Everett Historical Commission

Everett Historical Commission Meeting Summary July 26, 2022 Commissioners Staff Guest Amelia Hieb, Chair Becky McCrary Arnold Morrison, Vice Chair Steve Fox Patrick Hall Madison Vazquez Collin Palen The meeting convened at 6:33 pm with a roll call of Commissioners. Acceptance of Agenda The commission accepted the July 26, 2022, agenda. Citizen comments (for items not on tonight’s agenda) There were no citizen comments for items not on the agenda. Approval of Prior Meeting Summary The meeting summary for the prior Historical Commission meeting held on June 28, 2022, was reviewed. A motion to approve the meeting summary was made by Commissioner Hall, seconded by Commissioner Morrison, and approved unanimously, with Commissioner Fox abstaining. Signage Discussion with Dan Eernissee (Economic Development Director) Mr. Eernissee reported that he spoke with Washington State about signage on I-5. He explained that he believes the blue signs are more costly then worth the benefit. These costs including the initial sign and an annual fee committing to future budget expenses and are really suited more for advertising rather than community way finding. The Commissioners discussed the brown freeway signs and believe these are more appropriate. Mr. Eernissee agreed and would like to package the historic signage district with the “creative district” signage he is working on signage. The Commissioners will check in with Mr. Eernissee in a few months on a potential path forward. Working Session on Updating “Hands On!” rehabilitation handbook Commissioners began work on updating the “Hand’s-On!” rehabilitation handbook. Summary of Discussion: - Think about handbook in macro/micro contexts o Macro: how does this information reflect policy? Does comprehensive plan dictate updated policy that should be reflected in handbook? o Micro: how does handbook flow in terms of individual homeowner use? What’s the most effective/efficient decision tree to guide users to applicable information? - Connect residents to broad strokes (handbook as “forest”) and detailed processes & resources (link to code, references, resources as “trees”) 1 - How do we resolve conflicts both IN the document and with external authorities (either governmental or area historical)? - Updates in content are necessary, but the greatest overhaul is in updating the framing/delivery (conversational, engaging, current, relevant) - Photos/sketches in existing brochure, update with new sections to be cohesive & approachable throughout - Substantive additions: o Midcentury modern architectural styles o Energy efficiency updates o Hazardous materials disclaimer/resources o Comprehensive map of historical densities o Capture reward & acknowledgement programs for outstanding renovations (Brown Awards, Everett Register plaques, Historic Everett’s “established” plaques) - Anticipate draft completion 4Q 2022 Action Items - Commissioner Morrison: overview Midcentury Modern architectural styles - Commissioner Palen: efficiency updates throughout - Commissioner Hall: highlight various designations of historically dense areas on Everett map - Commissioner Fox: capture existing guides/resources for easy cross-reference - Chair Hieb: compare code & handbook to identify and limit conflicts - Staff Becky McCrary: review handbook in light of Comprehensive Plan and policy implications, check with Communications on capacity to aid final revised layout. Will work with Staff Alex Byrd. Next Meeting (date and subject) The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at 6:30pm. Staff and Commissioner Comments Commissioner Hall reports that he spoke with Rainbow Plaques and the historic plaques are still available through them. There were no other staff or commissioner comments. A recording of the full meeting is available upon request. 2