HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MINUTES
January 16, 2008
APPROVED AS AMENDED & CLARIFIED:
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AGENDA: HEARING: TOWN OF BRISTOL, Central Square,
#114-000
HEARING: JEROME NIALETZ, 33 South Main St.,
#114-127
HEARING: DOUG VOELBEL/SARA SHATTUCK,
16 Pleasant St., #114-173
ELIZABETH CORROW (Town Manager) & PAUL MERSKI
(Historic Architect) on Police Station/Old Town Hall/Town
Offices plans
ATTENDING: Clay Dingman (Chairman), Rick Alpers (Sel. Rep.), Dorcas
Gordon, Mark Greenwood, Sandra Heaney, Robin Fitzgerald
(Alternate).
ABSENT: Larry Douglas (Vice Chairman – excused)
OTHER: Bruce VanDerven, Joe Denning (Selectmen).
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Fitzgerald sat in for Mr. Douglas. Mr. Dingman mentioned that he and Ms. Heaney attended last week’s workshop and at this meeting it was stressed that Historic District Commissions keep in mind a structure’s relationshop to its neighborhood when conducting Certificate of Approval hearings..
HEARING: TOWN OF BRISTOL/BRUCE VAN DERVEN
Mr. Alpers stepped down. The secretary read the application, referral, list of abutters notified, where the hearing was advertised, and stated that there were no phone calls or any messages received.
Mr. VanDerven thanked the Commission for this hearing. He stated that he wishes to construct a bulletin board of the approximate size and design as the one outside of this building. It shall be known as the “Bristol Town Crier” and used for things that are for sale, for swapping, and/or services. The idea is to bring consumers to the Downtown area. It will be a public/private partnership. Ms. Corrow (Town Manager) will establish the “town crier” to handle the board and everything shall come to the town office first. Mr. VanDerven intends on calling Fritz Wetherbee for coverage when it is to be in place. The Selectmen have been talking of things to do so as to draw people to the downtown area.
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TOWN OF BRISTOL HEARING continued:
Mr. Dingman stated that it must be done as well as possible as it will be a town-sponsored project in the public eye in the Historic District. Mr. VanDerven plans on keeping an eye on it himself, since he came up with the idea.
Ms. Heaney asked who will do the construction and Mr. VanDerven stated that R. P. Williams will supply the wood and the Lions club will construct it. It is to have Plexiglas doors. Ms. Gordon felt that the Commission should hold everyone to the same standard as we have not allowed Plexiglas in the past. Mr. Alpers suggested that tempered (safety) glass be used instead.
Mr. Dingman asked where the sign is to be located and Mr. VanDerven answered that it is to be placed to the east of the cannon, in the grassy area. Mr. Nialetz, resident, asked if it wasn’t part of the town plan to leave this area and no-one seemed to know.
Mr. Dingman stated that the Commission will locate some examples of signage design for Mr. VanDerven. Mr. VanDerven asked about downward lighting and Mr. Dingman stated that the Planning Board has jurisdiction over lighting. Ms. Gordon asked about the font and Ms. Heaney mentioned putting the Bristol seal on it. Mr. Dingman again stressed that tempered glass would be acceptable. Mr. VanDerven stated that he would go along with trying the glass and would like to address this again if it becomes a problem. Ms. Gordon stated that the concept is fine but the Commission needs to stay with the same standard for all. Mr. Dingman added that the Commission will work with Mr. VanDerven with the font. Ms. Heaney said that the placement and size are okay.
D. Gordon made a MOTION, second by M. Greenwood, to MOVE THIS HEARING TO BE CONTINUED TO FEB. 12, 2008 AND TO WORK WITH THE TOWN MANAGER . The motion CARRIED.
Mr. Nialetz asked about the scroll-work that was on the drawing and Ms. Gordon felt that the Commission would want a better drawing of it. A discussion was held on needing to go to Planning on lighting and not to Zoning.
At this time, Mr. Alpers returned to the table.
HEARING: JEROME NIALETZ
The secretary read the application, referral, list of abutters, where the hearing was advertised, and stated that there were no phone calls or written responses received. Mr. Nialetz stated that he wants to eliminate the sign on the roof of the diner and go back to the original sign which was on the red panels on the front. Mr. Nialetz also explained that he has spoken with the Fire Chief who wants the second front unused door as another exit. The door by the river is not to be used at this time. Mr. Nialetz explained that there was a lot of rot in the corner which needs replacing. Mr. Dingman explained that these are maintenance issues and asked what would be changed. Mr. Nialetz answered that he wants to replace with double-hung windows and to extend the current entryway’s overhang to eliminate the water problem to the windows and to use for people who might be standing outside. There would be no walls to the new overhang. Mr. Nialetz added –
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NIALETZ HEARING continued:
that a lady, who has been before the Commission before, mentioned using vinyl lettering. For font, what Mr. Nialetz has in mind is like Mr. Greenwood’s nameplate.
Mr. Dingman felt that the diner comes in as a contributing structure and the Commission needs to determine if an applicant’s proposed changes can be undone at a later date – or, do they alter the building beyond the point of no return? Also, what is the history of the structure. Mr. Greenwood stated that George originally had it as just a diner. Before that, in about 1938, a house was raised to clear the area for it. The addition was done in the mid to late 1950’s. Mr. Nialetz stated that his aim is to bring it back to what it was.
A discussion of the overhang came up and Mr. Nialetz explained that the rain goes right into the windows and that is why he would like to add the overhang. He mentioned that stairs from the river-side used to go to the basement where the bathrooms were.
Mr. Dingman explained that Mr. Nialetz needs to sketch out more of what he intends to do. Mr. Nialetz stated that he plans on changing the yellow color to a shade of green. Mr. Dingman stated that the drawing needs to be specific for enforcement later on. Ms. Gordon added that the windows and clapboards are maintenance issues. Mr. Dingman agreed, saying that it is replacing like for like. If he is to deviate, the Commission will need to know.
Mr. Nialetz stated that he wants the lighting to be of wrought iron and to come off the roof and shine onto the side of the diner. Mr. Dingman explained that the Planning Board has jurisdiction over the lights, though the Commission can review the style of light fixture. The Planning Board will also determine the hours that the lights can be on. Mr. Dingman then asked if Mr. Nialetz has considered just painting the letters onto the panels. Mr. Nialetz felt that they would fade as the sun is on them all day. Mr. Dingman stated that vinyl lettering probably won’t last any longer either. Take a photo, or multiple photos, and show us what you want to do. Ms. Gordon added that we will be addressing the overhang, placement of the lighting and the sign. Mr. Dingman felt that the structure is contributing structure relative to the Historic District. Ms. Heaney added “especially the diner”.
Mr. Nialetz asked about the sidewalks; could he have a contractor fix them so that he can be sure his new steps do not cave in. Ms. Corrow, Town Manager, liked that idea and then said that, when Mr. Nialetz is ready, she would be happy to meet with him to work something out. At this time, Mr. Nialetz asked to continue his hearing to next meeting. Ms. Gordon stated that he needs to show the font and placement when he returns. Mr. VanDerven asked if he ever thought of calling it “The Dining Car”. Mr. Nialetz stated that he liked that suggesting but thought he would stay with the previous name. Ms. Heaney explained that, if Mr. Nialetz is not ready by the next meeting, he can ask for another continuance.
S. Heaney made a MOTION, second by D. Gordon, to CONTINUE THIS HEARING TO FEB. 12, 2008. The motion CARRIED.
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HEARING: SARA SHATTUCK/DOUG VOELBEL
The secretary read the application, referral, list of abutters, where the hearing was advertised and stated that there were no phone calls or written messages received.
Ms. Shattuck showed her sign presentation and stated that she does not have the dimensions for the second “Sound Advice” sign as it is still up and she cannot reach it. She just wishes to replace the two signs used previously and to use the same holes for mounting them.
Ms. Heaney asked if they have replaced the doorway. Ms. Shattuck answered that Mr. Voelbel has been doing that work; she has no say in it. Mr. Dingman stated that Mr. Voelbel needs to come in to the Historic District Commission as well for anything to do with the outside structure. Ms. Gordon felt that Ms. Shattuck could bring in the dimensions when the old sign is taken down. It can be part of the condition.
Ms. Shattuck stated that the awning is done. Mr. Dingman asked Mr. Greenwood about the history of this building. Mr. Greenwood stated that it has always been a little shop. Mr. Dingman added that the original was built in 1933 and was without the roof peak. It is a contributing structure and because of this any alterations to the doorway need to be reviewed by the Commission. When asked if she would use the old signs, Ms. Shattuck stated that they will use the same size and position but will start with a new piece as it is easier than stripping the old one. The Commission determined that the size and font choice as presented are fine.
The Commission then listed the conditions to be placed on the Certificate of Approval:
To match the existing sign on the side.
To match and place where the previous “Sound Advice” sign and place over the ground level window; centered between it and the windows above.
To use the design as supplied by the applicant.
To be of wood or composite painted (Polyurethane foam).
R. Alpers made a MOTION, second by S. Heaney, to APPROVE THE HEARING FOR SARA SHATTUCK AS LISTED IN THE CONDITIONS. The motion CARRIED.
Ms. Shattuck asked about window boxes and most of the Commission stated that they were in favor of them. Ms. Shattuck would like to either have them or to put flower pots on each side of the door.
ELIZABETH CORROW AND PAUL MERSKI – TOWN MGR./ARCHITECT PLANS
Ms. Corrow stated that she wanted to inform the Commission about the plans for the historic Old Town Hall. She then introduced Mr. Merski, the architect for the project.
Mr. Dingman mentioned that if they got the building onto the national historic register, there might be possible funding of several thousand dollars. There is also Federal money for certified local governments. Mr. Merski stated that grants have been lousy lately so he has not recommended that. He has spoken with Jim Garvin, at the State Division of Historical Resources, and has given him a copy of the plans for their records (copies were also distributed to the Commission).
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TOWN MANAGER/ARCHITECT PLANS continued:
Mr. Merski went on to say that there is no argument that the plans respect the historic aspect of the building. If Mr. Dingman knows of some money they can get, he would need the time frame as we need to move on this as quickly as possible after town meeting. Mr. Dingman asked the cost and was told $2.6 million with a contingency for a total of $2.9 million. There is a new conservation planner who could direct us. Mr. Alpers stated that the Town Manager and Selectmen want to show all the departments this plan, and hence tonight’s meeting with the HDC.
Ms. Corrow stated that she has been looking for lower bond rates. She would be happy to try anything to bring the cost down. A discussion followed as to getting this passed at town meeting and how it is always better to have funding researched in advance.
Ms. Corrow explained that the present town office/police station will be renovated for the police. The town offices will be moved to the old town hall in a lower level and the present old town hall building will be used for a meeting room with a little area for a kitchen and for a small meeting room.
Mr. Merski stated that the old town hall building will be picked up a little and moved over a little. Access will be from both Summer Street and Winter Street and there will be parking behind for about 23 spaces. There will be an inclined sidewalk off the new porch and a handicap access. The main building will look mostly as it does now.
Ms. Gordon was excited with the project, especially as it is preserving the historic structure and has a tie to the Downtown Village. Ms. Heaney asked if there will be a public hearing and was told that there will be. Mr. Alpers said that they have met with a number of people and have received favorable support. Ms. Corrow stated that she loves old buildings and this plan will bring more use to it. The gentleman whose property is behind the Town Hall was going to sell so that worked out well. It is now in the budget and the Capital Improvement Plan.
Mr. Merski stated that the building is now crowded by the fence and when it is moved over, it will open it up more. Ms. Corrow added that they are trying to solve three issues: police station, town offices, and more use plus preservation of the old town hall, to no more than the cost of building one new building. Ms. Heaney advised that they get the abutters on board and Ms. Corrow stated that the only concern that she has heard is about limited parking. Ms. Heaney felt it a good idea to have a meeting with just the abutters for their concerns. Mr. Merski stated that, from a preservation point of view, this is the epitome: we save the existing building and use it more, get a functional police station, and resolve the town office space problem. Mr. Alpers added that the police station is in dire need of space and the insurance company is putting pressure on them. Ms. Corrow mentioned that we are happy with the police chief as most want a new building and Chief Clark and Lt. Lewis were more than willing to work with the present station building.
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TOWN MANAGER/ARCHITECT PLAN continued:
Mr. Dingman stated that the importance is in the groundwork for getting this passed. Mr. Alpers said that Ms. Corrow has worked hard on this project. Ms. Corrow explained that, instead of bidding the project out as a whole, we plan on bidding out the various parts of it for better control. They have built in the contingency fee and have a top price that cannot be exceeded. Mr. Dingman mentioned that, in the recent public survey, a lot of the people wanted preservation of historic structures. Ms. Gordon felt that this will be the town’s bread and butter with its proximity to the downtown.
Ms. Corrow stated that they have this down to $150.00 a sq. ft. versus the going rate of $225.00 for new construction. Mr. Dingman feels that re-use is better. Mr. Merski stated that new construction shall be minimal. It will mostly consist of rehabilitation to both buildings. To be most energy-wise, it is best to preserve old structures and over-insulate them rather than build new structures..
Mr. Greenwood stated that the old town hall was used a lot years ago and people would like to see it used again. The police station used to be attached to one side of this building many years ago. Ms. Corrow stated that, with the building useable again, it can be used for many different functions. We could have fundraisers and she would love to see the stage used again. Mr. Greenwood stated that there used to be a Thespian group who performed there (he was one of them). He then asked if they will use the vault and Mr. Merski stated that it is in the way of the project and that Jim Garin suggested when they remove it that they document it as its historical significance is limited because there are many of these types of vaults around.
Ms. Corrow stated that the budget is tight and we shall have to get going right after the vote is passed. Mr. Merski felt that it will take a year total to complete. He would expect the town offices could be in by November. Mr. Greenwood mentioned that they used to have a cattle market there also.
Mr. Dingman will e-mail the contact for a planner to Ms. Corrow. He then thanked she and Mr. Merski for presenting the plan.
LAND USE OFFICER: MS CORROW
Ms. Corrow explained that she intends on leaving the position of land use officer open until she has a valid candidate. They are in great demand and are expensive. For now, she intends on hiring the Assessing Clerk first as Krystal Alpers, Adm. Ass’t. to the Town Mgr., has been doing a bazillion things. For now, she has hired a circuit rider/planner, Peer Lund Kraft, through Lakes Region Planning, to do the more complicated cases. He is a planner/surveyor/engineer. Mr. Dingman felt it important to hire the land use officer as soon as possible so that COA applicants are not left to themselves to navigate the application process. Ms. Corrow stated that she had a couple of planners apply but they are over-qualified. She is looking for some experience and we need this person 5 days a week. Ms. Alpers has done some health issues. Ms. Corrow went on to say that she is changing the position of Assessing Clerk to Assessing
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Assistant with more responsibility. She has a couple of people who have applied and have experience.
GRANT WRITER:
Ms. Corrow is also working with Hill to share a Grant Writer. She wanted to share a Planner, also, but Hill is not ready for that as yet. Ms. Corrow is working with Lakes Region on a grant for SmartGrowth. Ms. Corrow was thanked for coming in and informing the Commission of everything.
MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 13, 2008:
D. Gordon made a motion, second by S. Heaney, to ACCEPT THE MINUTES SUBJECT TO THE AMENDMENTS THAT MR. DINGMAN WILL BRING FORTH. The motion CARRIED.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The only correspondence was a notice for Training for 1/10 in Franklin (Mr. Dingman and Ms. Heaney attended) and 1/18 in Exeter. This is done by the NH Preservation Alliance on Heritage & Historic District Commission Training.
NEXT MEETING:
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 12, 2008.
PLAN NH:
Mr. Dingman informed the Commission that the Planning Board is working on an application to Plan NH for a design charrette. They are planning on including the downtown, including the old town hall, the library, and the town-owned property in the area of the old railroad station.
With no other business to come before the Commission, C. Dingman made a motion, second by R. Alpers, to adjourn at 9:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Laferriere, secretary