HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 09-10 HPB Meeting Minutes RegularAGENDA
EDINA HERITAGE PRESERVATION BOARD
REGULAR MEETING
EDINA CITY HALL — COMMUNITY ROOM
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2013, 7:00 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL —Introduce New Student Member Andrew Brandt
111. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: August 13, 2013
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
During "Community Comment" the Heritage Preservation Board will invite residents to share new issues or concerns that
haven't been considered in the past 30 days by the Board or which aren't slated for future consideration. Individuals must limit
their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and
topic. Generally speaking, items that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment.
Individuals should not expect the Chair or Board to respond to their comments. Instead, the Board might refer the matter to
staff for consideration at a future meeting.
VI. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Certificate of Appropriateness
1. H-13-6 4621 Arden Avenue: Change to Street Facing Facade
2. Midcentury Modern Historic Context Study
VII. OTHER BUSINESS:
A. Plan for City Council Work Session: September I TI
1. 2013 Work Plan Review
2. 2014 Work Plan Proposal
VIII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
IX. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
X. STAFF COMMENTS
XI. NEXT MEETING DATE: October 8, 2013
XII. ADJOURNMENT
*The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the
way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large -print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861, 72 hours
in advance of the meeting.
i
t
MINUTES
Regular Meeting of the
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Edina City Hall — Community Room
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
7:00 p.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER 7:00 P.M.
11. ROLL CALL
Answering roll call was Chair Moore and Members Mellom, Christiaansen, O'Brien, Weber,
Sussman, McDermott, Holtan, Birdman, Johnson and Brandt. Staff present was Senior Planner,
Joyce Repya.
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Member McDermott moved to approve the meeting agenda. Member Birdman seconded the
motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES August 13, 2013
Member Birdman moved to approve the minutes from the August 13, 2013 meeting. Member
Christiaansen seconded the motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT — None
VI. REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
A. H-13-6 4621 Arden Avenue — Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)
for changes to the street facing fa4ade
Planner Repya explained that the subject property is located on the east side of the
4600 block of Arden Avenue. The home, constructed in 1927 is identified in the 1980
survey of the district as the only "Cubiform" style in the neighborhood. A detached
2 -car garage accessed by a driveway on the north side of the property is located in
the southeast corner of the property, 5 feet from the side lot line and 18.3 feet from
the rear lot line.
The proposed plan involves:
• Adding a new front entry porch and boxed -bay window projection on the
front street facing elevation; and
• A 2 -story addition and basement to the rear of the home. The addition will
increase the footprint of the home by 497 square feet and project five feet
beyond the existing south wall of the home.
The intent of the project is to embrace characteristics of Italian Renaissance, Mission
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
and Spanish Eclectic design and elaborate upon those elements with the proposed
changes.
Changes to the street facing facade include:
• A front entry porch measuring 4'x 8' (32 so with square wood columns, a
wider entry stoop and a timber -framed, gable end roof.
A boxed -bay of three double hung windows spaced with wood trim, wider
corner trim and a panel trimmed wall finish below the window sills which is
shown to the right of the front porch.
Ms. Repya pointed out to the board that since the proposed plans were submitted
the bay window has come into question due to the home having a non -conforming
front setback that had been overlooked. Houses on either side are set back further
than the subject home, thus the required setback must be the average of the two
neighboring homes requiring 37.8 feet; yet only a 32 foot setback is provided. Due to
the non -conforming front setback, nothing can be constructed to extend beyond the
existing front building wall, thus the bay window projecting two feet into the setback
would require a variance. Ms. Repya noted that standard procedures for COA
requiring a variance is for the COA to first be heard by the HPB; then if conditionally
approved pending receipt of a variance, the request would then move to the Planning
Commission for consideration of the variance with the recommendation for approval
from the HPB.
Completing an explanation of the proposed project, Ms. Repya added that the
addition to the rear of the home proposes to continue many of the features
introduced on the front facade. Additionally, the project will also include repairing
and refreshing the stucco; replacing existing double hung windows; new window sill
trim; and installing new roof shingles and wood dentil brackets at the undersides of
the existing roof overhangs on the front elevation.
Ms. Repya pointed out that Preservation Consultant Robert Vogel provided an evaluation of the
project and has recommended approval; however he was unaware that the bay window did not
comply with the setback requirements.
In closing, Ms. Repya advised the board that there are several approaches they could take when
considering the COA request. If deemed appropriate, they could approve the COA as
presented pending the owners then apply for a variance to allow the bay window projection
into the front setback; or the board could approve the COA with the exception of the front
window which the applicant could redesign and return to the October 8th HPB meeting for
consideration of the new window.
Ms. Repya also pointed out that earlier in the day from Kitty O'Dea, 4610 Bruce Avenue submitted an
email expressing concerns about the proposal. (Members of the board received a copy of the email.)
t
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
Mr. Michael Eckhardt, architect with Archos Architecture & Design, P.A. was present to
represent the homeowners.
Member Mellom commented that she found this home with the cubiform design to be unique in
the District, and there were elements of the proposal that she liked; however she was glad to
hear that the boxed bay window would not work.
Addressing questions regarding the design plan, Mr. Eckhardt explained that the proposal is
designed to capture the essence of several architectural styles found in the district (Italian
Renaissance, Mission and Spanish Eclectic). The property owners feel that the home is plain
and boring, and they hope to add style reminiscent with their former home in California.
Member Sussman observed that there are design elements introduced on the front fagade such
as dentil brackets, and horizontal sill trim that are not continued on other elevations of the
home. Mr. Sussman recognized that some of the elements may be found in the architectural
styles inspiring the plan; however by only introducing them on the front, the plan appears
incomplete.
Member Christiaansen questioned the standing metal seamed roof on the front porch;
commenting that it appeared modern and inconsistent with the other design elements being
introduced. She inquired as to whether they had considered an asphalt shingled roof on the
front porch.
Mr. Eckhardt responded that metal roofs can be found in the district and he does not believe
that it is a modern application, but rather the introduction of an element at a human scale.
Member Sussman informed Mr. Eckhardt that the HPB has had experience in the past with the
approval of a metal roof on a front porch. An earlier approval of such a roof was appealed to
the City Council, who overturned the approval and ordered the metal roof not be included in
the plan. Mr. Sussman added that considering the previous experience with the metal roof,
they may want to reconsider its application.
Member Weber commented that it appears design elements have been chosen from 3 historic
architectural styles, and wondered if it wouldn't have been better to choose one style. Mr.
Eckhardt responded that the elements he has introduced are of one style — Spanish Eclectic.
A brief discussion then ensued regarding the varied design elements introduced with the
proposed plan. Member Christiaansen observed that plans at a schematic level are difficult to
evaluate; perhaps samples of the materials being used would have been helpful. She added that
while new windows, a front entry and shutters make sense with plans for a redesign, the
additional design elements cause angst.
3
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013 •
Michael Birdman observed that consistency is the key to a successful project, and when
reviewing a plan one needs to determine how the elements presented work together.
Member Mellom agreed, pointing out that there are positive elements to the proposal, and she
would be willing to move approval subject to the removal of the lentil blocks on the front
eave; removal of the horizontal sill trim on the front; and removal of the boxed bay window.
Discussing the need for the HPB to review a replacement window if the boxed bay were
deleted from the plan, the board suggested that a motion for approval include a provision that
the revised front window plan come back to the HPB for consideration at the October 8th
meeting. Ms. Mellom agreed with the board and offered a motion for approval of COA subject
to the removal of the dentil blocks and horizontal sill trim on the front elevation, and a new
front window plan presented for consideration at the October 8th HPB meeting. Member
McDermott seconded the motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
B. Midcentury Modern Historic Context Study
Copies of the newly completed context study entitled "Suburban Development in Edina Since
1935: A Historic Context Study" were provided for the HPB to review prior to the meeting.
Planner Repya pointed out that the study will assist the HPB in establishing a framework for
making consistent, informed decisions about the preservation, protection and use of the city's
modern architecture and landscapes. She added that in light of the fact that a majority of Edina's
built environment falls within the purview of this context study it will serve as an important
foundation to guide the preservation of properties built within the midcentury period.
Expressing their impressions of the context study, board members offered the following
feedback:
Chair Moore — Found the study to be fascinating, and particularly liked the listing of plats or
subdivisions created during the period. He suggested that it would be interesting to see the
subdivisions imposed on top of the city map.
Member Mellom — Found the study to be very thorough; adding that it will be a helpful
resource to use as foundation for addressing the suburban development of Edina.
Member McDermott — Commented that she didn't realize that there was such a breadth of
home styles built during the context time frame.
Member Sussman — Found the study to be well done. He suggested that Appendix B. which
is a listing of the subdivisions in chronological order would be useful in an alphabetical format as
well. Board members agreed.
4
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
Member Holtan — Commented that she found the "Age Built" map of the city of page 58 to
be very interesting.
Member Birdman — Found that the summer tour of West Minneapolis Heights highlighted
many of the elements outlined in the context study; adding that the neighborhood will be an
interesting area to evaluate with the use of the study.
Member Christiaansen — Found the study to be very interesting and a useful tool for the
H PB.
Cory Strickland, a representative from Twin Cities Midcentury Modern Facebook having had an
opportunity to review the study earlier in the meeting asked about the intent of the study. He
pointed out that he is of the opinion that Midcentury Modern is an architecture style, and the
period covered in the study encompasses Midcentury Modern, but also Ramblers, Cape Cods,
Split-levels, etc.
The board thanked Mr. Strickland for his interest and agreed that Midcentury Modern is indeed
one of the architectural styles typical of the time period covered by the context study.
However, the term "midcentury modern" is also commonly used as a generic classification for
the post WWII era when much of the suburban development occurred.
Member Weber - Commented that the purpose of the study includes an evaluation of all the
architectural styles constructed during the period; of which Midcentury Modern is one.
Member Christiaansen agreed, adding that finding the pure Midcentury Modern style homes will
occur on a case-by-case basis, since that style of home is most likely found in every
neighborhood of the era.
Following a brief discussion when the board agreed that the context study will be a most helpful
planning tool, Member Birdman moved for adoption of the "Suburban Development in Edina
Since 1935: A Historic Context Study" Member Mellom seconded the motion. All voted aye.
The motion carried.
VII. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Plan for City Council Work Session: September 17`"
Planner Repya provided the board with a draft agenda for the upcoming September 17`h work
session with the City Council. She explained the purpose of the work session will be to review
the 2013 work plan approved by the City Council — providing them with the status of each
initiative identified. Ms. Repya added the since the boards and commissions are advisory to the
5
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
City Council, the work session provides an opportunity for the board to engage the Council in
a conversation regarding identified preservation efforts to insure that the work identified is in
sync with the city's preservation goals.
The board then engaged in a discussion of the role preservation should play in Edina's future.
Member Weber opined that the activities of the HPB shouldn't just be about houses, but rather
focus on all that makes Edina a desirable community — neighborhood appeal, shopping, parks,
etc.
Member Holtan asked the student HPB members what they find of value to preserve in the
community for residents 20 years from now. Student Member Brandt commented that he finds
the city's parks and greenspace to be very important.
Member Birdman added that it is also important to keep an eye on community values that are
important to preserve in Edina.
Member Weber agreed pointing out that he attended the public meetings where the results of
the recent community survey were released, and he found the results to be positive and
enlightening. He then observed that as the HPB looks to the future, it might be helpful to
include some questions about the importance of heritage preservation the next time the survey
is conducted. The questions could be posed to determine what existing elements in the
community will be valuable to the future of the city.
B. 2014 Work Plan Proposal
Planner Repya advised the board that the HPB's proposed 2014 work plan is due to Karen
Kurt, Assistant City Manager on September 24th in preparation for a meeting of the board and
commission chairs with the City Council on October Is'.
She explained that the items to be
included will be those identified in 2013 which have yet to be accomplished, as well as work
items which may be identified in the upcoming work session with the City Council.
Ms. Repya also recommended that the following initiatives which had been included on the
2013 work plan be moved to the "Ongoing Responsibilities" section:
• Voluntary Heritage Landmark Designations, and
• Increase Board Member Participation at State & National Preservation Conferences
She also suggested that the initiative to update accessibility to the Cahill School and Grange
Hall be postponed until the lifespan of the existing ramping system has been evaluated, so the is
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
replacement takes place when necessary. Board members agreed that those suggested
changes made sense.
VIII. CORRESPONDENCE & PETITIONS - None
IX. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Member Sussman observed that the Edina Historical Society has done an outstanding job of
planning and advertising the upcoming Historic House Tour on September 15`h with several
great articles placed in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Edina Sun Current and Edina Magazine. The
articles each included photographs and descriptions of homes with an explanation of their
renovation projects. Mr. Sussman added that docents for the tour include volunteers from the
League of Women Voters of Edina, Edina Garden Council and the Morningside Women's' Club.
The board agreed that the tour will not only celebrate Edina's past in recognition of this
Quasquicentennia) year, but also provide an excellent showcase of the preservation efforts the
homeowners have undertaken to maintain and enhance their homes. Member Sussman then
presented a motion to send the Edina Historical Society a letter applauding the excellent
planning and marketing undertaken to promote the Historic Housing Tour that celebrates
Edina's past and fosters an appreciation for Edina's historic housing stock. Member Mellom
seconded the motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
Member Mellom announced that her home at 4506 Arden Avenue will be one of the three
homes included on the historic housing tour. She encouraged fellow board members to attend
the tour; pointing out that she will have an accordion player serenading the attendees in the
back yard as she serves spa water. Board members thanked Ms. Mellom for opening her
Country Club District home to the public, and agreed that they looked forward to receiving
feedback on the tour at the October meeting.
X. STAFF COMMENTS
Annual Work Session with the City Council will take place on Tuesday, September 17`h at
6:00 p.m. in the Community Room at City Hall. Ms. Repya added that attendance at the work
session is included when calculating a board member's attendance record. Board members
thanked Ms. Repya for the reminder.
Draft 2014 Work Plans must be completed by Tuesday, September 24`h. The City Council
will meet with the Chair of all the boards and commissions to discuss their respective plans on
Tuesday, October ISt. Chair Bob Moore stated that he has the date on his calendar and will
report on the City Council's response to the proposed 2014 plan at the October 8th HPB
meeting.
7
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
September 10, 2013
XI. NEXT MEETING DATE October 8, 2013
XII. ADJOURNMENT 8:52 p.m.
Member McDermott moved for adjournment at 8:52 p.m. Member Mellom seconded the
motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Joyce Repya
•
11