Design Review Board

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES (FINAL) WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2015 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROOM PRESENT: Steven Rowland, Chairman; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman; Robert DeMarco; Robert West; Richard Martin; Karen Cavotta; Cynthia Corbett STAFF: Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development, City of Saratoga Springs CALL TO ORDER: Steven Rowland, Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00 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. APPLICATIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION: 1. 2015.039 COMFORT KITCHEN OUTDOOR SEATING, 454 Broadway, Historic Review of exterior Renovation (rear window/door) and seating area within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. Applicant: Mark Strauss, Managing partner The applicant states they are in the process of putting a plan together to improve the courtyard and front façade. They have been replacing windows throughout the building over the last few years and we did put a door in where there was a window. So, that is a change. We have a small area in the rear for outdoor seating. An architect was hired. This has been built. Discussion ensued regarding the retaining wall and proposed recommendations. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Robert DeMarco made a motion in the matter of the Comfort Kitchen Outdoor Seating, 454 Broadway, that the application be approved as submitted. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 2. 2015.037 CURTAINS & CARPET CONCEPTS SIGNAGE, 46 Marion Avenue, Architectural Review of 2 wall signs within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. Agent: Daniel Roicki, Adirondack Sign Company Mr. Roicki stated he is presenting two wall signs for Curtains & Carpet Concepts. They will be halo lit, with lettering, mounted to a sign backer and painted the same color as the façade. One will be placed on the parking lot side of the building and the second sign will be placed on the Marion Avenue side of the building. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Cynthia Corbett made a motion in the matter of the Curtains & Carpet Concepts Signage, 46 Marion Avenue, that the application be approved with the following condition; the sign is to be centered height-wise with the Pizza shop sign. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 2015.041 GRAND UNION MOTEL POOL FENCE, 120 South Broadway, Architectural Review of a new pool Fence within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. Applicant: John Yong, Owner Mr. Yong stated they are proposing a new fence since the current fencing does not meet the code. Photographs were provided to the Commission. The current fencing is chain link, and that is what the applicant would like to use. However, Mr. Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development informed the applicant that this type of fencing is not really appropriate for the gateway to the City. Copies of fencing alternatives were provided to the Commission for their review. Discussion ensued regarding the fencing alternatives and what would be appropriate in this location. The Commission agreed that that the black aluminum fencing proposed this evening is appropriate for the gateway location. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman made motion in the matter of the Grand Union Motel Pool Fence, 120 South Broadway, that the revised application be approved as submitted this evening with the newly presented aluminum fencing. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 3. 2003.010.2 SARATOGA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ADDITION, 459-539 Lake Avenue, Architectural City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 2 of 9  Review of a new addition to an existing building within the Rural Residential District. Agent: Libby Corrino, Carter Conboy, Attorney; Amanda Tucker, Dennis Rigosu, Syvertsen Rigosu Architecture Ms. Corrino provided a visual presentation of the project for the Commission. Ms. Corrino reviewed the progress of the project over the last few months. There are minor changes to the master plan. Prior approval was granted for three separate campus buildings. For reasons of cost, economy and student safety they have been combined into one long building connected via a single story walkway. A review of the floor plan was provided for the Commission. Ms. Corrino stated the two floors will be built; however only one floor will be retrofitted for classrooms, etc., the second floor will be completed on an as needed basis. Proposed material samples, a combination of browns and neutral tones to match the Adirondack style as well as some stone veneer features which were provided for the Commission’s review. A review of all elevations was also provided for the Commission. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated we are happy to see this expansion move forward. Discussion ensued regarding the proposed vinyl and trim and windows. Wider vinyl trim will be used to match original building. Karen Cavotta questioned all natural materials on the original building versus vinyl on the new addition. Ms. Corrino stated the materials used on the original building do require additional monies for upkeep. The change to vinyl type materials is to keep cost down and have the money go toward the children and not the building. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. 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 Independent School Addition, 459-539 Lake 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; Richard Martin, opposed; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-1 4. 2014.131 DEVIVO PARTIAL BUILDING (REAR) DEMOLITON, 48 Franklin Street, consideration of Architectural/historic significance relating to Historic Review of a proposed demolition of a rear portion of an existing structure within the Urban Residential-4 District. Applicant: Barbara DeVivo The applicant stated that 48 Franklin Street is a historic structure. It was a four unit apartment building which she has restored back to a single family home. She is requesting permission to demolish the addition. The addition is sided with vinyl siding and asphalt shingles. It is not original and is not facing the street. There have been some issues with this addition. She invited Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation to view the property. She did view the property and felt it was in decent shape. Since that time, we have had some severe ice damage and my insurance company requested an inspection. A contractor was sent to view this damage, and it was determined this addition should be taken down. I obtained a second opinion from Paul Young; Bonacio Construction who also determined it was beyond repair. I hired Nolan Engineering and they inspected the property. A copy of the structural report City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 3 of 9 was provided to the Commission for their review. Their determination was demolition as well. Also, the house is currently compromised due to the condition of the addition. This addition cannot be seen from the street. Discussion ensued regarding the condition of the addition and its historical significance. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated a public hearing is required as it pertains to demolition under our regulations. Notice to property owners to address 6 items as well as the questioning of the Architectural and Historic significance. A site visit to provide more data to Commission members as well as a better understanding of the condition of the building. This could be done at a workshop. We do need to set a public hearing for June 17th, 2015. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, this is an early Greek Revival Home which has had the façade updated. The addition could possibly date back to 1866 – 1876. When I visited the site there was ice damming. In 2013 when the property was purchased by Ms. Devivo there were areas which could have been addressed and stabilized this building an inspection report would have eluded to that. It retains its cornice and windows which are original. It is representative of how architecture evolved over time. Perhaps someone could rehab the home. There is an opportunity there and that should be explored. All of the criteria outlined in the demolition ordinance should be met, followed and reviewed by the DRC. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman questioned the possible relocation of the structure. Discussion ensued regarding the possible relocation and moving the addition for renovation and refurbishing. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the Commission will review at the workshop to help move the application forward. Samantha Bosshart stated the building is significant. The question is the site visit to determine if it is significant or to get more information. The building is clearly a contributing building. The addition has been attached to the contributing building. I am confused about the purpose of the site visit. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated the addition is old, it was built in 1865, is it a contributing structure. It is in the back of the building. It looks aesthetically inappropriate. Discussion ensued regarding considering this a contributing addition to a contributing structure. It was determined that if an addition is attached to a contributing structure the entire structure is considered contributing. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated a public hearing will be set for June 17, 2015 and we will make a site visit at the next workshop. At this time we will table the application. 2015.020 13 CAROLINE EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS – 1ST FLOOR, 13 Caroline Street, Historic Review of exterior renovation to an existing building within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. Applicant: Jason Southwood Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development stated the applicant has appeared before the Board previously and has been granted approval on this application for the top floor of the structure. The Commission is still discussing the first floor façade. The original proposal was to change this front entirely, to create a side door entrance and try to bring a smaller step into the property. There is concern of that being changed with regard to the historic nature of the original storefront of the building. So, the applicant has returned with a different approach. Mr. Southwood stated they took into consideration what the Commission suggested. The front door will remain in the same location but will be recessed 3 feet to provide a landing and should give us two legal 7 inch steps. The only problem or concern is that the stairs do not encroach on City property. New drawings of the proposed changes were provided to the Commission for their review. This building sits back further than the two adjacent buildings. A copy of the deed was also City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 4 of 9 enclosed for further information. Regarding the two additional doors on the structure we will try to recess one and rework the steps so they do not encroach on City property. We will be adding a railing to the new stairs. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development clarified to the Commission the problem with stairs, etc. encroaching on the City right of way. The Commission does not have jurisdiction over the City right of way. This would require approval from the Commissioner of Public Works. The City has expressed a real concern regarding these steps as they currently exist in the right of way. We would like to have something done so they don’t encroach on the right of way. It is clearly a trip and fall hazard, as the property owner and Saratoga Risk and Safety have indicated. We would love to have this solved in some manner. If the Commission wishes we could have a meeting with the Building Inspector and the Department of Public Works to see what their suggestions are. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated there was some discussion at the workshop regarding bringing the door location back to where it originally was, recessing it back a little further so your swing does not interfere with the risers. There was some consensus that it was an improvement. There is still concern over the operable windows in the front, the gliders which are proposed, as opposed to those of a storefront nature. It would be more in keeping with the original look of the façade. Mr. Southwood reviewed the proposed windows. They will crank in not out and will look exactly as those which are currently pictured. The door is the same as what currently exists but newer. We will reduce the two additional doors on the right down to one and they will have sidelights. Similar to what currently exists on the building. There are no sliders the windows will fold back. If it is easier for the Commission we can revisit the new door on the right and concentrate on the business entrance at this time. Discussion ensued regarding the proposed façade changes and new proposed stairs. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. I appreciate that the applicant listened to what was suggested and the feedback to try to find a solution that would work. Thank you. I feel this is a step in the right direction. I would be curious if there is a mutton in the large window and their appearance and if it would keep the store front façade looking as much as was there in the past. I appreciate the work the applicant has done. Karen Cavotta made a motion in the matter of the application of 13 Caroline Exterior Renovations – First Floor, 13 Caroline Street, that the application be approved as submitted and shown on the attached plans with the following conditions: Windows to be specified and should be reviewed administratively at entry areas. Contingent upon review and approvals by the Building Department. The easterly most door to be reviewed at a later date. Richard Martin 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Rob DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 5. 2015.024 BRUNSWICK BED & BREAKFAST FREESTANDING SIGN & PORCH ROOF EXTENISON, 143 Union Avenue, Historic Review of a new sign and front porch roof extension within the Urban Residential-4 District. Applicant: Kirk Nichols, Owner. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 5 of 9 Mr. Nichols stated additional information was provided to the Commission which will clarify some questions the Commission had from the May 6, 2015 meeting. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated he was absent at the last meeting. At the workshop discussion was held in regard to maintaining and reinforcing the vertical element of the one gable, at the east corner. That led to the reverse gable dormer end gingerbread treatment, and the shifting of the columns a little bit. Cynthia Corbett stated at the last meeting the Commission spoke regarding alternative designs for handicap access. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman stated also other facades of the building were discussed which might better accommodate a wheelchair ramp, so the applicant does not have to go through such extremes for the ramp. Mr. Nichols stated looking at the other facades of the building was done previously and it was determined that this is the only real location that is feasible. The ZBA determined back in November of 1997 for the porch extension. The approval for the porch roof extension from the ZBA is contained in the information provided to the Commission. Discussion ensued regarding the placement of a ramp, and the required parking spaces needed. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. Obviously, the Foundation recognizes what went into the front porch. It was very successful in hiding the ramp. If someone comes along and wants to return this to a single family home again, the width of the porch is not in keeping with the vernacular of the home. I do not have an objection to full width. The depth of the porch is in question. Consider how the snow will be handled. The gable treatment is appropriate to highlight the bay window. Steven Rowland, Chairman spoke regarding his concerns with the gable treatment. Recommendation was made to use the privacy lattice vertically versus the regular lattice. Signage was reviewed and mounting location. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Brunswick Bed & Breakfast Sign and Porch Roof Extension, 143 Union Avenue be approved as submitted or shown on the attached plans dated May 20, 2015 with the following conditions: That the lattice be privacy type, vertical and the reverse gable over the steps centered between the upper floor windows. The post flank the stairs equally all the way through to the gable and the column east of the entry door is eliminated. Also that the sign support bracket be submitted for Administrative Review. Robert West 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Rob DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 7-0 6. 2015.005 130 EXCELSIOR MIXED USE PROJECT, 130 Excelsior Avenue, Architectural Review of a new mixed- use building within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. RECUSAL: Steven Rowland, Chairman recused himself from this application. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 6 of 9 Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman assumed the duties of the chair. Agent: Brett Balzer, Shawn Korp, balzer + tuck architecture; Tony Bonacio, Paul Lambert, Bonacio Construction Mr. Balzer stated at the last appearance before the Commission on April 1, 2015, for a Mass and Scale approval. We received Mass and Scale approval that evening. We are here this evening for Final Approval. Proposed materials were provided for the Commission’s review. Mr. Balzer provided a visual presentation of the project for the Commission. Floor plans were reviewed; mechanicals, roof plans and penetrations were also reviewed. Materials were also reviewed. Brick will be used with a matching mortar. Black on black wooden windows with black trim. Black standing seam roof. Charcoal steel panels vertically for added interest. Balconies will receive a custom fabricated steel railing system black as well. Aluminum store front windows also black. Custom steel trellises on the roof will be grey in color. All elevations were reviewed as well. Any penetrations out of the building will match the material behind it. Plumbing stacks will be black as well. Mr. Balzer reviewed location of mailboxes, gas meters, and transformers. The garage venting was also reviewed. 130 Excelsior Avenue signage will be fabricated in the Bonacio metal shop as well. Discussion ensued regarding the new corrugated metal product being used on the building. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice 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 130 Excelsior Mixed Use Project, 130 Excelsior Avenue application that the application be approved as submitted for final approval. Robert West seconded the motion. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Robert West, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Rob DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 Steven Rowland, Chairman resumed his position on the Commission. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman resumed her position on the Commission. 9. 2014.109 RITE AID NEW RECONSRUCTION/EXPANSION, 90 West Avenue/242 Washington Street, Architectural Review of the reconstruction/expansion of the commercial building within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. Applicant: Rite Aid Pharmacy Agent: Matthew J. Jones; Alex Besso, Jones Firm, Attorneys for the applicant; Jaclyn Hakes, MJ Engineering; Bruce Hamilton, architect for the project. Mr. Jones provided an aerial view of the neighborhood for the Commission, followed by a visual presentation of the proposed project as well as the variances which were granted for this project. Ms. Hakes reviewed the original site plan and introduced some changes for the Commission’s benefit. The building has been pulled to the corner. Variances which were granted are to allow for the green space which will exist as well as mature trees and a bus stop. The entrance is located closest to the handicap parking area. There is fence screening on the property line. Ms. Hakes stated the building has been shifted 2 feet to the south. The building will be 17 feet from the right of way which allows For additional space for landscaping and to soften the length of Washington Street recognizing the City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 7 of 9 sidewalk. Within this district tries to encourage pedestrian activity at the street level. This will allow for more opportunity for landscaping. We have also shifted the entire parking area approximately 9 feet to the east. What that does is pull the parking away from the street and allows for traffic to come in and out. It also removes some of the parking from the first layer which is required in this district. The right of way is very narrow on this very prominent intersection. We are in conversation with the Planning Staff on how to bulk up this corner, and this is in progress at this time. Bruce Hamilton, architect, stated he walked the site many times to get a feel for this site. The eave lines have been broken in many locations, as well as adding gable dormers in certain locations. We have articulated the plinths to break up the horizontal line, different elevations, window heights and gable dormers to give the impression of a second story on the building. Spandrel glass will be used the windows on the second floor. There will be 690 square feet of office space available. Ms. Hakes stated conversations with the Planning Board a concern is the size of the building and the length of the wall of the building along Washington Street. What we are hoping is that with materials and articulations that the architect has provided architecturally combined with we will be working with the Planning Board from a landscaping perspective is a plan to soften that up. Mr. Hamilton provided sample materials which will be used in the project. Hardy plank siding, A stone plinth below, Aztec trim around the windows, also samples of the proposed roofing color. The guttering and downspouts will be white in color. The window frames will be metallic grey. Discussion ensued regarding dual entrances on this building, windows and the use of real windows not spandrel glass. Lighting was along the building was also discussed. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated this building is the first building you see coming into the City. This is an opportunity to do something on that corner. I would like to see some exploration on an entrance on the corner, real windows that do allow vision inside the building. The bigger picture is the pedestrian interaction with building is important. Materials are fine. The roof articulations, breaking up the façade is fairly effective. Other things can be done to make the building interact with the inside and outside. Mr. Hamilton stated two entrances create a real concern for retailers. The big issue is security. Also the spandrel glass is only used on the second floor. The first floor windows will have glass. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman re-iterated the need for a second entry. There are many ways to mitigate security. I would encourage you to revisit this. Discussion ensued regarding providing a secondary entrance and exit for pedestrian access. Karen Cavotta suggested more glass area in the corner of the building, a focal point providing recognition of the entrance. Mr. Jones thanked the Commission for their comments. These will be taken back to the team for discussion and return before the Commission. UPCOMING WORKSHOPS/MEETINGS: Design Review Commission caravan, Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 5:00 P.M. Design Review Commission workshop, Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 6:00 P.M. Design Review Commission Meeting, Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at 7:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 18, 2015 Design Review Commission as submitted. Steven Rowland, Chairman seconded the motion. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 8 of 9 VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Rob DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 Steven Rowland, Chairman made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 18, 2015 Design Review Commission as submitted. Tamie Ehinger, Chairman seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Rob DeMarco, in favor; Karen Cavotta in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 MOTION TO ADJOURN: There being no further business to discuss Steven Rowland, Chairman adjourned the meeting at 10:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Diane M. Buzanowski Recording Secretary APPROVED 9/2/15 City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – May 20, 2015 - Page 9 of 9