Westminster Historic District Commission

CITY OF WESTMINSTER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION MEETING SUMMARY Wednesday, March 3, 2021, at 7:00 PM Virtual meeting via Zoom and broadcasted live on the City Facebook page A meeting of the City of Westminster Historic District Commission was held virtually via Zoom and broadcasted live on the City Facebook page on March 3, 2021, at 7:00 PM. Call to Order Chair McMasters read the statement of authority into the record. Chair Kristen McMasters, Commissioner Josh Ambrose, Commissioner Aaron Burroughs, and Commissioner Kevin Wagman were present. City staff Sandy Anderson, Mark Depo, Andrea Gerhard, Andrew Gray, and Samantha Schlitzer were also present. Approval of Minutes Commissioner Wagman moved to approve the meeting summary for February 3, 2021. Commissioner Ambrose seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. New Business Chair McMasters opened New Business Item A – Consultant for East Middle School redevelopment. Chair McMasters stated that the Commission should be a party on the redevelopment of the property due to its being adjacent to the City’s historic district. There may be adverse action during the demolition process and the Commission will take on an advisory role to offer possible alternatives that will not disrupt the historic property as much. The developer will ask if the Commission agrees with the findings of the parties involved in the planning process; the Commission may request additional information, but will not make decisions for the developer. Ms. Gerhard had consulted the Maryland Historic Trust for more information on the consulting status. She stated that there was no negative impact on the Commission being an advisory party, as it would give the City an opportunity to be included in the conversation. Chair McMasters asked who on the Commission wished to be the liaison. She clarified that advice from the Commission would only pertain and related to protecting the historic district. Commissioner Burroughs stated his interest, asking for additional assistance from Chair McMasters. Chair McMasters requested a motion to assign Commissioner Burroughs as the consulting representative from the Historic District Commission. Commissioner Burroughs motioned, seconded by Commissioner Wagman. The motion passed unanimously. Historic District Commission and Public Comments Commissioner Ambrose reported that the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board was in favor of collaboration for the memorial in Belle Grove Square. Mr. Depo stated that the contractor has the monument and is ready to install in May upon receiving the new location request. The Commission agreed to hold a commemorative celebration in conjunction with funding initiatives and other departments to make it a larger event. Chair McMasters stated that National History Day was coming up on March 7, 2021. Adjournment Commissioner Wagman made a motion to adjourn. The Commission adjourned at 7:47 PM. Page 2 of 2