Historic District Commission

HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION, NORWICH, CONNECTICUT 20 October 2011 The regular meeting of the Norwich Historic District Commission was held on 20 October 2011 in Room 319, Norwich City Hall at 5 p.m. Members Present: Malcolm Edgar, Chairman Robert Champagne Judith Hamblen Gideon Loewenstein Absent: Marco Middleton Pam Muccilli Cort Murphy Nancy O’Neil REGULAR MEETING . A. Minutes of August Meeting The minutes of the August meeting were unanimously approved as presented. B. Chairman’s Report Edgar reported that he had been contacted by a member of the United Congregational Church building committee regarding bids for their proposed restoration project. The first bid submitted was from Mattern Construction. The committee was interested in any information Dr. Edgar might have about the company. Edgar advised that he was familiar with Mattern Construction and some of the projects undertaken by them, but was not authorized to offer official advice or opinion in his position as a member of the commission. Edgar circulated copies of an invitation from Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation to a workshop on local historic districts and properties. He encouraged the group to attend the program. Ms Hamblen said she’d try to attend the Mystic meeting. Sent via email 11-10-11  Some members of the Historic District attended the Buckingham Memorial preservation project. Mr. Loewenstein described one of the issues that must be settled before the project can move forward, the question of who owns the building. Loewenstein noted this is an example of the problems the commission will face in its continuing efforts to support preservation in Norwich. Edgar was approached by the owner of the house at 13 Harland Road about replacing the existing, badly deteriorated roof with architectural shingles. As there is some urgency to the project, Edgar met with the contractor James Krueger to address discussed the particular challenges of the job. The close proximity of the house to Harland Road may present problems. . A letter was sent to Building Official Greg Arpin indicating the commission had no objection to the project... John Dennis of 359 Washington Street contacted Edgar about perceived deteriorating conditions at the building on 357 Washington. Edgar contacted the Building Official who advised that there are no structural issues with the building. Edgar has received some inquiries about COA applications arising because of directions given for Section 106 projects. He consulted Atty. Driscoll who advised that commission members should refrain from offering opinions. The commission is not empowered to make decisions on Section 106 projects. C. Old Business Edgar has asked for members to assume the responsibility of finding likely candidates for this year’s Preservation awards. Ms Muccilli has volunteered to put together a Power Point program for the presentation ceremony. Mr. Champagne agreed to work with Ms Muccilli. Members are asked to bring suggestions and pictures to the next meeting. The plaques are already ordered. The awards will be announced at the December 19 City Council Meeting. Mssrs. Edgar and Loewenstein attended a program presented by Nancy MacMillan of the Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance. An informative presentation on issues relevant to challenges in the city of Norwich: understanding and taking advantage of tax credits, rescuing run down buildings, restoration through private grants and funding, transformation into useful structures, affordable housing. The program made clear that the Historic District Commission needs to be involved in similar projects as they arise. D. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:48 p.m. Sent via email 11-10-11