Design Review Board

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2013 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROOM PRESENT: Steven Rowland, Chairman; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman; Richard Martin; Robert West; Karen Cavotta; Robert DeMarco; Georgeanna Lussier STAFF: Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning & Economic Development CALL TO ORDER: Steven Rowland, Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:04 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ANNOUNCEMENT OF RECORDING OF PROCEEDING: Steve Rowland, Chairman stated the proceedings of this meeting are being recorded for the benefit of the secretary. Because the minutes are not a verbatim record of the proceedings, the minutes are not a word-for-word transcript of the recording. ADJOURNED APPLICATIONS: 2013.047 PLUM DANDY AWNING SIGN, 55 Railroad Place, Architectural Review of new of signage in the Transect-6 District. Adjourned to June 5, 2013. 2013.051 BROADWAY SPRING CORPORATION, 7 Spring Street, Historic Review of windows and north entrance in the Transect-6 District. Adjourned to June 5, 2013. APPLICATIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION: 1. #2013.041 PARK SIDE EATERY, 36 Phila Street, Historic Review of wall signage within the Transect-6 District. Applicant: Michael Hoyt Agent: Rick Marshall, AJ Sign Co.; Alyssa Sheyan, Graphic Designer SEQRA: This action is a Type II action; a SEQR determination of significance is not required. The applicant is requesting to replace two existing awning canvases with updated tenant information; erect a new wall sign on the South façade facing Spring St. and Congress Park. Existing gooseneck lighting will be refurbished and reused. Color sample of the fabric was provided to the Board. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development noted that the lettering may not to exceed 25% of the overall awning face. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Robert DeMarco made a motion in the matter of the Park Side Eatery Signage, 36 Phila Street, that the application be approved as submitted with the following condition – the use of the green fabric as presented this evening with the white lettering. Lettering is not to exceed 25% of overall area. Signage as proposed. Robert West seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 2. # 2013.052 513 BROADWAY FREESTANDING SIGN, 513 Broadway, Historic Review of freestanding sign within the Transect-6 District. RECUSAL: Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman recused herself from this application. Applicant: George Ehinger Agent: Daniel Roicki, Adirondack Sign Co. SEQRA: Action is a Type II action; a SEQR determination of significance is not required. The original freestanding sign was approved in 1997. Applicant wishes to use same structure and replace single-tenant sign board with 2 complementary tenant sign boards Chequed.com Predictive Talent Selection; Rendertribe. Flat with graphic print. Letter/logo sizes and overall sign size conforms to current regulations. The panels are only being replaced. Discussion ensued regarding the addition of a border surrounding the sign. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Georgeanna Lussier made a motion in the matter of the 513 Broadway Freestanding Sign, 513 Broadway, that the application be approved as submitted. Review of final border selection surrounding the sign may be approved by administrative action by Chair. Richard Martin seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, recused; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0-1 Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman resumed her position on the Board. 3. #2011.060.1 SARATOGA ROWING SCULLING PAVILION, 543 Union Avenue, Architectural Review of new sculling pavilion within the Interlaken PUD Zone, B-Marina, District. Applicant: Saratoga Rowing Properties LLC Agent: Anthony Stellato SEQRA : Action is a Type II action; a SEQR determination of significance is not required. BACKGROUND: Project entails the construction of a 140’x22’ wood-framed accessory storage building structure to house boats and rowing equipment. The applicant appeared before DRC in September of 2011 and received approval for similar structure; approved with the conditions that the end gable vent be larger to be in better proportion with size of gable and to raise oar cabinet eave line to break up appearance of the length of the building. That approval has expired. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 2 of 11 A visual presentation was provided to the Board by Mr. Stellato. Materials to match existing boathouse: green asphalt shingles; tan vinyl siding; maroon aluminum soffit, fascia; maroon wood corner and door trim. Current design includes an upper band (below eave) with vertical siding and horizontal sliding windows. East elevation includes metal overhead door. Other than more details on the doors and windows the basic project remains the same. Discussion ensued regarding the overhead door. Possibly a sliding ‘barn’ overlap door be more appropriate to match the same on the existing boathouse or, alternatively, an overhead door that appears more barn-door-like in appearance. Also would there be any consideration for additional windows or any thought to reverse gable or dormers on the south roof to break up the South roof elevation. Possible addition of small gable vents to break up mass. Mr. Stellato informed the Board that the sculling pavilion will not be seen from the Regatta View Estates. The applicant has met with the homeowners association and they are very pleased with the design. Regarding the windows, boats will be stored on the walls so the windows will be blocked and not allow much natural lighting in. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Robert West made a motion in the matter of the Saratoga Rowing Sculling Pavilion, 543 Union Avenue, that the application be approved as submitted per the new drawings submitted and dated 08/31/12. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there is any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 4. # 2013.021 and # 2013.022 REJUVENATION HOMES, 24, 26, 30 Lafayette Street, Public Hearing, SEQRA evaluation, and ZBA request for an advisory opinion on proposed demolition, addition and new construction within the Urban Residential-4 District (Historic Review). Applicant: Todd Levinson, Rejuvenation Homes, Inc. Owner: Congregation Mikvah Israel SEQRA : This is a listed Type I action due to its location within a Historic District requiring coordinated review by involved agencies and a SEQR determination of significance. At their 3/11/13 mtg., the ZBA initiated SEQRA coordinated review with the DRC, indicated their deferral of SEQRA lead agency status to the DRC should the DRC request, and request an advisory opinion from the DRC. At the 3/20/13 DRC meeting, the DRC voted to assume Lead Agency Status. BACKGROUND: Project entails 3 substandard lots within the Urban Residential-4 District. Currently, 3 buildings and a garage exist on these lots. All 3 buildings are listed as “contributing” structures on the National Register of Historic Places. All structures have been vacant for an extended period and suffer from significant water damage and deterioration. Applicant is proposing to retain and rehabilitate the original portion of the structure at 30 Lafayette and construct period-appropriate additions. The structures at 24 and 26 will be demolished. The current lot at 26 Lafayette will be dissolved providing land to 24 and 30 Lafayette to make each closer to standard requirements. A context-sensitive house will then be constructed at 24 Lafayette St. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 3 of 11 At the 3/20/13 DRC mtg., the DRC requested additional information from the applicant on the condition of the structures. On 4/24, the City received correspondence from the applicant addressing Zoning Ordinance requirements and an evaluation by Dana Broadaway, registered architect, Saratoga Design Build, on the conditions of the properties. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the Board received correspondence from: - Saratoga Preservation Foundation dated 5-15-13 in support of this project, however requesting the retaining of any historic materials if possible. Replacement in kind. Perform a Level 1 Historic American Building Survey (HABS) and The Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) on 24-26 Lafayette Street, for high resolution photographs of site. Salvaging of any materials which can be retained. Maintain the current street orientation. - Bill Justice dated 05-13-15 in support of this project. SEQRA: Steven Rowland, Chairman reviewed the SEQRA Full Environmental Assessment Form, Parts I and II. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any questions or comments from the Board. PUBLIC HEARING: Steven Rowland, Chairman opened the public hearing at 7:45 P.M. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Saratoga Preservation Foundation, acknowledged the applicant for his cooperation in meeting with the Foundation on this application. The Foundation reviewed and is in support of this project. Sherry Gray, 38 5th Avenue. When we take down historic buildings it is nice to have a plan. Andrew Scheir, 25 Lafayette Street. Requested to see a visual rendering of the project. Concerns regarding driveways and garages. Concerns were voiced regarding two curb cuts and offered the option of a shared driveway. David Appel, 117 Circular Street. Agrees with Mr. Schier. Parking is at a premium on that street. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the public hearing will remain open. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated that based upon the information provided by the applicant in Part I of the SEQR Full Environmental Assessment Form, and analysis of the information provided and presented in Part II of the SEQR Full Environmental Assessment Form, the project will not result in any large and important impacts and, therefore, is one that will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment. Based on this, I move to make a SEQR negative declaration for this action. Robert West seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 The Board reviewed the current setbacks proposed and current zoning regulations. Steven Rowland, Chairman made a motion for a favorable advisory opinion to the Zoning Board for the proposed relief in consideration of the existing zoning requirements and the historical building context of this area. It certainly speaks to similar issues for not only buildings that already exist there but any buildings which would be developed would have these same restrictions and problems considering the nature of the properties and the way in which they predate the Zoning Ordinance by such a great degree. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman seconded the motion. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 4 of 11 Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 5. #2012.078.1 CONGRESS PLAZA HOTEL, 46 Congress Plaza, Architectural Review of partial demolition and construction of new 6 story hotel in the Transect 6/ Urban Residential-5 Districts. SEQRA: Project is a “Type I” action requiring a SEQRA determination. At the 04/03/13 DRC meeting, the DRC deferred SEQRA Lead Agent status to the Planning Board and following their 4/17/13 meeting, the DRC provided additional input to the Planning Board. At the 4/24 mtg., the Planning Board accepted SEQRA lead agency status, issued a SEQRA negative declaration and issued site plan approval. Applicant: Don Greene Enterprises Inc. Agent: Matthew Hurff, Frost Hurff Architects, Matthew J. Jones, Jones Firm; Michael Ingersoll, LA Group BACKGROUND: The DRC was involved in earlier sketch discussions for this project the construction of a building along Congress St. This project has been substantially changed: The proposed 6-story hotel will be a stand-alone building on essentially the site of the former Broadway Joe’s. No additional buildings are proposed along Congress St. The parking structure to support the hotel was removed. The existing grade-level surface parking area will be used to accommodate the parking needs of this activity. Project site is in Architectural Review District and adjacent to the Gideon Putnam Cemetery, an identified City Landmark property and listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The Commission was concerned with the perceived mass and scale of a 6-story building. The applicant has modified the Congress St. façade to include glass/steel treatment along the top floor. Matthew Hurff, Frost Hurff Architects provided the Board with a visual presentation incorporating the previous suggestions which the Board had made. The applicant is looking for a determination on demolition and approval for mass and scale. They would like to pursue a building permit. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the Preservation Foundation has written indicating a concern they have regarding the visual impacts of this project regarding the resulting view from the Gideon Putnam Cemetery. Matthew Jones stated the Planning Board did look at this viewshed at their meeting last week. The may be something more we can do. We will take another look at this we have some ideas and we will return to you with this plan. Matthew Hurff stated we will return to you with a choice of materials and a mitigation plan for screening the parking. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Preservation Foundation stated when they met with the applicants they initially did have concerns regarding the visual impacts of this project. A solid fence or hedge along the Gideon Putnam Cemetery property line would do much to help mitigate the parking. Sherry Gray, 38 5th Avenue. Questioned the parking for this project. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 5 of 11 Matthew Hurff stated there is parking behind the building. Michael Ingersoll, LA Group stated the Planning Board did look for pedestrian linkage. Security issues with barriers were also discussed. There is a natural barrier. We will return with a visual impact mitigation plan. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Congress Plaza Hotel, 46 Congress Street, the application be approved with the following conditions – this is approval for demolition, mass and scale and an approved footprint to start the building permit process. Applicant is to return for color, material, texture, lighting, signage, etc. Robert West seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 6. #2012.085 FECTEAU BUILDING (MEHERIO LLC), 53 Church Street, Architectural Review of residential garage and apartment addition within a Transect-6 District. Applicant: Meherio LLC Agent: Matthew Hurff, Frost Hurff Architects SEQRA: In accordance with SEQRA regulations, the Planning Board classified the action as a Type I action subject to coordinated review with involved agencies; moved to assume SEQRA Lead Agency following the Design Review Commission’s deferral of Lead Agency on September 5, 2012; reviewed Part I and II of the long Environmental Assessment Form on September 25, 2012 and issued a SEQRA negative declaration by a 7-0 vote. BACKGROUND: This project entails the addition of a residential garage and 3 new apartments to the rear (north) of the existing building. On 12/5/13, the DRC granted a partial approval for general mass & scale and authorized applicant to begin the building permit process. Applicant was to return for final approval of exterior details including railings, corbels, windows, cornice, doors, brick base and colors. The original project has changed since last before the DRC: Exterior features and materials have changed. Changes include the reduced use of brick; increased use of concrete siding and fiber cement pilasters. The painted wood trellis is now aluminum-reinforced Azek. Rooftop painted steel guardrail is now composite. Railing, and window locations and rhythm have been reconfigured, and a reduction in the number, size of balconies. Matthew Hurff stated we are removing the purple siding and replacing it with a fiber cement shake and clapboard. All the windows on the side will be replaced with aluminum clad windows. Color scheme was provided for the Board's review. Double hung units will be used in the front of the building. Refurbishing of the fire escapes. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Karen Cavotta made a motion in the matter of the Fecteau Building (Meherio LLC) 53 Church Street, that the application be approved as submitted on the plans. Richard Martin seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 6 of 11 MOTION PASSES: 7-0 7. #2013.011 HOME OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD, 394-402 Church Street, Architectural Review of senior assisted care facility and senior housing in the Urban Residential-1 District. Applicant: Rosen Development Company, Inc Agent: Owen Nitzel, China Clark, Harris A. Sanders, Architects PC Denise Cote, Home of the Good Shepherd SEQRA: On 2/6/13, the DRC deferred SEQRA lead agency status to the Planning Board. On 2/27/13, the Planning Board accepted SEQRA lead agency status and issued a SEQRA negative declaration. BACKGROUND: This project is located at 394-402 Church St., west of Kirby Road, and adjacent to existing Home of Good Shepherd facility. It is within the Urban Residential-1 (single family) district – allowing senior facilities with special use permit and site plan review. The project entails the construction of a new 96 bed assisted living residence including 48 bed enhanced assisted living wing and 14 senior apts. The main assisted and enhanced assisted living facility is a 2-story, 86,100 square foot structure along Church St. with 14 senior apartments in 6 1-story cottages situated to the rear of the facility. The proposed structure presents an approx. 400’ façade along Church St. Mr. Nitzel provided the Board with an overview of the project. SEQRA Negative Declaration was issued on February 27, 2013. An area variance was granted on April 22, 2013. Special Use Permit was granted on May 8, 2013. A visual presentation was provided to the Board indicating the different levels of materials to help minimize the length of the building. A review of the building sizes lengths and elevations. This is a UR-1 District and elevations up to 60 ft high are permitted. Health care facilities are encouraged to provide two story buildings by the New York State Department of Health. Discussion ensued regarding alternatives of color, textures, roof lines and windows and stone. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated their concern is the size of this building. Introduction of bigger areas of materials in some locations. Reverse gables are present but there is a consistent roof line. Perhaps this could be broken somewhat. Opportunity to group elements into smaller components to help the façade. A 3 D presentation and views would certainly help the Board envision the impact of the length of this building. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman made a suggestion to rotate the building somewhat so the building does not present such an extended mass along the property frontage. Richard Martin requested to see an example of the type of windows being used. Karen Cavotta requested larger cornerboards perhaps 8" would be better. Steven Rowland, Chairman questioned the use of shutters. Mr. Nitzel stated they will return with a plan without shutters. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to speak regarding this application. Sherri Gray, 38 5th. I like varying the color very much. Would like to see sidewalks throughout this site. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated we have given you some feedback. Whenever you are ready notify staff and you will be placed back on the agenda. 8. #2013.037 72-74 WEIBEL AVENUE MIXED-USE, 72-74 Weibel Avenue, Architectural Review of new mixed use development consisting of 12,500 square feet of commercial space and 120 apartments in the Transect-5 District. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 7 of 11 RECUSAL: Steven Rowland, Chairman recused himself from this application. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman assumed the duties of the chair. Applicant: Sonny Bonacio, Paul Lambert, Project Manager, Bonacio Construction Agent: Brett Balzer; Shawn Korpe; Balzer and Tuck Architecture ; The LA Group SEQRA : Project is an “Unlisted” action requiring a SEQRA determination. This project involves approvals from Planning Board and DRC. On 4/17, the DRC deferred SEQRA lead agency status to the Planning Board. On 4/24, the Planning Board accepted lead agency status. On 5/8, the Planning Board issued a SEQRA negative declaration. Mr. Balzer stated this project is essentially a continuation of the commercial/apartment complex to the south. This project is approximately 12,500 square feet of commercial space and 120 apartments in the Transect-5 District. A presentation was provided. This is a 7.82 acre site. There is a potential for a future connection with the other site. Each site can stand on its own, or be to be connected with the project to the east at some time in the future possibly. Mr. Balzer reviewed building elevations, and what the general site of the property will be. The materials will be in keeping with the 60 Weibel Avenue project. This is in harmony with the commercial uses of 60 Weibel Avenue. A review of the layout of the project with a visual presentation and discussion of the architectural elements of the project. Possible cross lot easement may be obtained. Ample parking is being provided to serve both the commercial and residential needs of this building. Some items have changed following our appearance before the Planning Board. A hedgerow between the residential and commercial parking will be planted. We will return before the Board for signage. Discussion ensued regarding the meter banks and their location and shrouding. Brett Balzer explained the housing for the air conditioning condensers and meter bank locations and shrouding. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development stated the intent of the Transect Zones is to encourage a diversity of complementary uses, promote successful urban form, extend traditional circulation systems with interconnecting streets, reinforce a strong pedestrian emphasis, and provide for civic space. This zone encourages strong frontages, sliding doors are discouraged on the first floor residential units. Now that Phase I is substantially complete, the Commission is in a good position to evaluate it and how it complies with the zone in creating a neighborhood. Brett Balzer provided the Board with color samples of the fiber cement siding and trim work. Vinyl colors as previously provided to the Board. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Sherri Gray, 38 5th Avenue, would like to commend the applicant for the sidewalk connection in the first phase. Hoping the sidewalks will continue. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman made a motion in the matter of 72-74 Weibel Avenue Mixed Use Development, 72-74 Weibel Avenue application that the application be approved as submitted. Richard Martin seconded the motion. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, recused; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0-1 Steven Rowland, Chairman resumed the duties of the Chair. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 8 of 11 9. # 2013.045 ADVISORY OPINION TO THE CITY COUNCIL ON ZONING AMENDMENT PETITION, 3368 South Broadway, petition to change zoning from Office Medical Business-1 (OMB-1) District to Tourist Related Business (TRB) District to permit construction of 4-story, 109 unit hotel and story, 12,000 square foot builidng for additional TRB uses. Applicant: Turf Hotels, Mike Hoffman, Brian Strautter Agent: Matthew J. Jones, Jones Firm; Mike Ingersoll, LA Group The applicant has petitioned the City Council for a proposed zoning amendment by Turf Hotels Saratoga South, LLC for property located at 3368 South Broadway, the site of the former Weathervane Restaurant. The petitioner seeks to change the zoning designation on this parcel, and subsequent zoning map, from Office Medical Business-1 District (OMB-1) to Tourist Related Business District (TRB) to permit the construction of a 4-story, 109 unit extended stay hotel with an additional 2-story, 12,000 square foot building for additional tourist related business uses. At the April 16 meeting the City Council accepted this petition for review and requested advisory opinions on this proposed amendment from the Planning Board (required) and the DRC. HISTORY: This property was the home of The Country Gentleman in the 1950s through the 1970s when it became the Weathervane restaurant. It has been vacant for several years. This property is located on the east side of US Rte 9 and measures 5.17 acres. It is bordered to the North by Murphy’s Driving Range and then Saratoga Honda, which has just received a use variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals to expand its car dealership. This property is across from the Saratoga Spa State Park. The Spa State Park is listed as a “contributing” property on the NY State and National Registers of Historic Places. In 1987, the Spa State Park was granted National Historic Landmark (NHL) status, recognized for its national-level historical significance. Of the 85,000 properties listed on the National Register, only about 2,500 are NHLs. This property is located within a City “Gateway Design District-1” the intent of which “is to establish a series of site and construction standards and guidelines to encourage appropriate development while preserving and maintaining a rural “Country” character in this gateway area to complement the natural conditions of the neighboring Saratoga Spa State Park.” The Comprehensive Plan designates this area as COMM-5 relating to “Medium Density Office Park”. The GAPS committee recommendation indicated “any future Comprehensive Plan Committee should focus on this section on South Broadway and explore the potential for alternative development concepts for this section of South Broadway.” Mr. Jones gave a brief overview of the project. Mike Ingersoll, LA Group gave a presentation of the project. The intent of the Gateway Design District-1 is to establish a series of site and construction standards and guidelines to encourage appropriate development while preserving and maintaining a rural “Country” character in this gateway area to complement the natural conditions of the neighboring Saratoga Spa State Park. These site and construction provisions shall guide the location and character of site development, buildings, roads, parking, signage, and vegetation. A visual presentation was provided to the Board. This request is to rezone only this 1 parcel of land to Tourist Related Business District. Surrounding land would remain as currently zoned Office Medical Business-1 with Office Medical Business-2 to the north. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated he believes the design of the proposed structure is headed in the right direction. If this zoning request is to move forward, then the building design will have to be held to quite a high standard for this gateway. This has the potential to be a top notch building. Matthew J. Jones, attorney for the applicant stated they will supply the Board with additional information on why they feel this fits with the Comprehensive Plan and why it is consistent with the Gateway Overlay District. We will return before the Board in two weeks. MOTION PASSES: 7-0 City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 9 of 11 10. #2012.095 SCHRADE MIXED USE BUILDING, 227 Washington Street, Architectural Review of new 7,300 square foot mixed use building within the Transect-4 District. Applicant: Richard Schrade Agent: Jessie Bouchey, Kodiak Construction SEQRA: On 2/6/13, the DRC deferred SEQRA Lead Agent status to the Planning Board. On February 27, 2013, the Planning Board, after coordinated review, issued a SEQRA negative declaration for this project. BACKGROUND: This application is for the construction of new 2-story, 7,300 square foot mixed-use building with adjacent 8-car covered carport at the corner of Washington St and Bensonhurst Ave on a currently vacant corner parcel west of Saratoga Hospital Therapy Center and north of Roma’s. The Planning Board granted Special Use permit on 2/27/13 and site plan approval on 3/13/13. At the 4/17 DRC meeting the Commission provided guidance to the applicant on what might be more appropriate given the prominent location of this building in a redevelopment entrance into the Urban Area and a Transect District. The applicant has provided 4 design scenarios adding, removing and mixing various design elements. Jessie Bouchey, Kodiak Construction stated the applicant proposes cement board siding, shakes, trim & balusters, cement board-boxed columns, asphalt shingles. The carport is proposed with metal roofing, steel tube supports, and canvas panel along rear dumpster enclosure. What the applicant is proposing is a stone base with a stone sill and lap siding. The lap siding will be carried on the ends of the building. Shades will be in the gable ends. Standing seam metal roof is proposed in the color red. The columns will be made heavier. Parking in the rear. The roof line has been reduced by 24 inches. We have removed storage areas for the residents on the porches. Black railings and window frames. All the doors are now consistent and full light. Product examples were provided for the Boards review. Discussion ensued regarding the height of the stone and the size of the columns, fascia, roof and wall penetrations. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Sherry Gray, 38 5th Avenue, is surprised with the size of the building. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Schrade Mixed Use Building 227 Washington Street that the application be approved with the following conditions: That the stone veneer incorporate the bottom of the window trim therefore raising the stone approximately 4 to 6 inches in elevation. That the 8" front columns be built out at the base from 10-12" in width to an elevation equal to the height of the stone veneer. Also the top of the same columns be increased in dimension. That the gable end treatment to be lowered and include diagonal bracing of proper proportions - to be approved by Administrative Action. The porch fascia to include double trim with 10” along with 4” or 6”; double 10” on sign band along building. This same detail will run across the gables and drip lines. This substrate will be solid behind the sign. A 3-sided structure to installed to obscure gas and electric meters and condensers; to be placed off of façade to allow ventilation and service access. The shroud itself will match the siding color of the building or color of the stone. The fan louvers will match the gables they penetrate. All roof and wall penetrations will match as close as possible the penetration area color. Canopy to have steel roof colored brown; to have 8”x8” wood columns painted to match building trim color; canvas: sunbrella, color: beige. Also a new set of drawings to be submitted to reflect these changes. Robert West seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 10 of 11 13. 2012.095.2 SCHRADE MIXED-USE BUILDING SIGNAGE, 227 Washington Street, Architectural Review of signage for 7,300 square foot mixed use building within the Transect-4 Applicant: Richard Schrade Agent: Engineering America Co. SEQRA: Action is a “Type II” action; a SEQR determination of significance is not required. We are proposing a freestanding sign is currently proposed at 6’x4’ sq.ft. maximum. Proposed colors are red background with white letters. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Schrade Mixed Use Building Signage, 227 Washington Street be approved with the following conditions – That the double sided free standing sign will be a total of 6'6" off the finished grade. The 6”x6” cedar posts to be chamfered at the top. The number 227 will be a number in an oval frame only sitting atop the main body of the sign. The four wall signs as proposed; halo-lit with black letters. The final copy for the tenant sign will be approved by Administrative Action. Robert DeMarco seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEXT MEETING: The next scheduled Caravan will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at 5:00 P.M. The next scheduled Design Review Commission meeting is Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Richard Martin made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 1, 2013 with corrections as submitted. Robert West seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to discuss Steven Rowland, Chairman adjourned the meeting at 1:20 A.M. Respectfully submitted, Diane M. Buzanowski Recording Secretary Approved: 6/19/13 City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – page 11 of 11