed without damaging the historic fabric of the buildings. One example locally is Old Brick, which has several antennas installed within the bell tower and the antennas are not visible from the exterior. November 19, 2010 Page 2 The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission feels that one of our most significant historic buildings has been tarnished by the insensitive installation of the antennas. We request information regarding the Section 106 review process and if the installed antennas were approved by the State Historic Preservation Office. If so, we would be interested in knowing of ways to mitigate this problem. The Commission is interested in working with all parties involved, including SHPO, the School District, and the wireless company, in order to find a solution to this situation. Please contact Historic Preservation Staff, Christina Kuecker, with any information or questions you may have. Christina may be reached at (319)356- 5243 or christina-kuecker@iowa-city.org. Sincerely, ~ LJJ-c Alicia Trimble Chair, Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission c.c. (via email) Neighborhood representative: Sarah Walz, 1813 Morningside Dr Iowa City Friends of Historic Preservation Steve Murley, Superintendent, Iowa City Community School District Eugene J. Blazenko, GSS, Inc. June Strand, SHPO, Review and Compliance Officer STATE HISTORICAL IS.QCIETYOf l_()WA A Division of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs December 2, 2010 In reply refer to: R&C#: 090852011 Alicia Trimble, Chair Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission City Hall 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Sarah Walz 1813 Morningside Drive Iowa City, Iowa 52240 RE: FCC JOHNSON COUNTY - AT&T MOBILITY, LLC - MORNINGSIDE & EAST COLLEGE SITE #DESMIA546 - PROPOSED COLLOCATION OF ANTENNA IN EXISTING CUPOLA - 1900 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE - SEC. 11, T79N-R6W- CORRESPONDENCE Dear Ms. Trimble and Ms. Walz, Thank you for your letters ofNovcmbcr 19,2010 and November 2,2010 respectively, concerning the above referenced project and bringing this matter to our attention. As a result of these two inquiries about this project, our staff have re-examined the documentation package that was submitted to our office by Groundwater Service & Supply, Inc. on behalf of AT&T mobility, LLC which we received from them on July 31,2009. Based on the information that was provided at the time, our staff reviewers came to the same conclusion that the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission had reached that thc placement of the antennas inside the cupola would have a minimal impact on the appearance ofthe structure and would not change the integrity ofthi6 historic property. Therefore, we agreed with a No Adverse Effect determination for this under1aking on August 4, 2009 based on the provided information. We were not aware that the Iowa City Department of Planning and the Historic Preservation Commission were not provided any of the plans and specifications for these proposed project activities. This information is supposed to be included in the 621 FOlm and should be provided to all parties who may have an interest in a proposed undertaking. During our re-examination of the project information, we noted that there appears to be a discrepancy in the submitted package between the information provided in Item #13 of the Site Information section of the 621 Form and the provided plans and specifications prepared by Shive-Hattery, lnc regarding the placement of the anterma. In Item #13 of the Site Information section of the 621 form, it states that "Kathrein-741989; rectangular; approximately 51"x6.1"x2.7"; antenna will be mounted inside the cupola - Ref. attached drawings." The provided drawings from Shive-Hattery, Inc. clearly show the antennas outside of the cupola supposedly "stealthed" as part of the rail design. It also appears to our office that current arrangement of the antenna on the structure does not correspond with the specifications and plans from Shive~Hattery, Inc. (see A-3.1 and 2). 600 EAST LOClIST STREET. DES MOINES, IA 50319-0290 P: (515) 281-5] 11 We agree with the conclusions of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission that a) the antenna is not inside the cupola, b) the installation of the antennas did not meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, and c) that the historic integrity of this feature on this National Register eligible building has been significantly altered by the installation of the antennas. In our opinion, the installation of the antenna Adversely Effected this historic property. Our office is more than willing to work with all parties involved to find a way to resolve this adverse effect and unfortunate situation. We recommend that perhaps a meeting between all parties would be beneficial to discuss this matter and explore possible scenarios that could be implemented to resolve this adverse effect. Do not hesitate to contact me at (515) 281-4358 or doug.jones(Cl)iowa.gov if you have any questions or require fmiher assistance in this matter. S?f:L'hA1t(~ ~~a7'{~, Archaeologist and Review and Compliance Program Manager State Historic Preservation Office State Historical Society ofIowa Cc: Barbara Mitchell, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, State Historical Society of Iowa Jerome Thompson, State Historic Preservation Officer, State Historical Society onowa Steve Del Sardo, Cultural Resources Specialist, FCC Steve Blazenko, Grow1dwater Service and Supply, Inc. Candi Johnson, Groundwater Service and Supply, Inc. Sarah Walz, Neighborhood Representative Steve Murley, Superintendent, Iowa City Community School District Iowa City Friends of Historic Preservation Christina Kuecker, Historic Preservation Staff, City onowa City Paula Mohr, Certified Local Government Coordinator, State Historical Society of Iowa Ralph Christian, Historian, State IIistorical Society oflowa Jack Porter, Preservation Consultant, State Historical Society of Iowa JefT CUlT, Architectural Historian, State Historical Society onawa Page 1 of 1 Christina Kuecker Stephen Murley [Murley.Stephen@iccsd.k12.ia.us] Thursday, December 02, 2010 8:27 PM Paul Schultz; Machetta, Robert; MARTINEZ, MARTIN (ATTCINW); Lubke III, George W. (Bill); Scott Shepard; Jones, Doug [DCA]; Paul Bobek; John Bacon; Terry Coleman; walz.sarah@gmail.com; Christina Kuecker; Jones, Doug [DCA]; Thompson, Jerome [DCA]; Mitchell, Barbara [DCA]; Porter, Jack [DCA]; Mohr, Paula [DCA]; Carr, Jeff [DCA]; Christian, Ralph [DCA]; Candi Johnson; sjb@uscellular.blackberry.com; Steve Del Sordo (Stephen. Delsordo@fcc.gov); salvagebarn@ic-fhp.org Subject: AT&T relocation of antennae Attachments: 090852011 AT&T Mobility LLC DESMIA546 Morningside & East College Site Antenna Collocation Correspondence with IC HPC & Citizens.pdf Good Evening, From: Sent: To: The issue of the cellular antennae on the City High cupola was brought to my attention shortly after I arrived in Iowa City in July. Since that time we have worked with AT&T to have the antennae removed. After a significant period with no action, we have set a deadline of January 31 for the removal of the antennae. If AT&T or their sub-contractors have not completed the relocation of the antennae by that time, we will contract for their removal. Sincerely, Steve Steplim '.T. Murfeg Supcnntendent of Schools Iowa City Community School Distticl 509 S. Dubuquc Street Iowa City. IA 52240 Phone: 319-688-1000 Fax: 319-688-1009 Web: htlp:/lwww.iecsd.kI2.iaus/ CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE. fhis email communication. Includin(J attachments, IS covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act. 18 U.SC 2510-2521, IS Gonildential. and may be legally privileged ,md exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not tile Intended reClplEml or believe you received this communication in error, please reply to the sender indicating that fact and delete the copy you received In addition. retention. dissemination. distribution, copying, or otherwise use of the information contained In this communication IS stnctly prohibited unless expressly approved by the sender. Thanl\ you 12/312010 MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION NOVEMBER 10,2010 EMMA J. HARV AT HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, William Downing, David McMahon, Pam Michaud, Dana Thomann, Frank Wagner MEMBERS ABSENT: Andrew Litton, Ginalie Swaim, Alicia Trimble ST AFF PRESENT: Christina Kuecker OTHERS PRESENT: Sarah Catherall, Jane Murphy RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action) None. CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chairperson McMahon called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA: Michaud discussed the properties on North Lucas Street that were demolished. CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS: 304 Brown Street. Kuecker said this is an application for a temporary ramp at 304 Brown Street. She said the ramp would come out of the side door and extend to the driveway. Kuecker said it would be a modular-style, aluminum ramp that would not require footings. She said it could be removed once it is no longer needed or the property changes hands. Kuecker said that since it is a temporary situation, staff finds this to be acceptable for the property and recommends approval as presented in the application. Catherall, the daughter of the owners, said that because the house is a little bit on a hill, from the street one would barely see anything. She said one would have to walk halfway up the driveway to really see even the beginning of it. MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 304 Brown Street as presented. Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Litton, Swaim, and Trimble absent). Michaud suggested that this be something that could be approved by Chair and staff as a pre-approved item. Kuecker said it would have to be put on the agenda in the future as something to be discussed and voted on. 6 I 0 Oakland A venue. Kuecker said this project involves a window replacement for the second story bedroom and bathroom windows. She said the owners are proposing Quaker brand metal clad wood windows that have simulated divided lights. Kuecker said the Commission has approved this type of window in the past. She said the guidelines allow for window replacements that match the type, size, sash width, trim, use of divided lights, and overall appearance of the historic windows. Historic Preservation Commission November 10, 2010 Page 2 Kuecker said that in staffs opinion, the proposed windows are compatible with the architectural style of the house. She said staff recommends approval as presented in the application with the condition that the windows retain the overall appearance of the historic windows, including type, size, sash width, trim and use of divided lights. Wagner asked if the owners are replacing the two windows because they are not functional. Kuecker believed that was the case. She said the owners are replacing all the second story windows, not just two windows. MOTION: Baker moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 610 Oakland Avenue as presented in the application with the condition that the windows retain the overall appearance of the historic windows in the house, including type, size, sash width, trim and use of divided lights. Downing seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Litton. Swaim. and Trimble absent). 328/330 North Linn Street. Kuecker stated that this is an application to remove and reconstruct porches on the house. She said there are currently just decks on the house with an entrance on each comer of the house. Kuecker said the owners would like to build covered porches on them to be of a style that would be similar to what would have been on the house originally. She said the owners are modeling them off the porch that is on the neighboring house in terms of style, roof pitch, etc. Kuecker referred to a picture in the packet. Kuecker said the owners also want to demolish a garage that is on the Davenport Street side of the property. She said they would like to have two parking spaces instead of one garage. Regarding the garage, Kuecker said the guidelines state that the decision to approve a demolition of an outbuilding is on a case-by-case basis, with the Commission considering the condition, integrity, and architectural components of the outbuilding. She said staff does not feel this is an original garage and believes the demolition would have minimal impact on the historic integrity of the property. Regarding the porches, Kuecker said the guidelines recommend removing non-historic alterations and constructing ncw porches that are consistent with the historic building and building historic features. She said staff feels the proposed porch reconstruction projects help to return this house back to its original appearance. Kuecker said staff is recommending approval of the application as presented with the condition that all new windows be either solid wood or metal clad solid wood and retain the overall appearance of the existing original windows on the property, including type, size, sash width, trim and use of divided lights. She said that divided lights may be either true divided lights or with muntin bars that are adhered to both sides of the glass, but not with snap-in muntin bars. Kuecker said the reason for the window is that on the rear of the house, the owners want to change from one window to a double window to allow more light into the kitchen. She said staff feels that is appropriate for the style of the house, and because it is on the rear of the house, would not have a major impact on the historic integrity of the house. MOTION; Baldridge moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 328/330 North Linn Street as presented in the application with the following conditions: all new windows being either solid wood or metal clad solid wood and retaining the overall appearance of the existing original windows on the property, including type, size, sash width, trim and use of divided lights. Divided lights may be either true divided lights or with muntin bars that are adhered to both sides of the glass, but not with snap-in muntin bars. Ackerson seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Litton. Swaim. and Trimble absent), DISCUSSION OF 219 N GILBERT STREET: Murphy said that she and her husband own this property, and the roof is a mess. She said she wanted the benefit of the Commission's accumulated wisdom and experience regarding options for replacing the roof. Historic Preservation Commission November 10,2010 Page 3 Murphy said she had discussed this with the State Historic Preservation Office, and they did not really recommend the use of the Acrymax material, and they did not want the roof replaced with a metal roof either. She said the State says it cannot be documented that the house had a metal roof on it at the turn of the century. Murphy said the two State recommendations were to go back to a wooden shake roof or do asphalt shingle. She said if there is proof there was a metal roof on the house at the turn of the century, that would be sufficient for the State, but they don't think the metal roof was put on until the 20s or 30s. Downing said that an 80 or 90-year old metal roof would be more in character with this house than an asphalt shingle roof. Kuecker said that when Preucil School wanted to replace its roof, she found out that there were two schools of thought on this, with Marlys Svendsen, an architectural historian, feeling that the metal roof was in keeping with the architectural style and a historic alteration. Murphy said the estimate to replace the roof with metal was around $18,000. She asked the Commission about the use of Acrymax and why it is disparaged by the State historic preservation people. Baker said it has been used on her metal roof, and she does not have a problem. Downing said he knows the State allows asphalt shingles. He said, however, that to him, they are not anywhere close to equivalent to cedar shakes or to a metal roof. Murphy said she is not obligated to go with the State guidelines. She said she would prefer to do this the right way, however, and to satisfy the local Historic Preservation Commission more than anyone else. Murphy said that if she did follow the State/federal guidelines, this would apparently be eligible for some tax credits, although no grant money is available. Murphy said she is at an impasse and does not know what she should do here. Kuecker said she could contact Marlys Svendsen to get a quick opinion. Commission members discussed their experiences with Acrymax and different roofing materials. DISCUSSION OF CITY HIGH CUPOLA: Kuecker stated that the packet contained a letter that neighbors around City High wrote to the State Historic Preservation Office regarding the City High Cupola. She said the building is not a historic landmark, but it is probably eligible for that status. Kuecker said when alterations that require approval at the federal level are made to a building that is 50 years old or older, the Commission is allowed to comment on the building proposal. She said the Commission did comment on the proposal and said that any alteration needed to be sensitive to the design and not damage the historic character and such. Kuecker showed the before and after pictures of the cupola. She showed where the railing was cut out on all four comers and where the small antennas were put in its place. Kuecker said the neighbors felt that this is a disgrace to the cupola and said the wood has not even been painted where it was cut off. Kuecker said she could not find the design proposal in the files but said she felt fairly certain that if the Commission had seen this design, it would not have recoinmended favorably to the State Historic Preservation Office. Commission members recalled looking at a design that kept the antennas inside the cupola. Baker asked if there was any recourse at this point. Kuecker said she has been unable to contact the State Historic Preservation Office to know what it did approve. She said that if this is not what was approved by the State Historic Preservation Office, then the company that put up the antennas is in violation of federal law. Kuecker confirmed that it would be the company's obligation to fix this if it is not appropriate and would not be a responsibility of City High. Historic Preservation Commission November 10, 2010 Page 4 McMahon suggested sending a letter to support the neighbors who brought this to the Commission's attention. Michaud agreed. The consensus of the Commission was to have Kuecker draft a letter in strongest terms in support of the neighbors. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 14,2010. MOTION: Baker moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's October 14, 2010 meeting, as written. Thomann seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Litton. Swaim. and Trimble absent). OTHER: Kuecker said someone contacted her regarding finding someone who can put a chimney liner in a chimney. 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