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Landmark Commission Minutes - 03/26/2013 12 74 MINUTES DATES -- LANDMARK COMMISSION g T'sh/I : March 26, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Stacie Flood, Chairperson ■ `"be`� Christy Graham ■ John Kidwell ■ Marilyn Carper ■ Jackie Lebow Carolyn Looney ■ Andy Lee ■ Michael Koen ■ Karen Montgomery-Gagn6, Planning Administrator ■staff Monique Coleman, Planner II ■ Peter Scott,Assistant City Attorney II Mark&Diane Prothro, Owners, 3301 Harrison ■Guests David Cerreta, Interim Executive Director, Backdoor Theatre • Connie Barnhart, President, Backdoor Theatre Board ■ Kate Schultz, Artist for Backdoor Theatre ■ Judy Braddy, Artist for Backdoor Theatre ■ Councilor Michael Smith ■ council Liaison ABSENT: Steve Wood ■Member I. Call to Order and Introductions Chairperson Flood called the meeting to order at 12:02 p.m. and introduced members of the Commission. Ms. Gagn6 introduced the guests in attendance in the order their cases appeared on the meeting agenda. Ms. Gagne introduced Mr. and Mrs. Mark Prothro, owners of 3301 Harrison, and the Backdoor Theatre representatives Dr. David Cerreta, Interim Executive Director, Connie Barnhart, Board President; Kate Schultz, artist; and Judy Braddy, artist. II. Review and Approval of Minutes from February 26, 2013 2013 Landmark Chairperson Flood called for approval of minutes from the February 26, Commission meeting. Mr. Koen motioned for approval and Mr. Lebow seconded. The motion carried. III. Application for Landmark Nomination (structure)—Perkins-Prothro Home(3301 Harrison Blvd.) Ms. Gagn6 thanked Mr. Koen for recommending the landmark nomination to Mr. and Mrs. Prothro. Before presenting the case Ms. Gagn6 circulated colored photos of the property and mentioned it was featured in the landmark brochure for the Country Club neighborhood/ Midwestern University area. Ms. Gagn6 noted the property has remained in the Perkins-Prothro family for three generations and the family retained all original records, documentation, construction plans detailing work performed on the home, including Dallas architects Fooshee and Cheek, dating back to 1928. The Perkins-Prothro house Is a Tudor Revival constructed during 1928 for Joe J. and Lois Perkins and consists of 4,082 sq. ft. An accessory horse bam was later constructed'in 1931 and converted to a wood working shop when the Prothro's moved to the property in the 1960s. The home's exterior has remained relatively unchanged with the exception of an attached, two-car garage added in 1997. The garage addition echoes the same architectural style as the existing house and the Prothro's were careful to utilize similar building materials (slate roof, brick masonry walls, and cast concrete) to ensure it was architecturally appropriate. Staff indicated the application included three exhibits which detailed the architectural and design features of the house in addition to the history associated with the family who've resided in the home. Ms. Gagn6 showed the Commission historic photos provided by the Prothros taken in 1929 and 1940, as well as photos taken during compilation of the 2010 Touring Wichita Falls History brochure. Ms. Gagn6 stated staff recommends the house be nominated as it meets the following areas of significance: architectural, historical and cultural. The Perkins and Prothro families have contributed as early pioneers and entrepreneurs in Wichita Falls development. The family continues its' legacy of civic leadership and philanthropy in the community, focusing on education and cultural endeavors, serving on various university and civic foundations, regional boards and non-profit organizations. Ms. Gagn6 invited Mr. and Mrs. Prothro to offer comments or additional information. Mr. Prothro thanked staff for compiling the information. Mr. Prothro stated he visited the house in the 1950's when his grandparents lived in the house and he lived in the house in the 1960's when he was in high school and he and his wife recently moved in the home a few years ago. Mr. Prothro stated his mother and grandmother kept all documents and he was able to find contractor bids for the construction. Mr. Prothro added he found construction bids for$89,000 but the successful bid was for$85,000. Mr. Prothro noted the unique character of construction and stated it would be hard to duplicate today. Mr. Prothro stated they are honored for the consideration and appreciate the importance of the nomination. Ms. Flood asked Mr. Prothro about the application being marked as a structure instead of a building. Mr. Prothro said he didn't realize the difference in the definitions. Ms. Flood asked Ms. Gagndi if the change could be made to the application. Ms. Gagn6 informed Ms. Flood she could make that change as part of her motion. Ms. Flood called for a motion. Mr. Kidwell introduced a motion (amending the application to denote landmark classification as a building instead of a structure)that The Perkins-Prothro House at 3301 Harrison Blvd., be recommended to City Council for designation as a historic landmark. Mr. Koen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Commission members thanked the Prothro's for preserving the home and submitting it for a landmark nomination; staff will coordinate timing for City Council review. IV. Application for Design Review—Backdoor Theatre(5011510 Indiana)— mural/painting project Chairperson Flood introduced the design review item and requested staff provide case details. Staff explained there was some question initially regarding whether design review by the Commission was needed; however Ms. Gagnd reminded members that since the Design Guidelines were updated in 2011 murals were addressed under both signage and exterior walls/murals. Based on this difficulty in making a determination, staff advised Backdoor Theatre they would have to bring their request before the Landmark Commission so the Commission could make a determination. Ms. Gagnd stated even though a staff member, she must declare a conflict of interest because she is a board member for Backdoor Theatre. Ms. Gagn6 highlighted the pictures, presentations and drawings for the Backdoor Theatre's main building (People's Ice House) fagade at 5 h and Indiana (on the west and north end) that were provided by the artists. Ms. GagnAi also provided a brief overview of the barbershop, the accessory building, which is also proposed for repainting and some minor repair. Ms. Gagn6 pointed out some structural damage to the buildings that are in need of repair. Ms. Gagn6 stated prior to painting the new mural, Backdoor Theatre will inspect the fagade that was originally altered from the brick masonry exterior and will ensure appropriate prep-work is done before new paint is placed on the buildings. Ms. Gagn6 invited the Backdoor Theatre representatives and artists to provide additional details on the design review request. Ms. Barnhart, President, Backdoor Theatre Board, stated they hosted a Fundraising Gala on March 2, 2013 to raise funds to educate the community about their community theatre and continue with improvements/beautification of the theatre so it becomes a diamond for the Depot Square area that is currently not attracting as many people to downtown as they would like. Ms. Barnhart stated the building was last painted in 1990s and the main building was last painted in the 1970s. Ms. Barnhart stated the theatre currently does not have adequate signage. She explained this would help beautify the building and inform the community about who they are (an award-winning theatre), what they do, and shows that have been performed at the Theatre. Ms. Barnhart gave an overview of the samples provided by both artists (Ms. Braddy and Ms. Schultz), one incorporating images of past shows and the other showing a mural incorporating the name of the theatre. Ms. Barnhart concluded with a general overview of the artists' proposals and stated the artists (Ms. Braddy and Ms. Schultz) as well as Dr. Cerreta, Interim Executive Director were available to answer questions from Commission members. Ms. Braddy and Ms. Schultz further expounded on their ideas for painting and design for both the People's Ice House and the barbershop. Councilor Smith and Mr. Lebow questioned why a portion of the proposed painted mural wall on Ms. Schultz design would be white space. Ms. Barnhart informed the Commission the access ramp was added as part of a capital campaign a few years ago to make the theatre wheelchair accessible and due to the unusual shape of the building the railing had to be added. Ms. Schultz explained they can't paint the design all the way across with a scissor lift because the ramp and railing makes it almost impossible and unsafe to extend and hand paint the mural across the wall. Ms. Schultz also stated the existing Backdoor Theatre sign on the wall will be used and incorporated into the proposed design. Ms. Schultz added that scaffolding was initially considered in order to extend the mural signage but due to the lengthy period of time it would be needed in concert with liability issues it was determined the area would be hand roll painted white. Mr. Koen and Mr. Kidwell both stated they understood the main building signage design and that the ramp and railing were a necessity for the building but had a difficult time understanding the design being conveyed for the accessory building proposal (model of a scaled, painted bird house) and the overall design concept. Mr. Lee commented that Ms. Braddy has a creative approach for the accessory building's design. Ms. Braddy stated the stucco could be removed but it could negatively impact the surface of the original bricks so she proposed a faux brick finish. Both Ms. Graham and Mr. Lee stated the deteriorating condition of the bricks was likely the reason it was stuccoed in the 1970's to preserve the masonry. Members commented that Ms. Braddy's idea of painting poster designs from past shows on the building was a creative idea. Mr. Kidwell questioned the signage referencing Backdoor Theatre currently on the north accessory building wall would be removed and the proposal didn't include any reference to new signage. Members were in agreement that signage design needs to be addressed on the accessory building. Ms. Carper said she was concerned (not by the painting itself) but because the Design Guidelines state, "retain the original fagade of the building that is visible from the public right-of way. Do not change the character, appearance, configuration or materials of the fagade except to restore buildings. Do not paint or coat previously unfinished masonry surfaces. Do not add non-historic murals." Commission members discussed the items Ms. Carper mentioned from the Design Guidelines and Mr. Lebow, Mr. Kidwell and Ms. Graham all stated the proposal should be considered painted signage not murals. All members present were in agreement with the recommended change for consideration of signage revisions. Backdoor Theatre representatives pointed out the original surface was brick but it was covered by stucco (in 1970s)when the Backdoor Theatre was created and before it became part of the Depot Square Historic District. Ms. Barnhart stated, in summary that they appreciate the Commission's concerns and they will also consider another background color other than white (they will be able to extend the color using a paint roller) for the area on the Indiana fagade by the stairs/access ramp but safety of the artist is a top concern. Ms. Graham stated the Commission does not dictate colors and the members were in agreement to let the artist decide which background color would work best to complete the void space. After discussion and consultation with Mr. Peter Scott, City legal counsel, the Commission decided to introduce a motion for the main theatre building (the People's Ice House) and address the accessory building (barbershop) separately. Mr. Koen made a motion to approve the proposal for the People's Ice House and Mr. Kidwell seconded. The Commission members unanimously recommended to approve the design review request for the new signage for the main theatre building's (People's Ice House) Indiana fagade contingent upon utilizing a color on the remaining white space near the staircase that echoes the colors of the proposed artwork design; the application be amended to request approval of updated signage rather than a mural. Discussion continued and it was determined the Commission does not regulate paint colors but simply provides recommendations; therefore representatives from the Backdoor Theatre were encouraged to use a complimentary color from the signage design for the non-artwork, with space on the Indiana fagade(west wall). The Commission addressed the accessory structure separately, which was tabled in order for Backdoor Theatre to provide additional signage design information for the barbershop building. Mr. Scott suggested the accessory building signage design be placed on the April 2013 Commission agenda to ensure the process was transparent rather than consider a staff administrative review. V. Other Business a) West Floral Heights Historic District—Monthly Report Ms. Looney stated the Association had ordered the new stop signs and they are waiting on Mr. Beauchamp for the installation. The stop signs will be installed on the perimeter first because that is all the Floral Heights Association can afford at this time. As the Association raises more money the stop signs will be distributed throughout the historic district. b) Design Review—Staff Authorized—Minor Alterations/Repairs Ms. Gagn6 stated two applications were received for administrative review, including 2s11 10"' Street to rebuild the electrical service and the other property was 1609 Hayes. Ms. Gagnd stated staff spoke with the contractor for 1609 Hayes and they stated because of severe damage over time they have to completely replace the roof decking and then install a new composition shingle roof so staff was able to authorize the repair project. Ms. Gagnd stated the house does not have eaves troughs and that the property owner might have to come before the Commission for this improvement—this has yet to be determined by the home owner. c) Articles and Periodicals—Preservation(spring 2013) Ms. Gagn6 mentioned article Signed, Sealed, and Reimagined which highlighted historic post office adaptive reuse projects, including the former Dallas 1929 US Post Office which is now 78 luxury residences. Ms. Gagne referred to the Austin article "Texas Historical Commission charges ahead with a new vision"noting she would continue alerting the Commission when there are items about the Texas Historical Commission and the 2013 Legislative session. The agency was almost removed by recommendations in the 2011 legislation session. However, it appears there has been a resurgence of interest in the Commission's programs during 2013 so perhaps THC will continue with the current staffing levels when the session ends in May. VI. New Business Ms. Flood asked if the Commission needed to discuss the status of the other nominations for landmark status. Ms. Gagn6 stated David had worked with two property owners at 2108 and 2110 Wenonah but were waiting to see if the owners were interested in submitting their applications. Ms. Flood stated a house at 2108 Wenonah was on the Wichita Co. Heritage Society homes tour and also received a preservation award; it is likely the homeowner will submit their landmark application. Ms. Gagndi stated Mr. Scott Stillson regretfully resigned from the Landmark Commission due to his increasing workload and meeting conflicts with his position at the Wichita Co. Public Defenders Office. Staff informed the City Clerk's office and noted there will now be a vacancy for an 'at large' position on the Commission. If Commission members know of an interested person in the community, please encourage them to complete the City's online board application to be considered for appointment by Mayor/Council. Ms. Looney asked about whether staff had done anything regarding her position as a non-voting member of the Commission and if she would need to go before Council to get a change to the Preservation Ordinance. Councilor Smith stated the approach would be to request the Landmark Commission consider her request about changing the Preservation Ordinance and depending on their vote, either for or against, to modify the ordinance. The other option would be to appear before City Council during the public comment portion of the meeting and request Council consider the matter. Ms. Looney stated it should come before the Commission but she has stated her concerns numerous times. Ms. Flood clarified what Councilor Smith stated and that it had not been placed on the Commission's agenda. Staff further clarified no action on the request could be taken at the meeting because it was not listed on the posted agenda. Ms. Gagn6 explained in order for a Commission action to be legal, the item must appear on the agenda since meeting notices are required to be posted in sufficient time to comply with State requirements. Members discussed the request and Ms. Graham stated she would like to suggest Ms. Looney be a voting member of the Commission because there have been times she has been in attendance but the Commission didn't have quorum but would have if Carolyn (Ms. Looney)was a voting member. Ms. Flood asked if staff could place the issue of Landmark Commission composition on the next meeting agenda. Ms. Gagn6 stated it would be added to the agenda for discussion in April. Councilor Smith stated he would like staff to present reasons why this has not come to pass in the past and that city staff can state those reasons in their report. VII.Adjourn Ms. Flood stated the next meeting will be held on April 23, at 12:00 pm. The meeting adjourned at 1:00 pm. aELJ -q o13 Stacie Flood, Chairperson Date