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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-04-14 Historic Preservation Commission Minutes Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING OF APRIL 14, 2022 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEETING MINUTES Commission Members Present: Liam Riordan, Chair Edmond Chernesky (Zoom) Nathaniel King Anne Marie Quin Karen Rand, Assoc. Member (Zoom) Matthew Weitkamp, Assoc. Member (Zoom) Mike Pullen, Historic Preservation Consultant City Staff Present: Melissa Bickford, Development Assistant Jeff Labree, Housing Rehabilitation Coordinator Chair Riordan called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. New Business: 1. Certificate of Appropriateness – 41 Thomas Hill Road – Thomas Hill Standpipe – Map- Lot 021-084 – Thomas Hill Historical District – Applicant: Smart Link Group, Joseph Rollins o/b/o T-Mobile LLC; Owner: Bangor Water District - Approval for installation of a 25KW standby generator to support wireless equipment. This will allow wireless facility to continue to operate in event of power-loss. Installation includes a 4x10 cement pad upon which generator to be placed at property located at 41 Thomas Hill Road, Map-Lot 021-084, in the Thomas Hill Historical District. Joseph Rollins with Smart Link Group o/b/o T-Mobile LLC presented the following in part and in substance: Consensus to locate generator away from the tank, towards property line. Drawings revised, photo sims provided for approximation of how completed project plantings on all sides for screening Conduit to run underground in straight line, area to be fenced on all 4 sides o Fencing/gate would open close for fueling/maintenance access o Fencing approximately 20’ from property line Generator fuel source – diesel Generator only used during power outages. Tested 5-10 minutes, during normal business hours, M-F 9a-5p Consultant Pullen provided the following in part and in substance: This is a change from visible LP tank; all contained and screened Questioning the mention of 25kw generator as indicated in application, photo sims showing Page 1 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 48kw o Mr. Rollins provided generator would be 48kw; due to supply chain issues. Swapped out 25kw for 48kw, which was readily available o Mr. Pullen indicated application needed to be amended to show 48kw Mr. Pullen noted fencing in photo sim showing 6’ high with green vinyl strips between chain links, black fencing. Generator on pad is 8’ high, inquired on color of generator being an olive green as indicated on the rendering o Mr. Rollins indicated that the generator is gray color, not olive green. Able to raise height of fencing. Generators typically come in gray or tan Mr. Pullen inquired about landscaping materials needing to be slightly taller than 6’ high fencing, asked that planted heights provide immediate screen of generator o Mr. Rollins indicated tallest available plantings as possible would be obtained o Mr. Pullen suggested installed height of the plantings be 6’, Mr. Rollins in agreement Chair Riordan opened public comment. Kathy Moriarity, General Manager for Bangor Water District (property owner) inquired about accessing generator for fuel. Mr. Rollins provided the gates swing, and a fuel truck with lines, or cans would be hand-carted. Mr. Rollins noted the approach would be sensitive to the historical grounds, whichever method would be less invasive. Mr. Rollins provided there would be no scenario where fuel truck would be driven on the grass, wanted to keep that area as pristine as possible. Mr. Rollins believes generator would be filled once every 6-10 months. Crew would maintain generator; remote monitoring otherwise. Whenever the generator was in use/event of a power loss, green light goes off at T-Mobile indicating that the generator has been kicked on. Ms. Moriarity inquired on sound levels during testing, and how often the testing was performed. Mr. Rollins provided testing would be approx. once monthly, for about 5 minutes, estimated at 50 decibels. Since it’s outdoors and in enclosed space, only time you’d hear it would be in the off-hours if something was wrong and the power was out. Chair Riordan closed public comment. Chair Riordan opened questions and discussion by Commission. The following was discussed in part and in substance: Height of the fence o Part of generator is visible above fence o Commissioner Quin inquired about possibility of a little shed, finding proposed unacceptable for historic location. o Mr. Rollins advised that generators do not get installed into enclosed spaces, needed to be vented to the air. While not impossible, main problem would be access to equipment and ability to vent properly. o Commissioner Quin inquired about leaving roof off, 4-sides only. Noted that the rhododendron proposed would be in bloom approx. 2 weeks, not providing much of a screen. o Mr. Rollins suggested evergreen trees that would remain green year-round. o Commissioner Quin asked about having something constructed with vents at top that would allow for adequate venting. o Mr. Rollins inquired if Commissioner Quin was suggesting solid wooden fencing? Commissioner Quin indicated that she preferred something that would look the same all the time, and asked if there was a reason that couldn’t be done. Mr. Rollins indicated that there would be maintenance and upkeep, and fencing would be easy to maintain. He was unsure of the cost to put up a 4-walled fence, and didn’t see T- Mobile wanting to do this. Mr. Rollins indicated that T-Mobile has built a lot of Page 2 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 generators as stealthy as possible. They’ve tried to be mindful that this is a historic site and make it look as nice as they can. Mr. Rollins advised that he would need to talk to the design team to see what it would look like. Mr. Rollins asked about doing a white-plex fencing instead of the green. Chair Riordan asked if the Commission had any other thoughts regarding the height and screening of the structure, as what is proposed is 6’. Commissioner Quin asked if the fencing would be 7’, if it’s the white fencing instead of the proposed 6’. Commissioner Rand felt it would be less offensive to have green fencing instead of something with cladding, as it would blend in more. Commissioner Rand inquired on the color of the generator. Mr. Rollins advised that generators are typically gray or tan in color. Commissioner Rand indicated that she didn’t mind the gray, but if it was green fencing, it needs to be taller to hide the generator. Green fencing would be better than having a clad-walled building. Mr. Rollins stated that the fence can be made taller. Commissioner Weitkamp thinks that it’ll stand out if the top of the generator is sticking out of top of fencing, and that Commissioner Quin’s idea of white fencing is an interesting one, and wants to have a white option to look at side by side. Mr. Rollins indicated that could be worked out, whatever the Commission’s preference is. Commissioner Weitkamp inquired about the plan for the establishment and maintenance of plantings so they do not die. Mr. Rollins provided that T-Mobile has property maintenance at most of its sites, would be sure that they are maintained properly, and do their best to make sure they stay healthy. Commissioner King inquired if the height of fencing would impact ability for exhaust to dissipate. Mr. Rollins indicated that it would not, the vent stack is to the side of the generator. Chair Riordan asked about the decision on selecting this location, particularly with the side view. Chair was curious if it could be moved to the right so that the view was obscured by existing shed. Mr. Rollins provided that to keep trenching to a minimum, it would be a straight line out from the utility connection, behind the white shed already. Chair wanted to confirm that if/when installed that it would be as inconspicuous as possible, Mr. Rollins confirmed that it would be, and that the photo sims are an approximation only. The pad, generator and fencing would be in a straight line. Mr. Rollins indicated that he wants to come and see this when installed. Chair Riordan reminded Commission of the consultant’s report, as well as the change to 48kw generator, and discussion regarding height of fencing; which were the issues that Consultant Pullen called to the Commission’s attention. Commissioner Quin stated area is one of the most beautiful spots in Bangor, and was concerned with the appropriateness of the project; which is why she suggested white. Commissioner Quin called attention to other white structures in immediate area, and didn’t want to introduce a different kind of structure to the area. Commissioner Rand indicated that the reason she likes the green fencing is that it would disappear more than something cladded. If white, it would compete with the standpipe. Commissioner Quin asked if she could move her idea that the surround be white, so that it fits with what is already there. Chair Riordan suggested a proposed modification to the existing application. Commissioner Quin didn’t feel that the greenery to surround was reliable, and was concerned about the appropriateness. Chair Riordan suggested a combination of the fencing that would hide the generator, in addition to plantings to make fencing better. Commissioner Weitkamp Page 3 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 wants to see what a white fencing option would look like next to the green fencing option for a more informed decision. Commissioner Rand agreed, suggesting a gray fencing color. Commissioner Chernesky suggested having Mr. Rollins return with additional drawings without putting it to vote, and indicated that changes have been made for a taller fence. If the Commission wanted to specify color in motion, could be done to solidity color and height. Commissioner Weitkamp agreed. Mr. Rollins asked if there would be a vote with no consensus on the green fencing, and provided what was asked of him last time. Mr. Rollins stated that additional revisions have a dollar amount associated with them, and would appreciate an up or down vote, as it was getting expensive. Mr. Rollins requested the Commission’s preference, as it would be another 3-4 weeks and he was unsure if Commission would approve project at that time. Chair Riordan indicated white would draw the eye to fence more. Consultant Pullen referred to the Code, 148-9; Evaluation Standards, Section 2-H; Mechanical Equipment: Mechanical equipment such as heat pumps, solar panels, communication devices, HVAC units, or similar shall be located in such a way as to minimize its visual impact. Said equipment shall be screened, if possible, with vegetation or suitable elements of a permanent nature, finished to blend with the rest of the building. Where such screening is not feasible, equipment shall be installed in a neat, presentable manner and, if possible, shall be painted to minimize its visibility. Consultant Pullen stated this clause goes to a screening element. Commissioner Rand indicated that if it’s gray with plantings, it might help a lot, and that the color would match generator itself. Commissioner Quin provided that it needed to completely block the generator from view, could be gray, but at least as high as the generator itself. Commissioner Chernesky stated that conditions could be added. Jeff Labree advised that Commission that Mr. Rollins has presented everything that had been asked of him. Commissioner Chernesky moved approval for Certificate of Appropriateness – 41 Thomas Hill Road – Thomas Hill Standpipe – Map-Lot 021-084 – Thomas Hill Historical District – Applicant: Smart Link Group, Joseph Rollins o/b/o T-Mobile LLC; Owner: Bangor Water District, with provision fencing installed is the same height, or higher than generator being installed, inclusive of the pad, including green fencing to a height of 91” to cover the top of the generator, Commissioner King seconded. No further discussion. Roll call vote: Chernesky, yes; Quin, yes; Riordan, yes; Weitkamp, yes; King, yes. Motion does not pass, 4 votes needed for Certificate of Appropriateness. Chair Riordan asked Commissioners Quin and Weitkamp if they wanted to comment or provide additional feedback. Commissioner Weitkamp thanked applicant, wanted to see a white fencing option in the renderings to see them side by side. Mr. Rollins stated that he would’ve included that if it had been on the table. Commissioner Quin inquired if it was possible to have a structure of some type be incorporated into the plan, asked why their variations on them could not be brought to a vote. Chair Riordan offered another motion for this application. Consultant Pullen inquired if Mr. Rollins could find a gray strip for the fencing, if that would satisfy the Commission. Commissioner Quin indicated that aesthetically it was grading for her the way it was now. Commissioner Rand felt that gray or black would be better, white would stick out like a sore thumb. Consultant Pullen asked if Mr. Rollins could do a gray strip in lieu of green, if that would be a better match; referred to the Lowe house as being gray, the base of the stone of the standpipe is also gray. Commissioner Weitkamp wanted to see a photo of the gray, as there were brown-grays and blue-grays, thinks its more acceptable than the green. Consultant Pullen asked if Commission would be satisfied with Conditional approval, pending samples of vinyl. Commissioners Quin and Weitkamp said yes. Page 4 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 Commissioner Quin moved approval for Certificate of Appropriateness – 41 Thomas Hill Road – Thomas Hill Standpipe – Map-Lot 021-084 – Thomas Hill Historical District – Applicant: Smart Link Group, Joseph Rollins o/b/o T-Mobile LLC; Owner: Bangor Water District; for 48kw generator to be placed along the fence line, with provision of 91” fence that would have some kind of gray material that would fade into the landscape with plantings as well, conditioning approval that a sample of material would be presented as a Minor Revision to Certificate of Appropriateness, reviewed by City Staff and Historic Preservation Commission Chair, and signed off as being unobtrusive, including landscape materials to be planted to 6’ height, seconded by Commissioner King. No further discussion. Roll call vote: Chernesky, yes; Quin, yes; Riordan, yes; King, yes; Weitkamp, yes. Motion passes. 2. Certificate of Appropriateness & Design Review – 82 Columbia Street – Map-Lot 042- 118 –Main Street Historical District and Façade District – Applicant: Louie Morrison; Owner; Warren Silver –Approval for replacement of (45) black aluminum windows with new black aluminum-clad Mathews Brothers windows, replacing all windows at property located at 82 Columbia Street, Map-Lot 042-118, in the Main Street Historical and Façade District. Louie Morrison, applicant, and Warren Silver, owner (via zoom) presented the following in part and in substance: Recently acquired building, a lot of deferred maintenance, major inside renovations Windows in horrid condition, not the original wood windows, changed sometime in the 1980’s 45 windows overall, 32 of them being held in place by black duct tape Consultant Pullen gave report, and provided the following in part and in substance: Application indicated replacement windows are aluminum-clad, discovered windows are Sanford Hills, vinyl window, which are painted. Application should be amended to say vinyl window Existing windows are dark bronze with transom panel above them. Over time, windows were taken out, put in during the 1980s, ceilings dropped and an opaque transom panel installed above them – will the transom panels retain the dark bronze coloring? o Mr. Morrison indicated that they would Consultant Pullen advised that in both Design Review and Certificate of Appropriateness, there needs to be harmony between color tones. Transom panels painted bronze harmonize nicely with the brick Window count in quote provided indicates 47, however application noted 45 o Mr. Morrison stated that they found additional windows boarded up, buried in the wall as they were gutting walls o Consultant Pullen stated that the aluminum windows were not original, installed sometime in the 1980s. Replacement frames and sash have similar dimension to windows being replaced o Mr. Morrison indicated that they’re doing the exact same design for every window o Consultant Pullen indicated that the amount of glass area was to remain the same, frame and sash to be exposed, similar dimension to what’s being replaced o Mr. Morrison indicated that these windows should be obtained in approximately 4 weeks Page 5 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 Should be able to obtain these in about 4 weeks. Chair Riordan opened public comment. Chair Riordan closed public comment. Chair Riordan opened questions and discussion by Commission. The following was discussed in part and in substance: Transom color and windows being replaced must remain harmonious May have been full windows at one time, many buildings downtown have the black and copper coloring, same color combination o Mr. Morrison indicated that color can be maintained Commissioner King moves approval of Certificate of Appropriateness – 82 Columbia Street – Map- Lot 042-118 – Main Street Historical District and Façade District – Applicant: Louie Morrison; Owner; Warren Silver, seconded by Commissioner Quin. Roll call vote: Chernesky, yes; Quin, yes; Riordan, yes; King, yes; Weitkamp, yes. Motion carries. Commissioner King moves approval of Design Review – 82 Columbia Street – Map-Lot 042-118 – Main Street Historical District and Façade District – Applicant: Louie Morrison; Owner; Warren Silver, seconded by Commissioner Quin. No further discussion. Roll call vote: Chernesky, yes; King, yes; Quin, yes; Riordan, yes; Weitkamp, yes. Motion carries. 3. Certificate of Appropriateness – 241 State Street – Map-Lot 055-048 – State Street Historical District – Comfort-Farrington Jos. Smith House – Applicant: Kimberly Adams; Owner; Addams Family LLC – Approval for approximately (26) replacement windows at property located at 241 State Street, Map-Lot 042-118, in the State Street Historical District. Kimberly and Phil Adams, owners/applicants provided the following in part and in substance: Looking to replace all windows, wants more functionality and safer use 1840’s brick building with a lot of history, interior repairs completed Wants to amend application to the windows that were approved for the 82 Columbia Street project which was presented prior Consultant Pullen gave his report and provided the following in part and in substance, further indicating that comments based on application materials submitted: From Deborah Thompson’s History of Bangor Book; “One of the last, and certainly the most important, brick house built in Bangor before the Colonial Revival, belongs to this group. Two forty-one State Street, which fronts on Newbury Street at the southeast corner of State Street, is similar in plan to the George Stetson House. Built in 1848 by the widow (of Silas) Comfort C. Farrington, the main three-bay block measures thirty-eight feet in the façade by thirty feet, and the brick back extension twenty-five by thirty feet in depth. The Farrington- Upton House has long casements of two four light sash each on its ground floor façade and brick drawing room wall…Elsewhere the sash is of six-over-six lights, with granite sills and lintels; there are two angled one-story bays on its side elevations with handsomely paneled soffits inside.” Existing wood windows appear to be original, testament to quality of materials used in early Page 6 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 windows – lasted 174 years Existing muntins, grills – photographs of windows; the sash/mutons are extremely thin, 3/8” – putty glaze on the outside. Proposed windows the grills are 7/8”, will look dramatically different o Mrs. Adams stated that she discussed with representative for 82 Columbia Street project, and can get 5/8” grills o Replacement windows will fit masonry opening so no infill blocking would be required. Mrs. Adams indicated that she didn’t want to change the look of anything. Windows presented posed no particular issues, high quality window Provided caution to applicants; when they returned with vinyl window, be sure that the amount of glass stays the same, and deep frame on big windows - bigger windows provided heavy frame and heavy sash dimension Change in material and product would require a new application Putty glazing – inside grill, then spacer, outside grill – outside grill is narrow so that it looks like original windows, glass size doesn’t change, and need proof from vinyl company providing new windows Consultant Pullen advised that the window that had been brought in for 82 Columbia Street was a painted vinyl window. Mr. and Mrs. Adams proposed windows are a paint finished, fused on aluminum, wrapped on core, which is not the same Chair Riordan advised Mr. and Mrs. Adams that they could proceed with current proposal before the Commission, and could explore other option to see what made sense to them; or they could withdraw the application and return. Chair Riordan opened public comment. Chair Riordan closed public comment. Chair Riordan opened questions and discussion by Commission. The following was discussed in part and in substance: Discussion of the major questions raised by Consultant Pullen Mr. Adams asked if 5/8” would be okay. o Chair Riordan advised that yes, narrow grills and how the window fits into the masonry is important Commissioner Quin moves approval of Certificate of Appropriateness – 241 State Street – Map-Lot 055-048 – State Street Historical District – Comfort-Farrington Jos. Smith House – Applicant: Kimberly Adams; Owner; Addams Family LLC, seconded by Commissioner King. Roll call vote: Chernesky, yes; King, yes; Quin, yes; Riordan, yes; Weitkamp, yes. Motion carries. 4. March 10, 2022 Meeting Minutes – Commissioner Quin noted one minor change to a word on page 4, “lease” should be “least.” Update will be made. Commissioner King moves approval with requested change, seconded by Commissioner Weitkamp. No roll call vote, all members in favor. 5. Adjournment - Meeting adjourned at 8:47 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Page 7 of 8 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2022 Melissa L. Bickford Development Assistant, Planning Department Page 8 of 8