Historic Landmarks Commission Packets
Regular MeetingSuffolk, VA · December 11, 2014
Agenda
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION
December 11, 2014
THE REGULAR MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 9:00 A.M. IN
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
SUFFOLK CITY HALL
NOTE: IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL
THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
BY 12:00 NOON, WEDNESDAY, December 10, 2014
514-4060
RANDY HICKS
CHAIRMAN
PREPARED BY THE CITY OF SUFFOLK
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF PLANNING
AGENDA
Historic Landmarks Commission Meeting
Thursday, December 11, 2014
9:00 a.m.
I. Call to Order: Chairman
II. Roll Call
III. Approval of the Minutes of November 13, 2014.
IV. New Business
A. REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2014-45, submitted
by Gerry Jones, Director of Capital Programs and Buildings, agent for, City of Suffolk,
Virginia, applicant and property owner, for the demolition of three existing residential
structures located at 407 W. Washington Street, 409 W. Washington Street, and 413 W.
Washington Street; and further identified as Zoning Map 34G17 Block (A) Parcel 189,
34G17 Block (A) Parcel 190, and 34G17 Block (A) Parcel 191, respectively, Suffolk
Voting Borough, and is zoned CBD (Central Business District), and HC (Historic
Conservation Overlay District).
V. Staff Reports
A. Enforcement Update
B. Administrative Approvals
VI.
Adjournment
MINUTES
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION
November 13, 2014
9:00 A.M.
The regular meeting of the Historic Landmarks Commission was held on Thursday,
November 13, 2014, 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 442
W. Washington Street, Suffolk, Virginia, with the following persons present:
MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF:
Susan Coley Robert Goumas, Assistant Director of Planning
Walter Boyette Karla Williams, Deputy City Attorney
Amy Elliott Shanda Davenport, Principal Planner
John Faircloth Thomas Jordan, Planner II
Randy Hicks, Chairman Jillian Scott, Office Assistant II
Edward King
Geraldine Outterbridge
Merritt Draper
MEMBERS ABSENT:
G. Stewart Tyler, Vice Chairman
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Hicks. The roll was called by Mr. Goumas
and the Chairman was informed that a quorum was present. The minutes of the previous
meeting were approved as presented. The Chairman noted the time limits for public
hearings are ten (10) minutes for proponents, fifteen (15) minutes for opponents, and five
(5) minutes for rebuttal.
NEW BUSINESS
REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2014-33, submitted by
Norbert and Garon Trojanowski, applicant and property owner, for a change in
materials for the repair or replacement of an existing metal shingle roof, installation of
exterior door and window screens, and associated exterior renovations of an existing
structure located at 106 Brewer Avenue. The property is further identified as Zoning
Map 34G17 Block (2) B Parcel(s) 6, Suffolk Voting Borough, and is zoned RM
(Residential Medium District), and HC (Historic Conservation Overlay District).
The first item of business was introduced by the Chairman, followed by a staff report by
Thomas Jordan, Planner II. Mr. Jordan stated that the single family home at 106 Brewer
Avenue is included in the district as part of the West End District (2004) expansion. The
nomination form estimates the two and a half-story frame dwelling to have been constructed
between 1895 – 1910 in the Queen Anne architectural style. Mr. Jordan stated the applicant
is requesting approval for a change in materials for the replacement of an existing metal
Victorian shingle roof on the main dwelling and asphalt shingled roof on the porch.
The proposed replacement roof material is an exposed fastened metal panel system. The
metal panels overlap and will be attached with washered wood screws installed directly
through the panel. The applicant have selected to utilize a roof panel painted in Light Stone
color which is available with a 40 year paint finish warranty and is Energy Star certified.
Mr. Jordan stated that the applicant has submitted a condition statement from the contractor
which states the original roof has reached the end of its useful lifespan and is suffering from
continued leaks resulting in structural and interior damage to the home.
2
The guidelines identify that roof designs vary considerably within the Historic Conservation
Overlay District and are one of the key character defining elements of the style of the house.
Furthermore, roofs are an important in defining the character, formality, stature, and texture
of the house and the street. Consequently, historic roofing materials should be preserved and
maintained. While the guidelines provide clear guidance regarding matching original
materials as closely as possible it does not provide guidance regarding the style of roof
replacement. The style of the roof can be as important or even more significant in defining
the character of the house. The existing Victorian shingle roof on the dwelling results in a
simulated fishscale appearance on the roof. The installation of an exposed fastener metal
panel system will be a significant departure from the appearance of the existing metal
shingle. Additionally, the guidelines do not provide guidance regarding color of the roof.
Traditionally, metal roof tiles were unfinished at the time of installation and where painted in
subsequent year (typically red or green) in attempt to reduce wear and increase the longevity
of the roof. The applicant has selected a light stone color, which will be unique to the
district, in an attempt to reduce utility bills, however the lighter color of the roof does appear
to fall approved color pallet. Given the age and condition of the existing roof its replacement
appears appropriate. The installation of a metal panel system roof is in conformance with the
guidelines which call for the original materials to be matched and a new roof will assist in
maintaining the integrity of the historic structure. Mr. Jordan stated that the criteria of
Chapter 5, Section I, Roofs, of the Design Guidelines have been satisfied. Based on the
3
findings-of-fact, staff recommended approval of the request with the conditions noted in the
staff report.
The public hearing was opened.
Speaking in favor of the request was Norbert Trojanowski, property owner. Mr. Trojanowski
stated that there are extensive leaks in the roof and patches with tar that are peeling up. Mr.
Trojanowski stated that he has contacted many contractors but no other company, except for
Virginia Carolina Roofing has taken on the job. Mr. Trojanowki stated that he is looking
forward to correcting the problem as soon as possible to secure the safety of his house.
After discussion by the Commission, a motion was made to modify the request to approve a
standing seam metal roof in a light stone color with concealed fasteners, approving the noted
actions was made by Commissioner Boyette. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Faircloth and approved by a recorded vote of 8-0.
REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HC-2014-37, submitted by
Derek and Sharon Clay, property owners, to erect a detached accessory building
(garage) located at 130 Brewer Avenue. The property is further identified as Zoning
Map 34G17 Block (2) B Parcel(s) 18, 19, and 20 and 34G17 Block (A) Parcel(s) 1,
Suffolk Voting Borough, and is zoned RM (Residential Medium District), and HC
(Historic Conservation Overlay District).
The next item of business was introduced by Chairman, followed by a staff report by Thomas
Jordan, Planner II. Mr. Jordan stated that the single-family home at 130 Brewer Avenue was
included in the district as part of the West End District (2004) expansion.
The 2002 contributing structure was built in the Colonial Revival architectural style between
1910 and 1925. The house is 5 bays wide with a central entrance and projecting center bay.
4
The front porch columns are scored and rest on concrete piers. The parcel is considered a
double frontage or through-lot given it has frontage on two (2) public right-of-ways (Brewer
Avenue and Pender Street). The single-family dwelling fronts on Brewer Avenue. The
proposed garage will be visible from and accessed from Pender Street.
Brewer Avenue and Pender Street have very distinct and different characters. Brewer
Avenue is residential in character and located within the National Register District. The
northern portion of Pender Street is a 40-foot public right-of-way which dead-ends and serves
to provide primary access to only one home (mid-to-late 20th century building) in addition to
Human Resources Building and Wellons Park. The applicant proposed to construct a garage
(50’ x 20’) fronting on Pender Street. The garage will be accessed by two concrete
driveways.
This request is identical to the request which was authorized in December 2012 by the
Historic Landmark Commission. Construction did not commerce on the proposed garage and
the certificate expired. The applicant is seeking to have the request reauthorized.
The applicant has noted a concrete pad remains from a previous garage which was located on
the property near the proposed building site.
The public hearing was opened.
There being no speakers in favor or opposition, the public hearing was closed.
5
After discussion by the Commission, a motion approving the noted actions was made by
Commissioner Boyette. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Draper and approved
by a recorded vote of 8-0.
New Business: Enforcement Update
Donald Bennett, (Planning & Community Development) gave an update on the enforcement
actions taken by Community Development for the following properties:
223 Bank Street - property foreclosed
526 W. Washington Street - property maintenance violation, case continued until January 8
130 Oakdale Terrace – property fined $100.00
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:26 a.m.
6
HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION Motion: Boyette Motion: Boyette
2nd: Faircloth 2nd: Draper
TO: Modify TO: Approve
Application Application as
November 13, 2014 presented
ATTENDANCE HC-2014-33 HC-2014-37
VOTE: 8-0 VOTE: 8-0
COMMISSIONERS PRESENT ABSENT YES NO YES NO
Boyette, Walter X X X
Coley, Susan M. X X X
Draper, Merritt X X X
Stone, Amy X X X
Faircloth, John X X X
King, Edward L. X X X
Outterbridge, Geraldine X X X
Tyler, Stewart G. X
Vice-Chairman
Hicks, Randy, X X X
Chairman
THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
CITY OF SUFFOLK
442 W WASHINGTON ST, P.O. BOX 1858, SUFFOLK, VIRGINIA 23439-1858
PHONE: (757) 514-4060 FAX: (757) 514-4099
DEPARTMENT OF
PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Division of Planning
To: Historic Landmarks Commission
From: Shanda H. Davenport, Current Planning Manager
Date: December 11, 2014
Subject: REQUEST FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS, HC-2014-45,
submitted by Gerry Jones on behalf of the City of Suffolk, property owner, for the
demolition of three residential structures located at 407, 409, and 413 W.
Washington Street. The property is further identified as Zoning Map 34G17(A),
Parcels 189, 190, and 191, Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central
Business District and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District.
STAFF REPORT
Overview of the Subject Property and Surrounding Area
This request is for the demolition of three adjacent residential structures in order to allow the
construction of a new municipal library and its associated features. All of the structures are
deemed contributing to the district. The property is part of the 2004 West End District Expansion
and is located along the W. Washington Street Entry Corridor. All three structures are sited close
to the street, unlike other residential structures along the corridor. The properties are collectively
bounded by Lee Street on the east and a commercial parking lot to the west.
407 W. Washington Street – This dwelling is a two-story, three-bay, frame, side-gable dwelling
with some Late Greek Revival style elements and dates from 1900. There is a two-story ell off
the rear of the main block as well as a one-story, gabled roof addition off the rear ell. The house
retains its original weatherboard siding and six-over-six double-hung sash windows. The side-
hall plan of the house is indicated by the location of the entry door, with transom and sidelight, in
the left bay. There is an attached one-story, hipped-roof porch which is supported by chamfered
posts and simple balustrade.
409 W. Washington Street – This vernacular-style dwelling is a two-story, three-bay, frame,
side-gable dwelling was constructed around 1890. There is a two-story shed roof addition off the
rear. The house retains its original weatherboard siding, six-over-six, four-over-four and two-
over-two double-hung sash windows. There is an attached two-story, shed-roof porch which is
supported by Doric columns.
HC-2014-45
December 11, 2014
Page 2
413 W. Washington Street – This Italianate-style dwelling is a two-story, three-bay, frame, side-
gable dwelling was constructed around 1880 and was last used as a two-unit apartment house.
There are multiple additions off the rear of the house including a two-story shed roof addition, a
two-story gable roofed ell and a one-story side-gable section. The house retains its original
weatherboard siding, six-over-six, four-over-four and two-over-two double-hung sash windows,
and decorative brackets. There is an attached two-story, shed roof porch which is supported by
Doric columns on the first level and quire replacement posts on the second level. The original
porch balustrade remains on the first level; the balustrade on the second level has been replaced.
Case History
A previous Certificate of Appropriateness, HC2005-78 was issued for the demolition of an
accessory structure at 409 W. Washington Street.
Numerous approvals; HC2002-41, HC2002-55AD, HC2005-07AD, HC2005-58AD, and
HC2005-63AD have been issued for the structure located at 413 W. Washington Street for
repairs.
Proposed Action
The applicant is proposing to demolish three contributing residential structures located at 407,
409, and 413 W. Washington Street.
Public Notice
Public notice of this meeting was published in the newspaper and notices were mailed to
adjacent property owners.
Applicable Regulations and Analysis
A. Unified Development Ordinance
1. HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District
2. Section 31-413(g)(7)A(;), Approval of major action by the HLC
3. Section 31-413(l) Demolition of Structures of Substantial Interest
B. Suffolk Historic District Guidelines
1. Chapter 8, B. Authority – The Historic Landmark Commission shall be guided by
Section 31-413(l) (Demolition of Structures of Substantial Public Interest) of the
Unified Development Ordinance.
2. Chapter 8, Guidelines for the Consideration of Demolishing or Moving Buildings
HC-2014-45
December 11, 2014
Page 3
Staff Analysis
The demolition of structures within the Suffolk Historic Conservation Overlay District is
discussed in Section 31-413(l), Demolition of Structures of Substantial Public Interest of the
UDO which speaks to structures designated as having substantial public interest. The specific
guidance for determining whether or not to approve the demolition of a structure within the
historic district is found in Chapter 8, Section C, Guidelines for the Consideration of
Demolishing or Moving Buildings of the Suffolk Historic District Design Guidelines. The
applicant has provided a structural analysis of the properties as well as a narrative addressing
these guidelines. Staff concurs with the attached analysis provided by the applicant.
The applicant has indicated that the demolition of the structures is needed to allow the
construction of a new municipal library and its associated site features. This site is supportive of
the City’s goal of a vibrant revitalized Downtown. The success of the City’s efforts will have a
direct positive impact on the Historic District. Demolition of a structure may be justified when
the proposed new development with which it will be replaced is of greater significance to the
preservation of the district than retention of the existing structure. The loss of the structures will
have an effect on the historic character of the district; however the new development will be
compatible, appropriate and beneficial to the district. The applicant has offered the properties for
sale to a buyer who could relocate the structures. No offers of purchase have been received.
Summary and Recommendations
While these structures are within both the local Historic Overlay District and the National
Register District, the urban fabric of W. Washington Street as it proceeds west was not deemed
cohesive enough to justify its inclusion in the National Register District. The continued
expansion of the municipal core, initiated by the construction of the new City Hall, will be a
healthy catalyst for renovation and rehabilitation efforts throughout the district. The overriding
public interest will best be served by the creation of a strong contextually appropriate municipal
core as opposed to the interest that is served by the retention of the structures at 407, 409, and
413 W. Washington Street. While the properties are identified as landmarks, they are not
associated with any specific event or person. The retention of the three individual structures
would be a deterrent to a major improvement program that will be of substantial benefit to the
district and the public. Therefore, staff recommends that the demolition of 407, 409, and 413 W.
Washington Street be permitted.
Attachments
cc: Mr. Gerry Jones, City of Suffolk
Suffolk
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Suffolk Historic & Cultural Conservation Overlay
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NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS
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Original Suffolk District (1987)
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North Main Street Extension District (1998)
T East Washington Street District (2002)
PR EN TIS ST West End District (2004)
West End District Expansion (2004)
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Suffolk District Expansion (2004)
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Disclaimer. THE CITY OF SUFFOLK MAKES NO WARRANTY, REPRESENTATION,
PITC H
OR GUARANTEE OF ANY KIND REGARDING EITHER ANY MAPS OR OTHER INFORMATION
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PROVIDED HEREIN OR THE SOURCES OF SUCH MAPS OR OTHER INFORMATION. THE
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EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
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OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
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The City of Suffolk assumes no liability either for any errors, omissions,
or inaccuracies in the information provided regardless of the cause of such
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or for any decision made, action taken, or action not taken by the user in
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reliance upon any maps or information provided herein.
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Parcel and Zoning information has been developed to provide a graphic
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parcel may have been adjusted to provide a more visually pleasing presentation.
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location and perimeter or area measurements.
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Aerial Photography captured March 1999. A limited area of the City was reflown
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in March of 2001. The most up-to-date photography available was used to capture
planimetric information.
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Updated : 11/24/2014
EXHIBIT B
HC45-14 ZONING / LAND USE MAP
34G17(A)*25 34G17(A)*127
34G17(A)*107
34G17(A)*22
34G17(A)*21
34G17(A)*115
34G17(A)*128
34G17(A)*24 34G17(A)*109
RU
34G17(A)*111 34G17(A)*112
34G17(A)*114
34G17(A)*23 NOR TH ST
C8-11
34G17(A)*113
6/15/2011
CHESTNUT ST
C16-00
34G17(A)*129
1/17/2001
W WASHIN
GT O N S T CBD
34G17(A)*
LEE S T
34G17(A)*19 181
BZA1-94
2/8/1994
34G17(A)*
C
1 34G17(A)*
190
34G17(A)*192A+
189
C7-10
7/21/2010
34G17(A)*193
34G17(A)*177
34G17(A)*182
34G17(A)*188
34G17(A)*21
6
C7-03 34G17(A)*187 34G17(A)*183
10/16/2003
34G17(A) 34G17(A)
*1 8 6 *1 8 5
34G17(A)*176
34G17(A)*213
34G17(A)*221
34G17(A)*221
34G17(A)*217
JACKSO
N ST
RM
Aerial Imagery Sources: VGIN/VITA VMBP 2013 Orthophotography and/or ESRI http://goto.arcgisonline.com/maps/World_Imagery
LEE S T 34G17(A)*1841 inch = 60 feet
RM
Date: 11/24/2014
s
407 W Washington Street
409 W Washington Street
HC45-14
413 W Washington Street
HC45-14
Description
This application to the Historic Landmarks Commission is for the demolition of three (3)
residential structures located at 407, 409, and 413 West Washington St. The demolition of
these structures will provide a portion of the site necessary to construct a new Central Library,
currently identified in the City’s Capital Improvements Plan. The City has no proposed used for
the structures, and has offered them for sale to the general public, with the stipulation that
they must be relocated from their current sites, preferably to another site within the Historic
Conservation Overlay District. No offers to purchase any of the structures were received.
The following is an analysis of these provisions as they apply to the structure at 407 West
Washington Street:
1. Is the structure of architectural significance? Does the building contribute to the
character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Architecturally, the buildings
are typical of late nineteenth and early twentieth residential structures in the District.
All three of the structures are considered contributing structures to the Historic Overlay
Conservation District.
.
2. Is the structure of historical significance? No
3. Is the building or structure of such old or uncommon design, texture or scarce
material that it could not be reproduced or could be reproduced only with great
difficulty and expense? The building is typical of other early twentieth century
structures. The design, texture and materials are not uncommon.
4. Does relocating the building have a detrimental effect on its structural soundness? A
structural assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was
determined to be poor and structurally unsound. Relocation would most likely worsen
its structural condition.
5. Is the building or structure structurally unsound? If yes, to what extent? A structural
assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was determined to
be poor and structurally unsound. The report prepared by McPherson Design Group,
dated October 1, 2014 is a part of this application.
6. Is the relocation of the building or structure, or a portion thereof, preferable
alternative to demolition? Given the structural integrity of the building, demolition is
preferable to relocation. However, it is difficult to assess the alternative of relocating
the structure as no study of this alternative has been conducted. It must be noted that
the City advertised the home for sale with the stipulation that relocation was
mandatory, and no bids were received.
HC45-14
7. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect other historic
buildings located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District? The structure itself
is not close enough to adjacent structures to adversely affect their structural integrity.
Adequate room exists on the site to remove the structure without impacting historic
buildings within the District.
8. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect the character
of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? No
9. If a building is damaged by a fire or other natural hazard, has the Building Inspector
determined if a building is structurally sound or poses an imminent threat to public
safety and should be demolished? The building has not been damaged by fire or
natural hazard; therefore, the Building Official has taken no action on the property.
10. Has a professional economic and structural feasibility study for rehabilitating or
reusing the structure been conducted? If yes, did the study’s findings support the
proposed demolition or moving? A structural analysis of the building has been
prepared; however, an economic or feasibility study has not been. Consequently, an
evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
11. Will the building or structure be relocated to another site within the Historic
Conservation Overlay District or to another adjacent site which is subject to design
review? The building is not proposed to be relocated. Consequently, an evaluation of
this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
12. Does the proposed relocation provide new surroundings that are compatible with the
architectural aspects of the building or structure? Because the relocation of the
building is not being proposed, an evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this
time.
13. Is the proposed relocation the only practical means of saving the structure from
demolition? Because the relocation of the building is not being proposed, an evaluation
of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
14. Is there an inordinate hardship? (To establish “inordinate hardship,” the applicant
shall submit evidence that rehabilitation of the structure is impractical, that the
structure is inappropriate for the proposed use desired by the owner, and that the
applicant cannot make reasonable economic use of the property. Such evidence may
include reuse, attempts to sell, rent, or lease the property, and information regarding
annual income and expenses. Any hardship created by action of the applicant shall
not be considered in reviewing any application.) Inordinate hardship does not pertain
to this application. The construction of the planned Downtown Central Library and
required parking along West Washington Street are cited as the reason for demolition
of the building. No alternatives to demolition have been provided.
HC45-14
The following is an analysis of these provisions as they apply to the structure at 409 West
Washington Street:
1. Is the structure of architectural significance? Does the building contribute to the
character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Architecturally, the buildings
are typical of late nineteenth and early twentieth residential structures in the District.
All three of the structures are considered contributing structures to the Historic Overlay
Conservation District.
.
2. Is the structure of historical significance? No
3. Is the building or structure of such old or uncommon design, texture or scarce
material that it could not be reproduced or could be reproduced only with great
difficulty and expense? The building is typical of other early twentieth century
structures. The design, texture and materials are not uncommon.
4. Does relocating the building have a detrimental effect on its structural soundness? A
structural assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was
determined to be poor and structurally unsound. Relocation would most likely worsen
its structural condition.
5. Is the building or structure structurally unsound? If yes, to what extent? A structural
assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was determined to
be poor and structurally unsound. The report prepared by McPherson Design Group,
dated October 1, 2014 is a part of this application.
6. Is the relocation of the building or structure, or a portion thereof, preferable
alternative to demolition? Given the structural integrity of the building, demolition is
preferable to relocation. However, it is difficult to assess the alternative of relocating
the structure as no study of this alternative has been conducted. It must be noted that
the City advertised the home for sale with the stipulation that relocation was
mandatory, and no bids were received.
7. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect other historic
buildings located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District? The structure itself
is not close enough to adjacent structures to adversely affect their structural integrity.
Adequate room exists on the site to remove the structure without impacting historic
buildings within the District.
8. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect the character
of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? No
HC45-14
9. If a building is damaged by a fire or other natural hazard, has the Building Inspector
determined if a building is structurally sound or poses an imminent threat to public
safety and should be demolished? The building has not been damaged by fire or
natural hazard; therefore, the Building Official has taken no action on the property.
10. Has a professional economic and structural feasibility study for rehabilitating or
reusing the structure been conducted? If yes, did the study’s findings support the
proposed demolition or moving? A structural analysis of the building has been
prepared; however, an economic or feasibility study has not been. Consequently, an
evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
11. Will the building or structure be relocated to another site within the Historic
Conservation Overlay District or to another adjacent site which is subject to design
review? The building is not proposed to be relocated. Consequently, an evaluation of
this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
12. Does the proposed relocation provide new surroundings that are compatible with the
architectural aspects of the building or structure? Because the relocation of the
building is not being proposed, an evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this
time.
13. Is the proposed relocation the only practical means of saving the structure from
demolition? Because the relocation of the building is not being proposed, an evaluation
of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
14. Is there an inordinate hardship? (To establish “inordinate hardship,” the applicant
shall submit evidence that rehabilitation of the structure is impractical, that the
structure is inappropriate for the proposed use desired by the owner, and that the
applicant cannot make reasonable economic use of the property. Such evidence may
include reuse, attempts to sell, rent, or lease the property, and information regarding
annual income and expenses. Any hardship created by action of the applicant shall
not be considered in reviewing any application.) Inordinate hardship does not pertain
to this application. The construction of the planned Downtown Central Library and
required parking along West Washington Street are cited as the reason for demolition
of the building. No alternatives to demolition have been provided.
The following is an analysis of these provisions as they apply to the structure at 413 West
Washington Street:
1. Is the structure of architectural significance? Does the building contribute to the
character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Architecturally, the buildings
are typical of late nineteenth and early twentieth residential structures in the District.
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All three of the structures are considered contributing structures to the Historic Overlay
Conservation District.
.
2. Is the structure of historical significance? No
3. Is the building or structure of such old or uncommon design, texture or scarce
material that it could not be reproduced or could be reproduced only with great
difficulty and expense? The building is typical of other early twentieth century
structures. The design, texture and materials are not uncommon.
4. Does relocating the building have a detrimental effect on its structural soundness? A
structural assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was
determined to be poor and structurally unsound. Relocation would most likely worsen
its structural condition.
5. Is the building or structure structurally unsound? If yes, to what extent? A structural
assessment has been conducted and the condition of the structure was determined to
be poor and structurally unsound. The report prepared by McPherson Design Group,
dated October 1, 2014 is a part of this application.
6. Is the relocation of the building or structure, or a portion thereof, preferable
alternative to demolition? Given the structural integrity of the building, demolition is
preferable to relocation. However, it is difficult to assess the alternative of relocating
the structure as no study of this alternative has been conducted. It must be noted that
the City advertised the home for sale with the stipulation that relocation was
mandatory, and no bids were received.
7. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect other historic
buildings located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District? The structure itself
is not close enough to adjacent structures to adversely affect their structural integrity.
Adequate room exists on the site to remove the structure without impacting historic
buildings within the District.
8. Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect the character
of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? No
9. If a building is damaged by a fire or other natural hazard, has the Building Inspector
determined if a building is structurally sound or poses an imminent threat to public
safety and should be demolished? The building has not been damaged by fire or
natural hazard; therefore, the Building Official has taken no action on the property.
10. Has a professional economic and structural feasibility study for rehabilitating or
reusing the structure been conducted? If yes, did the study’s findings support the
proposed demolition or moving? A structural analysis of the building has been
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prepared; however, an economic or feasibility study has not been. Consequently, an
evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
11. Will the building or structure be relocated to another site within the Historic
Conservation Overlay District or to another adjacent site which is subject to design
review? The building is not proposed to be relocated. Consequently, an evaluation of
this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
12. Does the proposed relocation provide new surroundings that are compatible with the
architectural aspects of the building or structure? Because the relocation of the
building is not being proposed, an evaluation of this criterion cannot be provided at this
time.
13. Is the proposed relocation the only practical means of saving the structure from
demolition? Because the relocation of the building is not being proposed, an evaluation
of this criterion cannot be provided at this time.
14. Is there an inordinate hardship? (To establish “inordinate hardship,” the applicant
shall submit evidence that rehabilitation of the structure is impractical, that the
structure is inappropriate for the proposed use desired by the owner, and that the
applicant cannot make reasonable economic use of the property. Such evidence may
include reuse, attempts to sell, rent, or lease the property, and information regarding
annual income and expenses. Any hardship created by action of the applicant shall
not be considered in reviewing any application.) Inordinate hardship does not pertain
to this application. The construction of the planned Downtown Central Library and
required parking along West Washington Street are cited as the reason for demolition
of the building. No alternatives to demolition have been provided.
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