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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1989 01-24 HPB Meeting Minutes RegularA G E N D A REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA HERITAGE PRESERVATION BOARD TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 1989 AT 7:30 P.M. EDINA CITY HALL MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM I. INTRODUCTIONS: Joyce Repya, Associate Planner II. SOUTHDALE MALL: Ideas for historic commemoration III. EDINA THEATRE: Renovation Summary IV. GOAL SETTING FOR 1989: V. OTHER BUSINESS: VI. NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING DATE: February 28, 1989 at 7:30 p.m. VII. ADJOURNMENT: MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA HERITAGE PRESERVATION BOARD TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 1989, AT 7:30 P.M. EDINA CITY HALL MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman, Gordon Stuart, John Metil, Gary Nyberg and Lois Wilder STAFF PRESENT: Joyce Repya I. INTRODUCTION: Joyce Repya the new Associate Planner introduced herself to the Board and gave a brief explanation of her background and experiences. In closing, Ms. Repya expressed her eagerness for working with the Heritage Preservation Board. II. SPECIAL CONCERN: John Metil advised the Board that he had to leave the meeting early and would like them to address a concern he had expressed at a previous meeting. Mr. Metil explained to the Board that he had noticed that a home at 4225 Country Club Road has been involved in extensive remodeling to the point that the entire exterior character of the home had been changed. Mr. Metil noted that stucco had been applied to the exterior replacing the wood siding and the roof on the garage is now modern and peaked; these changes he felt were not in character with the original American Colonial structure. Mr. Metil then asked why the proposed changes to the home were not brought before the Board for review and input. Ms. Repya explained to the Board that this home was granted a 3 foot sideyard setback for construction of a double garage in February of 1988. At that time the remodeling plans were submitted to the planning staff and the determination was made that they met the requirements relative to the variance. She added that this home as built in 1943 and was identified in the survey of the homes in the Country Club District as being complementary in nature, incorporating both the American Colonial and American Gothic Revival styles of architecture. Discussion ensued regarding the changes made to this home and other homes in the Country Club of which the Board had no knowledge. Ms. Repya pointed out that in February 1988, when the variance for the subject home was being considered by the Board of Appeals, the Planning Department was experiencing a period of flux between when Harold Sand left and Patsy Johnson joined the staff in May 1988. She added that now that she was representing the Planning Staff, she would carefully review any building plans being presented from the Country Club District, and if it appeared that the exterior character of the home was being altered, she would advise the Board of the proposal. Gary Nyberg stated that when the Heritage Preservation Board demands to review all the remodeling plans that arise from the Country Club District certain owners rights are impinged upon, and while it's fine to review plans, just where do we draw the line to determine who comes in for review or who doesn't ? Following a brief discussion, John Metil then made a motion that Ms. Repya carefully review Building plans submitted from the Country Club District and advise the Board of proposals in which the exterior character of the home was being changed. Lois Wilder seconded the motion; all voted aye, the motion carried. III. HERITAGE PRESERVATION BOARD APPOINTMENTS: Gary Nyberg pointed out that he was concerned about the professional make up of the Board since the departure or Foster Dunwoodie and Harold Sand; explaining that the Board lacks the input of individuals with professional design experience. Mr. Nyberg added that he felt the Board was voting more on whim than from standpoint of knowledge and expertise. Discussion ensued regarding the process of Board appointment. Mrs. Wilder stated that she felt professional expertise should be considered when appointing new board members, stressing the fields of architecture and historic preservation. Mr. Nyberg stated that perhaps staff should actively recruit candidates who would fill the architectural and historic preservation gap that presently exists. Discussion ensued; no action was taken. IV. SOUTHDALE MALL: The Board discussed the possible options for commemorating Southdale Mall for its historic significance as the nations first enclosed mall. Mr. Nyberg reminded the Board that at their last meeting in October, Patsy Johnson explained that Southdale was not eligible for rezoning to Heritage Preservation District because it was not 50 years old. He pointed out that some type of a commemorative plaque would be in keeping with the goal of recognizing Southdale for its significant 1950's architecture, particularly in the center courtyard. Discussion ensued regarding the present remodeling plans and how the commemoration would work in conjunction with the new opening. Mr. Nyberg suggested the possibility of a basrelief of the interior court done in bronze; something with dimension with words underneath describing the significance of Southdale's unique tunnels, heating system, etc. The Board agreed that Southdale is definitely an important landmark in Edina that deserves commemoration. Ms Repya told the Board that she would pursue the possibilities of commemoration with the administration at Southdale and report back at the next meeting. No formal action was taken. John Metil excused himself from the meeting. Due to the lack of a quorum, the members of the Board continued with a conversational meeting. V, EDINA THEATRE: The remaining members of the Board discussed the changes that had taken place at the theatre; agreeing that an excellent job was done on the building, especially the brickwork in the back. Mr. Nyberg pointed out that he did not agree with the pink/blue color choice, explaining that the colors were most likely chosen on a whim with no research or consideration made toward being consistent with the Art Deco Era. Mr. Nyberg added that the firm he works for originally built the theatre and they never would have used the pink/blue color scheme. He observed that creams, greens and maroons were much more consistent with the era. Mr. Nyberg asked that a letter he wrote to the Board dated September 22, 1988 be added to the record. In this letter, Mr...Nyberg questioned the pink/blue color scheme pointing out that they were inconsistent with the 1930's sign design. In closing, Mr. Nyberg suggested further research be done into color schemes of the period. Continuing the conversation, Mr. Nyberg stated that he felt the developer did a commendable job on the remodeling; adding that he was pleased that they came before the Heritage Preservation Board with their plans. The fact that they were originally planning offices and the men's room in the abutting store fronts, then went back to the drawing board to redesign allowing the stores to remain points to the fact that they were most cooperative with the City. No formal action was taken. VI. GOAL SETTING FOR 1989• The Board discussed some of their past projects with questions about their present status. Ms. Repya agreed to report back to the Board on the following: 1. Bicentennial plaques for historic sites in Edina. 2. Bicentennial scrap book. 3. The driving tour of Edina. Discussion ensued relative to the old churches and farm houses in the City. Lois Wilder pointed out that she felt the old farm homes are particularly interesting. VII. OTHER BUSINESS: Gordon Stuart asked the remaining members of the Board their opinions of an appreciation letter to Patsy Johnson for her participation from May -October 1988. Lois Wilder and Gary Nyberg both stated they thought it would be a good idea. Joyce Repya offered to draft such a letter to submit at the next Heritage Preservation Board Meeting. No formal action was taken. VIII. NEXT MEETING DATE: February 28, 1989 at 7:30 p.m. IX. ADJOURNMENT: 9.05 P.M. VIce . Rep3/a