Historic Preservation Commission

TOWN OF SWANSBORO HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION May 17, 2022 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Call to Order: The meeting of Swansboro Historic Preservation Commission was called to order at 5:30PM. Those in attendance were Patrick Larkin, Kim Kingrey, Christina Ramsey, Ed Binanay and alternate members April Clark and Jonathan McDaniel. Introduction of New Member: The commission welcomed new alternate member Jonathan McDaniel. Approval of Minutes: On a motion by Kim Kingrey, seconded by Ed Binanay the April 19, 2022 regular meeting minutes were unanimously approved. Old Business: A. Summary Report – Richard Grubb & Associates: Architectural Survey Update Mrs. Ansell explained that a summary report from Richard Grubb & Associates had been provided to detail their work and future timelines. They were to complete the survey update by June 30th and planned to present it at the July or August meeting. The board asked for clarification on the terms of the grant, whether there was flexibility to amend the deadline or delay it. They asked if additional money could be allocated for resources in order to add more accuracy to the property descriptions than what the survey would capture. Mrs. Kingrey stated that she and Mr. Larkin met with Town Manager, Paula Webb concerning more grant funding in order to do a more in-depth investigation. Mrs. Ansell stated that she was not aware of the conversation, but that she would follow up with Paula and Sonia on the terms of the grant we have originally. Other comments/concerns from the board: - worried the survey would be “locked in” and difficult to revise, that edits could not be made; - requested that the survey be very accurate before it is closed out; - asked if the contractor was obligated to correct things that are incorrect; Mrs. Ansell stated she would reach out to the survey coordinator with the State to find answers to their concerns. B. Design Standards Patrick Larkin made a motion, seconded by Ed Binanay that fence approval be removed from staff approval to require minor work approval. All members were in favor. The board discussed vinyl fencing allowances in the district. After discussion they decided to spend time to clarify the wording, it was tabled for discussion at their next meeting. Mrs. Ansel will incorporate the changes approved and bring it back for the meeting in June. Chairman/Board Thoughts/Staff Comments: Ed Binanay had a concern that the lattice can still be seen at 204 Elm Street. Mrs. Ansell stated that the owner had removed the vinyl panels in public view as directed by the Commission. She explained that the yard is a sloping, that you were able to see the back fence line from Elm Street, but that it was probably 100’+ from the street. She felt there had to be some level of reasonableness applied. She stated that in reviewing the minutes, Ms. Reed had asked for clarification and was directed to remove the panels on Elm and Church Streets. Mrs. Ansell stated that she would communicate with Mrs. Reed to see if she would be wiling to meet on site to discuss it further. Patrick Larkin communicated to other members that John Wood had talked with Kim Kingrey concerning the dock proposal at 147 Front Street and that the board needs to be aware that if it is presented to the Historic Preservation Commission again. That we need to ask for the type of materials that will be used for the project. The board asked about the shed at 209 Main Street, they wanted to know about a structural engineer evaluating the shed. Mrs. Ansell informed the board that the town would not be able to engage a structural engineer. She stated that John Wood would be in the area the first of June, and that he was supposed to provide her with a date that they could meet on site with the owners. Mrs. Kingrey asked if that would be the same time he would conduct the training session that he had discussed with her. Mrs. Ansell stated that she was unaware of any planned training. Mrs. Ansell provided a copy of the Town’s Fee Schedule to show the amendments discussed by the Commission had been adopted. She reminded the members of the email she had recently sent to them concerning the required CLG continuing education and training opportunity Public Comments: Amelia Gillette stated she is unclear what the final survey project will look like and if it would be flexible for changes. She thanked the board for all they do and the responsibility they have taken on, she realizes there have been some tough topics that they have had to deal with. Mayor Davis suggested if the board has an estimate of cost for more manpower to help with the survey project, that it can be presented to the BOC at Monday’s meeting. He thanked the board for their passion. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:29 pm.