Historic District Commission

HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION, NORWICH, CONNECTICUT 21 March 2013 The regular meeting of the Norwich Historic District Commission was held on 21 March 2013 in the CommunityRoom of Otis Library at 5:00. Members Present: Gideon Loewenstein, Chairman Malcolm Edgar, Vice Chairman Robert Champagne Scott Learned Pamela Muccilli Absent: Judy Hamblen Cort Murphy Nancy O’Neil Also Present: Dale Plummer Joanne Philbrick Sheila Hayes Brendan Riley William Champagne Chairman Loewenstein thanked the attendees for accommodating the last minute change of venue that resulted with Governor Malloy’s Community Forum taking place in City Hall. I. Public Hearing COA # 298 20 Harland Road Roof Replacement The current owner of the property is Bank of America. That bank has employed Safeguard Properties to perform maintenance on this property, specifically roof replacement on the house and garage. The contractor is Mr. Brandon Riley who attended this meeting. He presented cedar shingle samples that are proposed to replace the current deteriorated and leaking shingles and blue tarpaulin now covering the roof. COA # 299 10 Elm Street Chimney Replacement Ms Philbrick explained that the brick chimney in the house needs repair and repointing. In addition, a minor height adjustment is necessary for compliance with code requirements. A stainless steel liner is already in place. A new March 21, 2013.doc  concrete or stainless cap will be added. Samples of bricks were presented. The public hearing was adjourned and the regular meeting convened at 5:17 p.m. II. Regular Meeting A. Action on COAs #298 and #299 On motion made by Ms Muccilli and seconded by Mr. Champagne, COA # 298 was approved by unanimous vote. On motion made by Ms Muccilli and seconded by Dr. Edgar, COA # 299 was approved by unanimous vote. B. Minutes The minutes of the meeting of February 21, 2013 were approved as presented by unanimous vote. C. Chairman’s Report Mr. Loewenstein reported that he and been asked to review a problem at the main entrance to John Mason School at 90 Town Street. A cold air surge disturbed employees each time the door was opened. He found evidence of a second door system, long since removed, that once formed a vestibule that prevented the surge. His suggestion to replace the second door system was accepted. As this project would include no exterior work, a COA is not required. A number of people have mentioned to commission members their concern about the future housing and support for the Freedom Bell that is soon to be erected in front of City Hall. Loewenstein invited Dale Plummer and Sheila Hayes, chair and vice chair of the Emancipation Proclamation Committee, to provide the commission with information regarding the site and design for the structure. While the final design has not yet been agreed upon, a speculative drawing of the stainless steel arch support was presented. It appears to be functional and attractive. It should not compete with City Hall for visual attention. The commission will be kept informed regarding design updates. March 21, 2013.doc D. Old Business There was no old business to come before the commission. . E. New Business Mr. Loewenstein said he is collecting photographs of all winners of the Preservation Award in preparation for a book honoring the extraordinary architectural beauty and diversity in Norwich. He has spoken with Mary Dunn about possible grant money to help fund the proposed project. F. Next Meeting Date – April 18, 2013 G. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 p.m. It was followed by a workshop presented by representatives from the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. The workshop addressed substitute materials and their use and abuse in historic preservation. Respectfully submitted, Gideon Loewenstein, Chairman March 21, 2013.doc