Historic District Commission

HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION, NORWICH, CONNECTICUT September 19, 2013 The regular meeting of the Norwich Historic District Commission was held on September 19, 2013 in Room 319, Norwich City Hall at 5:15 P.M. Members Present: Gideon Loewenstein, Chairman Malcolm Edgar Pamela Muccilli Judith Hamblen Nancy O’Neil Scott Learned Absent: Cort Murphy Robert Champagne Also in Attendance: Dale Plummer Chad Sweet Marcus and Jennifer Visligaj REGULAR MEETING A. Minutes On motion made by Edgar and seconded by Muccilli, the minutes of the July meeting were approved with the following correction: COA 301 decorative fencing to be constructed in the front of the property. B. Chairman’s Report Mr. Loewenstein reported that COA 301, 25 Huntington Place, decorative fencing installation at front of property was completed. C. Old Business COA 304: Mr. Loewenstein reported that no visible activity has been noted re the roof replacement project at 17 West Town St. When contacted, Jim Troeger informed that he has visited the site and the owner is in the process of shoring up roof joists so that he can proceed with re-roofing the house. Mr. Loewenstein will continue follow-up with Mr. Troeger. September 19, 2013  96 Union St roof: The owner, Ms. Saeed, has not contacted Mr. Loewenstein. A cease and desist order had been requested from the Building Department but roof work had already been done. Ms. Muccilli reported that this work did not restore the original architectural elements on the roof. She raised the question of what actions the HDC could take in situations where work is done without a COA and is not in compliance with its standards. Discussion followed regarding legal action which would be costly and time consuming. Mr. Loewenstein agreed to follow-up with Mr. Troeger and City Attorney Driscoll. COA 296: An extension had been granted for the roof replacement at 335 Washington St. Atty. O’Neil informed that the roofing material was ordered and that the contractor would be starting work shortly and have the project completed within the timeframe of the COA extension. The work is planned for weekends to avoid disruption to the law firm’s business. D. New Business  The new secretary was introduced, noting the retirement of Ms. Sullivan.  Mr. Loewenstein read a letter from Dr. Edgar, announcing his retirement from the HDC as of November 30, 2013. He and other members acknowledged Dr. Edgar’s many contributions to the city and the HDC. On motion made by Hamblen and seconded by Muccilli, the resignation was accepted with the request that Dr. Edgar be available in the future for advice, to which he agreed.  As a new vice chairperson would be needed, motion was made by O’Neil and seconded by Edgar that Judy Hamblen be appointed. Passed.  On a motion by O’Neil and seconded by Hamblen recommendation was made that Ms. Muccilli change from an alternate to a regular member. Passed.  Discussion ensued re the need for another alternate member and Mr. Loewenstein suggested either Marcus or Jennifer Visligaj be considered and asked for other suggestions. They had previously been invited to attend the meeting to learn more about its functions.  Preservation Awards: Ms. Muccilli asked for suggestions of properties to be awarded 2013 plaques. She will present photos of properties at the October meeting. It was decided to order four plaques and Mr. Loewenstein will contact the manufacturer to expedite obtaining them.  385 Washington St. repair: Mr. Loewenstein reported the barn located on the corner of Harland Rd and Lathrop Lane had been damaged when a truck rammed into a corner of the building. Mr. Chad Sweet from Deschenes & Cooper, the contractor hired by the owners, Dr. and Mrs. Briggs, informed the group that the repair would consist of replacing the siding and supports with the same or like-in-kind materials, using vintage or exact new material. It was agreed that no COA was needed and that Mr. Loewenstein would inform George Gardner of the Building Dept. September 19, 2013   85 Town St/Cor. Cemetery Ln: Mr. Loewenstein reported he had received a copy of a letter from George Gardner, Housing Inspection Dept. to Irene and Abraham Figarsky, owners, citing structural and other building deficiencies requiring repair with a compliance date of Sept.1st or penalties would apply. Ms. Hamblen noted the property is for sale by David Figarsky, their grandson. There has been no application for a COA from the owners. Mr. Loewenstein will continue contacts with Building Dept. officials and also City Attorney Driscoll to monitor the situation.  420 Washington St. /Dr. William Bradbury: Mr. Loewenstein was contacted by Dr. Bradbury re plans to build an addition to the rear of the house, with a start date early 2014. A visit was made to the property and sketches provided. Dr. Bradbury will apply for a COA probably a few months prior to commencement of the project. E. Next Meeting: October 17, 2013 F. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m. Respectively submitted, Gideon Loewenstein, Chairman September 19, 2013