Historic Preservation Commission

City of Fresno City Hall 2600 Fresno Street Fresno, CA 93721 Meeting Minutes - Final Monday, November 28, 2022 6:00 PM Regular Meeting In Person and/or Electronic Room 2165N (Conference Room A) Historic Preservation Commission Chair - Jason Hatwig, LEED, AP, BD C Vice Chair - James Sponsler Commissioners: Christopher Rocha, Paul Halajian, AIA; Don Simmons, PhD; M.A.; Staff: Jennifer Clark, Director; Mary Raterman-Doidge, Senior Deputy City Attorney; Janice Monroe, M.A. II; Myrna Rivas, Administrative Clerk Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission PUBLIC ADVISORY THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS AND CITY HALL WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AT A LIMITED CAPACITY. THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WELCOMES YOU TO ROOM 2165A, LOCATED IN CITY HALL, 2ND FLOOR, 2600 FRESNO STREET, FRESNO, CALIFORNIA 93721. The meeting can also be viewed live at 6:00 P.M. on Comcast Channel 96 and AT&T channel 99. Chambers, located in City Hall Room 2165A, are open for public participation. Members of the public are encouraged to participate electronically because of reduced capacity of seating in the Chambers to allow for social distancing. Masks will be required for the vaccinated and unvaccinated. Pursuant to the Executive Order, and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in the Commission meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office, 559-621-7650 within 48 hours of the meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT The following options are available for members of the public who want to attend and /or address the Historic Preservation Commission: 1. You are invited to a Zoom webinar. a) If you would like to speak on an agenda item, you can access the meeting remotely from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device. Please use URL: https://zoom.us/j/95457849931 b) Those addressing the Commission must state their name and address for the record. OR 2. Join by Phone a) Dial: City of Fresno Page 2 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission US: 1 669 900 9128 Enter Webinar ID: 954 5784 9931 b) Those addressing the Commission must state their name and address for the record. OR 3. Email a) Attendees may also email comments to Historic.Preservation@fresno.gov to be read during the meeting. Please include the agenda date and item number you wish to speak on in the subject line of your email (e.g., January 25, 2023 - Item A). And, please include your name and address for the record at the top of the body of your email. b) Emails are not to exceed 150 words. c) All comments received will be distributed to the Commission prior and during the meeting and will be a part of the official record. 4. Any interested person may appear at the public hearing and present written testimony, or speak in favor or against the matters scheduled on the agenda. If you challenge these matters in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised in oral or written testimony at or before the close of the hearing. The City of Fresno thanks you in advance for taking all precautions to prevent spreading COVID-19 virus. City of Fresno Page 3 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Vice Chair Sponsler called meeting to order at 6:00 PM. Present 4 - Vice Chair James W Sponsler, Commissioner Christopher Rocha, Commissioner Paul Halajian, and Commissioner Don Simmons Absent 1 - Chair Jason Hatwig II. PROCEDURES - PROCEDIMIENTOS - KEV SAB LAJ 6:01 P.M. Vice Chair Sponsler read procedures aloud III. APPROVE MEETING MINUTES III-A ID 22-1831 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes, October 24, 2022. 6:03 P.M. On motion of Commissioner Rocha, seconded by Commissioner Simmons, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Vice Chair Sponsler, Commissioner Rocha, Commissioner Halajian and Commissioner Simmons Absent: 1 - Chair Hatwig IV. APPROVE AGENDA 6:04 P.M. Item VII-B for P22-03600 was continued to a date certain, December 19, 2022, due to lack of quorum. Director Clark informed the Commission that while she reported in the October meeting that there would be a presentation regarding The Successor Agency Project plans in Armenian Town District, this wasn't going to happen. There are no actions for this project to be agendized at this time. On motion of Commissioner Simmons, seconded by Commissioner City of Fresno Page 4 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission Halajian, that the above be APPROVED AS AMENDED. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Vice Chair Sponsler, Commissioner Rocha, Commissioner Halajian and Commissioner Simmons Absent: 1 - Chair Hatwig V. CONSENT CALENDAR 6:06 P.M. On motion of Commissioner Simmons, seconded by Commissioner Rocha, that the above be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Vice Chair Sponsler, Commissioner Rocha, Commissioner Halajian and Commissioner Simmons Absent: 1 - Chair Hatwig V-A ID 22-1789 HEARING TO CONSIDER AND MAKE FINDINGS on application B22-14866 for demolition of structures located at 3393 N Hayes consistent with Environmental Assessment No. T-6234/P19-02237/P19-02239. (APN 51214119). STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) take the following actions: 1. FIND CONSISTENCY WITH previously adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration as prepared for Environmental Assessment No. T-6234/P19-02237/P19-02239 dated March 13, 2020, for the proposed project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) 2. APPROVE: application B22-14866 for demolition of structures located at 3393 N Hayes. (APN 51214119). V-B ID 22-1798 HEARING TO CONSIDER AND MAKE FINDINGS on application B22-14298 for demolition of structures located at 3480 Bryan Ave consistent with Environmental Assessment No. T-6234/P19-02237/P19-02239. (APN 51214113). STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) take City of Fresno Page 5 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission the following actions: 1. FIND CONSISTENCY WITH previously adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration as prepared for Environmental Assessment No. T-6234/P19-02237/P19-02239 dated March 13, 2020, for the proposed project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) 2. APPROVE: application B22-14298 for demolition of structures located at 3480 Bryan Ave. (APN 51214119). VI. CONTINUED MATTERS N/A VII. COMMISSION ITEMS VII-A ID 22-1794 CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF REQUESTS BY PROPERTY OWNERS TO ENTER INTO MILLS ACT HISTORICAL PROPERTY CONTRACTS PURSUANT TO FMC 12-1706: 1. The Mathisen Home located at 904 E Yale Ave., in the Porter Tract Historic District. 2. The Gibbs Home (HP# 180) located at 369 N Ferger Ave. RECOMMENDATION 1. Staff recommends that the Commission hold a public hearing and recommend that the Director of Development enter a Historical Property Contract for the subject properties pursuant to FMC 12- 1706. Upon approval, respective property owners shall return executed and notarized contracts to City staff, who will subsequently execute and record contracts with the County Recorder. 6:06 P.M. Janice Monroe, Management Analyst, made a presentation on the properties entering into 10 year contracts for the Mill's Act (The Mathisen Home and The Gibbs Home) and explained why a property was declined. Keith Clement, property owner of The Gibbs Home, voiced his support and gratitude for the program. City of Fresno Page 6 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission Vice Chair Sponslor explained that the Mills Act is for maintenance and to make improvements to a Designated Historic home or a home in a Designated Historic District. On motion of Commissioner Rocha, seconded by Commissioner Halajian, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Vice Chair Sponsler, Commissioner Rocha, Commissioner Halajian and Commissioner Simmons Absent: 1 - Chair Hatwig VII-B ID 22-1492 HEARING TO CONSIDER AND MAKE FINDINGS on application P22-03600 for the construction of a second single family unit at the J.H. Waller Home (HP#302) and adjacent to the Cowdrey Home (HP#33) located at 318 Park Ave. (APN 45914416). STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) take the following actions: 1. ADOPT a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Sections 15331/Class 31 of the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines 2. APPROVE: Application P22-01922 for the construction of a new, two-story 1,129 SF single-family residence with a two-story, 728 SF detached garage on a portion of the J H Waller 6:13 P.M. Item continued to December 19, 2022 VII-C ID 22-1808 HEARING TO CONSIDER AND MAKE FINDINGS on applications P22-00505 and P22-00507 for the General Plan Amendment, Rezone, and Development Permit for a medical clinic located at 49 W Fir Ave. (APNs 303-161-48/49, 50, 51, 52 and 53). STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) take City of Fresno Page 7 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission the following actions: 1. REVIEW Cultural Resource Assessment prepared by Peak & Associates pursuant to Sections 15064.5 and 15126.4(b) of the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines 2. RECOMMEND APPROVAL to the Planning Commission for the General Plan Amendment, Rezone and Development Permit for a medical clinic located at 49 W Fir Ave. (APNs 303-161-48/49, 50, 51, 52 and 53). 6:13 P.M. Director Clark explained history, context, and recommendations of proposed project. Her focus was on three major periods of significance: 1) Sugar Pine Lumber Mill 1920's; 2) Temporary Dentention Camps (Mass Incarceration for Japanese Descendents 1942); 3) Camp Pinedale Western Aviation Unit Center Signal Air Force. Director Clark answered questions from Commissioners about the change in windows, stucco and previous ownership. Sponsler opened for public comment David Rodriguez, local Pinedale historian, reports having no record of historic significance at this location. . He stated that the community is mostly a walking community and is very excited a medical clinic will be built at this location. Linda Emporano, spoke on personal history in Pinedale and voiced her support for the proposed project. On motion of Commissioner Halajian, seconded by Commissioner Rocha, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 4 - Vice Chair Sponsler, Commissioner Rocha, Commissioner Halajian and Commissioner Simmons Absent: 1 - Chair Hatwig City of Fresno Page 8 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission VII-D ID 22-1819 WORKSHOP regarding the proposed demolition of a structure near the Kearney Boulevard Gateway (HP#234) located at 911 Fresno St. (APN 46718201T) and within the Proposed Historic Kearney Boulevard District. 6:28 P.M. Edward Chinevere from the PARCS Department, requested advice and guidance from the HPC regarding a structure at Kearney Park. The structure is located near proposed historic assets (Kearney Blvd Gateway in the Proposed Kearney District). He stated that the building is in a state of disrepair and that they want a long-term solution that keeps the park as attractive and safe as possible. The department planning is planning a site visit to identify safety hazards. Commissioners ask for the Architectural Review Subcommittee to join site visit. Sponsler asked about the number of remaining water stations, but staff was unaware. Clark said she would ask public utilities. The Commission discussed the possiblitiy the structure was part of public utilities former director Gene Vincenze's Design. Chinevere reported Kearney may be on Capital plan in the future, but not now. Staff will arrange for the Subcommittee to be included in the site visit. VII-E ID 22-1809 WORKSHOP to discuss a draft informational letter to property owners (Don & Gail Green Trustee) from the Historic Preservation Commission regarding the Pop Laval Home, located at 656 N Van Ness. 6:38 P.M. Vice Chair Sponsler gave a brief history on the former home of Pop Laval home He explained Pop Laval is a significant figure in the community and Central Valley thanks to his thousands of photos of early Fresno. Sponsler asked for feedback on the draft letter he wrote to current property owners. City of Fresno Page 9 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission Commissioner Rocha wondered why we did not have any recognition of Pop Laval and stated that it makes perfect sense. The Commissioners were in full support off Sponsler's proposal to pursue registering the property. Clark assured the Commission the letter would be sent out. VII-F ID 22-1822 UPDATE on Regular Monthly Topics: 1. Staff Updates 2. Architectural Subcommittee Updates 3. Economic Incentive Subcommittee Update 4. Plaque Design Subcommittee Update 6:42 P.M. Staff Updates: Clark gave a brief description of the quantity and kind of Permit applications that have gone through Historic Preservation for the month of November. Architectural Subcommittee Updates: Janice Monroe reported on the meeting in which the Subcommittee to chose a color for the Roeding Park Soundwall. Economic Incentive Subcommittee Update: Mills Act Properties were presented earlier this evening. Two properties will be moving forward. Plaque Design Subcommittee Update: Sponsler reported a potential design and a second design in draft format. He is hoping they can bring a cleaned up version in the January meeting. Director Clark would like to present to City Council a request for the Mid-year Budget. She asked the Subcommittee to provide a dollar amount per plaque to prepare a request for funds from City Council. VIII. CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT 6:47 P.M. City of Fresno Page 10 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission N/A IX. UNSCHEDULED ITEMS IX. - A. Members of the Commission 6:47 P.M. Commissioner Rocha read aloud a letter he prepared for Mayor Dyer and City Council. The letter was regarding the proposed Armenian Town District and gave a detailed history of the struggle local residents have had in registering the Proposed Historic Armenian Town District. He quoted several articles from the Fresno Bee in the last 24 years and explained the criteria met, pleading with the Mayor and City Council for the formation of the District. IX. - B. Staff 6:52 P.M. N/A IX. - C. General Public 6:58 P.M. George Bursick spoke on his Right of First Refusal to purchase the home he was forced out of, and the struggles he has had in trying to invoke this Right. Constance Saverino, the applicant that did not qualify for the Mills Act voiced her frustration with the process citing lack of communication. Manuel Lara reported replacement of windows at Fresno High, Staff recommended reporting to Code Enforcement. Twelve members of the Armenian community spoke about the pending Proposed Historic Armenian Town District. Comments ranged from thanking City of Fresno Page 11 Historic Preservation Meeting Minutes - Final November 28, 2022 Commission the Historic Preservation Commission for support, to frustration with broken promises from the Redevelopment Agency, and a demand that City Council put the District proposal back on the agenda. Some residents reported violations in City Ordinances, the importance of leaving a legacy for the next generation, and safety concerns creating a sense of urgency to make the District official. Many speakers asked for next steps to move the process along. There was an update on the Vartanian Home progress and struggles. Vaughn, with the Armenian Conservancy, asked to amend the original application to include the new location of historic property. Sevak Khatchadorian pledged to help with the restoration of the Armenian Homes. Roger Taylor, came to invite the Commission to the opening of the Time Capsule of 1992. The opening will take place at City Hall on December 13 at 11:00 lunch will be served. X. NEXT MEETING 7:35 Next meeting will be Monday, December 19, 2022. Originally this meeting was scheduled for the 4th Monday of the month, December 26, because of the Christmas holiday, it will be held on the third Monday, December 19, 2022. XI. ADJOURNMENT 7:35 P.M. Meeting was adjourned by Vice Chair Sponsler at 7:35 P.M. City of Fresno Page 12