HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 11-12 HPB Meeting Minutes RegularAGENDA
EDINA HERITAGE PRESERVATION BOARD
REGULAR MEETING
EDINA CITY HALL — COMMUNITY ROOM
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013, 7:00 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
111. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: October 8, 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-13-8 4400 W. 50th St. "Baird House" —Construction of anew outbuilding
2. H-13-9 4916 Sunnyside Rd. — Changes to the street facing facade.
_ VII. OTHER BUSINESS:
A. Edina Heritage Landmark Determination of Eligibility — Policy statement
B. Suburban Development in Edina Report — Evaluate suggested recommendations
C. Southdale Center Historic Interpretation - Update
D. W. 54th Street Bridge over Minnehaha Creek — Historic interpretation update
E. Plan for December 9th Televised Meeting
VIII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
IX. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
X. STAFF COMMENTS
X1. NEXT MEETING DATE: MONDAY, DECEMBER 9T" (RESCHEDULED)
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.
MINUTES
Regular Meeting of the
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Edina City Hall — Community Room
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
7:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER 7:00 P.M.
11. ROLL CALL
Answering roll call was Chair Moore and Members Mellom, O'Brien, Weber, Sussman,
McDermott, Birdman, Johnson and Brandt. Absent were members Holtan and Christiaansen.
Staff present was Senior Planner, Joyce Repya. Preservation Consultant Robert Vogel was also
in attendance.
Ill. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Member O'Brien moved to approve the meeting agenda. Member Mellom seconded the
motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES October 8, 2013
Member Birdman moved to approve the minutes from the October 8, 2013 meeting. Member
Mellom seconded the motion. All voted aye. The motion carried.
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT — None
VI. REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
A. H-13-8 4400 W. 50th Street (Baird House) — Construction of a new
outbuilding on the property
Planner Repya explained that the historic Baird House is located on the north side of West
50th Street west of Bruce Avenue and East of Edina Circle. The home, built in 1886 is part of
the original George and Sarah Baird farmstead. The property was listed on the National
Register of Historic Places in 1980 and designated an Edina Heritage Landmark (EHL) in 2003.
The nomination study associated with the heritage landmark designation of the property
identified the existing outbuilding as "A one-story frame outbuilding, itself an amalgam of
different structural elements assembled at different times". Located near the historic home, the
nomination study points out that the outbuilding or "barn" does contribute to the historic
character of the property. However, the property's plan of treatment specifies that the
structure may be removed as long as photographic documentation of the structure is provided
prior to demolition so that a body of information will be preserved. That being the case, a
COA is not required for the barn's demolition; and if demolished, there is no requirement that
the outbuilding be replaced.
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
The request under consideration entails construction of a new barn on the site of the historic
outbuilding as established by city ordinance 850.20, subd. 10. AA., requiring a COA for new
construction built on EHL designated properties.
Ms. Repya pointed out that the property owners, Brad and Arlene Forrest have explained their
goal in replacing the existing "barn" is to construct a sound structure that is similar in footprint
and appearance to the existing building. The narrative included with the COA application
pointed out that the proposed barn will bear a strong resemblance to the old barn; having a
two stall garage bays on the east side and a storage/work room on the west. The main
difference in appearance is found on the front fagade where the westerly portion is slightly
recessed, thus providing a covered entrance for a service door. The building has been designed
to complement the property, while still maintaining the utilitarian design of the original
outbuilding with selected board and batten siding and a metal roof. If possible, they also
propose to reuse the roof ventilator from the existing building.
Preservation Consultant Vogel provided the board with a written evaluation in which he
observed that the digital photographs and written information submitted in relation to the old
"barn" does a good job of preserving an accurate record of the building prior to demolition and
satisfies the requirements of the plan of treatment. He pointed out that the documentation
will be placed in the permanent records of the HPB, where it can be used in research and other
preservation activities.
Mr. Vogel advised the board that the proposed plans for the replacement outbuilding
demonstrate a structure that will be architecturally compatible with the size, scale, color,
material and character of the historic house. No historic fabric will be lost and the essential
form and integrity of the Baird house will not be impaired. Restoration of the old "barn" is not
required. The proposed new construction incorporates traditional building forms, materials
and detailing but does not attempt to create an earlier or faux historical appearance. Mr. Vogel
completed his evaluation with a recommendation for approval of the COA subject to the plans
presented and a year built plaque to be displayed on the structure.
Planner Repya stated that she agreed with Consultant Vogel's observations and also
recommended approval of the COA request subject to the plans presented and a year built
plaque installed on the exterior of the structure.
Findings supporting the approval recommendation included:
• No important historic architectural features or fabric of the home will be destroyed.
• The proposed alterations are compatible with the historic character of the Baird House.
• The plans provided with the subject request clearly illustrate the scale and scope of the project.
• The information provided fulfills the requirements set out in the historic Baird house's
plan of treatment.
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
Property owners Brad and Arlene Forrest were present to address board members'
questions.
Board members asked for clarification regarding some of the design elements
proposed for the new outbuilding. Property owner Arlene Forrest answered their
questions and provided several design boards which depicted the proposed structure.
She pointed out that while the plans call out white trim boards, they are opting not
to include those. She also pointed out that they are not going to install windows on
the north (rear) elevation as depicted on the plans; however a window will be
installed on the east and west elevations to provide daylight into the workspaces.
Member Sussman stated that he was pleased with the submittal and appreciated
Ms. Forrest's clarification of the plans. He then asked that the changes identified by
Ms. Forrest be identified in the final plans approval.
Following a brief discussion, Member McDermott moved for approval of the COA
subject to the plans presented reflecting the changes identified by the homeowner.
Member Birdman seconded the motion. Members Sussman, O'Brien,
Weber, Moore, Birdman, and McDermott voted aye. Member Mellom voted
nay, stating that while she liked the plans for the outbuilding, it goes against her
principals to support the demolition of one of the few remaining historic farm
buildings in the city. The motion carried.
B. H-13-9 4916 Sunnyside Road —Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)
for changes to the street facing fa4ade
Planner Repya explained that the subject property is located on the 4900 block of Sunnyside
Road abutting Hwy 100 to its west. The home, constructed in 1945 is an American Colonial
Revival style with an attached, front loading single stall garage, accessed by a driveway on the
north side of the property.
The proposed plans for the home include adding a 4' x 7.5' front entry canopy and converting
the front loading single stall attached garage to 2 stories of living space and building a single -
story, attached 2 -car garage in the rear yard. The plans illustrate the addition of a side porch
on the north side of the home in front of the former attached garage/proposed living space.
The width of the converted garage will be reduced from 14 feet to 7 feet to provide for a 12.5
foot wide driveway on the north side of the home, providing accessing to the new attached
garage in the rear yard. A new curb cut will not be required; however a new driveway is
proposed. Ms. Repya pointed out that the materials proposed for project include cedar shingles
on the front facing facade and north wall of the porch (to include the 2nd story); and LP
Smartside composite siding on the remaining structure.
Consultant Vogel provided the board with a written evaluation in which he observed that
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
because the subject property was constructed in 1945, it technically falls outside the district's
period of significance; however since it is over fifty years old and physically located within the
district's boundaries, the HPB needs to consider its potential heritage resource value.
Notwithstanding the post -1944 date of construction, the subject property contributes to the
historical significance of the Country Club District because it is a representative example of the
"neo-colonial" style dwellings that were built during the latter part of the district's period of
historical significance.
The Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation and the Country Club District Plan
of Treatment allow for the alteration of street -facing facades and the construction of new
garages. City policy encourages homeowners in the district to preserve the distinguishing
original qualities and historic character of their property: fapde alterations and structural
additions which make possible "an efficient contemporary use" are considered appropriate
when the when the new work is visually compatible with the district's architectural characters
and preserves those portions of a house which are significant to its historical and architectural
values.
Mr. Vogel's opinion concluded that the proposed remodeling at 4916 Sunnyside Road will not
have an adverse effect on the historical significance and integrity of the Country Club District.
The subject property is not a significant heritage preservation resource in its own right,
although it does contribute to the overall character of the district as a whole. The proposed
facade alterations are appropriate and compatible with the character of the house and the
neighborhood. No significant architectural details will be destroyed or obscured. The new
attached two -car garage is appropriately scaled and sited on the rear elevation, facing Highway
100. The cedar shake siding that is proposed to be applied to the street facing fagade and the
side porch (the converted one -car attached garage) is an appropriate contemporary design
treatment. Considering the aforementioned, Mr. Vogel recommended approval of the COA
subject to the plans presented.
Ms. Repya agreed with Consultant Vogel's observations and recommended approval of the
COA request subject to the plans presented. Findings supporting the approval recommendation
included:
• The proposed remodeling will not have an adverse effect on the historical significance
and integrity of the Country Club District.
• No significant architectural details will be destroyed or obscured.
• The proposed alterations are compatible with the historic character of the house and
neighborhood.
• The new attached two -car garage is appropriately scaled and sited on the rear elevation
facing Highway 100.
• The cedar shake siding that is proposed for the street facing facade and side porch is an
appropriate contemporary design treatment.
• The information provided supporting the subject Certificate of Appropriateness meets the
requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and the Country Club District Plan of Treatment.
4
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
Ms. Repya added that an email supporting the COA was received from Larry & Sue Seckinger, 4912
Sunnyside Road, abutting neighbors to the north.
Property owners Steve and Amy Schmitz were present to address questions of the
board.
Members Sussman and Weber asked for several clarifications of the proposed plans which
were provided by property owner Steve Schmitz.
Member Moore commented that he liked the new front entry, pointing out that it adds nice
detail to the front facade of the home. Mr. Schmitz commented that as they developed the
plans for their home, a great deal of research was involved to ensure that the design was
consistent with the Colonial Revival style of the home. He added that they were also very
particular with the contractor they chose, wanting to be sure that the company was familiar
with rehabilitating the historic homes in the Country Club District.
Following a brief discussion, Member Weber moved for approval of the COA application
subject to the plans presented. Member McDermott seconded the motion. All voted aye.
The motion carried.
VII. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Edina Heritage Landmark Determination of Eligibility
Consultant Vogel explained that The Edina Heritage Landmarks (EHL) program, authorized by
Section 850.20 of the City Code, exists to identify heritage preservation resources worthy of
preservation and consideration in community planning; and as part of its Comprehensive Plan,
the City of Edina has adopted policies that encourage the preservation, protection, and use of
significant heritage resources.
The City Code authorizes the HPB to evaluate the heritage preservation values of historic
resources and issue findings of significance — referred to in the ordinance as "determinations of
eligibility" (essentially the same process carried out by the State Historic Preservation Office
for properties evaluated for National Register eligibility). The HPB determination of eligibility
(DOE) is basically a decision that a particular property meets the Edina Heritage Landmark
criteria for historic significance and integrity and has been deemed worthy of preservation. A
DOE does not require property owner consent or city council action; nor does it automatically
lead to rezoning of a property as a heritage landmark. Unlike properties with EHL designations,
properties determined eligible are not subject to a plan of treatment or required to comply
with the Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for proposed changes.
Mr. Vogel observed that while in practice the HPB has an understanding with how properties
determined eligible differ from those "designated" EHL's, he recommended that the board
adopt a clear policy with regard to the preservation of properties "determined eligible" for
5
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
heritage landmark designation. He added that the approach he recommends is similar to the
policy used by the National Register program.
Mr. Vogel pointed out that the purpose of the policy would be to require city officials to
consider the effects of City of Edina undertakings (public works projects, certain large
development projects where the city is directly involved, any activity that is funded by the city)
on significant heritage preservation resources, including properties with DOEs issued by the
HPB as well as those properties zoned as Edina Heritage Landmarks. Vogel added that the list
of properties determined eligible by the HPB would become the authoritative guide to be used
by city staff, the city council, boards and commissions to indicate those heritage preservation
resources which need to be considered in project planning. He added that he understood that
this practice is currently part of the planning staff's procedures, but not set out in a policy
statement.
Mr. Vogel elaborated that the adoption of a DOE policy would have the following positive
outcomes:
• Properties determined eligible for heritage landmark designation would become part of
an official list of Edina properties deemed historically significant and worthy of
preservation.
• More heritage preservation resources would receive protection from the adverse
effects of city -sponsored development activities.
• The work of the HPB would become better integrated with other city planning for
community development, transportation, economic development, etc.
• The DOE process would not impose any new regulations on privately owned
properties.
• Determined eligible properties would acquire prestige and distinction as significant
heritage preservation resources.
In closing, Mr. Vogel proposed the following policy statement for consideration:
a) It shall be the official policy of the City of Edina to avoid any adverse effects to significant
heritage preservation resources (defined as properties designated or determined eligible
for designation as Edina Heritage Landmarks) arising from public works and other types
of development projects sponsored, funded, or assisted by the city.
b) The City of Edina will consider the effects of city projects, including projects that involve
city funding, on properties that have been designated Edina Heritage Landmarks or have
been determined eligible for designation as Heritage Landmarks by the Edina Heritage
Preservation Board. City officials, departments, boards and commissions will afford the
Heritage Preservation Board and its staff a reasonable opportunity to review and
comment on such projects.
c) If a significant heritage preservation resource must be damaged or destroyed as a result
of any City of Edina undertaking, the Heritage Preservation Board shall be authorized to
N.
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
make a reasonable effort to recover important historical, architectural, or archaeological
data the property contains.
The board had a lengthy discussion on the treatment of properties "determined eligible" for EHL
designation. Member Moore recalled a suggestion made at the work session with the City Council
regarding the creation of an in-between heritage landmark designation that honored a property, but
required no adherence to rules or regulations; and wondered if the "determined eligible" designation
didn't fit that nitch. Many on the board agreed, but wondered if there was not a better term that could
be used that would be more appealing and potentially marketable. Planner Repya suggested the term
"Honor Roll of Historic Properties", noting that achieving the honor roll is well respected. The board
agreed that having an honor roll of historic properties could be a positive tool to promote future
heritage landmark designations.
Following a discussion regarding the content of the proposed DOE policy, the board agreed that they
would like the language to be consistent with policies they have adopted in the past. Member O'Brien
volunteered to research other HPB policies and recommend revised language for the board to consider.
The board agreed to table the discussion of the proposed DOE policy to a future meeting. No formal
action was taken.
B. Suburban Development in Edina Report
Planner Repya explained that The Executive Summary of the Suburban Development in Edina
Since 1935: A Historic Context Study was completed and will be included with the main report on
the HPB website page. She added that City staff will also ensure that the study is integrated
with the historic context statements outlined in the city's Comprehensive Plan.
Ms. Repya pointed out that the summary provides a thumbnail sketch of the important
elements of the study; as well as defining the information gaps and a recommended action plan.
At this time, Consultant Vogel has asked for guidance from the board regarding a timeframe for
implementation.
Board members observed that they accomplished the first of the six action plans by adopting
the context study. The remaining action items discussed were:
• Develop an initial list of 20 to 50 Midcentury Modern buildings and landscapes that the
HPB considers historically important and worthy of further research.
• Continue the neighborhood survey according to the priorities set out in the 2008
comprehensive plan; review and adjust survey strategies for the upcoming plan revision
w (scheduled for 2015-16) to reflect the findings of the present historic context study.
7
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
• The redundancy of the most common Midcentury Modern property types calls out for a
modification of heritage resource identification and evaluation methods—research
designs for future surveys should emphasize neighborhood -specific historic context
research, windshield reconnaissance of selected subdivisions (or selected blocks within
subdivisions), and intensive survey of properties believed to be well preserved,
representative examples of important resource types. In light of the large number of
residential subdivisions platted between 1935 and 1975, it may be more cost-effective to
conduct neighborhood -level surveys in the areas with the oldest housing stock first.
• More emphasis on cultural landscapes is needed. Because they are often fragile, it is
important to identify and record historic gardens and other mid -20`h century landscapes,
including examples of vernacular forms. In addition to identifying properties potentially
eligible for heritage landmark designation, such a project would also be an important
educational tool and an opportunity to promote awareness of Edina's cultural
landscapes. The HPB should consider undertaking a suburban landscape survey in
collaboration with neighborhood groups, garden clubs, or the Edina Historical Society.
• Research should be carried out to identify important architects, designers, landscape
architects, engineers, developers, builders, and contractors who worked in Edina
between circa 1935 and 1975.
Board members agreed that there is no expectation that the action items should or need to be
addressed immediately, however, to ensure that the study remains vibrant; its implementation
should be taken into consideration as the HPB addresses the annual work plans.
Member Sussman added that the board needs to be cognizant of what is feasible to budget from
both a time and financial standpoint. Member Weber agreed, pointing out that identifying
resources from the Edina Historical Society would be a very good start. He added that the
new committee formed to assist residents in exploring the history of their homes could get the
public involved in the research identified in the action plan.
Mr. Sussman liked the proposed public involvement in the project, and suggested that it be
promoted during the televised December meeting. Board members agreed that would be a
very good idea and a great way to promote the work of the HPB.
C. Southdale Center Historic Interpretation - Update
Planner Repya reported that in light of the national attention showered on Southdale Center
for being included in the PBS special "10 Buildings that Changed America", she sent Ben Martin,
the center's General Manager an email to ask if they had plans for a display recognizing
Southdale's unique history. Mr. Martin responded by asking what we had in mind, so Ms. Repya
explained that some type of pictorial interpretation of the mall's history would do an excellent 0
0
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
job of recognizing its importance to not only Edina, but the entire Twin Cities region. She
added that since the Garden Court serves much the same purpose it did in Southdale's early
days; somewhere near the current information center/escalator area would seem a fitting spot.
Ms. Repya also shared with Mr. Martin that some large local corporations such as 3M, General
Mills, American Express (IDS), and even downtown Macy's have photographic displays of their
successes over the years. In closing, Ms. Repya offered the assistance of the HPB in creating a
historic interpretation, and welcomed a future meeting with him. It has been several weeks
since Ms. Repya corresponded with Mr. Martin; however she agreed to keep the board advised
if and when she has future contact with him. The board thanked Ms. Repya for the follow-thru
they requested at the October meeting, and expressed their hope that Southdale Center will
be open to creating a permanent visual history display.
D. W. 54th Street Bridge over Minnehaha Creek - Update
Planner Repya reported that after the October HPB meeting, she contacted the Leslie Yetka,
the Education Manager with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District regarding the potential
for creating an educational interpretation like that installed at the Mill Site near Browndale
Bridge. Ms. Yetka responded that at this time they had no formal plans for educational signage
in the Arden Park area. However, the Watershed District has been working with the group
Citizens for Minnehaha Creek Corridor to develop some signage standards along the creek,
including educational/interpretive signage at relevant locations. Ms. Yetka explained that the
goal would be to work with cities and have some consistent signage along the entire creek to
enhance the creek experience. She added that they are currently in the very early stages and
the board hasn't discussed how to proceed. Also, they have not yet engaged the cities;
however she promised to keep me in the loop as the project unfolds. Ms. Repya concluded
that she would let the board know when she receives further communication from Ms. Yetka.
The board thanked Ms. Repya for the report. No formal action was taken.
E. Plan for December 9" Televised Meeting
Planner Repya reminded the board that their regular December meeting which will be the
annual televised meeting has been rescheduled from Tuesday, December 10`h to Monday
December 9th to accommodate the Council's need to hold public hearings on road
improvements on the IOth.
The board briefly discussed the format of the meeting. Ms. Repya explained that in addition to
the conducting the regular business (potential COA's, etc.) the televised meeting is an excellent
opportunity for the board to share their mission, and spark public interest in the heritage
preservation program. The last televised meeting in December 2011 included a brief overview
of the work accomplished that year as well as a look to the future. Ms. Repya suggested using
Edina Heritage Preservation Board
Minutes
November 12, 2013
the HPB 2013 Annual Report that was submitted to the MN State Historic Preservation Office
as an outline for the agenda — board members agreed.
The board briefly discussed how the televised meeting will provide an opportunity for some
positive PR for their current initiatives, such as the "Explore the History of Your Home"
project. Planner Repya promised keep the board apprised of the plans for the televised meeting.
No formal action was taken.
YIII. CORRESPONDENCE & PETITIONS
• Copy of a future article for the Twin Cities Bungalow Club newsletter entitled "Edina offers
Historic Designation to Bungalow Owners".
• Letter from Council Member Joni Bennett representing the Quasquicentennial Committee
IX. CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Member Weber advised the board that he has been working on a design for a home in
Southwest Minneapolis, and discovered that the City of Minneapolis requires projects where
60% or more of the home is demolished to go before the city's Heritage Preservation Board
for them to evaluate the heritage significance of the property. Board members found the
practice very interesting, and commented that with all of the residential demolitions occurring
in Edina, such a practice could become a full-time job.
X. STAFF COMMENTS
Planner Repya reminded the board that they received a letter in their packets from Council
Member Bennett who serves on the Quasquicentennial Committee. In the letter, Ms. Bennett
invited them to attend the Founders Day festivities on Thursday, December 12`h. Starting at
5:00 pm with an open house at the Cahill School/Grange Hall, the festivities then move across
the street to City Hall for a program and social hour, wrapping up at 8:00 pm. The board was
pleased to receive the invitation, and looked forward to celebrating the City's 125`' anniversary.
Xi. NEXT MEETING DATE Monday, December 9, 2013
XII. ADJOURNMENT 8:45 p.m.
Member Birdman moved for adjournment at 8:45 p.m. Member Mellom seconded the motion.
All voted aye. The motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Joyce Repya
10