Historic Review Board
Regular MeetingFort Mill, SC · October 8, 2019
Minutes
MINUTES
TOWN OF FORT MILL
HISTORIC REVIEW BOARD
October 8th, 2019
Council Chambers – 112 Confederate Street
4:30 PM
Present: Chairman Louis Roman, Carmen Banks, Megan Brinton, Scott Couchenour, Samantha Nifong,
Planning Director Penelope Karagounis, Senior Planner Alex Moore
Guests: Kevin Carpenter, John Franco, B. Bayles Mack, Esq.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Louis Roman called the meeting to order at 4:35 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Roman entertained a motion to approve the minutes from the September 10th, 2019, meeting as presented.
Scott Couchenour made a motion to approve the minutes. Samantha seconded the motion. The minutes were then
approved with by a vote of 5-0.
NEW BUSINESS
Chairman Roman opened the new business portion of the meeting by noting the contents of the agenda and the
associated packet of information. The first item on the agenda included an application submitted by Unity
Presbyterian Church for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) at 303 Tom Hall Street to demo the Unity Hall
building due to damage sustained as the result of a fire.
Senior Planner Moore then introduced the request by noting that the purpose of the application for the COA by
Unity Presbyterian Church. Specifically, the COA request was due to a fire at the church in December 2018. This
fire severely damaged the Unity Hall building. Additionally, the historic sanctuary was impacted due to smoke,
water, etc. which was generated by both the fire and emergency response operations. Subsequent to the fire, Unity
Presbyterian Church investigated how they might best approach the restoration of this property. As a result, the
church determined to demolish the Unity Hall building and to refurbish the interior of the historic sanctuary
building.
Senior Planner Moore then stated that the church complex was listed on the National Register of Historic Places
(NRHP). Thus, the proposed project would be required to obtain approval from the Historic Review Board (HRB)
prior to commencing. He then noted that the principal role of the HRB would be in reviewing the proposal to
demolish the Unity Hall building as the interior work on the historic sanctuary could be done without HRB review.
Senior Planner Moore stated that there is a provision within the historic district ordinance for the HRB to postpone
granting a COA for demolition for a period of 180 days after a finding that the structure is of extreme historical
importance to the citizens of the Town of Fort Mill.
However, Moore noted that the Unity Presbyterian Church had taken a very measured and thoughtful approach in
discerning how they might respond to the fire damage from December 2018. Moore then noted that if the HRB did
approve the demolition of the building, the church would still need to obtain approval from the Town of Fort Mill
Building Department prior to removal. Based on the plan which Unity brought forward, Planning Staff
recommended that HRB grant approval for the COA, with no delay or postponement, for the demolition of the
Unity Hall Building.
Moore then illustrated the particulars of the proposed demolition using the submitted site plan and aerial maps. He
pointed out the Unity Hall building along with the historic sanctuary.
Chairman Roman asked if the Fire Department had completed their investigation of the fire.
Senior Planner Moore said they had as far as he knew.
Chairman Roman then asked if Staff had a copy of the report.
Senior Planner Moore started that he did not have a copy of this report.
Chairman Roman then asked if there was a cost analysis available for keeping the Unity Hall building and fixing it
versus demolishing the building.
Senior Planner Moore asked Mr. Jacob Saylor, Church Administrative Officer at Unity Presbyterian Church, to
come forward and speak to this and any other questions that the HRB might have regarding the project.
Mr. Saylor began his comments by noting that it had been 303 days since the fire on December 8th, 2018 and that
the church membership has been living with the results, including the smell for a long time. He stated that the
insurance settlement to be completed this month. After this, the church would have some funds to move forward
with the demo of the Unity Hall building and the refurbishment of the historic sanctuary.
Mr. Saylor stated that the cause of the fire was a circulating fan in a restroom within Unity Hall. He noted that the
damage was very extensive and that temperatures during the fire reached upward of 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.
Based on extensive interaction with the insurance company, the church surmised that there was no value to the
Unity Hall building subsequent to the fire. Thus, the intent in filing the application for a COA was to demolish the
Unity Hall building, and then once that is completed the plan would be to refurbish the historic sanctuary. Then a
much more thorough job would be done to determine the future of the historic sanctuary.
Chairman Roman stated that the reason for the questions on the fire report and the cost analysis because this
structure that has met all the criteria for NRHP. Thus, the HRB wanted to be satisfied that everything was moving
forward in a manner not to jeopardize the NRHP status.
Scott Cochenhour asked if the historic sanctuary would be receiving a new roof at this time.
Mr. Saylor stated that fortunately the fire did not torch the roof of the historic sanctuary. However, much more
could be discerned about the historic sanctuary building once the Unity Building was demolished.
Samantha Nifong then asked Mr. Saylor if they checked the stability of the connection between Unity Hall and the
historic sanctuary so that when the demolition of Unity Hall took place the historic sanctuary would not be damaged
or also inadvertently demolished.
Mr. Saylor stated that their consultant, Myers & Chapman, would engineer a plan to disassemble the Unity Hall
building with no collateral damage to the historic sanctuary.
Megan Brinton clarified that the church did not have an immediate idea what they might put in the open area
generated by taking down the Unity Hall.
Mr. Saylor concurred and said this would allow the congregation to take a fresh look at the campus with a view to
the future.
Scott Cochenhour noted that the brick on several of the buildings on the Unity campus did not match.
Chairman Roman stated that the board certainly appreciated the work that the church had done on bringing the plan
before them. He asked if the Town had any additional information to present.
Senior Planner Moore stated that there was no further information to be presented.
Chairman Roman entertained a motion concerning the applicant’s request for a COA to demolish the Unity Hall
building.
Scott Cochenour made a motion to approve the request.
Samantha Nifong seconded the motion.
Chairman Roman then asked that all those in favor signify by saying “aye.”
By a vote of 5-0 the HRB voted to grant the COA to demolish the Unity Hall building.
Chairman Roman then introduced the second item on the agenda which included preliminary review and discussion
for a potential project at 119 Banks Street. The purpose of this was to provide information to the HRB and then gain
feedback from them on this planned project.
Mr. Kevin Carpenter and Mr. John Franco of the Master Builder Fellowship for the Built Environment, Inc. were
in attendance representing the homeowner. Mr. Carpenter provided an initial overview of the proposed work to be
done at 119 Banks Street. Mr. Carpenter noted that their company was a design-build group involved primarily in
residential projects. He noted that it was his intent to introduce the company and to understand how their potential
project at 119 Banks Street would be reviewed by the Historic Review Board (HRB) before they entered the design
phase.
Mr. Carpenter stated that it was imperative that they gain understanding on the review parameters with this project
because what had been gleaned from research on the home at 119 Banks Street was contrary to the National Register
of Historic Places (NRHP) record.
Mr. Carpenter stated that the residence at 119 Banks Street is known as the Mack-Belk house and is currently owned
and occupied by Calvin and Keala Elston. The homeowners, he noted, wished to undertake an extensive renovation
project. This would include the addition of 1,500 square feet to the home as well as a two or three car, detached
garage on the property. Carpenter said that the desire was for this renovation to respect the history of the home.
Mr. Carpenter then noted that there were three stages of development for the Mack-Belk house. The first was the
rear portion, then the second story, and then the enclosure of porches that were originally on the back side of the
home.
Mr. Carpenter then presented a very in-depth and lengthy history of the home and its place within this region. Much
of this was based on original research which he had undertaken. This investigation has given him reason to believe
that the Mack-Belk home has a different history than what has been documented, including the rationale that the
home was once used as a tavern and/or a similar endeavor.
Mr. Carpenter’s point in providing such broad and detailed background on the home was to aid the HRB in rendering
a decision on a future Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) application.
Chairman Roman pointed out to Mr. Carpenter that while the HRB was greatly appreciative of the presentation of
this information, in rendering a decision for the COA, they would only be looking at the outside of the home and
how newly proposed exterior work would interplay with the existing architectural features. Specifically, and per
Mr. Carpenter’s presentation of information, Chairman Roman indicated that he would be most comfortable with a
request for a COA which used elements of the Victorian and strong Italianate architecture present in the home.
Additionally, Chairman Roman indicated that a plaque which commemorated some of the other history of this
structure might be appropriate.
Ms. Brinton asked Mr. Carpenter to clarify that the additional area resulting from this renovation would be 1,500
square feet. Mr. Carpenter concurred, but also noted some of the interior specifics of the planned renovations. Senior
Planner Moore reiterated that the HRB would not be reviewing the interior of the project, only the proposed exterior
additions. At this juncture of the meeting, Mr. Carpenter indicated that he had a good idea of what the HRB wanted
to see, and that he was comfortable with moving into the design phase of the project.
There being no other business, Chairman Roman adjourned the meeting at 6:18 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Alex J. Moore, AICP
Senior Planner
January 3rd, 2020
Agenda
HISTORIC REVIEW BOARD
October 8th, 2019
112 Confederate Street
4:30 PM
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. HRB Meeting: September 10th, 2019 [Pages 3-5]
NEW BUSINESS
1. Request for Certificate of Appropriateness [Pages 6-24]
Applicant Name: Unity Presbyterian Church
Owner Name: Unity Presbyterian Church
Property Address: 303 Tom Hall Street
Purpose: Request to demolish Unity Hall Building along with
clearing, cleaning, securing the Historic Sanctuary Building
Zoning: HC, Highway Commercial
THCD, Tom Hall Street Corridor District
INFORMATION / DISCUSSION
1. Preliminary Review / Discussion [Pages 25-26]
Applicant Name: Kevin Carpenter, VP Masterbuilder Fellowship for the Built
Environment, Inc.
Owner Name: Calvin & Keala Elston
Property Address: 119 Banks Street
Purpose: Provide information and gain feedback from the HRB on a
proposed project at 119 Banks Street
Zoning: R-15/Residential District
1
ADJOURN
The following press was notified of the meeting by email or fax in accordance of the Freedom of
Information Act: The Herald; CN2; WRHI; Fort Mill Times and WBTV. The agenda was also
posted at the entrance to Town Hall the required length of time and on the Town website.
The Town of Fort Mill is committed to assuring accessibility with reasonable accommodation, of
Town services and facilities for all individuals, in compliance with federal law. Please contact the
Town Manager’s Office at 803-547-2116 if you need assistance.
2
MINUTES
TOWN OF FORT MILL
HISTORIC REVIEW BOARD
September 10th, 2019
Council Chambers – 112 Confederate Street
4:30 PM
Present: Chairman Louis Roman, Carmen Banks, David Booth, Megan Brinton, Scott Couchenour,
Samantha Nifong, Sarah Shaw, Planning Director Penelope Karagounis, Senior Planner Alex
Moore
Guests: Tracey Roman
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Louis Roman called the meeting to order at 4:31 PM.
ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRPERSON
David Booth nominated himself as Vice-Chairperson. Samantha Nifong seconded the nomination. By a vote of 7-
0, the HRB elected David Booth as Vice-Chairperson for FY 2019-2020.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Chairman Roman entertained a motion to approve the minutes from the August 13th, 2019, meeting as presented.
Scott Couchenour made a motion to approve the minutes. Sarah Shaw seconded the motion. The minutes were then
approved with by a vote of 7-0.
NEW BUSINESS
Chairman Roman opened the new business portion of the meeting by noting the contents of the agenda and the
associated packet of information. This included an application submitted by Cody Garrett of Five-Oh Skate Shop
for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) at 227 Main Street.
Senior Planner Moore then introduced the request by noting that the purpose of the application for the COA was
for proposed window signage at 227 Main Street in the Town of Fort Mill Historic District. Specifically, the
proposal entailed signage to be placed on each of the front, display windows along with the front door at this
location. Moore noted that the applicant had already installed the signage at his business. Moore stated that if the
application for a COA failed, the applicant would be required to remove this signage.
Senior Planner Moore then stated that the applicant had submitted an earlier iteration of the proposed signage which
was a good deal larger than what was being presented. Moore stated that Planning Staff had asked the applicant to
3
reduce the signage in conformance with Section 5.11 of the Town of Fort Mill Historic District Design Guidelines.
Section 5.11 recommends that window signs:
• Minimize the amount of window covered
• Be painted on the glass or hung inside a window
Senior Planner Moore stated that the proposed window signage met the above criteria as enumerated within the
Town of Fort Mill Historic District Design Guidelines.
Senior Planner Moore then noted the respective Town of Fort Mill Zoning Code requirements to which the project
must adhere. He stated that the only reference to window signs in the Town Zoning Code is the definition for this
type of sign. Beyond this definition, there are no specific requirements as to size, etc. for window signage in the
Town’s Zoning Code.
Moore stated that the property was zoned LC/Local Commercial District and that a skate shop was a permitted use
in this zoning district. Additionally, Moore noted that the business owner obtained his requisite business license in
July.
Senior Planner Moore then stated that Planning Staff recommended approval of the proposed window signage as
submitted by the applicant.
Ms. Shaw asked about the material comprising the applicant’s proposed window signage.
Senior Planner Moore stated that the signage was a decal and could be removed.
Ms. Brinton asked for clarification about whether the signage had been placed on the inside or the outside of the
storefront windows and door.
Senior Planner Moore stated that the signage was located on the inside of the windows and door respectively.
Mr. Couchenour stated that the skateboards for sale leaning against the front display windows made the signage
somewhat ineffectual. He then asked about the method of calculation for window signage.
Senior Planner Moore noted that the method of calculating wall signage includes the surface area of a building’s
exterior wall including doors and windows. Fifteen percent of this area may then be used for signage. However,
there is no such method for calculating window signage within the zoning ordinance.
Mr. Couchenhour noted that the signage as designed in fact was nominal in size compared to the front façade of the
building.
Senior Planner Moore concurred and stated that the square footage of the display window portion of the signage
consisted of approximately 3.5 square feet and that the front door portion of the signage consisted of approximately
1.75 square feet.
Chairman Roman then asked if there was any other discussion on the signage.
Ms. Brinton stated that she believed the signage was fine, but that she had a concern that the signage had been
installed by the applicant prior to the HRB meeting.
4
Ms. Banks stated that the provisions of the design standards should be applied evenly throughout the downtown
area.
Senior Planner Moore agreed and reiterated that if the COA request was denied by the HRB, then the applicant
would be required to remove the signage.
Mr. Booth asked Senior Planner Moore if staff would inform the current applicant that the signs should not have
been put up prior to HRB review.
Senior Planner Moore affirmed that this would be done.
Additionally, Chairman Roman inquired if there could be some communication from staff to the various downtown
businesses regarding the ongoing proliferation of temporary window signage.
Planning Director Karagounis indicated that staff would take a look at this.
There being no other discussion, Chairman Roman entertained a motion.
Mr. Couchenhour made a motion to approve the window signage as presented.
Ms. Brinton seconded the motion with a stipulation that the applicant be informed that the window signage should
not have been installed prior to review and approval by the Town of Fort Mill HRB.
Mr. Couchenhour noted that he accepted the amendment.
The HRB voted 7-0 to approve the window signage as presented.
Chairman Roman asked if there was any other business that needed to be discussed.
Planning Director Karagounis reminded the HRB members of the upcoming continuing education on September
12th.
There being no other business, the meeting adjourned at 4:58 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Alex J. Moore, AICP
Senior Planner
October 1st, 2019
5
H I S T OR I C R E V I E W B OA R D
APPLICANT
Unity Presbyterian Church
Subject Property: 303 Tom Hall Street
Tax Map # 020-04-25-001
Zoning District: HC, Highway Commercial
Zoning Case: 2019-0680
REQUEST
The Planning Department has received an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from Unity
Presbyterian Church for the proposed demolition of the Unity Hall Building along with clearing, cleaning, and
securing of the Historic Sanctuary.
SITE DESCRIPTION AND GENERAL CONSTRUCTION PLAN
The Unity Presbyterian Church complex is located at 303 Tom Hall Street in Fort Mill. This property is listed on
the National Register of Historic Places (NHRP). Though it is not located within the Town of Fort Mill’s Historic
District, the Historic Review Board must review any proposed changes to this property because it is listed on the
NHRP.
A fire occurred within the historic church complex in December 2018 which severely damaged the Unity Hall
Building. The Historic Sanctuary was also impacted due to smoke, water, etc. generated from both the fire and
emergency response operations.
Subsequently, Unity Presbyterian Church has investigated how best to approach the restoration of this property.
As a result, the church has determined to demo the Unity Hall Building and to refurbish the interior of the Historic
Sanctuary.
As noted within the explanation of work, repairing the interior of the Historic Sanctuary will not impact the front
façade of this structure as viewed from Tom Hall Street. However, it is proposed that upon completion of initial
interior work, the Historic Sanctuary will not re-open for use by the congregation or public. Rather, the church
and its consultants will then assess the results of the refurbishment to facilitate well-informed decisions on the
future of this structure.
The applicant has provided a schematic site plan and building diagram of the existing complex. Additionally, the
NRHP sheet from the Historic District Design Guidelines along with the NRHP registration form is included.
6
HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGN GUIDELINES REVIEW
• The Town of Fort Mill Historic District Design Guidelines indicate that a COA is required for properties
in the historic district, properties designated as a local historical landmark by town council, as well as
properties which have been accepted to the NHRP. The Unity Presbyterian Church complex was accepted
and placed into the NHRP on June 11th, 1992.
• Thus, in its review of this COA application, the HRB shall take into account the architectural or historical
significance of the structure under consideration as well as the effect of such change upon other structures
in the vicinity.
• Moreover, no building designated as historic shall be demolished or otherwise removed until the owner
thereof has received a COA from the HRB. The HRB may delay the granting of the COA for a period of
180 days from the time of the filing of the application. The HRB may extend this postponement for a
COA with regard to a request to demolish a structure for another 180 days after a finding by the HRB
that the structure is of extreme historical importance to the people of and Town of Fort Mill.
• Within this period of postponement of demolition, the HRB shall take steps to ascertain what can be done
to preserve such buildings. Such steps shall include but will not be limited to, consultation with civic
groups, interested citizens, and public boards and agencies.
• After the postponement period has elapsed and the HRB has been unable to determine an adequate
alternative to demolition, the certificate of appropriateness shall be granted. If the HRB finds that a
building proposed for demolition is of no particular historical significance or value towards maintaining
the historical character of Fort Mill, it may issue the COA in the normal manner.
ZONING DISTRICT GUIDELINES REVIEW
• The subject property being reviewed by the HRB is zoned HC, Highway Commercial District and is
located within the Tom Hall Street Corridor District, THCD.
• A zoning compliance permit will be required prior to issuance of a demolition permit by the building
department.
• Building department review will include items such as parameters related to SCDHEC asbestos
regulations and the total amount of debris estimated to be removed from the site.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Planning Staff recommends that the HRB grant APPROVAL for a Certificate of Appropriateness, with no delay
or postponement, for the demolition of the Unity Hall Building located within the Unity Presbyterian Church
complex.
7
8
9
Site Plan: Unity Hall Building and Historic Sanctuary
10
Details: Unity Hall Building and Historic Sanctuary
UNITY HALL UNITY HALL
BUILDING BUILDING
HISTORIC
SANCTUARY HISTORIC
does not have SANCTUARY
useable space
on 2nd Level.
11
National Register of Historic Places Properties
Unity Presbyterian Church Complex
303 Tom Hall Street
Year Constructed: ca. 1881
Listed in NRHP: June 11, 1992
Architectural Style: Queen Anne & Romanesque
Website: http://www.nationalregister.sc.gov/york/S10817746041/
Built in 1881, The Unity Presbyterian Church Complex is significant because of the
architectural values of the church sanctuary. The building, with elements of the Queen
Anne Style and the Romanesque Revival style, represents a high degree of architectural
merit and design. The detail involved in the brickwork and the traceried windows are
unusual for a church in a small town and with a relatively small congregation. The overall
complex also has significance for its role in the development of the town of Fort Mill and
in the religious life of the community. The complex includes the church building,
Unity/Municipal Cemetery, and the Old Unity Cemetery. The church was the first religious
Significance: organization in the Fort Mill area, having been created when the area was still part of the
Catawba Indian Nation. The church has occupied four different sites since 1788, reflecting
the gradual shift of the population. It is uniquely associated with the events that have
been significant with the development of Fort Mill, and is the only organization that has
been in existence throughout the history of the town. The Unity Manse was built in 1920
adjacent to the sanctuary. The Unity/Municipal Cemetery began as a burying ground for
the church in the 1880s, but has served as the municipal cemetery since the 1920s. The
Old Unity Cemetery is at the location of the second building of Unity Church. It is enclosed
by a dry laid stone wall and contains approximately 115 graves.
Appendix B – Page 25
154 Appendix
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
H I S T OR I C R E V I E W B OA R D
APPLICANT
Kevin Carpenter of Masterbuilder Fellowship for the Built Environment, Inc.
Subject Property: 119 Banks Street
Tax Map # 020-05-03-015
Zoning District: R-15, One-Family Residential
Zoning Case: Informational Presentation Only
REQUEST
The Planning Department has received request from Kevin Carpenter with Master Fellowship for the Built
Environment, Inc. to appear before the Town of Fort Mill Historic Review Board (HRB). The purpose of his
appearance is so that he may present information and gain feedback from the HRB, on behalf of his clients, on
the Mack-Belk home.
SITE DESCRIPTION
The Mack-Belk home is located at 119 Banks Street in Fort Mill. This property is listed on the National Register
of Historic Places (NHRP). Though it is not located within the Town of Fort Mill’s Historic District, the Historic
Review Board must review any proposed changes to this property because it is listed on the NHRP.
Please find attached the Mack-Belk home information sheet from the Town of Fort Mill Historic District Design
Guidelines.
25
National Register of Historic Places Properties
Mack-Belk House
119 Banks Street
Year Constructed: ca. 1860’s (Expanded 1890’s)
Listed in NRHP: June 11, 1992
Architectural Style: Victorian
Website: http://www.nationalregister.sc.gov/york/S10817746037/
The Mack-Belk House, an example of Late Victorian architecture with Italianate
influences, consists of a one-story rear section built in the 1860s and a two-story main
block built about 1890. The house shows influences of the Italianate style, including
paired windows in the central bay, segmental arches, wide roof overhangs, and a hip roof.
There is a one-story hip-roofed porch across the façade and wrapping around a portion
of the east elevation. The porch has chamfered posts and a decorative balustrade. The
Significance: brick is laid in six-to-one common bond. The house has been associated with the Mack
and Belk families for about one hundred years. It was occupied by Dr. Edward Mack, a
native of Fort Mill who was a Presbyterian minister that later taught for a number of years
at the seminary located in Richmond, Virginia. After his death, the house was owned by
his sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Mack Belk. Her husband, Thomas Heath Belk, operated a
mercantile store on Fort Mill’s Main Street and was part of the Belk family which was
developing a chain of stores.
Appendix B – Page 19
148 Appendix
26
Get email alerts for Fort Mill
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.