Design Review Board

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2013 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROOM PRESENT: Steven Rowland, Chairman; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman; Robert DeMarco; Richard Martin; Karen Cavotta; Georgeanna Lussier ABSENT: Robert West STAFF: Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning & Economic Development CALL TO ORDER: Steven Rowland, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 7:09 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ANNOUNCEMENT OF RECORDING OF PROCEEDING: Steven 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. A. APPLICATIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION: 1. 2013.097 MOHR SERVICE CENTER WALL SIGNAGE, 239 Washington Avenue, Architectural Review of 1 wall sign for each of two structures (service center & car wash) within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. Applicant: David Mohr, Owner Mr. Mohr stated they would like to replace and update the signage for the service center and new signage for the car wash. The present back lit sign will be removed. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Board. None heard. 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 Mohr Service Center Wall Signage, 239 Washington Avenue, that the application be approved as submitted. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 2. 2013.098 ROOHAN DIRECTORY SIGNAGE, 519 Broadway, Historic Review of a directory sign within the Transect-6 Neighborhood Center District. Applicant: Tom Roohan, Owner Mr. Roohan is proposing new signage to be hung alongside the new door. This will be a single sign with listing of tenants surrounded by a border. Vinyl lettering on an aluminum panel is proposed. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there was any further questions or comments from the Board. None heard. 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 Roohan Directory Sign, 519 Broadway that the application be approved with the following conditions: that the signage be one piece; a border of approximately ¾" to be used surrounding the sign; each tenant signage is to be separated with a similar border; the 4th tenant signage is to be submitted for administrative approval. 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 3. 2013.092 STOCKWELL EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS, 172 Lake Avenue, Architectural Review of exterior renovations (siding, windows, porch details) within the Urban Residential-3 District. Applicant: Jim Stockwell, Owner Mr. Stockwell stated they are looking to replace the windows, siding and porch. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the Commission visited the site on caravan. Some attention is to be given to the front porch. Concerns voiced by the Commission regarding the silt plates being completely rotted. This is a pretty neat little house. Possibly a four square craftsman home. Some of the things we are seeing are not consistent with the customary rhythm found with a four square house. Mr. Stockwell stated he was looking remove the arches and solid panels on the porch and have railings with spindles. The window locations will also be changed. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the windows are not symmetrical; they appear to be randomly placed. Discussion ensued regarding the window placement, and renovations. The front windows will remain the same, the shutters will be removed. Richard Martin discussed the arch on the porch roof, and he feels that they should remain. Square tapered columns are not out of the question for this home. The original arch over the front stairs should remain as that is a character-defining feature of this home. This house is important since it sits on the corner and gets quite a bit of attention. Mr. Stockwell stated he would open the porch and it will have balusters and railings. The Commission noted that more than 30" above grade would require handrails on the porch. The Commission spoke regarding the possibility of an on site visit to review window placement both inside and outside. Steven Rowland, Chairman, reviewed the materials to be used on the renovation. The applicant stated he had already purchased the windows and siding for this project. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Board. None heard. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 2 of 8 Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Stockwell Exterior Renovations, 172 Lake Avenue, that the application be approved with the following conditions: North Elevation: Preserve porch ‘eyebrow’ over entrance stairs. Long parabolic porch arch to become a level header, supported by square tapered columns. Rails and spindles to replace solid wall. Third floor 9/1 window to be preserved and repaired. Large first floor window to be preserved and repaired. West Elevation: Most northern 1st floor window opening to be retained. Northern 2nd floor window opening to align with one below. Proposed additional 2nd floor window to be removed from plan. Proposed 2nd floor double window to align with existing double unit on 1st floor. South Elevation: Chimney to be retained. Existing 2nd floor window to be retained. East Elevation: Northern most existing 1st and 2nd floor window openings to be retained and aligned. All the trim details such as window corner boards, fascia, soffit etc., should be of a hard finish such as wood or a solid composite. The treatment of porch railings, guards, handrails, window style and grill patterns etc., will be reviewed by Administrative Action. Revised set of final drawings reflecting approval shall be submitted by applicant. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development asked the Commission to review elevations with window placements for the record. The Commission reviewed all elevations. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, opposed; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-1 4. 2013.096 YOUNG PORCH CONVERSION, 176 Spring Street, Historic Review of porch conversion to living space within the Urban Residential-3 District. Applicant: Gary and Jodi Young Agent: Bob Flansburg, Dreamscapes Unlimited Mr. Flansburg provided the Commission with a visual presentation regarding this application. The existing porch to the rear of the property will be replaced with the enclosed space allowing for a mudroom and laundry room. The iron fire escape which exists on the home will remain. The addition is approximately 8 feet by 15 feet. All materials will match what currently exists on the home. This is a residential district, no purview over color just recommendations. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the Young Rear Porch Conversion, 176 Spring Street, that the application be approved with the following conditions: Applicant will provide cut sheets on doors, windows and light City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 3 of 8 fixtures – to be approved administratively. Also the applicant will provide details on spindles and stair material. New side elevations to be provided detailing the foundation height. Georgeanna Lussier 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 5. 2013.093 53 PUTNAM STREET EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS, 53 Putnam Street, Historic Review of exterior renovations to an existing building within the Transect – 6 District. Applicant: Joe Balsamo, owner; Putnam Resources Agent: Dave D’Amore, A and D Architecture and Design; Bill Willard, Bonacio Construction RECUSAL: Steven Rowland, Chairman, recused himself from this application. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, assumed the duties of the chair. Mr. D’Amore reviewed the updated site plan including the improvements and updated exterior details. A visual presentation was provided. Areas of improvement were noted. The building is approximately 8800 square feet, and the site is 13,505 square feet. Landscaping plans were reviewed for the Board. The applicant is proposing two 40 foot green walls. The planting area is located on the south east corner. There will be historic lighting fixtures installed per the City's regulations and accent lighting was reviewed as well. Siding choice was discussed with the Board. The building color will be green. Samples were provided to the Board. Red doors are proposed and color samples were provided for the Boards review. Storm water management plan was reviewed for the Board. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or concerns from the Board. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice 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 application of 53 Putnam Street, located at 53 Putnam Street , that the application be approved with the following conditions: Applicant will provide on-site color samples to determine final color of red canopy. Exterior lighting to be for accent, not bright illumination. Applicant to return for approval of any sign. 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 5-0-1 Steven Rowland, Chairman, resumed the duties of the Chair. 6. 2013.099 NATIONAL GRID SUBSTATION ROOF REPLACEMENT, 50 Excelsior Avenue, Architectural Review of a roof replacement within the Transect-5 District. Applicant: National Grid Agent: Dennis Rigosu, Syvertsen Rigosu Architects The applicant is looking to replace the slate roof which currently exists. The roof is leaking and needs to be repaired. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 4 of 8 Mr. Rigosu provided information to the Board outlining the disrepair of the roof. The applicant would like to use a simulated slate for the new roof. Samples were provided for the Board's review. Discussion ensued regarding the proposed roofing materials. It was the consensus of the Board that slate would be the better material to be used for this roof. Letter was received from the Samantha Bosshart, Saratoga Preservation Foundation, regarding 50 Excelsior Avenue and was read into the record. This building is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. The Foundation questioned the fact that no documentation was provided regarding any structural issues and why the historic slate roof needs to be replaced. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Board. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of National Grid Substation Roof Replacement, 50 Excelsior Avenue, that the application for roof replacement be approved with the following condition, that a natural slate be used rather than an imitation product, in a similar color range as to the existing. A sample of which is to be provided to the Chair for administrative approval. 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 7. 2013.01 ELLSWORTH ADVISORY OPINION TO THE PLANNING BOARD, Planning Board request for an advisory opinion on the proposed mixed use development located at the south side of Division Street between Walworth Street and Marvin Alley within the Division Street Planned Unit Development. Applicant: Steven Ethier, Peter Belmonte, EB Alliance Mr. Belmonte provided the Board with a presentation of the project. This project will be named City Square. It will capture the character and nuances of the City of Saratoga. This is located at the south side of Division Street between Walworth Street and Marvin Alley within the Division Street Planned Unit Development. We are building this project with architecture, durable structures, and materials. We have four major areas to discuss: mass and scale, design element of the primary structures, design elements of the connection between the primary and accessory structures, and the promenade area. Historic colors will be used for choices in siding. All homes will have a two car garage except for the condos. Mr. Belmonte reviewed all the design elements with the Board. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the mass and scale is dense; however, downtown supports that. It is keeping in scale with what surrounds it. It provides an urban transition. Roof penetrations are of a concern to this Board. Also air conditioning units and meter bank locations, as well. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated the articulation is great. Robert DeMarco stated the row house concept is interesting. Richard Martin stated the material diversification is great. Roof lines are complimentary. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 5 of 8 Steven Rowland, Chairman, reviewed the requested advisory opinion from the Planning Board. At its June 12, 2013 meeting, the Planning Board voted 7-0 to request an advisory opinion from the Design Review Commission on this project with a focus on the following: - Mass and scale of proposed buildings, and within the context of the existing surrounding neighborhood including its proximity to Franklin Square (National Register Historic District) - Design elements of proposed townhomes including review of the proposed connection between structure and carriage house - Design elements of proposed mixed-use and multi-family buildings on Walworth Street - Design and materials, color(s) of proposed buildings - Proposed promenade and public civic space area Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated based on the comments from the members of the Commission he feels comfortable making a positive advisory opinion to the Planning Board. Mr. Rowland stated the following: - Mass & scale: The Commission views this proposed in-fill development as appropriately dense as presented, keeping in scale with existing surrounding properties, and within the transitional range of residential to commercial properties in the urban core. - Design elements: The Commission applauds the applicant for the high level of design, architectural detail and quality of materials presented in this proposal. The façade and roof articulation, window bays, and diversity of color and materials provide welcome texture and interest to these building without over-ornamentation or unnecessary repetition. The wrap-around porches on corner units provide critical architectural diversity and the Commission encourages the applicant to introduce larger, façade-length porches to the detached single-family units on Marvin Alley. The Commission notes that the presented illustrations do not indicate the location of electric/gas meter banks or A/C condensing units, nor do the roofs or façades contain any penetrations for intake/exhaust venting. The Commission highly recommends attention to these details to maintain the high quality of proposed design and construction. It is recommended that all meter facilities be appropriately hidden from primary facades and screened (vegetative or architectural), as necessary. Similarly, venting should occur through the roofs, rather than through façades, and all penetrations should be hidden from primary focal points. - Connections between principal and accessory structures: Given the overall density of this project, the Commission discourages a full connection between principal and accessory structures. No connections, so as to provide a sense of openness, or breezeway structures are preferred. - Promenade and civic space: The Commission views the proposed promenade very positively and believes that this is a welcome pedestrian feature in this new in-fill development. The Commission suggests ‘softscape’ treatment of this area (lawn, landscaping, etc.) rather than hard, structural elements. The applicant is encouraged to review the City’s recently approved Urban Master Plan for appropriate tree planting and a variety of deciduous and coniferous plantings is suggested to provide for a 4-season effect. The proposed development, as presented, will be a positive and welcome mixed use addition to this portion of the urban core. It is hoped that the implementation and construction of these building will be consistent with the illustrated plans provided to, and reviewed by, the Design Review Commission. 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 8. 2013.009 EXCELSIOR AVENUE MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT, 53 Marion Avenue, Architectural Review of final exterior details for a new Retail building in the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 6 of 8 Applicant: Andre Schmidt Agent: Dean Devito, George Olsen, Olsen Architecture Mr. Olsen stated they received Mass and Scale approval for the Fresh Market building at the last meeting. This second building is similar to the Fresh Market building. We are looking to receive Mass and Scale for this building this evening. This building has vertical board and batten, color scheme is simple. Some minor changes have been made to color and textures. We also regrouped the windows on the north façade. The west elevation facing the parking lot is very similar to the other elevations, except perhaps for the grading. Mr. Olsen reviewed elevations and minor changes with the Board. 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. None heard. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Excelsior Avenue Mixed Use Development, 52 Marion Avenue, that the application be approved with the following conditions: corbel locations to be modified to fall between the windows. Applicant to return for lighting and signage. Applicant to submit final revised set of record elevations. Georgeanna Lussier 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 9. 2013. 102 KWANG PAI BUILDING FAÇADE MODIFICATION, Gick Road, Architectural Review of material changes to building façade within the Transect-4 District. Applicant: Kwang Pai Mr. Pai stated he is looking to improve the façade along the Route 50 side of the building. He would like to improve the entire building however he currently is financially unable to do so at this time. He is trying to attract tenants for the office space available. More curb appeal. Discussion ensued regarding making the building more visible and to attract more attention along Route 50. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Board. None heard. Georgeanna Lussier made a motion in the matter of the Kwang Pai Building Façade Modifications, 30 Gick Road, that the application be approved as submitted on the attached 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 DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEXT MEETING: The next scheduled Caravan will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at 5:00 P.M. The next scheduled Design Review Commission meeting is Wednesday September 18, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Steven Rowland, Chairman made a motion to approve the following minutes with corrections as submitted. Tamie Ehinger seconded the motion. City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 7 of 8 - 06/19/2013 Design Review Commission Meeting VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; Robert West absent MOTION PASSES: 6-0 - 07/01/2013 Design Review Commission Meeting VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, absent ; Georgeanna Lussier, absent; MOTION PASSES: 4-0 - 07/17/2013 Design Review Commission Meeting VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, absent; Robert DeMarco, absent; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 4-0 ADJOURNMENT: Tamie Ehinger made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Richard Martin seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Georgeanna Lussier, in favor; MOTION PASSES: 6-0 Steven Rowland, Chairman, adjourned the meeting at 11:20 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Diane M. Buzanowski Recording Secretary Approved: 10/16/13 City of Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission Minutes – Wednesday, September 4, 2013 – page 8 of 8