City Council

TOWN OF OCCOQUAN Town Hall, 314 Mill Street, Occoquan, VA 22125 www.occoquanva.gov | info@occoquanva.gov | (703) 491-1918 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEETING June 28, 2022 | 7:30 p.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Citizen Comments 3. Approval of Minutes a. April 26, 2022 Meeting Minutes b. May 24, 2022 Meeting Minutes 4. Exterior Elevation Applications a. ARB2022-009: 426 Mill Street (Replace Gutters and Add Windows) b. ARB2022-010: 231 Mill Street (Replace Gate) 5. Reports a. Town Council Report b. Town Manager’s Report c. Planning Commission Report d. Chair Report 6. Discussion Items a. Design Guidelines: Solar Facilities Guidance 7. Adjournment Brenda Seefeldt Chair, Architectural Review Board Portions of this meeting may be held in closed session pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. ARB Agenda 1 of 32  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEETING MINUTES April 26, 2022 In Attendance: Brenda Seefeldt, Darryl Hawkins, Carol Bailey, Merial Currer, and Lisa Terry Excused Absent: Lori Domenech, Cindy Fithian Resigned: Doug Kastens – moved out of town. Call to Order- Brenda called the meeting to order at 7:36 pm 1. Citizen’s Comments - None 2. Approval of Minutes – March 22, 2022 - Brenda made a motion to approve, Carol 2nd – All Approved 3. Exterior Elevation Applications 1. Moved ARB2022-002 to first slot - 201 Union Street - Replacement of bay windows – Owner agreed to replace the current bay windows with vinyl windows of the same size and design except for the porch bay window that will be replaced with a flat window. Merial made a motion to approve, Theo 2nd – all approved. 2. ARB2022-004 – 416 Mill Street - Fencing – Applicant was asked to clarify the color and style of the fencing. Style will be picket and will be stained with Dark Walnut. Iron fence on street side will stay in place. Applicant was asked to change the application to reflect not changing the iron fence. Lisa made a motion to approve, Carol 2nd – all approved. 3. ARB2022-005 – 430 Mill Street – Fencing and Doors - The Applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for replacing existing and installing new fencing and gates and replacing existing doors at 430 Mill Street. A question was asked about the stockade fence at the back of the property. Brenda noted that this is a question for the Town Manager and that it is the developer’s responsibility to finish. Carol made a motion to approve, Theo 2nd – all approved. 4. ARB2022-006 – 312 Commerce Street – Porch, Chimney Removal - The Applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for proposed alterations to the front porch and removal of a chimney at 312 Commerce Street. Applicant states that the left chimney is causing the 1st floor to collapse. For the deck replacement, the railings will go back into place, and trex material will be installed. A sample was included for our information. The stairwell will remain and have a fresh coat of paint. There was discussion over the historical nature of the chimney. It was noted that the right chimney leans into the attic. Darryl recused himself from the discussion since the applicants are clients of his. The applicants were asked to amend the application to leave the right chimney and remove the left chimney and fill with metal roofing. Merial made a motion to approve, Carol 2nd – all approved without Darryl.  5. ARB2022-001 – 200 Mill Street - The ARB requested that the Applicant bring detail on the trim for the proposed kitchen facility. Lisa made a motion to approve as presented; Merial 2nd - All approved. 4. Reports 1. Town Council Report – No Report 2. Town Manager’s Report – No Report 3. Planning Commission – No Report 4. Chair Report – Nothing to report except new opening on the ARB. 5. Adjournment - 8:16 pm  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEETING MINUTES May 24, 2022 In Attendance: Brenda Seefeldt, Darryl Hawkins, Lori Domenech, Carol Bailey, Cindy Fithian, Jennifer Shown Excused Absent: Lisa Terry, Theo Daubresse, Merial Currer Call to Order- Brenda called the meeting to order at 7:34 pm 1. Citizen’s Comments - None 2. Approval of Minutes - Tabled until next meeting. 3. Exterior Elevation Applications 1. ARB2022-007 - 204 Washington Street - Canopy replacement – Replacing the canopy. Applicant wanted it noted that canvas is about 2 times the price of vinyl, but the design guidelines do not allow for vinyl. Lori made a motion to approve, Cindy 2nd - All approved. 2. ARB2022-008 – 430 Mill Street - Exterior Fireplace Cap – The cap will be painted to match the color of the brick it sits on. Cindy made a motion to accept, Lori 2nd - All approved. 4. Reports 1. Town Council Report - Cindy Fithian asked for volunteers for RiverFest and gave an overview of items discussed at the recent meeting including: Town Hall will honor June Randolph, an original member of the ARB, upon her passing; Noise ordinance goes into effect July 1st; Vehicles can now be towed for parking violations after 3:00 pm; Lisa Terry named member of ARB; Bob Love was appointed to replace Chris Bienia on Town Council; Blessing of the Fleet on Saturday; Agency Trilogy award presented to Occoquan Police Department for completion of leadership series; VDOT streets should be paved in September; Tax rates will be voted upon on June 7th. 2. Town Manager’s Report - Report submitted to be read on our own. 3. Chair Report - Last month included a discussion about a chimney removal. Brenda covered the history that the ARB is supportive of local business and advocates for practical solutions to their concerns - which is different from other Historic District Architectural Review Boards. 5. Adjournment - 8:00 pm ARB Agenda 2 of 32  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD Agenda Communication 4. Exterior Elevation Applications Meeting Date: June 28, 2022 4A: ARB2022-009: 426 Mill Street (Replace Gutters and Add Windows) Attachments: a. Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-009 b. Supporting Materials Explanation and Summary: The Applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for adding and replacing gutters and replacing French doors with windows. The Applicant has submitted an Exterior Elevation Application and supporting materials for consideration by the Architectural Review Board. Proposed/Suggested Motion(s): Motion to Approve as Presented: “I move to approve Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-009 as presented.” Motion to Approve with Changes: “I move to approve Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-009 with the following changes:__________, which are the minimum requirements necessary to prevent development that is obviously incongruous to the old and historic aspect of the surroundings.” Motion for Denial: “I move to deny Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-009 due to: (state reasons, with specific reference to the record before the ARB and the applicable ordinance or guideline provision).” Recommend Deferment: “I move to make a finding that the application is incomplete due to (state missing elements) and defer action on this item to MEETING DATE.” OR Other action the Board deems appropriate. ARB Agenda 3 of 32  ARB2022 - 009 TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD APPLICATION FOR EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS Commercial and Residential Exterior Improvements Within the Old and Historic District All exterior changes and modifications to the exterior of structures located within the Old and Historic District must be reviewed by the Architectural Review Board (ARB) for issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) prior to the work being performed. Applicants should review the Architectural Review Board Design Guidelines for guidance of appropriate colors, materials, designs, etc. The ARB meets regularly on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall. Applications must be filed at Town Hall by close of business on the Tuesday of the week prior to the meeting. Applicants must submit supplemental materials at time of application. Additional paint and material samples, product brochures and spec sheets, renderings, architectural drawings, photographs of the structure or other supplemental materials may be requested by the ARB prior to the hearing. The applicant or a representative must be present at the meeting during which the ARB will review the application. All fees must be paid prior to scheduling for ARB consideration. Section I: Applicant and Owner Information Rick Cornelio & Claire Grady ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Applicant Name Owner Name ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Business Name (if Applicable) Address (No., City, Address, Zip) + PO Box 426 Mill Street Occoquan 22152 (PO BOX 532) ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ Address (No., City, Address, Zip) + PO Box Email ________________ ________________________________________________ Email Phone Number ______________________________ Phone Number □ Same as Applicant Information Section II: Property Information Project Address: 426 Mill St Structure Style: House Type of Use (Select One): Exterior Elevation Type (Select all that apply): □ Residential □ Commercial □ Mixed-Use □ Improvement/Repair to Existing Structure □ Other: __________________________ □ New Development/In-Fill or New Accessory Structure □ Demolition □ Other: ____________________________________ Brief Description of Project: Add Copper Gutters to the front and sides of 426 to control rainfall. Replace black gutter in the back of the house with a copper gutter for consistency. Replace failing Dining room wood French doors with Pella Windows on a "knee high" wall to prevent water intrusion. Currently windows are less than 4 inches from the ground. The "knee high" wall will increase the height of the wall to 18 inches. Notice to Applicant/Property Owner: Prior to construction and/or installation of improvements, it is your responsibility to determine the existence of any restrictive covenants and/or deed restrictions governing property improvements. Other permits or approvals may be required from the Town or other agencies such as Zoning Compliance Review and/or Building Permits, among others. It is your responsibility to comply with all applicable regulations and to determine any other applicable private restrictions. ____________________________________________ ________________________ 12 June 2022 Applicant Signature Date Submitted ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package ARB Agenda 4 of 32 Page 1 of 5  Section III: Application Check List □ Paint Sample (identify which Architectural feature □ Material Samples (identify which Architectural samples are included) feature samples are included) List: List: □ Spec Sheets/Product Brochures: (identify which □ Photo of existing structure(s) Architectural feature spec sheets are included) List: □ Schematic(s)/Rendering(s) illustrating Powerpoint slides attached w/ pictures of proposed improvement(s) on structure(s) existing structure without gutters, picture of existing Breakfast Nook French Doors and □ Architectural Plans other details □ Other (List): Note to Applicants: Applicants are responsible for providing supplemental materials for proposed improvements. Applicants are responsible for ensuring proposed improvements are based on requirements listed in the Architectural Review Design Guidelines (as amended) and included under § 157.179 of the Town Code regarding matters to be considered by the ARB. At the time of the ARB meeting, the ARB may request additional information or documentation in order to complete a thorough review of the application. Section IV: ARB Certificate Of Approval (COA) Date to Architectural Review Board: □ COA Issued □ COA Denied Signature (ARB Chair or Designee) Date Section V: TOWN STAFF ONLY $25 Application Fee: ______ ARB APPLICATION NO.: 6/12/2022 Rcpt No./Check No.:_____ Date Paid:____________ ___ ARB2022-009 Notes: Plan Reference Numbers: □ Zoning Approval_____________ □ Site Plan_____________________ □ SUP_________________________ □ Other________________________ CONTINUE TO NEXT SECTION ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package ARB Agenda 5 of 32 Page 2 of 5  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD APPLICATION FOR EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATION Section V: Supplemental Application For New Builds, Improvements to Existing Structures and Combination Projects – Commercial, Residential and Mixed-Use Project Address: 426 Mill Street ARB Application No.: ARB2022-009 Complete only the sections below that are applicable to the application. More information on each section is included in the ARB Design Guidelines available on the Town’s website at www.occoquanva.gov. Note: Words included on any improvements constitute a sign and are not part of the Exterior Elevation review process; a separate sign application process is required. 1. Type of Improvement(s): □ New Build □ Improvements to Existing Structure(s) □ Combination 2. Additions and New Builds □ Accessory Structure: Size: _______________ Location relative to Main Structure:___________________ □ New Build: Size:__________________________ Location on site:____________________________________ General Description/Use of Structure:____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ □ Rendering required □ Plan showing location on site required □ Architectural Plans required Complete applicable sections below. 3. Awnings □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Design:_____________________________________________________________ Proposed Material (canvas or similar material): ______________________Color: _______________________ □ Sample Included (Type):______________________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 4. Exterior Walls on Structure □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Pattern: _____________________________________________________________ Proposed Material: □ Brick □ Siding □ Other: __________________________ □ Paint □ Material Replacement Material Type: ______________________Color: ______________________ Pattern:_______________________ □ Mortar: Color ______________________ Joint Pattern___________________________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package ARB Agenda 6 of 32 Page 3 of 5  5. Windows □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Pattern: Black wood framed glass doors _____________________________________________________________ Proposed Material: Glass fiberglass frame Grid Profile: ____________________________ Grid Color:N/A_ Shutter Color: N/A__ Trim Color:_Black Location (identify location of windows and types – provide exhibit): _Three sides of dining room bump out on the east side of the house_________________________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 6. Doors □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Pattern: _____________________________________________________________ Proposed Material: _____________________________ Style: ______________ □ Window (Style):___________ Door Color:____________________ Trim Color:_____________________ Window Color:_________________ Location(s) (identify location of doors and types – provide exhibit): ___________________________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 7. Roofs and Gutters □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Pattern:______ _____Gutter Black Standard ___________________________________________ Proposed Roof Material:______________________________________ Roof Pitch___________ Proposed Roof Color and Style:____________________________________________________ Copper to match Roof Proposed Gutter Material and Color: ___________________________________________________________ Front, Sides and Back Gutter Locations (provide exhibit):_____________________________________________________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 8. Dormers □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Pattern:_____________________________________________________________ Proposed Material:____________________________________ Existing Pitch___________ New Pitch_______ Proposed Color and Style:____________________________ Window Color and Style:____________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package ARB Agenda 7 of 32 Page 4 of 5  9. Fences, Retaining Walls, Foundations, Decks, Porches, Screenings, Patios, Enclosures etc. □ New □ Repair/Replacement Proposed Structure Type:___________________________ Existing Material, Color and Design:________________________________________ Type:________________ Proposed Material:___________________________ Color/Stain:_____________________________ Proposed Pattern/Design:____________________________ Decorative Trim/Hardware:________________ Mortar Color:__________________________________________ Joint Pattern:___________________________ Porch/Deck Post(s) Size: _________________ Spindle Design and Color: _____________________ □ Sample Included (Type):_______________________________________________________________ □ Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 10. Other Exterior Improvements □ New □ Repair/Replacement Existing Material, Color and Design:_______________________________________ Type:_________________ Existing Material, Color and Design:_______________________________________ Type:_________________ Lighting Light Fixtures: Color ___________ Style_____________ Placement________________ □ Spec Sheet Included Ramps ADA Ramps: Color_____________ Style_____________ Location_________________ □ Spec Sheet Included Chimneys □ Brick □ Stone Color____________ Style____________ Location__________________□ Spec Sheet Included Other Material:_______________ Color__________________ Type_________________ Location________________ Other Material:_______________ Color__________________ Type_________________ Location________________ Brief Description: □ p Spec Sheet Included □ Photo Included 2-XQH _________________________________________________________ ______________________________ _ Applicant Signature Date TOWN STAFF ONLY Notes: ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package ARB Agenda 8 of 32 Page 5 of 5 426 Mill Street Repairs For Occoquan Architecture Review Board (ARB) Review 13 JUN 2022 ARB Agenda 9 of 32 Replacement of Glass Doors on Breakfast Nook • Current doors are poorly constructed, and materials (wood and hardware) are not appropriate for exterior. • Doors are poorly insulated and allow for air and water intrusion. • Doors are set too close to the ground, allowing water to enter the house. ARB Agenda 10 of 32 Proposed Breakfast Nook • Install Pella Impervia Casement Windows, same brand and model as existing windows on the house, (clear glass with black fiberglass frames) without grills • Impervia 2-Wide Casement 44.5”x 65.5” on two sides • Impervia 4-Wide Casement 89” x 65.5” on long side facing 430 Mill St • Casement window will be above a knee-wall approximately 18” in height to prevent water intrusion into the house. • Windows shown in diagram with dotted lines across the pane can crank open to allow air flow. Knee wall Knee wall ARB Agenda 11 of 32 sides Proposed Window Specifications – Front and Back Sides ARB Agenda 12 of 32 Proposed Window Specifications – Side Facing 430 Mill Street ARB Agenda 13 of 32 Addition of Copper Gutters and Replacement of Gutters • Existing gutters in limited locations are insufficient to manage rainfall and are of dissimilar metals to the copper roof • Locations of the gutters to be added or replaced are identified on the next slide with red lines • Gutters will be standard shape 6” • Material will be copper to keep with the classic look and materials of the house ARB Agenda 14 of 32  Side of the House Front of the House Back of the House and facing 430 side facing Bann Thai Proposed locations of new gutters shown with red lines ARB Agenda 15 of 32  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD Agenda Communication 4. Exterior Elevation Applications Meeting Date: June 28, 2022 4B: ARB2022-010: 231 Mill Street (Replace Gate) Attachments: a. Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-010 b. Supporting Materials Explanation and Summary: The Applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for replacing a metal gate. The Applicant has submitted an Exterior Elevation Application and supporting materials for consideration by the Architectural Review Board. Proposed/Suggested Motion(s): Motion to Approve as Presented: “I move to approve Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-010 as presented.” Motion to Approve with Changes: “I move to approve Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-010 with the following changes:__________, which are the minimum requirements necessary to prevent development that is obviously incongruous to the old and historic aspect of the surroundings.” Motion for Denial: “I move to deny Exterior Elevation Application ARB2022-010 due to: (state reasons, with specific reference to the record before the ARB and the applicable ordinance or guideline provision).” Recommend Deferment: “I move to make a finding that the application is incomplete due to (state missing elements) and defer action on this item to MEETING DATE.” OR Other action the Board deems appropriate. ARB Agenda 16 of 32  ARB2022 - 010 TOWN OF OCCOQUAN ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD APPLICATION FOR EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS Commercial and Residential Exterior Improvements Within the Old and Historic District All exterior changes and modifications to the exterior of structures located within the Old and Historic District must be reviewed by the Architectural Review Board (ARB) for issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) prior to the work being performed. Applicants should review the Architectural Review Board Design Guidelines for guidance of appropriate colors, materials, designs, etc. The ARB meets regularly on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall. Applications must be filed at Town Hall by close of business on the Tuesday of the week prior to the meeting. Applicants must submit supplemental materials at time of application. Additional paint and material samples, product brochures and spec sheets, renderings, architectural drawings, photographs of the structure or other supplemental materials may be requested by the ARB prior to the hearing. The applicant or a representative must be present at the meeting during which the ARB will review the a lication. All fees must be aid rior to schedulin for ARB consideration. C:lci-S I Vfkd l...lV\:1 �./\1 Co ndo!'Y'; o;uo1 As) . _________,_.5:'--"9..._,_._ne_. """""""'------- Applicant.Name ) Owner Name c.i· C ±n '" A - Bu�ne;;��;J A�i���{ j 00(0-I C QV-p_._ fl � C'.vr-dv. �soc. PO Box t 2.O I I L-c r ;:TA d-<soo '4 wy . ,5u: USO _2_-3�'-�/V}�: �I \� .....,__ ;o.,,.-v�a.�n .•�O�c......,co�Q 5�-t .,... Address (No., City, Address, Zip)+ PO l!ox Email D fu � r .f� VA 2 2 u 3 3 Phone Number Email e as Applicant Information ation Project Address: Structure Style: Type of Use (Select One): Exterior Elevation Type (Select all that apply): �esidential □ Commercial □ Mixed-Use □ Improvement/Repair to Existing Structure □ Other: ___________ □ New Development/In-Fill or New Accessory Structure □ Demolition liK)ther: ) + .P L- �ief Description of Project: ,\'"\.e" \ l<.-c plt:1.c t: of -eyi .s-hn] m-c-t a.I _j tt.-h: Notice to Applicant/Property Owner: Prior to construction and/or installation of improvements, it is your responsibility to determine the existence of any restrictive covenants and/or deed restrictions governing property imprcmements. Other permits or approvals may be required from the Town or other agencies such as Zoning Compliance Review and/or Building Permits, among others. It is your res onsibiliti to com It with all a licable re ulations and to determine am other a /icable rivate restrictions. ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package Page 1 of 5 ARB Agenda 17 of 32  Section III: Application Check List o Paint Sample (identifiJ which Architectural feature □ Material Samples (identifiJ which Architectural samples are included) feature samples are included) List: List: D-Bpec Sheets/Product Brochures: (identify which Qlf->hoto of existing structure(s) Architectural feature spec sheets are included) Pho-to of u.\'rh· A is�ci List: □ Schematic(s)/Rendering(s) illustrating proposed improvement(s) on structure(s) 5A-k □ Architectural Plans □ Other (List): Note to Applicants: Applicants are responsible for providing supplemental materials for proposed improvements. Applicants are responsible for ensuring proposed improvements are based on requirements listed in the Architectural Review Design Guidelines (as amended) and included under _§ 157.179 of the Town Code regarding matters to be considered by the ARB. At the time of the ARB meeting, the ARB may request additional information or documentation in order to complete a thorough review of the application. Section IV: ARB Certificate Of Approval (COA) Date to Architectural Review Board: □ COAissued □ COA Denied Signature (ARB Chair or Designee) Date Section V: TOWN STAFF ONLY $25 Application Fee: __ ARB APPLICATION NO.: Date Paid: 6/17/2022 Rcpt No./Check No.: cc pymt ARB2022-010 Notes: Plan Reference Numbers: o Zoning Approval o Site Plan □SUP o Other CONTINUE TO NEXT SECTION ARB Exterior Elevations Application Package Page 2 of 5 ARB Agenda 18 of 32 231 Mill Street ARB2022-010 ARB Agenda 19 of 32 ARB Agenda 20 of 32 ARB Agenda 21 of 32 ARB Agenda 22 of 32 ARB Agenda 23 of 32  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN PLANNING COMMISSION Agenda Communication 6. Discussion Items Meeting Date: June 28, 2022 6A: Design Guidelines: Solar Facilities Guidance Attachments: a. Memo – June 24, 2022 b. Draft Ordinance Submitted by: Matt Whitmoyer Management Fellow Explanation and Summary: During their June 7, 2022, meeting, the Town Council referred a zoning text amendment to the Planning Commission to add definitions to Town Code § 157.008 and to add section § 157.013 generally relating to solar facilities. The draft ordinance is attached. The Planning Commission is considering the Zoning Text Amendment at their June 28, 2022 meeting. Based on the Commission’s feedback and direction, a Planning Commission public hearing may be scheduled as early as July 26, 2022 to gather public input. Subsequently, the Town Council will also need to schedule a public hearing, which would be as early as August 16, 2022, with potential for adoption. The Draft Ordinance requires a Certificate of Appropriateness process for properties located within Occoquan’s Old and Historic District. Staff has prepared a memo with some initial guidance for the Architectural Review Board (ARB) to consider as the ARB Guidelines will need to be updated to address solar panels, should the Ordinance be adopted later this summer. Staff will provide a brief presentation on the memo and recommendations at the meeting. Background Currently, the Town Code does not allow solar facilities within the town in any zoning district. The proposed amendments would permit rooftop solar facilities on the roofs of primary or accessory structures in all Town zoning districts. Both solar energy facilities (shared facilities that supply multiple properties through the grid) and ground mounted facilities would be prohibited. The proposed Ordinance includes Certificate of Appropriateness requirements within the Old and Historic District for solar facilities that are visible from a public street, way or place. The ARB will review potential guidelines for such requirements. All other solar facilities that are outside of the Old and Historic District or within the Old and Historic District and not viewable from a public street, way or place are permitted. ARB Agenda 24 of 32 Staff Recommendation: Recommend the Architectural Review Board consider updating the ARB Exterior Elevation Guidelines to address solar facilities within the Old and Historic District. Cost and Financing: N/A Account Number: N/A Proposed/Suggested Motion: N/A OR Other action the Board deems appropriate. ARB Agenda 25 of 32  TOWN OF OCCOQUAN TOWN COUNCIL Earnest W. Porta, Jr., Mayor Circa 1734 ● Chartered 1804 ● Incorporated 1874 Jenn Loges, Vice Mayor 314 Mill Street ● PO Box 195 ● Occoquan, Virginia 22125 Cindy Fithian (703) 491-1918 ● Fax (571) 398-5016 ● info@occoquanva.gov Laurie Holloway Robert E. Love www.occoquanva.gov Eliot Perkins TOWN MANAGER MEMORANDUM Kirstyn Jovanovich TO: Kirstyn Jovanovich, Town Manager FROM: Matt Whitmoyer, Management Fellow DATE: June 24, 2022 SUBJECT: Review of Common Architectural Review Board Design Guidelines on Solar Panels and Recommendations for the Occoquan ARB Overview On June 7, 2022, the Town Council approved Resolution R-2022-07 to refer a zoning text amendment to the Planning Commission to amend Town Code § 157.008, Definitions, and to add a section numbered § 157.013, Solar Energy. The changes to the Town Code will permit the use of rooftop solar facilities (solar panels and other solar devices for residential use) across all zoning districts as well as outline the conditions of such use. As an exterior improvement, rooftop solar facilities within the Old and Historic Occoquan District will require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the Architectural Review Board (ARB), in addition to meeting Town zoning requirements and applicable building regulations. Therefore, to support the discussion and development of processes and guidelines by which the ARB could regulate rooftop solar facilities within its Historic Overlay District (“HOD”), I have compiled research on best practices for solar facility use and COA approval in historic districts. I conclude with final recommendations on potential ARB guidelines. Best Practices in Design Guidelines Other ARB’s aim to preserve the character of the historical buildings within their HOD’s while also allowing owners to meet their green energy goals. This means creating design guidelines that minimize the visual effects of solar facilities and maximize the preservation of historic features, materials, and spatial relationships. Inconspicuous and/or Alternate Placements The reviewed design guidelines all specify that solar facilities should be placed in non- obtrusive ways. As such, locating solar facilities on primary facades is strongly discourage ARB Agenda 26 of 32 across HOD’s as well as installations that alter or obscure character-defining features of a historic building. The City of Manassas’s Historic District Design Guidelines recommend that installers place panels “on less visible locations of the roof; on non-character defining roofs; or roofs of non-historic adjacent buildings.” Many guidelines and models concur, citing secondary, rear-facing roofs or even accessory structures, especially non-historic ones, as potential installation sites. When those options are not available, best practice suggests that solar facilities should be installed flush (with a pitched roof) or behind a parapet (on a flat roof). Other measures include screenings to hide solar installations, as Alexandria’s guidelines suggest. To help navigate the placement of solar facilities that respect the character of a historic building, the National Park Service has created this guide, based off the Department of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, that illustrates some of the above best practices. Compatible Colors and Finishes No matter the placement location, best practices suggest that the solar facility and any mounting hardware should match the established colors of the roof. They also recommend that such facilities should have matte or minimally reflective finishes. Preservation of Historical Materials The inappropriate installation of solar facilities can prove damaging to historic roofs and their underlying structures. With that in mind, organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory recommend that all solar installations be reversible and not damage the historic materials of the roof. Fairfax County’s Hollin Hills HOD recommends that installers use “solar products and mounting systems that compliment historic roof materials.” In fact, the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions cautions against solar shingles that replace historic materials. However, no design guidelines reviewed in this process outright banned the use of solar shingles. Instead, along with other solar facilities, they recommended their use on flat roofs, secondary elevations, and in less or non-visible locations. Differentiation Between Types of Buildings/Structures Some localities differentiate between the types of buildings or structures (i.e. historic vs. non- historic) when they consider how to create and enforce their guidelines for solar facilities. For example, the City of Manassas uses the designations of Landmark, Contributing, and Non- Contributing to differentiate the types of buildings in its HOD’s. The levels of visibility and compatibility tolerated then vary based on the designations, with Landmark having the most restrictive stipulations. Under such a system, solar panels may be allowed on the primary elevation of a Non-Contributing structure in an HOD but would be prohibited on a primary elevation of a Landmark or Contributing structure. This tiered system allows homeowners with less or non-historic buildings to more easily install solar facilities and gives those that own multiple types of structures on one property the ability to both preserve the historic integrity of their properties and increase their energy efficiency by installing on newer structures. Member of the Virginia Municipal League ARB Agenda 27 of 32 Best Practices in COA Process Create Guidelines for Locating Character-Defining Features Preservation authorities like the National Park Service’s Technical Preservation Services recommend that any historical preservation activities and/or guidelines include a set of instructions for helping prospective solar facility owners identify character-defining features. Such instructions cover the main character-defining elements, including the overall shape of the building, its materials, craftsmanship, and decorative details. The Services’ Architectural Character List, specifically steps one and two, could prove a useful model for instructions that will help owners and installers better understand how their solar facility impacts the historical character of their building. Recommendations The following are two groupings of recommendations that the ARB may want to consider as it develops its solar facility guidelines, both in terms of content and structure. ➢ Add Solar Facility Guidelines Based on Above Best Practices o Recommending solar facilities be place inconspicuously on less-visible elevations and/or behind screenings o Recommending solar facilities be compatible with character of the building ▪ Compatible colors and matte finishes o Recommending solar facilities not damage or replace historical materials ▪ Installation should be as minimally invasive as possible o Recommending different placement guidelines for different types of buildings/structures ▪ Guidelines may allow primary elevation placements on more contemporary buildings but restrict uses to less-visible elevations and inconspicuous placements on historic structures ▪ Guidelines may use the definition of historic structures (“Any building or physical improvement built before 1900”), found in Town Code Section 157.008, to create two categories ▪ Guidelines may also be informed by the list of Occoquan Historic Landmarks in Town Code Section 157.177 ➢ Revise Relevant Sections of the ARB Design Guidelines Manual o Recommending the insertion of a “Solar Facilities” guidelines section pursuant to “Roofs” in the ARB Design Guidelines Manual o Recommending the creation and inclusion of an “Identifying Character- Member of the Virginia Municipal League ARB Agenda 28 of 32  Defining Features Checklist” to the ARB Design Guidelines Manual prior to the “Rehabilitation and Construction” section ▪ The checklist could be based off the aforementioned Technical Preservations Services’ list Recommended Resources City of Alexandria, Design Guidelines for the Old & Historic Alexandria and Parker-Gray Districts, https://media.alexandriava.gov/docs- archives/planning/info/ohadandparkergraydistrictdesignguidelines1993.pdf City of Fairfax, City of Fairfax Design Guidelines, https://www.fairfaxva.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/11619/636988029421430000 City of Manassas, Historic District Design Guidelines, https://files4.1.revize.com/manassasva/Community%20Development/ARB/web%20Cityof Manassas_HOD%20Design%20Guidelines_Adopted.pdf Fairfax County, Hollin Hills Historic Overlay District Design Guidelines, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/planning-development/sites/planning- development/files/assets/documents/historic/hollin-hills-dg.pdf National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, Sample Guidelines for Solar Systems in Historic Districts, https://www.growsolar.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Sample-Guidelines- for-Solar-Systems-in-Historic-Districts.pdf National Park Service: Technical Preservation Services, Solar Panels on Historic Properties, https://www.nps.gov/tps/sustainability/new-technology/solar-on-historic.htm NREL, Implementing Solar PV Projects on Historic Buildings and in Historic Districts, https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/51297.pdf U.S. Department of the Interior, Standards for Rehabilitation, https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards/four-treatments/treatment-rehabilitation.htm Member of the Virginia Municipal League ARB Agenda 29 of 32  ORDINANCE # O-2022-XX AN ORDINANCE TO ADD DEFINITIONS TO TOWN CODE § 157.008 AND TO ADD A SECTION NUMBERED 157.013 GENERALLY RELATING TO SOLAR FACILITIES WHEREAS, Virginia Code § 15.2-2288.7 authorizes the regulation of solar facilities through local zoning ordinances; and WHEREAS, the Town Council wishes to encourage the placement of rooftop solar facilities, consistent with the historic protection provisions of the Town’s zoning ordinance; and WHEREAS, the Town Planning Commission and Town Council have advertised and held public hearings on the proposed amendments to the Town zoning ordinance. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council for the Town of Occoquan, Virginia meeting in ____________ session this day of , 2022: 1. That the Town Council finds that commercial and ground-based solar energy facilities are not suited to the small, densely occupied area of the Town. 2. That the Town Council hereby amends Town Code § 157.008 as follows: § 157.008 DEFINITIONS. Add the following definitions in their alphabetical location: ROOFTOP SOLAR FACILITY: A solar electrical or thermal facility that is integrated into or mounted on the wall or roof of a primary or accessory structure for the principal purpose of serving the electricity or thermal needs of that property. A Rooftop Solar Facility has the principal purpose of serving the electricity needs of a residential property if its peak generation is 10 kilowatts or less. For commercial and mixed-use properties, a Rooftop Solar Facility has the principal purpose of serving the electricity needs of the property if its peak production is no more than twice the anticipated peak electricity usage of the property, as determined by the electric utility serving the property. SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY: A facility primarily consisting of activities, applications or devices designed to convert sunlight into electricity for storage and/or distribution from one property to others through the transmission grid. The term “Solar Energy Facility” shall not include Rooftop Solar Facilities. 1 ARB Agenda 30 of 32  UTILITY SOLAR FACILITY: A solar array consisting of one or two panels for the sole purpose of providing electricity to a traffic sign, utility installation, or public facility. 3. That the Town Council hereby adopts Town Code § 157.013 as follows: 157.013 SOLAR ENERGY. (A) Solar Energy Facilities and ground-mounted solar energy generation facilities are not permitted in any zoning district in the Town. (B) Utility Solar Facilities are permitted as accessory to any use by the state, county, or town, subject only to the requirements of maintaining vertical clearance for pedestrian and vehicle traffic. (C) Rooftop Solar Facilities are permitted as accessory uses in every zoning district in the Town subject to the following conditions and approvals: (1) In the Old and Historic Occoquan District, Rooftop Solar Facilities are permitted (a) in locations not visible from a public street, way or place or (b) with a certificate of appropriateness from the Architectural Review Board. (2) Height limitations in individual zoning districts do not apply to Rooftop Solar Facilities less than 5 feet in height. (3) Rooftop Solar Facilities must meet the setback requirements in the zoning district where the property is located. 4. That this ordinance is effective upon passage. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN COUNCIL Meeting Date: Town Council Meeting Ord No. O-2022-XX RE: An Ordinance to Add Definitions to Town Code § 157.008 and to Add a Section Numbered 157.013 Generally Relating to Solar Facilities MOTION: SECOND: ACTION: 2 ARB Agenda 31 of 32 Votes: Ayes: Nays: Absent from Vote: Absent from Meeting: CERTIFIED COPY_________________________________________________ Town Clerk 3 ARB Agenda 32 of 32