Design Review Board

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES (FINAL) WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2015 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ROOM PRESENT: Steven Rowland, Chairman; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman; Richard Martin; Karen Cavotta; Cynthia Corbett LATE ARRIVAL: Robert DeMarco arrived at 7:20 P.M. ABSENT: Robert West STAFF: Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development, City of Saratoga Springs CALL TO ORDER: Steven Rowland, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 7:05 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. 2015.079 MASS MUTUAL WALL SIGN, 227 Washington Street, Architectural Review of a commercial wall sign within the Transect-4 District. Agent: Daniel Roicki, Adirondack Sign Co. Mr. Roicki stated the sign will be constructed out of 1” aluminum stock tubing with a diovan face. All large letters and the logo will be ¾” PVC. The smaller letter will be ¼” PVC. It will be fastened to the building with hidden fasteners. No lighting is proposed. 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. Cynthia Corbett made a motion in the matter of the Mass Mutual Wall Sign, 227 Washington Street 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 NOTE: The agenda was heard out of order awaiting the arrival of an additional Commission Member. 2. 2015.075 AWADEH SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE, NYS Route 29, Architectural Review of a new  single family residence within the Rural Residential District. Applicant: Nassar Awadeh, owner Agent: Ethan Hall, Brezinski Hall Architecture Mr. Hall stated this project is a single family residence on a 9.7 acre lot, which is the last lot in the City of Saratoga Springs. The house will be set 300 feet from the road. The entire natural buffer along Route 29 will remain as is. The home will have stone all around the base and around the front door and the atrium. The upper portion will be vinyl shakes. The remainder of the home will be sided with a Dutch lap horizontal siding. Color samples were provided to the Commission. 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. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the Awadeh Single Family Residence, NYS Route 29, that the application be approved as submitted on the attached plans. Karen Cavotta 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; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 3. 2015.078 MORBIDELLI ROOFTOP SOLAR INSTALLATION, 273 Washington Avenue, Architectural Review of rooftop solar panel installation within the Rural Residential District. Applicant: Frank Morbidelli Agent: Devin Scott, Solar City Mr. Scott stated the solar panel installation will be on the east and west facing side of the roof. Only the profile of the solar panels will be visible. The panels follow the slope of the roof. The conduits will follow the slope of the home. 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 Morbidelli Rooftop Solar Installation, 273 Washington Street, that the application be approved as submitted with the condition that the conduits are to hidden or painted to match surround exterior. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 Commission Member Robert DeMarco arrived at 7:20 P.M. RECUSALS: Steven Rowland, Chairman, recused himself from the following application. Richard Martin recused himself from the following application. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, assumed the duties of the chair. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 2 of 13  4. 2015. 045 BONACIO SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE, 60 Franklin Street, Historic Review of a new Single family residence within the Urban Residential-4 District. Applicant: Tony Bonacio, Bonacio Construction Agent: David D’Amore, A & D Architecture Mr. D’Amore began the presentation by providing the Commission with a visual presentation of the neighborhood. We appeared before the Commission back in July. At that time we provided the Commission with a quick overview of the project. Color and scale and detail of the project were provided to the Commission noting simpler columns. The front porch will be 2 feet above ground. The porch material has since been changed to a darker grey concrete porch slab, 4” thick. Hardy board and board and batten type siding in Woodland Cream will be used. The roof will be dark grey. The porch roofing will be black standing seam. Windows and the trim will be arctic white. The window muntins will be red in a two over two pattern. Mr. D’Amore reviewed all elevations with the Commission. Cynthia Corbett questioned the use of fiber cement siding in this historic neighborhood. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, questioned if there are any 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. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, thanked the applicant for working hand in hand with the DRC on this construction. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the Bonacio Single Family Residence, 60 Franklin Street, that the application be approved as submitted but that the applicant re-submit the window configuration drawings for Administrative Approval. Robert DeMarco seconded the motion. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. VOTE: Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Robert DeMarco, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 Steven Rowland, Chairman, resumed the duties of the Chair. Richard Martin resumed his position on the Commission. Steven Rowland, Chairman, took this opportunity to thank Rob DeMarco for his service to the Commission. This was his last meeting this evening. He has done a great job and we appreciate his volunteer efforts. We look forward to welcoming Leslie DiCarlo, our new appointee, who is visiting this evening in the audience. Robert DeMarco exited the meeting at 7:34 P.M. 5. 2015.071 FAMILY VISION EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS, 168 East Avenue, Architectural Review of exterior material changes and ramp addition to an existing building within the Urban Residential-3 District. Applicant: Richard Bell; Susan Halstead Mr. Bell stated we have been doing some interior renovations on the home. We decided to remove the aluminum siding and restore the wood siding. We removed the picture window and replaced with double hung which was original to the home. We did not come before the Commission prior to this renovation. The other portion of the application is the addition of a handicap ramp with off street parking to accommodate the ramp. The ramp will comply with ADA standards and will be wood painted to match the home. Discussion ensued regarding the use of pressure treated wood. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 3 of 13 Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development informed the applicant that some research will need to be done to check on the status of signage along with prior approvals. He will be in contact with the applicant regarding signage. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the Family Vision Exterior Renovations, 168 East Avenue that the application be approved as submitted this evening with the following condition: handicap ramp in cedar is also acceptable. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 6. 2013.073 STEWART EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS, 223 Lake Avenue Architectural Review of exterior Modifications (porch enclosure, gable, awnings) to an existing building within the Urban Residential-3 District. Agent: Maggie Stine, Siteworks Associates on behalf of applicant Rodney Stewart Ms. Stine provided a brief overview of the project for the Commission. The rear of the property is residential and the front portion is a restaurant. The proposal for the front of the building is the addition of fabric awnings to the windows in the color red. Removal of the railroad ties as well as the bark, gravel type surface which currently exists and replace it with pavers. A shed dormer will be constructed on the roof of the residential portion of the property in the rear. A review of the shed dormer elevation was also provided. The applicant is also proposing enclosing the back porch deck for a mudroom. Materials and windows to match what currently exists on house. Roofing is a 30 year architectural shingle. The current fence will be replaced with a 6 foot high fence with gate where the current gate is located. Details of the fence material will be provided. Garbage area to be enclosed. Color samples were provided. Steven Rowland, Chairman, suggested painting out the area around the duct and mechanicals which are now exposed. Ms. Stine stated that could be accommodated. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the Stewart Exterior Renovations, 223 Lake Avenue, that the application be approved as submitted with the following conditions: The awning will not extend more than 7’ from building face nor less than 7’ from grade. Close up or paint the existing duct and mechanicals now exposed. All exterior corners will have matching corner boards. Dormer roof to match existing roof shingles. Motion includes the removal and replacement of the six foot wooden fence on the east elevation. A revised site plan and details of the fence, material and finish along with the replacement window details will be submitted for administrative review. 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; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 4 of 13 MOTION PASSES: 5-0 7. 2015.072 MONTANO PORCH RESTORATION, 740 North Broadway, Historic Review of Original porch reconstruction within the Urban Residential-1 District. Applicant: Charles Montano, Owner Agent: Steve Smith, Engineer Mr. Smith stated it is Mr. Montano desire to rebuild the porch which was originally at 740 North Broadway. Photographs of the homes original porch were provided to the Commission. We believe on the interior of the structure around the stairwells there are some of those details on the porch repeated. It appears that those column tops are the same on the inside as existed originally on the outside. The intent is to use tongue and groove mahogany stained flooring. The soffit underneath the porch will be beaded ceiling board as was used originally; pine stained as well. The original stairway which is still there is marble and will remain. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the one concern is this is more than 30” above grade. This will require a certain height of the guardrails around the porch. It may require handrails to be 42” high. Unfortunately the code supersedes this Boards recommendation. Perhaps you can have a bigger reveal on the bottom or the installation of a cheater rail on the top. The problem is the new ruling is not historically accurate. A conversation with the building inspector might be in order. Contact Steve Shaw, Building Inspector. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Cynthia Corbett made a motion in the matter of the application of the Montano Porch Restoration, 740 North Broadway that the application be approved with the following condition: the height of the railings is to meet the building codes. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 8. 2015.076 HAWORTH PORCH RESTORATION, 659 North Broadway, Historic Review of a 2 story rear addition and front porch enclosure within the Urban Residential-1 District. Agent: Michael Tuck, balzer + tuck architecture Mr. Tuck stated he is before the Commission concerning the application for the two story rear addition and the screened enclosure of the front porch on the Haworth home. A visual presentation of the project was provided for the Commission. Our intent with this addition is to mirror the north side of the rear of the home which presents with what looks like an addition. This will give some symmetry to the rear south side of the house. Between those two structures the applicant would like to utilize a conservatory type structure system with a glazed roof and wall system to preserve as much daylight as possible into the main existing stair hall of the house. Mr. Tuck reviewed all elevations as well as explained the system which will be used to screen in the front porch. An example of the screening system materials were provided for the Commission’s review. Mr. Tuck stated the roof on the addition will be slate and on the glass enclosed area in the center will be standing seam roofing on each side, colored to match the existing mudroom roof below in a dark bronze color. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 5 of 13 Discussion ensued regarding the new addition and creating a shadow line at the southwest corner distinguishing the new addition from the existing home. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the application of the Haworth Exterior Modifications, 659 Broadway that the application be approved with the following conditions: That the addition on the south west corner as it meets the existing home show a relief of at least 2” either set forward or back. 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; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 9. 2015.070 YATES RESIDENCE EXTEIROR MODIFICATIONS, 21 Fifth Avenue, Historic Review of exterior building materials within the Urban Residential-1 District. Agent: Dana Broadaway, Architect Mr. Broadaway stated they are in receipt of a letter from the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation stating that the doors and the shutters and the garage door were fine, but the scale of the portico needed to be scaled down as it was too heavy for the facade. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated on the caravan and discussed at the workshop the Commission feels that the porch element will help this home. It is rather flat and offers very little relief. It is in a neighborhood that abounds with porches. We believe this is not inappropriate. Discussion ensued regarding the size of the portico. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked Mr. Broadaway to review what is being proposed. Mr. Broadaway stated there will be new shutters on the second floor, with shutter keepers, a new overhead garage door with raised panels and a new front door with sidelights. All wood will be painted white. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the Commission is in receipt of two letters concerning this project. - Letter from the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation dated September 2, 2015 in support of this project with some concerns. - Letter from Jim & Nancy Martinez, 15 Fifth Avenue, Theodoros Laddis & Kim Poli, 23 Fifth Avenue and Barbara Black & Jim Hill, 65 Ludlow, dated September 2, 2015 in support of this project. Richard Martin made a motion in the matter of the application of the Yates Residence Exterior Modifications, 21 Fifth Avenue that the application be approved with the following conditions: That the roof be copper on the new entryway. A sample of the spindles to be provided for Administrative review and approval. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, seconded the motion. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there was any further discussion. None heard. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 6 of 13 VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 10. 2015.062 DUPRAS RESIDENCE EXTERIOR RENOVATION, 184 Lake Avenue Architectural Review of a building addition within the Transect-5 Neighborhood Center District. Agent: Kyle Yager, Key Siding and Remodeling. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the Commission did have some questions regarding this property. Has anyone looked under the existing siding and removed some shingles to see what is underneath. Mr. Yager stated no, not that he is aware of. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated on site visit it appears that vinyl siding was placed over original clapboard siding. It appears to have been furred out with the siding installed over it. It seems to be proud of the wall further than what would be expected. Also there is no trim exposed at any of the windows. All the trim details have been lost. If some of the siding in a few locations could be removed, we would be able to get a better idea of what is going on behind it. If what is behind it is not that bad, there could be some way to either restore it and have it look more appropriate to the house. There are no corner boards either so that led us to believe this siding was installed over original material. Whether it is the same material which was installed on the out building to the rear is unclear. Mr. Yager stated it looks completely different to me. It looks like standard wood novelty siding on the rear building which is different from the front obviously. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated perhaps the material on the front building is asbestos containing material. Mr. Yager stated it may be. I wouldn’t think you would want to remove it if is. My proposal is to encapsulate with 3/8” foam before vinyl siding. The owner came up with the vinyl siding idea is because of the cost. There are two buildings on the property and are quite an eyesore. I understand your standpoint, but it would be an improvement of what is there. Richard Martin stated if this is furred out and another vinyl siding is installed over that furring; it would create something even worse. You would need to take off the siding, take off the furring and get back to clapboard. I don’t know what the finished are inside of the home. When we look at a home which has been redone inside, it does give one the opportunity to reinsulate and rewire and all those things from the outside without disturbing the inside finishes. It might behoove the owner to investigate the siding underneath. If you could then insulate the home from the outside before installing a new finish it would give you a great opportunity to do so. Mr. Yager stated he is concerned regarding siding removal if asbestos is present there is abatement to consider. Richard Martin stated Mr. Yager should check with the building department. He believes the abatement on asbestos shingles is very little anymore. Recommendation to check with the Building Department. Discussion ensued among the Board concerning a site visit to see what material is underneath. Steven Rowland, Chairman, requested Mr. Yager to remove some shingles on either side and a few corner and a window or two would be great. An onsite visit was scheduled for Tuesday. The application was tabled following a site visit. 11. 2013.112.2 HAMLET & GHOST HOOD & FAN INSTALLATION, 24 Caroline Street, Architectural Review exterior changes to an existing building façade within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. Applicant: Brendan Dillon, owner City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 7 of 13 Mr. Dillon is proposing exterior changes with the addition of a small kitchen, with intake and exhaust fan. Pull air in through the window in the back and exhaust vent into the trash alleyway under the staircase. This will be concealed with a louvered enclosure. These will be painted out to match the building. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the application of the Hamlet & Ghost & Fan Installation, 24 Caroline Street, that the application be approved with the following conditions: Hood and fan painted out to match existing building. Trim out around the proposed louver to mimic the trim around the adjacent windows and door. Trim painted out to match as well. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 12. 2015.067 TMOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION INSTALLATION, 55 Railroad Place, Architectural Review Of a rooftop telecommunications installation (antennas & associated equipment) within the Transect-6 Urban Core. Agent: Charles Augello, Centerline Solutions representative for TMobile. Mr. Augello stated the applicant is proposing installation of unmanned wireless communication facility on the rooftop of 55 Railroad Place. The lease area consists of a 10 x 12 area on the rooftop. 8 panel antennas painted to match and attached to the existing penthouse. Existing equipment on the roof currently exists. Steven Rowland, Chairman, questioned the applicant’s agent if the existing equipment which accompanies this installation will be installed on the north side of the penthouse, will any of this equipment be visible. Mr. Augello stated this is on the highest point of the City. The photo simulations provided to the Commission were taken from the parking garage on the east side. We were at the top of the parking garage when taking these photographs. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the application of the TMobile Telecommunication Installation, 55 Railroad Place, 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 13. 2015.066 CELLCO/VERIZON TELECOMMUNICATION INSTALLATION, 29 Phila Street, Historic Review of a rooftop telecommunications installation (antennas & associated equipment) within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 8 of 13 Agent: Laura Bomyea, Young, Sommers The applicant is proposing a small telecommunications installation at the Verizon Building at 29 Phila Street. This would include a stealth concealment unit to give the appearance of a chimney structure. It has ground level equipment that would be concealed with fencing in the rear corner of the building. It would run from the ground level up the corner joint of the building to the roof, cross over the roof to the proposed antenna location. We are proposing a black coated chain link fence. It will be fenced all the way around. Conduits will be painted to match the building. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated she has concerns regarding the black chain link fence. Ms. Bomyea stated the applicant did look into other options. However, snowplowing was an issue and whether the fending would endure the winters. Photo simulations were provided to the Commission. Discussion ensued regarding the type of fencing which could be used for a better appearance. Several suggestions were provided to the applicant’s agent, as well as the location and placement of the conduits. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commission. None heard. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated does anyone in the audience wish to comment on this application. None heard. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, made a motion in the matter of the application of the Cellco/Verizon Telecommunications Installation, 29 Phila Street, that the application be approved with the following conditions: The chimney stack is to be boxed in and conduits are to be painted to match the building color. 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; Richard Martin, in favor; Cynthia Corbett, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor MOTION PASSES: 5-0 RECUSAL: Board Member Richard Martin recused himself from the remainder of the applications this evening and exited the Meeting at 10:08 P.M. 14. 2013.069 KLEIN CARRIAGE HOUSE ROOF REPLACEMENT, 722 North Broadway, Historic Review of a Roof replacement to an existing building within the Urban Residential-1 District. Applicant: Robert Klein, owner Mr. Klein stated he is proposing to re-roof the carriage house at 722 North Broadway using a material which looks more historically correct and is durable. A sample of the roofing tile material was provided for the Commission’s review. The applicants are proposing a dark grey color to match the roof of the main house. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the proposed roofing material is very consistent in color. Slate by its very nature has a lot of variations in color and texture as well as the shape of it. One of the beauties of slate is that it has this nice variation to it. These have very little variation to it in terms of color. This is really not appropriate for trying to mimic a slate roof. The other concern is we really do not know the life span of this material because they have not been time tested. Real slate is the cheapest life cycle roofing you could install on this carriage house. Was there any consideration given to the cost of real slate? Mr. Klein stated the initial concern was the weight of the slate, and the structural integrity of the building. We have never really gotten a price for a slate roof. The initial estimate was two to three times the cost of the roofing currently proposed. Cynthia Corbett questioned if a standing seam roof wouldn’t be appropriate for this structure. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 9 of 13 Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the cost of a standing seam roof will rival slate in cost. This property is within the Historic District. Discussion ensued regarding the type of material appropriate for this home. It was the consensus of the Commission and the applicant to table the application this evening. The applicant will look into the cost of slate roofing for this building. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated slate is ideal for this building. This is in a historic district and slate is the most appropriate for this area. Also a look at a slate asphalt shingle is not out of the question and that can be investigated. The application will be placed on the DRC agenda in two weeks. 15. 2015.035 O’DONNELL EXTERIOR CHANGES, 17 Marion Place, Historic Review of external modifications to an existing building within the Urban Residential-3 District. Applicant: Lauren O’Donnell Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the last time we met we discussed the various changes which were made on this home. We had a site visit which helped to clarify several items. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation has weighed in on this application with a newly received letter dated this date. We spoke on site regarding several items which were removed and which may still be salvageable. The window which existed in the front of the building still exists. Ms. O’Donnell provided the Commission with a picture of the window in question. The applicants were proposing to have it replicated since it is in very poor shape. We are very willing to re-install that. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the other window in question is the one on the south facing gable. That window was round. Ms. O’Donnell provided a picture from 1992 which shows the window in question. That is something we could certainly put back. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated the issue we are struggling with is our ordinance is written so that we do not lose some of the more significant architectural features of a historic house. We need to find a way to prioritize what those items are. Certainly those two windows are a defining element here if we can replicate them and reinstall them so it will look as it originally did, it will go a long way towards resolving those issues. I believe the other discussion we had was the top window of the angled bay just above the porch roof and maybe the one on the porch itself. There was some discussion about it originally being two units but that is not the case. Those were actually aluminum triple track windows that made it look like two units. The lower window looks like a single picture window unit no mullions are visible. Bradley Birge, Administrator Planning and Economic Development, reviewed the outstanding issues. Ms. O’Donnell stated the windows are Anderson aluminum clad wooden windows. The cedar shakes were in poor shape. I have pictures of the clapboard which were in poor condition, and so were the shakes. There is fiber cement siding in place with fiber cement shakes above. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated if there is something which does not look right on this home in terms of details, it is because the home is not finished and some of the details have not been completed. This is a difficult situation, however if the case had been made for the materials and difficult and irreparable conditions, what would we have accepted there. Obviously we would have accepted in kind, but would we have accepted fiber cement shakes, we have in other locations. I am not sure what people think. To take all that off and do it over again. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated in terms of setting a precedent, I think that would have to be our recommendation – to remove the alterations and conform to the City’s requirements. I don’t see how we could not do that. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated my point is that we have allowed fiber cement shakes in other locations. To me, I am looking at the more defining characteristics which were lost. Those window openings which I believe we have resolved. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 10 of 13 Cynthia Corbett stated to support Tamie, if an applicant came before us and made a case, we have let them go with fiber cement. But, here we have an applicant that didn’t bother to come and just did it. There was no case made, so I would support them having to put the wood back. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development questioned the original roofing material. Ms. O’Donnell stated it was slate. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated to be perfectly fair, we have in fact, in the past, allowed some applicants to use a fiber cement product in specific areas of a home where there seems to be a chronic problem. This very well seems to perhaps qualify as a chronic problem. If you came before us and asked to replace the clapboard with a fiber cement product, and provided documentation, I think there is a good possibility that the Commission would have voted on allowing a fiber cement product in this location but I don’t know that I could recall that we have ever said okay to fiber cement for an entire house. Let’s review where we are. The applicant will restore the four pane windows on the front façade, third floor as well as the restoring the window on the south façade with the trims. Steven Rowland, Chairman, the other item which came to mind. Where do we stand with the porch which exists on the south side? Ms. O’Donnell stated, the Commission asked for measurements and more specifics concerning materials, which was provided. Cedar versus vinyl on the porch. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated cedar would be our recommendation and is a better product. Where does the Commission stand on this application? Karen Cavotta questioned the columns on the side porch. If this is to be differentiated as a new build the columns should be different. Several suggestions were provided to the applicant. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, questioned what exactly the applicant was before the Commission for this evening. Everything or specific items. Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development, stated we are reviewing everything. You had roofing materials, slate changed to asphalt. Windows changed and replaced. Siding was changed as well, along with the addition of this new porch on the south façade. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated he has less of a concern for the materials than anything else. I would rather have the architectural features replaced which were lost. I cannot see taking everything off just to put wood back instead of fiber cement. If it has replicated the look, it is not an ideal situation. I am less concerned about a precedent setting situation because the way this came about was not the way we expect it to. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated that is her very point in setting a precedent. We will the inadvertently encouraging this. This is an extremely unusual circumstance. My fear is that this would become less unusual and we are presented with more of these after the fact situation. The materials are very important. I don’t know that I could say okay to not replacing the materials. Cynthia Corbett stated this was undertaken by somebody who was a part of this Commission. Who knows what the rules are. Steven Rowland, Chairman, asked materials, the clapboard and the shakes. There is a bigger difference between the cedar shakes and vinyl. Cynthia Corbett stated she believes the original materials wood siding and cedar shakes should be replaced on the primary façade. Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, stated she feels the shakes should be replaced all the way around the home. Steven Rowland, Chairman, stated our ordinance speaks to the primary façade. I can see my way to replacing original materials on the front façade. City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 11 of 13 Karen Cavotta recommended the use of real cedar shakes in both gables. Discussion ensued regarding how to proceed with the application. It was the consensus of the Commission and the applicant to table the application until there is better representation on the Commission and it will provide time to re-evaluate materials, and re-caravan. We will place the application on the next DRC agenda. ADJOURNED APPLICATIONS: 2015.065 LUKOIL CANOPY BAND, 54 Church Street, Architectural Review of a canopy band within the Transect-6 Urban Core District. UPCOMING WORKSHOPS/MEETINGS: Design Review Commission caravan, Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at 5:00 P.M. Design Review Commission workshop, Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at 6:00 P.M. Design Review Commission Meeting, Wednesday, September 16, at 7:00 P.M. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Cynthia Corbett made a motion to approve the April 15, 2015 minutes as submitted. Tamie Ehinger seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 Cynthia Corbett made a motion to approve the May 20, 2015 minutes as submitted. Tamie Ehinger seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 Cynthia Corbett made a motion to approve the June 17, 2015 minutes as submitted. Tamie Ehinger seconded the motion. VOTE: Steven Rowland, Chairman, in favor; Tamie Ehinger, Vice Chairman, in favor; Karen Cavotta, in favor; Cynthia Corbett in favor MOTION PASSES: 4-0 MOTION TO ADJOURN: There being no further business to discuss Steven Rowland, Chairman, adjourned the meeting at 11:25 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Diane M. Buzanowski City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 12 of 13  Recording Secretary APPROVED 1/20/16 City of Saratoga Springs – Design Review Commission Minutes – September 2, 2015 - Page 13 of 13