Design Review Board

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES (FINAL) WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2015 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROOM PRESENT: Steven Rowland, Chairman; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman; Richard Martin; Robert West; Cynthia Corbett; Karen Cavotta ABSENT: Robert DeMarco 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. 2015.056 SARATOGA SPRINGS DSAD WAYFINDING PROGRAM, Consideration of a proposed Wayfinding Program for the Saratoga Springs Downtown Special Assessment District. Agent: Mike Ingersoll, Volunteer; Downtown Special Assessment District; Tom Roohan, Tim Maybee, Chairmen; Downtown Special Assessment District. Mr. Ingersoll stated the Downtown Special Assessment District (DSAD). This is a process which started several years ago. We had entertained several firms to come up with a wayfinding program. The DSAD is wholly funded to this point. We have met with merchants and the Commission has seen the preliminary information. In the interim we have taken many of the initial pedestrian level plans and converted them so they can be imbedded into the Planning doctrines which you operate. It will provide this Commission some guidance in applicants so we can have a unified downtown. The City Council this year has appropriated up to $100,000 if we can match that. So, we have the ability to have about $200,000 worth of effort, which translates into a project from City Hall down to Washington Street. If we are successful and the City Council adopts the Standard Details it can then go out to bid in September, obtain a vendor and begin to implement this project. Many of the signs are based on education and travel and we are trying to declutter the streets and come up with some standards. When the consultant first came to Saratoga he identified well over 100 signs in two blocks and these are just the pedestrian signs. A visual presentation was provided to the Commission of a streetscape view from Adirondack Trust down to Washington Street noting the signage clutter. Informational kiosks will be strategically located throughout the City. Another area reviewed was the City banners. The goals of the DSAD are to promote a distinct downtown community identity and raising awareness of Saratoga Springs unique character. Also to enhance visitors’ and residents’ navigation through the district to key destinations and decrease traffic congestion by improving navigation to key destinations and parking, including the removal of redundant and unnecessary signage. An additional goal is to establish a maintenance plan for signage which identifies the various agencies responsible for implementation and maintenance. We hope to achieve these goals through a community oriented process, working cooperatively with all involved stakeholders. Several examples of possible signage were provided to the Commission including Informational, Directional, Identification and Branding. What we are requesting is the Commission provides endorsement of this project to the City Council so we can institute this wayfinding program this fall. Discussion ensued regarding banners within the City, DOT signage and the City DPW signage. 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. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated this Commission feels this is an outstanding idea. Steven Rowland, Chairman made a motion that the DRC issue a Favorable Advisory Opinion to the City Council to endorse the Wayfinding Program as it is being presented. That the City Council adopts it officially, so we can move onto the next step. We look forward to working with the DSAD Wayfinding Program and hope the first phase comes to fruition. 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; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 2. 2015.047 BETHESDA PARISH HALL/COMMUNITY CENTER, 26 Washington Street, Consideration of SEQRA Lead Agency for Architectural Review of a new 4-story multi-purpose building and minor changes to existing church within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. Agent: Mike Ingersoll, LA Group; Shannon Brown, John G. Waite & Associates Mr. Ingersoll stated they are before the Commission this evening for consideration of SEQRA Lead Agency for this sensitive Historic renovation and expansion. This church is eligible for National Historic Register. We are speaking about the open land area adjacent to the Church. Recently the parish center and the rectory have been sold to the developers of the Adelphi and what has happened now is a lot of the uses are coming across the street to the new building along with some additional uses. We will return before the Commission for Architectural Review. Shannon will walk you through the project. Ms. Brown provided a visual presentation of the proposed project. The slide show provided photos of the existing church along with the new addition. A courtyard will divide the church and the new addition. Floor plans were provided showing all the proposed uses. The chapel area, parish offices, retail space, a great hall, catering kitchen on the first floor and the courtyard area. Some work is proposed to be done to the church. Views of all sides of the project were provided along with some proposed materials to somewhat match that of the church. All elevations were also provided for the Commission’s review. The ground floor will be used mainly by the Church. The second floor is to be used for some not for profit day care as well as a space for Sunday school on Sundays. The third floor provides some available office space and the church staff is speaking to some people who are interested. The fourth floor will be also be used as office space and a tenant is interest in renting out the entire floor. We are trying to work with the existing architecture. Mr. Ingersoll stated the hope is to progress to the Planning Board next week. We are looking to try to get in the ground this fall. We are hoping to begin the SEQRA process and return to the DRC for Architectural Review following site plan review by the Planning Board. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the one thing I really like and appreciate is the transparent connection between the two. I think it is really important in order to separate the two buildings. It allows the church to maintain its status and to see into the courtyard, this is a nice feature. That really does help to soften it a little bit. At the workshop we spoke that we thought it City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 2 of 11 looked like the north wall might be a little stark, especially in contrast to the texture and robustness of the church. Some of those details we might wish to see more of as we progress. I do think it is appropriate that it have a less bold appearance than the church but we also want it to have a pedestrian scale being right on the sidewalk. That transparent link is an interesting feature and helps that significantly. 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. Steven Rowland, Chairman made a motion that the Design Review Commission defers SEQRA Lead Agency Status to the Planning Board in the matter of the Bethesda Parish Hall/Community Center, 26 Washington Street, should they seek it. 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 West, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 3. 2015.050 THE SAVORY PANTRY AWNING, 486 Broadway, Historic Review of a new awning within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. Applicant: Keelie DeSalvo, owner. Ms. DeSalvo stated she is seeking approval for the installation of an awning across the store front of their business located in the Collamer Building. A copy of the proposed awning was provided for the Commission’s review. We are proposing a similar awning to the Stinky Dog since we share an alcove and our store fronts are identical. Steven Rowland, Chairman questioned if the signage copy would be on the slope of the awning. Ms. DeSalvo stated yes. No lighting is proposed. They are proposing the same frame size, as their neighbor. Color sample was provided for the Commission’s review. 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 made a motion in the matter of the Savory Pantry Awning, 486 Broadway, that the application be approved as submitted. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 4. 2014.038 360 BROADWAY EXTERIOR CHANGES, 360 Broadway, Historic Review of the new awnings And change in building colors within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 3 of 11 Agent: George Olsen, Olsen Associates Mr. Olsen stated the application was seen before the Commission on June 3, 2015. The Commission requested clarity on several issues. An issue which needed further clarification was the lighting. Bronze can lighting 12” high will be used on Phila Street. Carriage Lights were proposed for the entry door on Phila Street. The applicant is currently researching to locate an appropriate light. We are requesting to submit the final choice for Administrative Approval. The awnings are proposed for exposure for the tenants. The awnings will be on the individual windows on the west side and northwest corner up to Broadway. Going east downhill originally two large awnings were proposed. We have now broken them up over each individual window. Signage will be similar to what was proposed the last time on the face of the awnings, within the requirements of the City Ordinance. They will be simple and all matching. Currently there are 5 windows on the second floor, the oldest photograph we have they all had 6 over 6. The owner will continue to match those throughout the building, except for the windows in the front of the building. New plans submitted for the file. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone on the Commission had any further questions or comments. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard. Cynthia Corbett made a motion in the matter of the 360 Broadway Exterior Modifications, 360 Broadway, that the application be approved with the following conditions: There will be individual windows awnings; lettering for businesses will be on the awnings. The lighting along the top of the first floor along Phila Street will be bronze tube up/down lighting 12” in height. Carriage lights to be approved administratively. Window replacements on the second floor are to be 6 over 6 to match historical photograph. Materials as specified in the application. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 5. 2015.051 TOP HILL MOTEL EXPANSION, 3290 South Broadway, Architectural Review of a one story rear Addition to an existing motel within the Tourist Related Business District. Applicant: Ken Fensuwala, owner Mr. Fensuwala stated he is proposing to expand 6 rooms of the motel out the back of the building. We have already expanded some of the rooms except for these six. Our customers are requesting larger rooms. Materials will be to match what currently exists. Photographs were provided to the Commission for their review. 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. Karen Cavotta made a motion in the matter of the Top Hill Motel Expansion, 3290 South Broadway that the application be approved as submitted this evening. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 4 of 11 MOTION PASSES: 6-0 6. 2014.106.1 DEXTER ROOF & GROUND MOUNTED SOLAR INSTALLATION, 194 Lake Avenue, Architectural Review of roof and ground mounted solar installation within the Urban Residential District. Applicant: Martha Dexter Agent: Sue Davis, SD Atelier Architecture; Ken -High Peaks Solar Ms. Davis stated the applicant is proposing 30 solar panels. She provided the Commission with a visual presentation of the solar panel array. Panels will be placed on the east and west side of the roof with the remainder of the panels to be installed on a free standing pergola. This will be a hidden view from the street. The wiring for the rooftop panels will be hidden from the street and concealed toward the back of the home. Ken from High Peaks Solar stated they have three goals for installing solar panels on a historically sensitive area. The first goal is to minimize conduits runs coming off the roof. The second goal is to have the conduits run on the back side of the home. The third goal is to run the conduit along the existing lines of the home to have it blend in as much as possible. Traditionally the conduits are a light gray color, this home has white siding some clients have painted this following the final inspection. Regarding the pergola we will run the conduit through the columns and underground. Panels are black in color. Discussion ensued regarding the visual impact on the back of the module. 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. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman made a motion in the matter of the application of the Dexter Ground and Roof Mounted Solar Installation, 194 Lake Avenue, that the application be approved as submitted this evening with the following conditions: Minimize the conduit exposure/painting to match adjacent material post-inspection. Conduit on pergola to run through the interior of the base column. Final pergola materials are to be approved administratively. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 7. 2015.044 LITWIN RESIDENCE ROOFTOP SOLAR INSTALLATION, 200 Lake Avenue, Architectural Review of rooftop solar installation within the Urban Residential-3 District. Agent: Leah Springstead, Project Manager; Direct Energy Solar Ms. Sprinstead stated we are proposing a 16 panel roof mounted array on the Litwin Residence. The array will not be visible from Lake Avenue. The conduit will be mounted internally through the roof. The conduit will be one inch PVC mounted pipe. Rendering of the solar array was provided to the Board. 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. None heard. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 5 of 11 Robert West made a motion in the matter of the Litwin Rooftop Solar Installation, 200 Lake Avenue that the application be approved as submitted with the following condition that any exposed conduit should be painted to match existing adjacent material. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor MOTION PASSES: 6-0 8. 2015.046 STARR RESIDENCE ROOFTOP SOLAR INSTALLATION, 201 Lake Avenue, Architectural Review of rooftop solar installation within the Urban Residential-3 District. Applicants: Mr. & Mrs. Starr Agent: James Cottillous, Apex Solar Power The applicants are proposing a rooftop photovoltaic array. This array will consist of 6 black on black PV modules. Spec sheets and photographs were provided for the Commission’s review. This home is on the north side of Lake Avenue the solar panels will be visible from the street. Rob West questioned the condition of the roof shingles and their integrity since they look faded and weathered. This would be an opportunity to change the roof color to help blend in with the solar array. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated on the caravan the roof did look as if it were at the end of its life span. We also spoke on site of the possibility of placing the solar panels on the main house roof angling them to take advantage of the southern exposure rather than having them on the primary roof right in the front. Mr. Starr stated we actually wanted to build a much bigger system than what is proposed. We would like to do more than 20% of our homes use. We looked at the garage as well. Our only southern facing roof is this front porch section. This is our only viable option. We did have a professional engineer and evaluate it structurally. Also in checking our home records it reveals plenty of life remaining on the rooftop shingles. Mr. Cottillous stated the panels are 3 x 5 each module, a 1.5 kilowatt system, small on the residential size. Discussion ensued regarding re-shingling the roof with a darker color to hide the solar panels somewhat or painting the porch shingles. However, painting shingles does not hold up very well. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman questioned customized solar panel shapes such as triangle. Mr. Cottillous stated they do exist. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman stated solar panels on a primary façade is going to be a tough sell for me. In looking at this without the triangle panel installed it sticks out like a sore thumb. It would look better if you could cover the entire roof. There is a bigger issue here. Mr. Starr stated he does care about the aesthetics of his home as well. He proposed building a dummy panel to be placed in the said location to help with the aesthetics of the array. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated he also struggles with this being such an installation on the primary façade. We City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 6 of 11 are seeing these more and more. This is the first application which is right on the primary façade. I believe the Zoning Ordinance states that these should be on the secondary façade. This will set a precedent on future applications. Robert West questioned if there was the possibility of completely covering the roof with solar panels to cover the shingles. If the array was repositioned. Discussion ensued among the Board and applicants regarding a possible mock-up of the proposed array. Could this be completed for a site visit to be made. Steven Rowland, Chairman questioned if this application could be tabled for two weeks giving the applicant’s agent time to construct modules and provide a mock up for the Commission’s review. It was the determination of the Commission to table the application for two weeks to provide the applicant’s agent time to construct a mock-up of the proposed solar panel array. This application will be reviewed again on July 1, 2015. Information should be submitted as soon as possible to staff to be distributed to the Commission members. 9. 2015.042 CELESTE ROOF REPLACEMENT & DORMER, 32 Fifth Avenue, Historic Review of change of Exterior materials and architectural features within the Urban Residential-1 District. Agent: Matthew Hurff, Frost Hurff Architects Mr. Hurff stated there are two aspects to this application. The first is the addition of a second dormer which matches the massing of the existing dormer. The issue which needs discussion is the applicant is looking to remove the slate roof. A letter was received from the Preservation Foundation stated the reasoning for the replacement was not identified. The current slate roof is approximately 100 years old. Visual presentation was provided to the Commission of the condition of the roof. I am not only concerned about the condition of the shingles themselves but the structural integrity of said roof with the addition of new slate you will get accelerated deformation and they will crack and we will be right back where we started. There is pervasive water damage throughout. These particular slates are done. It is not worth putting them back on. There are a variety of roofing materials on the house at this time. I would like to install the best material for this home protecting the integrity of the building taking into consideration the weight of snow and preventing additional water damage. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the proposed dormer is not inappropriate on this home. It is an improvement because it does balance the one which is currently there. The roof is the bigger issue. Will this be a true standing seam roof you are proposing. Mr. Hurff stated yes a double lock standing seam roof. Discussion ensued regarding the price difference between the standing seam roof and the installation of a new slate roof, as well as the longevity of the standing seam and slate roofing materials. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there was 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. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director, Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation stated a letter was sent to the Board and the applicant. The design guidelines and standards call for it to be replaced in size, texture and what was there historically. This is different. I appreciate there is standing seam on the two sides. We do not know when those two roofs were re-roofed with metal. You have numerous other homes that have had slate and had to replace with slate type product. This could set a possible precedent. Richard Martin questioned if the Foundation would be in favor of a slate type product versus a standing seam roof. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation stated while she would advocate for slate, as the guidelines state it should be of the original design, shape and size and material and texture. It should be City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 7 of 11 based on historic evidence. If no evidence is available, it should match in design and materials of the architectural design period of the building. I do not know of another Colonial Revival building in Saratoga Springs with a standing seam roof. I would encourage the Commission to think about this before you make a substantial change in its appearance. Richard Martin questioned if the client is receptive to a lookalike slate product. Mr. Hurff stated he is not sure if his clients would be or if he would be. Discussion ensued regarding slate versus synthetic slate, what is required in reroofing this home with both slate, synthetic slate or a standing seam roof. Cynthia Corbett stated in reviewing the guidelines I believe slate should be replaced with real slate. Robert West stated how there are some issues with the synthetic slate versus the real slate. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman stated the appropriate thing to do would be to replace this with a real slate roof. If there are issues structurally then I would be inclined to replace with something that looks like slate but not a standing seam roof. Making sure this home retains its historic accuracy takes priority for me over that. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated it is down to two solutions for me. One is the slate roof the second is the standing seam. I am not a fan of artificial slate either. Asphalt shingle is a good looking shingle; it will hold the snow on this roof. and may present more problems. Mr. Hurff states he feel the standing seam is the better solution for this building. Richard Martin questioned if the Commission felt it would be prudent to table this application for two weeks so the applicant’s agent can speak with the homeowner and check on the roof structurally. Mr. Hurff stated he will return to the homeowner and see in which direction he would like to proceed. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated we will table this application for two weeks. We will revisit this application on July 1, 2015. 10. 2015.048 TRACY SINGLE FAMILY DEMO & CONSTRUCITON, 62 Van Dam Street, Architectural Review of the demolition of an existing structure and replacement with a new single family residence within The Urban Residential-3 District. RECUSAL: Board member Richard Martin recused himself from this application. Applicant: Darren Tracey Mr. Tracey thanked the volunteers for their time. A written explanation was provided to the Commission regarding the proposed demolition of this structure. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated a site visit was made. No foundation is currently under this home. This home is a contributing member to the National Register District. Unfortunately many years of neglect have done this home in. We are required to schedule a public hearing prior to issuance of a demolition decision. This can set a dangerous precedent if we do not follow procedure. We will schedule a public hearing on July 1, 2015. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comment from the Commission. None heard. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 8 of 11 Steven Rowland, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director, Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation encouraged the Commission to set the Public Hearing. It did have asphalt shingles, there is clapboard, there are some original windows, and it does have its original shape and form. We do not object to the demolition but it would be critical that it be considered and reviewed under the Architectural or Historically Significant Criteria. We am supportive of the new construction and post demolition plan however, it would be helpful as you move forward to see all the materials, elevations which would go with this project. That would be my recommendation for the next meeting. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the applicant has most of the materials spelled out in the application. Elevations are needed. Window challenges concerning proximity to the lot line need to be reviewed. The applicant is aware of the concern and he is willing to move some of the openings away to be in compliance. Steven Rowland, Chairman asked the applicant to provide elevations for the project for the July 1st meeting. Major material samples could be provided at the next meeting, cut sheets for the windows. This would be helpful. We will schedule the public hearing for July 1st and continue to discuss this application and move it forward at that time. 11. 2015.045 BONACIO SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE, 66 Franklin Street, Historic Review of a new single family residence within the Urban Residential-4 District. RECUSAL: Steven Rowland, Chairman recused himself from this application. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman assumed the duties of the Chair. Agent: Tony Bonacio, Bonacio Construction; David D’Amore, A & D Architecture and Design Mr. D’Amore stated some of what is being presented this evening is different from what exists on the visual screen. Visual presentation of the neighborhood and project site was provided to the Commission. We looked at the context and history of the neighborhood. The adjacent site has been the subject of some recent controversy. We are here because Bonacio Construction and Trojanski Builders are working with a client who is looking for a small house with a smaller footprint. We began with that basis and the initial desire was to develop a bungalow style structure. We are going from a streetscape illustration from small on the left to larger on the right. We find ourselves closer to the smaller cottage leaving an open lot between the second empire structure and ours. Our first conclusion is we need to have a transition of heights from smaller to larger trying to find the right balance. There are a range of styles on the street. It is a tree lined street with front porches on the homes. Sketch view of the project and the proposed home, reviewing elevations as well. Color choice is a buttery yellow color. The applicant’s goal is to begin construction in the fall. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation provided some perspective on several issues. She brought out the period of significance really is the later part of the 19th century which predates the bungalow style home. The better design approach is a more contemporary type feel to separate it from the rest of the neighborhood. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman stated the Preservation Foundations letter outlining concerns was also reflected in a letter received by one of the neighbors. I will say those reactions mirrored our reaction to an Arts and Crafts bungalow. I am happy you were receptive to that feedback in presenting us with a new idea. Tony Bonacio stated the prospective homeowners have lived in Saratoga a long time and the home they want the home they build to fit in. Discussion ensued regarding the design presented and some of the highlighted features and proposed materials. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 9 of 11 Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman asked if anyone in the audience who wishes to comment on this application. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director, Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation thanked the applicant for their consideration of the information presented. This is headed in the right direction. I would like to see where this is sited on the lot and more of those details. Mrs. Lewis stated when she started this project she wanted a bungalow. This is a historic quirky neighborhood and I want to do what is right for the neighborhood. A copy of the neighbor’s letter was provided to the applicant’s agent. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development stated if the applicant’s agent can provide information to the Commission by Tuesday for review this will be placed back on the agenda in two weeks. Steven Rowland, Chairman resumed his position on the Board. Richard Martin resumed his position on the Board. 12. 2014.097 FOX APTS POOL HOUSE AND GYM, 72 Union Avenue, Historic Review of pool house and gym within the Urban Residential-4 District. Agent: Jesse Boucher, Kodiak Construction. Mr. Boucher reviewed his original proposal which was two separate structures. The pool building out front wasn’t going to work. We shrank the overall size of the project and moved it to the back of the existing structure and added the two apartments over the pool house. Two prospective of the project were provided for the Commission’s review. Mr. Boucher reviewed the design. Large windows will remain on the second floor. Clapboard siding on the two ends of the building, brick in the middle to add verticality. We dropped down the pitch of the roof, which is consistent with the existing building. We will be consistent with the existing building in our color choices. We will continue with the color scheme, brick red, forest greens and white around the windows. The structure is setback further than what was previously submitted. This new project was submitted to the DRC first for historic review and then we will proceed to the ZBA for variances for the parking which is located in the rear of the building. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated the direction this is heading looks good. Our biggest concern was it was competing with the existing structure. It did not seem appropriate to me. This is a significant change in direction and I commend you for tackling it. It is very successful. I like the fact that you look at this project and it reads as a pool house and it looks right. It is respectful of the structure, and back from Union Avenue. All the major mass and scale issues have been achieved. I would like to see more contrast with the color of materials and what it would look like. These are all detail issues. Karen Cavotta stated she would like to see the link between the buildings tweaked. Perhaps more windows. Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, is pleased to see combining the two buildings. We spoke regarding the setback and link between the buildings. It reads as its own type of building. It is a vast improvement from what we initially saw. Thank you. Steven Rowland, Chairman stated obviously going forward the mechanicals will be a big deal. The roof can house some of these. It will be important to house these mechanicals properly. The applicant can return following relief granted by the ZBA. UPCOMING WORKSHOPS/MEETINGS: City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – June 17, 2015 - Page 10 of 11 Design Review Commission caravan, Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at 5:00 P.M. Design Review Commission workshop, Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at 6:00 P.M. Design Review Commission Meeting, Wednesday, July 1, 2015 at 7:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: No minutes to be approved at this time. 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 – June 17, 2015 - Page 11 of 11