Historic Landmarks Commission Packets

HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION June 14, 2018 THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION WILL BE HELD AT 9:00 A.M. IN CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CITY HALL BUILDING Note: If You Cannot Attend This Meeting, Please Notify the Planning Division by 12:00 Noon, Wednesday, June 13, 2018 (757) 514-4060 PREPARED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION OF PLANNING  AGENDA Historic Landmarks Commission Meeting Thursday, June 14, 2018 9:00 a.m. I. Call to Order: Chairman II. Roll Call III. Approval of the Minutes IV. New Business 1. REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HLC2018-00016, submitted by Randolph and Mary Ellen Copeland, applicants, for exterior alterations to property located at 423 West Washington Street. The property is further identified as Zoning Map 34G17, Block A, Parcel 192A+, Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District, and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District. 2. REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HLC2018-00017, submitted by K – Kontractors Development Group, applicant and property owner, for demolition of a contributing shed on property located at 129 Wellons Street, Zoning Map 34G17, Block (A), Parcel 288. The affected area is further identified as being located in the Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned RM, Residential Medium Density and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District. V. Old Business VI. Staff Reports 1. Enforcement Updates a. Property Maintenance b. Zoning 2. Administrative Approvals VII. Adjournment  MINUTES HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION May 10, 2018 9:00 A.M. The regular meeting of the Historic Landmarks Commission was held on Thursday, May 10, 2018, 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 442 W. Washington Street, Suffolk, Virginia, with the following persons present: MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF: Susan Coley Claire Jones, Comprehensive Planning Manager Mary Austin Darden Karla Carter, Assistant City Attorney Merritt Draper Amy Thurston, Planner I Oliver Hobbs Jillian Scott-Hale, Office Assistant Edward King Larry Riddick Vivian Turner The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chairman Hobbs. The roll was called by Ms. Jones and the Vice-Chairman was informed that a quorum was present. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as presented. REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HLC2018-00014, submitted by Gregory Mitchell, property owner, for after-the-fact exterior material alterations to property located at 131 Clay Street. The property is further identified as Zoning Map 34G18, Block A, Parcel 352, Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District, and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District. The first item of business was introduced by Vice-Chairman Hobbs, followed by a report by Amy Thurston, Planner I. Ms. Thurston stated the subject property is located in the 100 block of Clay Street and is part of the East Washington Street District expansion (2002) of the Historic District. The area surrounding the subject property contains buildings primarily constructed between 1895 and 1910 in the Queen Anne or Italianate styles. The predominant roofing material utilized on residential structures in this area is standing seam metal, although some roofs had been replaced with architectural shingles at the time of nomination. According to the National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form, the subject property is a contributing Queen Anne dwelling constructed between 1895 and 1910. This property is particularly unique and significant to the district as it is the only residence in the neighborhood that features a turret. At the time of nomination, the roof was silver standing seam metal throughout. Ms. Thurston explained that a fire in 2015 resulted in damage to the second story rear addition and the majority of the roof. Sometime thereafter, the entire standing seam metal roof was removed with the exception of the turret. The previous property owner submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to request to replace the original standing seam metal roof with architectural grade shingles. The Historic Landmarks Commission, in accordance with staff’s recommendation, voted to require that the roof be replaced with silver standing seam metal to match the turret and preserve the historical integrity of the structure. The scope of work approved by the 2015 COA was not completed and the property was later sold to a new owner. Ms. Thurston noted that the current property owner has installed a charcoal-colored architectural shingle on this property without obtaining a COA. The turret remains standing seam metal. The property owner indicated they were unaware that exterior changes required a COA; however, the owner was made aware of the Historic Overlay District regulations by a notification letter mailed in November 2017. Ms. Thurston added that a site visit to evaluate the pending request revealed that many sections of the cornice and siding were missing on the south elevation and an unfinished addition on the rear of the structure was devoid of all exterior materials. These repairs should be addressed through a separate COA application and are not under consideration at this time. Also noted in the staff report is a pending property maintenance violation for the condition of the second story rear addition. No changes are proposed to address this violation at this time, so this is not under consideration by the HLC at this time. The applicant proposes to retain the charcoal-colored Timberline Architectural Roof Shingles that have been installed on the main roof as a replacement material to the silver standing seam metal. The Historic District Guidelines state that metal is the preferred material for roofs in areas where metal roofs are prevalent, as is the case along Clay Street. Roof designs are one of the key character-defining elements of the style, formality, stature, and texture of the house and the street. Consequently, original materials are to be matched as closely as possible when replacement is necessary. Replacing a standing seam metal roof with shingles is to be avoided, as this would dramatically alter the building’s appearance. All of the aforementioned guidelines support standing seam metal as the appropriate replacement roof material for this property. Ms. Thurston noted that this property is the only home in the neighborhood that features a turret and that this structure is also highly visible to surrounding streets. Given the visibility of the roof and the unique turret element, it is important that a consistent roofing material be utilized in both areas. The proposed architectural shingle roof has substantially altered the appearance and historical integrity of this property, and the dark color further emphasizes the contrast with the historic materials on the turret. In addition, the poor quality of the new roof does not match the quality of other roof installations in the Historic District. 2 After thorough consideration of the proposed change in materials for compliance with the Historic District Design Guidelines, the individual significance of standing seam metal to this structure, the impact that the proposed change will have on the surrounding area, and past decisions of the Historic Landmarks Commission, staff recommends denial of this request, HLC2018-00014. The public hearing was opened and there being no speakers in favor or in opposition, the public hearing was closed. A motion was made by Commissioner Darden to approve staff’s recommendation as presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Draper and passed by a recorded vote of 7-0. STAFF REPORTS: Enforcement Update Donald Bennett, Property Maintenance Official, reported on the following properties:  211 Pearl Street – Court Case continued until June 7, 2018  204 Bank Street – Court case continued until June 7, 2018  221 Pinner Street – Court case continued until June 7, 2018  118 Pinner Street – Property maintenance violation goes to court on July 5, 2018 Zoning Update Matthew Levy, Zoning Inspector, reported on the following properties:  222 Pinner Street – Judgement found in home owner’s absence  131 Clay Street – Referred to court April 5, 2018  178 E. Washington Street – Referred to court/No Service  180 E. Washington Street – Referred to court/No Service  209 N. Saratoga Street – Notice of Violation issued Administrative Approvals Staff noted that a number of administrative COAs have been approved since the last HLC meeting in March and noted that copies of each were provided in the meeting packet. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. 3  HISTORIC LANDMARKS COMMISSION Motion: To approve with staff recommendations as presented 1st: Darden May 10, 2018 2nd: Draper HC2018-00014 ATTENDANCE VOTE: 7-0 COMMISSIONERS PRESENT ABSENT YES NO Coley, Susan M. X X Darden, Mary Austin X X Draper, Merritt X X Hobbs, Oliver, Vice-Chairman X X King, Edward L. X X Riddick, Larry X X Turner, Vivian X X  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: Amy Thurston, Planner I Date: June 14, 2018 Subject: REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HLC2018- 00016, submitted by Randolph and Mary Ellen Copeland, applicants, for exterior alterations to property located at 423 West Washington Street. The property is further identified as Zoning Map 34G17, Block A, Parcel 192A+, Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned CBD, Central Business District, and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District. STAFF REPORT Overview of the Subject Property and Surrounding Area The subject property is located at 423 West Washington Street, which is part of the 2004 District Expansion of the Suffolk Historic Conservation Overlay District. The West Washington Street portion of the 2004 Expansion is mostly comprised of one and two-story twentieth century commercial buildings which feature first-story display windows with decorative brick or metal cornices or parapets on the upper stories. This area historically contained a number of automobile-related buildings dating from the 1920’s through the 1950’s; this includes the properties located at 248, 321, 400, 416, and 420 West Washington Street, in addition to the subject property. According to the National Register of Historic Places, the subject property was constructed circa 1930 and was formerly the Godwin Motors Parts Department. The building features yellow brick along the front, red brick along the sides and rear, double storefronts with recessed entryways and a parapet roofline. The subject building originally connected to the adjacent building, 425 West Washington Street, which functioned as the Godwin dealership. Sometime in the past, the transom windows on the front of the subject building were covered with wood and similarly, the windows on the east elevation were partially covered with wood. No COA is on file which allowed these windows to be covered and this may have occurred prior to this property being incorporated into the Historic District in 2004. HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 2 Case History The subject property received a Certificate of Appropriateness in 2009 for in-kind replacement of the flat roof. No other COAs are on file. Public Notice Public notice of this meeting was published in the newspaper and notices were mailed to adjacent property owners. Proposed Actions The applicant’s request includes the following actions: 1. Install two (2) seven (7) foot tall steel “Carriage House Model 303” garage doors on the east elevation to consist of a stained oak finish and spear hinges and pull handles, as submitted. No windows are proposed as part of the garage doors. 2. Install two (2) black gooseneck light fixtures, one (1) centered above each of the proposed garage doors on the east elevation. 3. Paint the area of the transom windows on front/north elevation that were previously covered with wood using Downing Sand (SW 2822) or equivalent from the approved Sherwin Williams Arts Victorian Color Palette. 4. Paint the area of the windows on the east elevation that were previously covered with wood using Downing Sand (SW 2822) or equivalent from the approved Sherwin Williams Arts Victorian Color Palette. Condition Statement No replacement of materials is proposed; therefore, no condition statement was provided. Surrounding Characteristics A detailed description of adjacent and nearby properties is provided below. Only one of the adjacent structures is contributing to the Historic District. 408 West Washington Street – Non-contributing one-story structure, which was originally built as a single-family dwelling in 1980 and has since been converted to a retail use. This building features a side-gable roof and vinyl siding. 416 West Washington Street – Contributing one-story mid-twentieth-century gas station constructed circa 1955. This building features four bays, a flat roof, and asphalt shingle cornice. Currently, the property is used as an auto repair shop. 421 West Washington Street – Commercial building located outside of the Suffolk Historic District. Currently, the property is used as an auto repair shop. HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 3 425 West Washington Street – Non-contributing two-story commercial building, which has been heavily modified. 426 West Washington Street – Non-contributing one-story commercial building, which is included as part of the local Historic District; however, it is not included within the National Register. This structure is currently utilized as a dentist office. Site Modifications No site modifications are proposed with this application. Applicable Regulations A. Suffolk Historic District Design Guidelines Chapter 1, Section F. Goals:  Changes to historic buildings should be appropriately designed to be compatible with the architecture and character of the historic district and should not negatively affect the district’s overall character. Chapter 3, Sections F and G:  Consideration should be given to the style of the building and the context in which it is located. Chapter 4, Section C.3 Guidelines for Window Preservation:  Maintain original windows by patching, splicing, consolidating or otherwise reinforcing the wooden members. Wood that appears to be in bad condition because of peeling paint or separated joints often can be repaired. Uncover and repair covered-up windows and reinstall windows where they have been blocked in. If the window is no longer needed, the glass should be retained and the back side frosted, screened, covered with dark painted plywood on the inside, or shuttered so that it appears from the outside to be in use. Chapter 4, Section D. Doors:  Door openings are a major character and style-determining feature of an historic building.  Many of the doors are wood with different types of panels.  Avoid changing the number, location, or size of doors by enlarging or reducing the original door opening or installing replacement doors that do not fit the original openings.  Base reconstruction on physical evidence from the original door or on old photographs if they are available and use appropriate materials, finishes, and details. Chapter 4, Section B.2 Synthetic Materials  Synthetic materials other than historic materials which replicate the qualities of the HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 4 original material may be acceptable as substitutes only if the Historic Landmarks Commission determines that the substitute or synthetic material will produce the overall character, appearance, and performance of the original material. Chapter 6, C.2 Guidelines for Mercantile Buildings:  Preserve and rehabilitate original window/door openings, window sashes, window/door muntin patterns and window/door trim to maintain and strengthen not only the building's historic character but also that of the surrounding area as well. Chapter 7, General Application (New Construction):  Doors – Ensure that new doors are compatible with and relate to the door styles found in the historic district.  Materials and Textures - Select materials and textures which are compatible with and complement neighboring buildings. In this regard, wood is recommended for use in new construction on elements such as windows, cornices, porch trim, and all other decorative features. The duplication of historic details to the point where new construction is not distinguishable from old is not recommended. B. Secretary of the Interior Standards As recommended by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, the historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken. Replacement of historic or missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence. Staff Analysis The subject property is located on West Washington Street, one of the two most prominent streets in the Suffolk Historic Conservation Overlay District. In addition, due to the adjacent vacant properties to the east, the east or side façade of the building is highly visible to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Therefore, any changes made to the subject property will have a substantial impact on the District as a whole. Currently, the transom windows on the front/north façade are covered with wood. The east/side façade currently consists of one (1) storefront window with covered transom windows above and four (4) divided light windows that are also covered with wood; roughly one-third of the divided light windows remain exposed. No COA is on file which allowed these windows to be covered and this may have occurred prior to this property being incorporated into the Historic District in 2004. Based on the appearance of the windows and the mortar joints on the east side of the building, it is believed that these windows may date back fifty years or more. If so, these elements, though not original, can be considered contributing historic features in their own right. Careful consideration must be given to not only how the proposed changes will affect the HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 5 contributing features that have been added over time, but how the proposed changes will impact the building’s overall contributing status to the Historic District. As you may recall, the adjacent building, 425 West Washington Street, and other commercial buildings along the corridor, have been heavily altered over the years using modern materials such that they have lost their historic integrity. When this is the case, such buildings are no longer contributing to the District. Over time, this trend could compromise the status of the Suffolk Historic District. The first part of the applicant’s request is to paint the wood covering the transom windows on the front/north elevation and on the east/side elevation using a beige color. Covering windows is not supported by the Historic Guidelines, thus it would not be permitted today. Removal of these window coverings is encouraged; however, not required, since they may predate the District. In the event that the applicant finds that the existing wood has deteriorated and repainting will not sufficiently repair the wood, these elements cannot be removed and replaced under District regulations. In this case, the coverings would need to be removed entirely. Secondly, the applicant requests to remove two (2) existing divided light windows and surrounding brick in order to install two (2) seven (7) foot tall steel “Carriage House Model 303” garage doors on the east elevation. The proposed doors consist of a stained oak finish and spear hinges and pull handles. No windows are proposed as part of the garage doors. Additionally, the applicant proposes to install two (2) black gooseneck light fixtures to be centered above each door, which is an appropriate style of light fixture that is frequently approved in the Historic District. Guidance pertaining to the replacement or installation of new doors is provided by Chapters 3 and 4 of the Historic District Design Guidelines. As stated, doors are a major character and style- determining feature of a historic building and changing the number, location, and size of doors should be avoided. The standards also state that consideration should be given to the history, character, and style of the subject building and the context in which it is located. In addition, the Historic District standards state that wood is the most common material used for doors. As outlined in the District regulations and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, reconstruction projects shall be based on physical, documentary, and/or pictorial evidence. The applicant believes that garage doors previously existed on the east elevation of the building based on the mortar joints in this area. While it appears that openings may have existed in this area, no documentary or pictorial evidence was provided with the application. Since historic photographs of the subject building were not available, staff researched other commercial buildings locally and elsewhere in the United States that were constructed during the same era, primarily the 1930’s, that were also designed for automobile sales or service uses in order to study compatible garage door styles. 1. The following page features a local example of original wood and glass garage doors formerly at 420-422 West Washington Street in downtown Suffolk prior to the building’s demolition in 2012. This structure was constructed circa 1940 and when this image was taken in 2003 the property still retained the original doors. HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 6 2. Fry’s Spring Station Renovation Project, Charlottesville, Virginia- Constructed in 1931. The first image is from 2007 pre-renovation and the second image is from 2017 post- renovation. The new doors mimic the glass patterns of the original doors. https://www.google.com/maps/@38.026008,- 78.5148348,3a,75y,328.43h,81.9t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1suvEqEskCOtBIIKdlwBUe0A!2 e0!7i3328!8i1664 HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 7 3. Commercial repair garage built in the 1930s, Southeast DC. (Source: MARK IV Builders: https://www.dwell.com/home/commercial-garage-converted-97c5b9a2) 4. 1918 Model T Garage, DeSoto, KS. http://www.kansastravel.org/grandpasoldfordgarage.htm0 5. Samuel’s Garage and Sinclair Service Station, Salt Lake City, UT. (http://theoldmotor.com/?p=138523) HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 8 Based on staff’s research, garage doors from early 20th century consisted of a combination of wood and glass materials, with a significant portion of the doors comprised of glass. The proposed garage doors consist of steel, which is a more modern material, and they are carriage style without windows, which is indicative of residential properties. The lack of windows is inconsistent with garage doors of the period of significance, particularly given their visibility in the proposed location. Thus, the proposed doors are considerably different in materials, style, and overall appearance from garage doors typical of 20th century automobile-oriented commercial buildings. The Historic Landmarks Commission recently considered a similar element as part of the COA application for 212 East Washington Street in March of this year. This building was constructed earlier than the subject property in 1914; however, it was also built as an auto use, the Elliott Motor Company. Among many items, the Historic Landmarks Commission approved the applicant’s request to fill in a former wall opening on the rear of the building with a wooden paneled door and glass transom windows appropriate to the period of the building. Because the garage doors proposed under the current application are located along the side of the building facing West Washington Street, as opposed to the rear of the building in the example below, the materials and style of doors have a larger impact on the Historic District and should be carefully considered. Given the subject property’s history as a motor company situated along a prominent business corridor that formerly housed other auto uses, it may be fitting to allow garage doors on the side of the building provided that they utilize an appropriate style, color, and materials that honor the building’s original use and similar designs from the era. With regards to color, the applicant proposes beige trim on the building and brown/oak garage doors, whereas a consistent color utilized on both features would be more appropriate to create a cohesive design. As previously stated, the proposed changes are highly visible to West Washington Street; thus, historically appropriate materials should be utilized to maintain the integrity of the Historic District as a whole. HLC2018-00016 June 14, 2018 Page 9 Summary and Recommendations Based on the previous findings-of-fact, staff recommends approval of the following actions requested by Certificates of Appropriateness, HLC2018-00016, with the conditions noted below: 1. Two (2) garage doors may replace the rear two (2) windows on the east elevation provided that the garage doors utilize an appropriate combination of glass and wood materials and they are painted to match the trim color utilized elsewhere on the building. (An addendum with a revised design shall be submitted and approved by the Administrator.) 2. One (1) black gooseneck light fixture may be installed above each of the proposed garage doors on the east elevation. 3. Paint the area of the transom windows on front/north elevation that were previously covered with wood using Downing Sand (SW 2822) or equivalent from the approved Sherwin Williams Arts Victorian Color Palette. Replacement of the covering is not permitted. 4. Paint the area of the windows on the east elevation that were previously covered with wood using Downing Sand (SW 2822) or equivalent from the approved Sherwin Williams Arts Victorian Color Palette. Replacement of the covering is not permitted. 5. Any additional improvements shall require a Certificate of Appropriateness. 6. All required building and zoning permits shall be obtained from the City of Suffolk. Attachments HLC2018-00016  ZONING / LAND USE MAP HLC2018-00016 SPRING ST NORTH ST ST PINE CHESTNUT ST W WASHINGTO N ST 34G17(A)*192A+ SOUTH ST s JACKSO N ST LEE ST S ST RLE CHA User Name: bsmith Date: 5/9/2018 HLC2018-00016 – 423 West Washington Street Current photos of subject property: 1 HLC2018-00016 – 423 West Washington Street East elevation/side view, area where garage doors are proposed: South elevation/rear view: 2 HLC2018-00016 – 423 West Washington Street Condition of wood coverings over windows, which were added many years ago without COA approval: Applicant’s request: 3 HLC2018-00016 – 423 West Washington Street Applicant’s request continued: 4 HLC2018-00016 – 423 West Washington Street Proposed steel “Carriage House Model 303” garage door example photo; however, applicant’s garage doors would not have windows and would utilize an oak finish opposed to the red oak finish shown in the example image: Proposed style of gooseneck light fixtures, one is proposed to be placed centered over each garage door: 5  CITY OF SUFFOLK 442 W. WASHINGTON STREET, 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: Kevin M. Wyne, AICP, Principal Planner Date: June 14, 2018 Subject: REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS HLC2018- 00017, submitted by K – Kontractors Development Group, applicant and property owners, for demolition of a shed on property located at 129 Wellons Street, Zoning Map 34G17, Block (A), Parcel 288. The affected area is further identified as being located in the Suffolk Voting Borough, zoned RM, Residential Medium Density and HC, Historic Conservation Overlay District. STAFF REPORT Overview of the Subject Property and Surrounding Area The subject property is located at 129 Wellons Street within the West End District (2004) of the Suffolk Historic Conservation Overlay District. According to the National Register of Historic Places-Inventory Nomination Form for the West End District, the area sits approximately four blocks west of the original Suffolk Historic District. The West End neighborhood is roughly bounded by the CSX Railroad to the north, the Norfolk Southern Railroad to the south, Linden Avenue, Wellons Street and Pender Street to the east, and Brewer Street and Causey Avenue on the west. The streets are laid out in a perpendicular grid pattern fronted by long rectangular housing lots. The majority of the buildings in this neighborhood date from the last decade of the 19th century through the first four decades of the 20th century, and display the fashionable architectural styles of the period in which they were constructed. There are a few examples dating from the third quarter of the 19th century that precede the area's major period of development. The dominant forms and styles found in the district include vernacular, Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Classical Revival, Tudor Revival, Bungalow/Craftsman, and American foursquare. The subject property features a contributing structure built between 1900 and 1915. It consists of a stretcher bond solid brick foundation and is sided with asbestos shingle. The 2½ story Colonial Revival structure features a hipped, standing seam metal roof with two (2) chimneys and a wrap- HLC2018-00017 June 14, 2018 Page 2 around porch with Ionic columns. In the home’s rear yard stands a shed, which measures approximately 20’ x 28’. The shed is not noted on the West End District’s nomination form, however; based on its design, features, and materials, it has been determined that it is a contributing structure. Public Notice Public notice of this meeting was published in the newspaper and notices were mailed to adjacent property owners. Proposed Action The owner is seeking approval to demolish the existing shed structure. No changes are proposed to the principal structure and no additional repairs or changes are proposed as a part of this application. Condition Statement The application included a contractor’s statement, submitted by a professional engineer, which recommends the shed be demolished due to its structural unsoundness. Specifically, the statement speaks to the absence of a floor in the building, significant termite and moisture damage to the studs, and a collapsed roof, which would require the replacement of all of the sheathing and over 75% of the structure’s rafters. Additionally, while not structural concerns, the statement also notes that the location of the shed’s access doors, at the rear of the structure, which is located in close proximity to a neighboring fence, makes accessing the shed difficult. Lastly, the statement notes that removing the shed will deter trespassers. Photographic evidence has been provided that depicts the structural damage to the building. Surrounding Characteristics A detailed description of adjacent and nearby properties is provided below. 131 Wellons Street – A one-story, non-contributing commercial building. 128 Wellons Street – A two story, brick veneer house rendered in a recent version of the Colonial Revival style. This non-contributing home was built circa 1975. 127 Wellons Street – A contributing 2 ½ story Colonial Revival structure built between 1900 and 1915. The property includes a contributing garage. 125 Wellons Street – Thomas Jefferson Kilby’s second house is a contributing Queen Anne structure built circa 1830. It was originally located on W. Washington Street and was relocated some time after Kilby’s death in 1881. The structure features a wrap- around porch with Tuscan Columns. HLC2018-00017 June 14, 2018 Page 3 124 Wellons Street – A contributing two story Colonial Revival structure built circa 1900. The home retains its original six over six wood windows, however; aluminum siding has been installed. 122 Wellons Street – A contributing two story, four bay Colonial Revival structure built circa 1900. A non-contributing garage was completed sometime around 1980 and serves as an apartment. The properties at 107 and 117 Wellons Street contain contributing accessory structures that have been removed. Additionally 110 Wellons Street has a shed of unknown age and 113 Wellons Street contains a non-contributing shed. Applicable Regulations and Analysis A. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) 1. Section 31-413(g)(7), Approval of Major Action by the HLC (i) Razing, demolishing or moving of a designated landmark or contributing building or accessory. B. Suffolk Historic District Design Guidelines 1. Chapter 1, Section E, Categories of Significance with the Historic Conservation Overlay District, Contributing Structures: Historic or non-historic structures contribute to the overall historic character of the historic district through the compatibility of their design, character, scale, material, and detailing. They are not, however, significant enough to be designated as landmarks. 2. Chapter 8, Section A., Background: Historic buildings are irreplaceable community assets and once they are gone, they are gone forever. With each succeeding demolition or removal, the integrity and character of the district is further eroded. Often the new structure is seldom an attribute to the historic character of the district. Furthermore, if an historic building is moved to a site that is very different from its original site, it could face increased threats to its integrity. Consequently, since the action of demolition or removal of an historic structure cannot be reversed, the decision must be carefully considered and all alternatives explored. 3. Chapter 8, Section C., Guidelines for the Consideration of Demolishing or Moving Buildings:  Is the structure of architectural significance? Does the building contribute to the character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District?  Is the structure of historical significance? HLC2018-00017 June 14, 2018 Page 4  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?  Is the building or structure structurally unsound? If yes, to what extent?  Is the relocation of the building or structure, or a portion thereof, a preferable alternative to demolition?  Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect other historic building located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District?  Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect the character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Staff Analysis The structure in question is a shed which measures approximately 20’ x 28’. As outlined above, the shed is not noted on the West End District’s nomination form; however, based on the design, features, and materials, it has been determined that the structure is of an age that would make it a contributing structure. As mentioned in Chapter 8, Section A. of the Suffolk Historic District Design Guidelines, “Historic buildings are irreplaceable community assets and once they are gone, they are gone forever. With each succeeding demolition or removal, the integrity and character of the district is further eroded.” As such, decisions to allow for the demolition of contributing assets in the district should be carefully considered. Contributing structures come in many shapes and sizes, and while their contribution to the district is determined by their date of construction, the historic significance of structures widely varies from resource to resource. It is also important to look at the character of the neighborhood and/or block in question. Of the 17 residential structures located on the 100 block of Wellons Street, only one property has been identified as having a contributing accessory structure, 127 Wellons Street. With the general lack of contributing accessory structures in the vicinity, it can be determined that accessory structures were not common along the block, and certainly not a central feature of the homes located along Wellons Street during its period of historical significance. Chapter 8, Section C. provides a series of criteria in regards to the consideration of demolishing or moving contributing structures. While it is always the preference that contributing structures remain, it is understood that in some cases conditions are present that will not allow for contributing structures to be rehabilitated or preserved. Below, please find the criteria that apply to this specific case:  Is the structure of architectural significance? Does the building contribute to the character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? The accessory structure itself is not architecturally significant. While quite large for its purpose, the structure is fairly modest from an architectural standpoint and represents what would be considered a fairly typical shed or outbuilding for the time. Furthermore, the shed is well screened from Wellons Street and other properties in the vicinity. HLC2018-00017 June 14, 2018 Page 5  Is the structure of historical significance? No evidence has been presented or found that suggests this structure is historically significant or served any historically significant purpose.  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? As mentioned above, the accessory structure is fairly modest from an architectural standpoint and could be easily reproduced utilizing like materials. The primary materials include wood siding, a wood frame, wood doors, and a metal roof, all of which are readily available materials. Furthermore, the accessory structure represents a common shed style that would have been frequently observed at its time of construction.  Is the building or structure structurally unsound? If yes, to what extent? Visual inspection of the building shows a portion of the roof has collapsed and several doors have been removed, elements which could be repaired. The contractor’s statement notes that there is no floor in the structure and the there is significant termite and moisture damage to the structure’s studs. Additionally, the contractor notes that over 75% of rafters, and all of the sheathing on the roof would require replacement. In its current state, the shed may pose a public hazard.  Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect other historic buildings located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Accessory structures were not commonplace along this block of Wellons Street. Additionally, the modest structure is well screened, and its removal would have little to no impact on other historic buildings located within the Historic Conservation Overlay District.  Would the proposed moving or demolition potentially adversely affect the character of the Historic Conservation Overlay District? Like with surrounding historic buildings, the proposed demolition of the structure is projected to have a minimal impact on the district as a whole. In addition to the more specific questions contained within the guidelines above, more general questions relate to the feasibility of relocating the building elsewhere in the district and the potential impact of the building’s demolition on other historic structures in the district as well as its impact on the district as a whole. Due to the nature of the structure, an accessory shed that is well screened from public view, and the fact that the structure itself is not architecturally or historical significant, its demolition would have little to no impact on the character of the district. HLC2018-00017 June 14, 2018 Page 6 Summary and Recommendations Staff finds the demolition to be consistent with the guidelines and regulations controlling demolition within the Historic Conservation Overlay District. As noted in staff’s analysis, while it is always the preference that contributing structures remain, it is understood that in some cases conditions are present that will not allow for contributing structures to be rehabilitated or preserved. Due to the nature of the structure, the fact that it is well screened from public view, and the fact that the structure itself is not architecturally or historical significant, its demolition would have little to no impact on the character of the district. Additionally, the physical state of the structure may present a hazard to the public as the contractor’s statement has noted significant moisture and termite damage to vital structural elements. After evaluation, staff believes that the criteria of the Historic District Design Guidelines can be met based on the above findings-of-fact and the conditions outlined below. Therefore, staff recommends approval of the following actions and conditions in regard to HLC2018-00017: 1. Demolition of the contributing shed located at 129 Wellons Street, according to Standards contained in Chapter 8 of the Historic District Design Guidelines of the City of Suffolk. 2. No additional exterior improvements shall be permitted without the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness. 3. All required permits shall be obtained from the City of Suffolk. HLC2018-00017  ZONING / LAND USE MAP HLC2018-00017 JACKSO N ST AMES A VE S ST SAINT J WELLO N SMITH S T 34G17(A)*288 RM O-I ELEY C T (Private) User Name: bsmith Date: 5/16/2018 s HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street Shed Location HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street Shed Views from Smith Street HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street HLC2018-00017 129 Wellons Street  Property Maintenance Code Enforcement Update June 2018 ADDRESS CODE VIOLATION(S) STATUS 209 PEARL ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COURT CASE CONTINUED UNTIL - PEELING AND FLAKING PAINT 6/7/18 ON EXTEIROR WOOD SURFACES OF MAIN AND ACCESSORY STRUCTURES 204 BANK ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE GRANTED EEXTENSION UNTIL -PEELING AND FLAKING PAINT UNTIL 6/7/18 118 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COURT CASE SCHEDULE FOR -DETERIORATED EXTERIOR 7/5/18 WALLS -DETERIORATED FOUNDATION -DETERIORATED ROOF SYSTEM -DETERIORATED FRONT PORCH -DETERIORATED WINDOWS 221 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COURT CASE SCHEDULE FOR - DETERIORATED RETAINING 6/7/18 WALL 121 PINNER ST PROPERTY MAINTENANCE COURT CASE SCHEDULE FOR - DETERIORATED EAVES 6/7/18 OVERHANG - DETERIORATED TRIM - RUSTED ROOF - PEELING AND FLAKING PAINT ON EXTEIROR WOOD SURFACES OF MAIN STRUCTURE - PEELING AND FLAKING PAINT ON CHIMNEY Zoning Case Activity Report June 2018 PROPERTY OWNER(s) LOCATION VIOLATION(s) JUDGEMENT INSPECTOR Raven P. Coston 222 Pinner St Zoning-Changing Windows without a COA Fined $200 Matt Gregory Mitchell 131 Clay St Zoning- Installed Roof with no COA Court 6/7/2018 Matt Jeffrey Townsend 178 E. Washington St Window signs and window tint, no COA Court 6/7/2018 Matt Jeffrey Townsend 180 E. Washington St Wall & Window signs, window tint No COA Court 6/7/2018 Matt Jeffrey Townsend 178 E. Washington St Covered Patio without COA NOV issued 5/17/2018 Matt