HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-24-2015 CHC Agenda PacketCity of San Luis Obispo, Agenda, Cultural Heritage Committee
A G E N D A
San Luis Obispo Cultural Heritage Committee
Council Hearing Room (Room 9)
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo
August 24, 2015Monday5:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL:Committee Members Sandy Baer, Craig Kincaid, James Papp,
2 Positions Vacant, Vice-Chair Thom Brajkovich, and Chair Jaime Hill
STAFF:Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner
PUBLIC COMMENT:At this time, people may address the Committee about items not
on the agenda. Items raised are generally referred to staff and, if action by the
Committee is necessary, may be scheduled for a future meeting.
The action of the CHC is a recommendation tothe Community Development Director,
another advisory body, or City Council and, therefore, is not final and cannot be
appealed.
ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA: Committee or staff may modify the order of items.
MINUTES: Minutes of the July 27, 2015, regular meeting. Approve or amend.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
1.624 Grove Street.HIST-1633-2015; Historic significancedetermination ofa
potentially-contributing structure, with anexemption from CEQA (General Rule); R-
1 zone; David Spiegel, applicant. (Kyle Bell)
2.1504 Santa Rosa Street.ARCH-1664-2015; Review of an approximately 80-
square foot addition on a Contributing historic property, with a categorical
exemption from CEQA; R-2-H zone; Catherine Sheel, applicant. (Kyle Bell)
3.Railroad Historic District.PDEV-1445-2015; Establish a new Engineering
Standard for the boardwalk sidewalk area in the Railroad Historic District to replace
the current design, with a categorical exemption from CEQA; City of San Luis
Obispo –Public Works Dept., applicant.(Phil Dunsmore)
COMMENT AND DISCUSSION:
4.Staff
a.Agenda Forecast
5.Committee
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting Date: August 24, 2015
Item Number:#1
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT:Review of the historic status of a potentially contributing historic property in the Low-
Density Residential (R-1) zone.
PROJECT ADDRESS:624 Grove St.BY:Kyle Bell, Assistant Planner
FILE NUMBER:HIST-1633-2015 FROM: Brian Leveille, Senior Planner
SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution recommending the City Council place 624 Grove Street on the Contributing List of
Historic Resources.
SITE DATA
Applicant David Spiegel
Historic Status Potentially Contributing
Zoning R-1(Low-Density Residential
zone)
General Plan LowDensity Residential
Site Area ~5,000square feet
Environmental
Status
Exempt from CEQA under
Section 15061(b)(3) because
the activity is covered by the
general rule that CEQA
applies only to projects which
have the potential for causing
a significant effect on the
environment.
SUMMARY
The applicant has indicated interest in pursuing a remodel of an existing residence and garage on a
property that was designated as “potentially contributing” in a1989 historic resource survey due to
its architectural style. Properties noted as “potentially contributing” are not considered to be
historically designated but rather reflect the need to review the property to determine merit for
designation. The residence was originally built in 1927. The residence was constructed in a Mission
Revival style that is similar to the adjacent structures in the neighborhood that are also identified as
“potentially contributing”.
Since a future proposal for a remodel and/or addition could alter the potential historical significance
of the property, ahistorical significance determination is needed.If the CHC and City Council
CHC 1-1
HIST-1633-2015
624 Grove Street
Page 2
determine that the property is eligible for listing, the development project would be referred to the
CHC for review of consistency with the Historic Preservation Guidelines and Secretary of Interior
Standards. If the CHC determines that the property is not eligible for listing, Historic Preservation
Guidelines would not be applicable and existing structures could be demolished and/or the
development project would go through architectural review at the staff level with the Community
Development Director taking final action on the project.
PROJECT INFORMATION
Site Information/Setting
The property is within the Low-Density Residential (R-1) zone, located on Grove Street between
Wilson Street and Hillcrest Place. The site is not within nor adjacent to a historic district. The
surrounding neighborhood developed during the late 1920’s and early 1930’s. The subject property
is surrounded by several residences which were also identified as “potentially contributing” historic
resources. The immediate adjacent residences are of a similar Mission Revival style, other
residences in the vicinity include an eclectic mix of styles significant to the early 20th century
residential development.
According to the City’s Historic Resources Inventory, the property at 624 Grove Street was built in
1927, and is of the California Mission Revival style. The residence exhibits character-defining
features that include; red tile roof and arched lintels over windows, and a flat roofline over the
structure with a sloping tile roof over the veranda. The veranda is supported by four flat columns
that are squared with acenter block detail. (Attachment 3, Historic Resources Inventory).
Project Description
The applicant has interest in potentially remodeling the structure and a historic determination will
inform future plans for the project. If the CHC determines the residence is eligible for listing as a
Contributing historic resource, the applicant will be required to design the proposed modifications
consistent with the Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation as required by the City’s
Historic Preservation Ordinance. The project also would return to the CHC for review.
Figure 1: Photo from Historic Resource Inventory compared to current photo.
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HIST-1633-2015
624 Grove Street
Page 3
EVALUATION
The CHC’s role is to provide a recommendation to the City Council on whether the property
qualifies as a historic resource under the historic significance criteria of the Historic Preservation
Ordinance.
Historic Resource Designation
There are two primary categories of historic significance: Master List and Contributing historic
resources. Master List resources are the most unique and important resources in terms of age,
architectural or historical significance, rarity, or association with important persons or events in the
City’s past. Contributing properties include those properties that by virtue of their age, design and
appearance, contribute to and embody the historic character of the neighborhood or historic district
which they are located.1 While the property does not appear to exhibit architectural features or style
of a rare or unique form that would support listing as Master List Historic Resource, staff has
provided evaluation below which could support listing the property as a Contributing Historic
Resource.
Listing of a Contributing Historic Structure
Section 14.01.050.B.of the Historic Preservation Ordinance states that “contributing list of
resources or properties are buildings or other resources at least 50 years old that maintain their
original or attained historic and architectural character, and contribute, either by themselves or in
conjunction with other structures, to the unique or historic character of the neighborhood, district, or
to the City as a whole.” The ordinance also states that non-contributing resources are “buildings,
properties and other features in historic districts which are less than 50 years old, have not retained
their original architectural character, or which do not support the prevailing historic character of the
district.”
When determining if a property should be added to the historic resources list, the Historic
Preservation Ordinance states that the in order to be eligible for designation, the resource shall
exhibit a high level of historic integrity, be at least 50 years old, and satisfy at least one of the
significance criteria.2 As discussed below, staff has found the property to be eligible for listing
based on the criteria of Architectural Style, Design, and Integrity. Historical research has not been
completed to determine if the property could also qualify for listing based on events or persons
associated with the property.
1.Architectural Criteria (Style & Design)
Style: Describes the form of a building, such as size, structural shape and details within that
form (e.g. arrangement of windows and doors, ornamentation, etc.).
Design: Describes the architectural concept of a structure and the quality of artistic merit
and craftsmanship of the individual parts. Reflects how well a particular style or
combination of styles are expressed through compatibility and detailing of elements. Also,
1 Historic Preservation Ordinance. 14.01.050. & 14.01.050.A.
2 Historic Preservation Ordinance, 14.01.070. Evaluation Criteria for Historic Resource Listing. Architectural criteria,
Historical criteria, and Integrity Criteria.
CHC 1-3
HIST-1633-2015
624 Grove Street
Page 4
suggests degree to which the designer (e.g., carpenter-builder) accurately interpreted and
conveyed the style(s).
Staff Analysis: The structure located at 624 Grove Street, is over 50 years old, and contains
architectural design features that are reflective of the Mission Revival architectural style. The
Mission Revival style wasonce apopular style in the early 20th century, with character defining
features that include; red tile roof with overhanging eaves, flat roof and arched lintels over the
windows, and stucco exterior wall cladding. The immediate adjacent properties are of a similar style
built approximately at the same time, which reflects a neighborhood pattern through compatibility
and detailing of elements. Since the residence was built in 1927 it has retained its quality of artistic
merit and craftsmanship of the original construction.
2.Integrity: Authenticity of an historical resource’s physical identity evidenced by the survival
of characteristics that existed during the resource’s period of significance.
Staff Analysis: The building has retained a significant portion of its design, setting, materials,
workmanship, feeling and association since the original construction. There have been no
significant modifications to the residence since the time of construction; however, a few of the
original windows with divided mullions have been replaced with double hung windows. The
building maintains authenticity and integrity because the building occupies its original site and
maintains enough of its historic character and appearance to be recognizable as a historic resource.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is exempt from CEQA under the General Rule (Section 15061(b)(3)) which states a
project is not subject to CEQA if it can be seen with certainty that the action will not have a
significant effect on the environment. Since the project only involves a determination of historic
significance, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question
may have a significant effect on the environment.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the draft Cultural Heritage Committee Resolution (Attachment 1) recommending that the City
Council add the property to the Contributing List of Historic Resources, based on the findings, and
subject to the conditions of the draft Resolution.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Continue the item with direction to the applicant and staff on pertinent issues.
2. Provide findings and a recommendation to the City Council that the property does not qualify for
the City’s list of Contributing Historic Resources.
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HIST-1633-2015
624 Grove Street
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ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Resolution
2. Vicinity Map
3. Historic Resources Inventory
4. Evaluation Criteria for Historic Resource Listing
CHC 1-5
Attachment 1
RESOLUTION NO. XXXX-15
A RESOLUTION OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE,
RECOMMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL ADD 624 GROVE STREET TO THE CITY’S
LIST OF CONTRIBUTING HISTORIC RESOURCES, R-1 ZONE, HIST-1633-2015
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted
a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, on August 24, 2015, pursuant to a proceeding instituted under HIST-1633-2015,
David Spiegel, applicant; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearing were made at the time and in the manner
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee has duly considered all evidence, including
thetestimony of the applicant, interested parties, and the evaluation and recommendations by
staff, presented at said hearing.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo
as follows:
Section 1.Findings.
1. The character of the building is historically significant due to the Mission Revival design
that maintains ahigh level of its historic character and appearance to be recognized as a
historic resource. Character defining features include; red tile roof and arched lintels over
the windows, flat roofline over the structure with a sloping tile roof over the veranda
supported by four square columns with a center block detail.
2. The residential structure retains a high level of integrity and retains a significant portion
of its design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association preserving its
original historic character and appearance reflecting the Mission Revival style. The
building maintains authenticity because there have been only slight exterior modifications
to the residence since the time of construction and the residence occupies its original site.
3. The designation of the existing structure to the list of Contributing Historic Structures is
consistent with the Historic Preservation Ordinance because the structure meets the
definition of “Contributing List Resource or Property”, in that the structure is of at least
50 years old and maintains its original historic architectural character and authentic
integrity.retaining
Section 2.Environmental Review. Section 15061(b)(3) states a project is exempt from
CEQA if the activity is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects which
have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Since the project only
involves a determination of historic significance, it can be seen with certainty that there is no
possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.
Section 3.Action. The Committee hereby recommends the City Council add 624 Grove
Street to the City’s list of contributing historic structures.
CHC 1-6
Resolution No.XXXX-15 Attachment 1
624 Grove (HIST-1633-2015)
Page 2
On motion by Committee member, , seconded by Committee member, , and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
REFRAIN:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this 24th day of August 2015.
_____________________________
Brian Leveille, Secretary
Cultural Heritage Committee
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VICINITY MAP1633-2015
624 GROVE ¯
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CHC 1-15
Meeting Date: August 24, 2015
Item Number: #2
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT:Review of asmall exterior addition to a contributing historic structure in the Old Town
Historic District.
PROJECT ADDRESS:1504Santa Rosa Street BY: Kyle Bell, Assistant Planner
FILE NUMBER:ARCH-1664-2015 FROM:Brian Leveille, Senior Planner
SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Recommend the Community Development Director approve the project based on findings, and subject
to conditions.
SITE DATA
Applicant Catherine Sheel
Historic Status Contributing List
Submittal Date July 9, 2015
Complete Date August 7, 2015
Zoning R-2-H (MediumDensity
Residential with Historic
Overlay)
General Plan Medium Density Residential
Site Area ~7,710square feet
Environmental
Status
Categorically Exempt from
environmental review under
Section 15303 of the CEQA
Guidelines(New Construction
or Conversion of Small
Structures)
SUMMARY
The applicant is proposing an 80-square foot addition at the rear of the structure to expand the
master bedroom area at the back of the residence. The property was added to the Contributing
Historic Resources list in 1986 as the Whitmer Home, and is within the Old Town Historic District.
The residence is estimated to have been built in 1900 and is in good condition (Attachment 3,
Historic Resources Inventory).
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The project requires review by the Cultural Heritage Committee pursuant to Historic Preservation
Program Guidelines section 3.1.2 (review of development projects) because the project is located
within a historic district and on a property with a listed Historic Resource.
PROJECT INFORMATION
Site Information/Setting
The property is within the Old Town Historic
District and is adjacent to other Contributing
List properties. This project is within the
Medium Residential (R-2-H) zone with a
Historic Overlay, and located on the southeast
corner of Santa Rosa and Buchon Street.
The project site currently contains a primary
residence with an additional shed and garage
toward the rear of the lot. The primary
residence provides direct access to Santa Rosa
Street from an entrance walkway. The
driveway and garage are accessed from Buchon Street. The property is a Neo-Classical Rowhouse
style with an offset pediment facing Santa Rosa Street and covered veranda. Character-defining
features include Neo-classical pediments with fishscale shingles, steeply pitched hipped rooflines,
exterior walls with channel rustic horizontal siding,the windows are double hung one over one style
with wide wood trim and the front window has a Colonial shelf above the window. The Historic
Resources Inventory states the home was built in 1900 as a 1,244 square foot one level single
family residence, and was home to B.F. and Mrs. Whitmer, and Katherine Carwline.
Project Description
The applicant is proposing to construct an 80-square foot addition to the master bedroom and to
replace the master bedroom’s current windows with French doors for exterior access. The addition
to the side of the existing structure (which will be located approximately 60 feet from the public
right-of-way and 35 feet behind the front façade) will be able to be viewed from the public right-of-
way on Santa Rosa Street. The addition will incorporate exterior materials intended to match the
existing structure, including tan foundation material, wood sash windows, composition shingles,
and matching exterior colors. The siding, trim, moldings, and fascias will be of wood construction
to match existing (Attachment 4, reduced scale project plans).There will be no changes to the main
façade facing Buchon Street.
EVALUATION
The CHC’s role is to review the project in terms of its consistency with the Historic Preservation
Program Guidelines and Secretary of Interior Standards.
Figure 1:1504Santa RosaStreet August 4, 2015
CHC 2-2
ARCH-1664-2015
1504 Santa Rosa Street
Page 3
Historic Preservation Program Guidelines
New Additions: Section 3.4.1(d) of the Guidelines states “additions to listed historic structures
should maintain the structures original architectural integrity and closely match the buildings
original architecture…in terms of scale, form, massing, rhythm fenestration, materials, color and
architectural details.”
Staff Analysis: The proposed addition incorporates architectural details, massing, colors, and
materials of the primary structure, including the exterior wood siding, roof pitches, and
matching wood framed double-hung windows and doors. The proposed 80-square foot
addition is setback approximately 35 feet from the front façade of the structure and can only
be seen from Santa Rosa Street from limited view sheds along the public right-of-way. The
proposed additions complement the primary structure, and do not alter the character defining
features found in the existing contributing historic structure. The proposed modifications will
not affect the existing height or location of the existing residence, and architecturally, will be
compatible with the primary use with similar colors, siding, roof lines, and windows.
Secretary of Interior Standards
The most appropriate treatment is best characterized as “Rehabilitation” under the SOI Standards of
Treatment since the project proposes a continuation of a compatible use for the property, and
rehabilitation is the only treatment standard which includes an opportunity to accommodate a
contemporary use through alterations and additions.1
SOI Rehabilitation Standard #9: New additions, alterations, or related new construction will not
destroy historic materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The
new work shall be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic materials,
features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property and its
environment.
SOI Rehabilitation Standard #10:New additions and adjacent or related new construction will
be undertaken in a such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity
of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.
Staff Analysis: The proposed addition is small in scale and setback significantly from the
front façade, includes materials to match existing, and would not change the proportions and
scale of the structure as seen from Santa Rosa Street and would not be visible from Buchon
Street. The new work will not detract or destroy any of the character defining features of the
existing residence since no modifications are proposed to the front facing gable, hip roof,
and covered porch. The addition will preserve the essential form and integrity of the historic
property.
The CHC recommendation will inform the Director regarding compatibility of the proposed project
with the existing Contributing resource and the Old Town Historic District. The Director will
incorporate this recommendation into review of the project for compliance with other site
1 Secretary of Interior Standards, Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings, Introduction
CHC 2-3
ARCH-1664-2015
1504 Santa Rosa Street
Page 4
development requirements such as parking, setbacks, height, and building code requirements.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is exempt from environmental review under Section 15303 (New Construction or
Conversion of Small Structures) because the project consists of new construction of small addition
to an existing single-family residence in an urbanized area.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the draft Cultural Heritage Committee Resolution (Attachment 1) recommending the Director
approve the proposed remodel and addition to 1504 Santa Rosa Street.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Continue the item with direction to the applicant and staff on pertinent issues.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Resolution
2. Vicinity Map
3. Historic Resources Inventory
4. Project Plans
CHC 2-4
Attachment 1
RESOLUTION NO. XXXX-15
A RESOLUTION OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE,
RECOMMENDING THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR APPROVE
THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION TO A CONTRIBUTING HISTORIC
PROPERTY AT 1504 SANTA ROSA STREET, ARCH-1664-2015
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted
a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, on August 24, 2015, pursuant to a proceeding instituted under ARCH-1664-2015,
Catherine Sheel, applicant; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearing were made at the time and in the manner
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee has duly considered all evidence, including
the testimony of the applicant, interested parties, and the evaluation and recommendations by
staff, presented at said hearing.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo
as follows:
Section 1.Findings.
1. The proposed project will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of persons
living or working at the site or in the vicinity because, the project conforms to all zoning
regulation requirements, building codes, and other applicable City development
standards.
2. The project is consistent with the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines since the
architectural character of the existing residence is retained, and new construction is
consistent with the existing character including site design, roofing style, siding
materials, finish, and scale. The proposed project does not alter the scale or historical
character of the existing residence.
3. The project is consistent with the Secretary of Interior Standards for Rehabilitation
because the proposed addition will not detract or destroy any historic character defining
features of the existing residence and is designed so that the essential form and integrity
of the historic property are preserved.
4. The project is consistent with the General Plan policies for compatible development
(LUE 2.3.9), and housing conservation (HE 3.5) since the project retains the scale and
character of the existing residence andmaintains the existing residential use.
Section 2.Environmental Review. The project is exempt under Class 3, New
Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, Section 15303 of the CEQA Guidelines. The
project consists of new construction of small addition to an existing single-family residence in an
urbanized area
CHC 2-5
Resolution No.XXXX-15 Attachment 1
1504 Santa Rosa Street (ARCH-1664-2015)
Page 2
Section 3.Action. The Committee hereby recommends approval of the proposed project
toconstruct a small exterior addition to a contributing historic property (ARCH-1664-2015).
On motion by Committee member, , seconded by Committee member,, and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
REFRAIN:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this 24th day of August 2015.
_____________________________
Brian Leveille, Secretary
Cultural Heritage Committee
CHC 2-6
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VICINITY MAP File No.
ARCH-546-001
1504 Santa Rosa St.¯
Attachment 2
CHC 2-7
Attachment 3
CHC 2-8
Attachment 3
CHC 2-9
Attachment 4
CHC 2-10
Attachment 4
CHC 2-11
Attachment 4
CHC 2-12
Attachment 4
CHC 2-13
Meeting Date: August 24, 2015
Item Number: 3
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT: Review proposed modifications to the boardwalk style design standard for the
Historic Railroad District to address accessibility, safety and maintenance issues.
PROJECT ADDRESS: Railroad Historic District BY:Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner
Steven Orozco, Planning Intern
FILE NUMBER: PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)FROM:Brian Leveille, Senior Planner
SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION
Amend the Railroad District Plan to allow greater flexibility in the use of materials for the
boardwalk and recommend the Public Works Director revise the engineering standards for
boardwalks in the Railroad Historic District.
SITE DATA
Applicant Owner
City Of San Luis Obispo
Representative Jennifer Lawrence
Historic Status Railroad Historic District
Submittal Date May 29, 2015
Complete Date June 29, 2015
Zoning C-S, C-R
General Plan Services and Manufacturing,
General Retail
Site Area ~80.73 acres
Environmental
Status
Exempt from CEQA under
Section 15301, Existing
Facilities.
SUMMARY
The City of San Luis Obispo Public Works Division is seeking to establish a new Engineering
Standard for the sidewalk area in the Railroad District to replace the current wood boardwalk
design. The current wood boardwalks have proven difficult and time-consuming to maintain and
do not meet accessibility (ADA) requirements.
PJD
CHC 3-1
Railroad District Sidewalk
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works. PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)
Page 2
PROJECT INFORMATION
Project Description
The Railroad District Plan Architectural Guidelines specify that public sidewalks in the district
should be a City approved wood boardwalk design1. A supplemental memo provided by City
Engineer, Jennifer Lawrence outlines challenges with the current standard and provides
recommendations to improve the current standard with the goal of improving accessibility,
safety, and maintainability (Attachment 2).
As shown below, the standard wood boardwalk does not stand up well over time. While the
boardwalk is aesthetically pleasing when newly installed (Figure 1), boardwalk maintenance has
proven to be a challenge and is labor intensive and expensive. Boardwalk maintenance
challenges include loose screws (Figure 2), warped and splintered boards (Figure 3), rotting
boards (Figure 4), and wide gaps between the boards caused by shrinkage, all of which result in
a rough walkway and trip hazards. In addition, the current standard does not comply with the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements because of the gap and trip hazard issues.
This poses a challenge for the City, since it is committed, as well as required, to provide
accessible sidewalks and walkways.
Figure 1 - Boardwalk installation at the Railroad
Transportation Center
Figure 2 – Loose Screws
1 Railroad District Plan (RRDP) Architectural Guidelines- Site and Public Improvements 6 (page 80): “Public
sidewalks along portions of Osos, Santa Barbara, Church, Emily, High, and Roundhouse streets within the Railroad
District should be a City approved wood boardwalk design.” Also refer to Figure 23: Boardwalk Detail (page 69
of the RRDP).
CHC 3-2
Railroad District Sidewalk
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works. PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)
Page 3
Figure 5 – Stamped Concrete Installation
Figure 3 – Warped Board Figure 4 - Rotted Wood
EVALUATION
Railroad District Plan
The Railroad District Plan (RRDP) is a design plan that provides guidance for development and
investment for both private and public improvements. The RRDP identifies the historic theme
and context of the area as it relates to the era of development associated with arrival of the
Southern Pacific Railroad in San Luis Obispo. The General Plan identifies historic resource
preservation as an important goal2 and the RRDP was developed to describe the character of the
historic district and resources to be protected. As part of preserving the character of the area,
architectural guidelines were developed to describe public area improvements, such as lighting,
landscaping, fencing, seating areas, sidewalk design, trash containers, and other improvements
reminiscent of the railroad era character. The wood boardwalk design is part of this guidance.
Replacing the wood standard with another material should be reviewed in light of the
replacement material’s ability to convey the historic feeling of the district. City public works
staff has evaluated several material and design alternatives towards a solution to replace the
wood boardwalk design while maintaining consistency with the Railroad District Plan. The
following discussion highlights the various materials and
potential design solutions that were explored.
Boardwalk Design Options
1.Alternative Materials
A. Poured Concrete. A concrete sidewalk such as others
throughout the City would provide the most cost-effective
and low maintenance solution. Concrete requires less overall
maintenance than wood and large sections of concrete are
not required to be removed in order to replace small failures.
2 Conservation and Open Space Element Policies 3.2 and 3.3
CHC 3-3
Railroad District Sidewalk
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works. PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)
Page 4
Figure 7 – Painted Wood
Figure 6 – Composite Decking Material
The concrete would be dyed and/or stamped to create a design to complement the historic nature
of the Railroad District.
Replacing the boardwalks with stamped concrete walkways (Figure 5) that mimics the color and
texture of wood will provide a long lasting surface without built-in gaps, screws, warping or
board failure issues. Color retention may potentially be an issue in the long term, with a dark
brown fading to a paler color. When the concrete is patched, as occurs in the downtown Mission
Sidewalk district, the new color will not match for a period of time until the newer portion fades.
B.Composite Materials.
Composite materials such as “Trex” or “DuraLife”
(Figure 6) can provide a durable surface. Composite deck
material would maintain the overall appearance of the existing
walkway, although for most of the composite materials it would
likely be apparent the material was not genuine wood.
Mold growth and warpage from heat are known issues for
composites. Also, materials are often difficult to obtain because
of long lead times and products may be discontinued.
C.Wood.
The current standard is aesthetically pleasing and creates a feel
of the bygone “Old West” era. A much more expensive
hardwood such as Ipe could be used; however it is anticipated that similar problems to the
existing wood could occur. Finding wood from responsibly managed and sustainable sources
may prove difficult, and maintenance issues similar to those experienced with wood materials
would still exist.
D.Painting or staining the existing boards
(Figure 7), or using a higher quality wood may reduce the weathering and increase longevity of
the boardwalk, but a high level of maintenance would still be required to keep the boardwalk
from failing. Board gaps and loose screws can be expected to continue to occur.
2.Alternative Designs
A complete change from the current adopted wood board
walk was explored as another potential alternative.
Public Works reached out to local designers and Cal Poly
to provide concept drawings of alternative sidewalk
options. Designers were asked to take into account
constructability and maintainability as well as
incorporate the historic, cultural and aesthetic values of
the Railroad District. Additionally, the designers were to
provide enough detailing to show compliance with
accessibility requirements, a six-foot walkway with room
for street trees, and a four-foot clear path of travel.
Image from www.Trex.com
CHC 3-4
Railroad District Sidewalk
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works. PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)
Page 5
Concept materials included using pavers, stamped and/or stained concrete, exposed aggregate
and Corten steel. Interestingly, nearly all of the submissions included the common theme of train
tracks running the length of the walk; a very different approach than emulating the boardwalk-
style walkway currently in use. Each concept submitted provides an intriguing connection to the
historic nature of the Railroad District. Images of the concepts are provided in the memo from
Public Works, Attachment 2.
Replacing wood with stamped concrete that has a wood appearance and texture is solution
favored by public works staff in order to reduce maintenance and to maintain the appearance
developed with the Railroad District Plan. However, there are other options that could maintain
the appearance and intent of the “wood boardwalk” design. Staff will bring images of design
alternatives to the CHC hearing. The CHC should provide direction to staff on the appropriate
material.
Railroad District Plan Amendments and CHC Purview
Engineering standards are maintained to ensure public infrastructure is developed in a way that
meets state, federal and local standards. These standards may change over time in response to
changes in legislation, safety or access concerns, availability of materials, and to respond to
aesthetic and design concerns. Due to their evolving nature, engineering standards are typically
not a component of architectural guidelines such as the RRDP. The CHC is being asked to
provide input on materials that would appropriately convey the feeling of the Railroad District
so that the engineering standards may be updated to reflect material options that meet the
aesthetic concerns of the District along with federal and state standards for accessibility and
safety.
The CHC is also being asked to provide input on amendments to the RRDP to remove specific
references to “wood” so that other materials may be considered if they meet the multiple
objectives of aesthetics, safety, and accessibility (as well as changing requirements over time).
Staff recommends that Figure 23, provided on page 69 of the RRDP be eliminated (Attachment
3) and that the word “wood” be removed from the Site and Public Area improvements section of
the guidelines on page 80 as shown below:
6. Public sidewalks along portions of Osos, Santa Barbara, Church, Emily, High, and
Roundhouse streets within the Railroad District should be a City approved wood boardwalk
design.
These amendments would allow the Public Works engineering division to move forward with
revised material standards while still maintaining the spirit of the RRDP.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is exempt from environmental review under Section 15301 (Existing Facilities)
because the project would simply replace the surface of an existing public sidewalk.
CHC 3-5
Railroad District Sidewalk
City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works. PDEV-1445-2015 (AP)
Page 6
ALTERNATIVES
1.Continue the item with direction to the staff to return with alternative boardwalk designs.
2.Recommend that the wood boardwalk design be maintained and that changes be denied
based on inconsistency with the intent of the Railroad District Plan.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution
2. Memo from City Public Works
3. Railroad District Plan, figure 23, page 69
CHC 3-6
RESOLUTION NO. XXXX-15
A RESOLUTION OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE,
RECOMMENDING AMENDMENTS TO THE RAILROAD DISTRICT PLAN AND
OPTIONS FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO APPROVE MODIFICATIONS
TO THE ENGINEERING STANDARD FOR WOOD BOARDWALKS, PDEV-1445-2015
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted
a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, on August 24, 2015, pursuant to a proceeding instituted under PDEV-1445-2015,
City Public Works Division, applicant; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearing were made at the time and in the manner
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee has duly considered all evidence, including
the testimony of the applicant, interested parties, and the evaluation and recommendations by
staff, presented at said hearing.
BE IT RESOLVED, by the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo
as follows:
Section 1.Findings.
1.The proposed amendments to the Railroad District Plan to allow a substitute material
other than wood for the boardwalks will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and
welfare of persons living or working at the site or in the vicinity because, the project
conforms to all zoning regulation requirements, building codes, and other applicable City
development standards and will improve accessibility and public safety.
2.The project is consistent with the City’s Historic Preservation Guidelines since the wood
boardwalk character in the historic district would be retained, and the proposed new
material would simulate a wood boardwalk.
3.The project is consistent with the intent of the Railroad District Plan Architectural
Guidelines because the new standard will preserve the character of the “wood” boardwalk
design as stipulated in the required site and public area improvements of the guidelines.
4.The amendments to the boardwalk design will reduce maintenance costs of the public
infrastructure while improving accessibility and safety.
Section 2. Environmental Review. The project is exempt under Class 1, Existing
Facilities, Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines. The project consists of the future replacement
of existing sidewalk material.
Section 3. Action. The Committee hereby recommends approval of the proposed
amendment to the Railroad District Plan to remove specific references to “wood” thereby
allowing a substitute boardwalk material with the appearance of wood subject to the following
conditions (PDEV-1445-2015).
CHC 3-7
Attachment 1
Resolution No.XXXX-15
Railroad Historic District (PDEV-1445-2015)
Page 2
1.The engineering standard amendment shall be implemented with final sidewalk design
that shall be approved in conjunction with the Community Development Director and
shall maintain the character, spirit and feel of the intended boardwalk design.
2.The Railroad District Plan shall be amended to remove the engineering standard for wood
boardwalks, Figure 23 on page 69.
3.The Railroad District Plan Architectural Guidelines shall be amended on page 80, item 6
to remove the word “wood” as follows:
Public sidewalks along portions of Osos, Santa Barbara, Church, Emily, High, and
Roundhouse streets within the Railroad District should be a City approved wood boardwalk
design.
On motion by Committee member, , seconded by Committee member, , and on the
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
REFRAIN:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this 24th day of August 2015.
_____________________________
Phil Dunsmore, Secretary
Cultural Heritage Committee
CHC 3-8
Attachment 1
CityofSanLuisObispo,PublicWorks,919PalmStreet,SanLuisObispo,CA,93401Ͳ3218,805.781.7200,slocity.org
May29,2015
TO:PhilDunsmore,Planner
FROM:JenniferLawrence
SUBJECT:SupplementtothePlanningApplicationtoestablishadditionalRailroadDistrict
sidewalkoptions.
Discussion:
Thecurrentstandardwalkwayrequiredinthehistoricarea,inaccordancewiththeRailroadDistrict
Planadoptedin1998,isadeckͲstyleboardwalk(Attachment1).TheRailroadDistrict(Attachment
2)isreadilyidentifiablebytheseboardwalkswhichareusedasawaytohonorthehistoricand
culturalrootsthatSanLuisObispohaswiththerailway.Thissupplementalmemooutlines
challengeswiththecurrentstandardandprovidesrecommendationstoimprovethecurrent
standardwiththegoalofimprovingaccessibility,safety,andmaintainability.
Asshownbelow,thestandardboardwalkdoesnotstandupwellovertime.Whiletheboardwalkis
aestheticallypleasingwhennewlyinstalled(Figure1),boardwalkmaintenancehasproventobea
challengesinceitislaborintensiveandexpensive.Boardwalkmaintenancechallengesincludeloose
screws(Figure2)warpedandsplinteredboards(Figure3),rottingboards(Figure4),andwidegaps
betweentheboardscausedbyshrinkage,allofwhichresultinaroughwalkwayandtriphazards.In
addition,thecurrentstandarddoesnotcomplywiththeAmericanswithDisabilitiesAct(ADA)
requirementsbecauseofthegapandtriphazardissues.ThisposesachallengefortheCity,sinceit
iscommitted,aswellasrequired,toprovideaccessiblesidewalksandwalkways.
Figure1ͲBoardwalkinstallationattheRailroad
TransportationCenter
Figure2–LooseScrews
Memorandum
CHC 3-9
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
Figure5–StampedConcreteInstallation
Figure3–WarpedBoardFigure4ͲRottedWood
Goal:
ImproveorreplacethecurrentstandardfortheHistoric
RailroadDistricttoimproveaccessibility,safety,and
maintainability.
Alternatives
1.AlternativeMaterials
1.A.Pouredconcretewalkssuchasthosethroughout
theCitywouldprovidethemostcostͲeffectiveandlow
maintenancesolution.Concreterequireslessoverall
maintenancethanwoodandlargesectionsofconcrete
arenotrequiredtoberemovedinordertoreplacesmall
failures.However,itwouldneedtobedyedand/or
stampedtocreateadesigntocomplementthehistoric
natureoftheRailroadDistrict.
Replacingtheboardwalkswithstampedconcrete
walkways(Figure5)thatmimicsthecolorandtextureof
woodwillprovidealonglastingsurfacewithoutbuiltͲin
gaps,screws,warpingorboardfailureissues.Color
retentionwillbeanissueinthelongterm,withadark
brownfadingtoapalercolor.Whentheconcreteis
patched,asoccursinthedowntownMissionSidewalk
district,thenewcolorwillnotmatchforaperiodoftime
untilitfades.MorroBayisinstallingsomecolored
concreteaspartofawalkwayproject,butdoesnotas
yethavemuchexperiencewithit(Figure5).
1.B.Compositematerialsarebeingsubstitutedformany
applicationswherewoodhashistoricallybeenused.
Materialssuchas“Trex”or“DuraLife”(Figure6)can
provideadurablesurface.CompositedeckmaterialFigure6 –CompositeDeckingMaterial
Imagefromwww.Trex.com
CHC 3-10
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
Figure7–PaintedWood
wouldmaintaintheoverallappearanceoftheexistingwalkway,althoughitwouldbeapparentthe
materialwasnotgenuinewood.
MorroBayhasexperimentedwiththismaterialandhasareaswhereithasworkedwell,andareas
wherethematerialhaswarped.Moldgrowthandheatareknownissuesforcomposites.Also,
materialsareoftendifficulttoobtainbecauseoflongleadtimesandproductsdiscontinued.
Usingboardsmadeofacompositematerialsuchas“Trex”orplasticsuchas“Azek”offerasolution
requiringlessmaintenancethanwood.Analternatetorealwood,patternsandcolorsavailablecan
servetosimulatethelookoftheboardwalkscurrentlyinstalledinthedistrict.However,itis
primarilyplasticandsomeusersmayobjecttotheartificiallookoftheboardscomparedtothe
restoredandhistoricfacilitiesinthearea.Dependingonthequalityoftheproduct,itmaybecostͲ
prohibitiveandalthoughlessmaintenanceisrequiredonthismaterial,itisstillsubjecttomolding,
canbeslipperywhenwet,cangetoverlyhotinwarmclimatesandisnotasstrongasrealwood.
Additionally,althoughmostbrandsareconsidered“green”anduseaveryhighpercentageof
recycledmaterials,boardswillneedtobereplaced
ratherthanrestoredwhendamagedandits
sustainabilityisquestionableasthediscarded
materialisnotbioͲdegradableorrecyclable.
1.C.Wood,thecurrentstandard,isaesthetically
pleasingandcreatesafeelofthebygone“OldWest”
era.AmuchmoreexpensivehardwoodsuchasIpe
couldbeused;howeveritisanticipatedsimilar
problemswouldoccur.Findingwoodfrom
responsiblymanagedandsustainablesourcesmay
provedifficultandmaintenancewillstillbeneeded
morefrequentlythanresourcesallow.
1.D.Paintingorstainingtheexistingboards(Figure7),orusingahigherqualitywoodmayreduce
theweatheringandincreaselongevityoftheboardwalk,butahighlevelofmaintenancewouldstill
berequiredtokeeptheboardwalkfromfailing.Boardgapsandloosescrewscanexpectto
continuetooccur.
2.AlternativeDesigns
Acompletechangefromthecurrentadoptedboardstylewalkwasexploredtoprovideother
alternativesforconsideration.PublicWorksreachedouttolocaldesignersandCalPolytoprovide
conceptdrawingsofalternativesidewalkoptions.Designerswereaskedtotakeintoaccount
constructabilityandmaintainabilityaswellasincorporatethehistoric,culturalandaestheticvalues
oftheRailroadDistrict.Additionally,thedesignersweretoprovideenoughdetailingtoshow
compliancewithaccessibilityrequirements,asixͲfootwalkwaywithroomforstreettrees,anda
fourͲfootclearpathoftravel.
AdecisiontomakeamoredramaticchangetotheadoptedstandardfortheDistrictwilltake
additionalstepsandpublicinvolvement,butisworthconsideringifthechangeisgoingtobeforan
improvedappearanceandaccessibilityforthearea.
CHC 3-11
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
Figure8–TrackThemewithConcreteandBrickPavers
DesignConcepts:
PublicWorksreceivedsubmissionsfromthreedesignfirms.Conceptmaterialsincludedusing
pavers,stampedand/orstainedconcrete,exposedaggregateandCortensteel.Interestingly,nearly
allofthesubmissionsincludedthecommonthemeoftraintracksrunningthelengthofthewalk;a
verydifferentapproachthanemulatingtheboardwalkͲstylewalkwaycurrentlyinuse.Eachconcept
submittedprovidesanintriguingconnectiontothehistoricnatureoftheRailroadDistrict.The
varioussuggestedmaterialscomplementthearchitecturalstyleoftheneighborhoodaswellas
implyalongevitybefittingofthedistrict.Figures8through13illustratetheconceptssubmitted.
Thedesignsproposeuseofaconcreteorbrickpavers,bothofwhicharerelativelyeasytoinstall,
arestronganddurableandweatherresistant.Theyareavailableinalargevarietyofcolors,shapes,
sizeandpatternswhichallowsforagreatdealofflexibilityinwalkwaydesignreflectiveofthe
RailroadDistrict.However,ifnotproperlyinstalledormaintained,paversaresubjecttoshifting
makingforaroughwheelchairrideortrippinghazard.Weedscangrowinjointsunlessproperly
sealedcreatinganunsightlywalkway.Oneofthestrongpointsofpaversisthatmostpaverscanbe
salvagedwhereanareaofwalkwayneedstoberemoved,andreusedaftertheworkiscomplete.
Thisreduceswasteandincreasescolorcompatibilityattherepair.
CHC 3-12
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
Figure9ͲBrickTrackTheme
Newwalkwaywithbrick
paversina90degree
Herringbonepatternanda
darkrunningbondpattern
“railroadtrack”.Treewells
aregalvanizedpanlidsthat
acceptthebrickpavers.
TypicalconcretepavingwithsawͲ
cutandstained“railroadtrack”.
Figure10Ͳ ConcreteTrackTheme
Figure7ͲBrickTrackTheme
CHC 3-13
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
ConcretesurfacestainedandstampedtoemulatetheappealoftheexistingdeckͲstylewalkway.
Figure11ͲStampedConcreteBoardwalkTheme
Smoothconcretewithexposedaggregateareasprovidestheillusionofthesidewalkbeing
rippedawaytoexposeafauxrailroadtrack(Cortensteel)beneaththesurface.
Figure12ͲTrackThemeinStampedConcrete
CHC 3-14
Attachment 2
RailroadDistrictSidewalkProblems
AmoreelegantapproachtoasimilarthemeusingacidͲetchedconcreteandblackpaverinsets.
Figure13–ConcreteandPaversTrackTheme
Recommendation:
Thealternativematerialsaswellastheideasoftheconceptsubmittalseachhavetheirownsetof
advantagesanddisadvantages(Attachment3).Consideringthecosts,maintenanceissues,the
flexibilityindesignoptionsandADAcompliance,replacingwoodwithstampedconcreteisthe
recommendedsolutiontomaintaintheappearancedevelopedwiththeRailroadDistrictPlan.
Ifanalternativeappearanceispreferred,anyoftheconcreteandpaveroptionsprovidedcanbe
pursuedasalternatives.StaffwillproceedwithreviewofachangetotheDistrictplan,andreturn
totheCommissionwithrecommendations.
CHC 3-15
Attachment 2
ToBeDeleted
CHC 3-16
Attachment 3
DRAFT
SAN LUIS OBISPO
CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE
MINUTES
July 27, 2015
ROLL CALL:
Present:Committee Members Sandy Baer, Craig Kincaid, James Papp, 2Positions
Vacant, Vice-Chair Thom Brajkovich, and Chair Jaime Hill
Absent:None
Staff:Senior Planner Brian Leveille,Associate Planner Rachel Cohen, Assistant
Planner Walter Oetzell,Assistant Planner Kyle Bell,and Recording
Secretary Erica Inderlied
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
The agenda was accepted as amended, reordering Item 2 to be heard prior to Item 3.
MINUTES:Minutes of June 22, 2015,were approved as amended.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS:
There were nocomments from the public.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
1.1053 Islay Street.ARCH-1170-2015; Review of remodel and addition to an
existing dwelling at the rear of a Contributing property in the Old Town Historic
District. The project is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA (Section
15301: Existing Facilities); R-3-H zone; Lesa Jones, applicant.
Brian Leveille, Senior Planner, provided an update to the CHC on the recent window
replacements on the main residence. He discussed that the original windows were
replaced with vinyl windows without permits and that they do not comply with Historic
Preservation Guidelines or Secretary of Interior Standards. He stated that staff was
hopeful to work with the property owners to obtain permits and replace the most visible
windows with alternatives that are more compatible with the historic structure.
Walter Oetzell, Assistant Planner, presented the staff report, recommendingthat the
Committee adopt a resolutionrecommending that theCommunity Development Director
grant final approval ofthe project, based on findings,which heoutlined.
Lou Smith, project architect, summarized the history of the project.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:There were no comments from the public.
Draft CHC Minutes
July 27, 2015
Page 2
COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
Committee Member Papp, Vice-Chair Brajkovichand Committee Member Baerspoke in
support the project as presented.
Chair Hill commented that it would be desirable to move vinyl windows from the front
structure for use in the rear structure, and replace the windows in the front structure with
windows made of wood or other historically-sensitive materials.
There wereno further commentsfrom the Committee.
On motion by Vice-Chair Brajkovich, seconded by Committee MemberBaer,to adopt a
resolutionrecommending that the Community Development Director grant final approval
ofthe project, based on findings, with the following additional direction:
A.Applicant shall consider moving vinyl windows from the structure at the front of
the property for use in the new structure, and replace windows in the structure
at the front of the property with windows made of wood or another historically-
sensitive material.
AYES:Committee Members Baer, Brajkovich, Hill, Kincaid, and Papp
NOES:None
RECUSED:None
ABSENT:2 Positions Vacant
The motion passedon a 5:0 vote.
3.733 Higuera Street.ARCH-1187-2015; Review of a façade remodel to
accommodate proposed expansion of the restaurant by enclosing the outdoor
dining area. The project is categorically exempt from environmental review
(Section 15301; Existing Facilities); C-D-H zone; SLO 825, LLC, applicant.
Kyle Bell, Assistant Planner, presented the staff report, recommendingthat the
Committee adopt a resolution findingthe project consistent with the Historic
Preservation Guidelines and recommend theCommunity Development Director approve
the project design based on findings and subject to conditions.
Committee Member Kincaid commented on the subjectivity of the term “high quality”
materials; noted that it would be desirable to provide additional defining parameters in
the Community Design Guidelines.
Rick Rengel, project architect,summarizedthe project concept andplans for the
treatment and refinement of the brick thatwill be exposed by the project; described
plans for the protection of Bubblegum Alley.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
There were no comments from the public.
Draft CHC Minutes
July 27, 2015
Page 3
COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
Committee Member Kincaid spoke in support of the project and its crown molding and
arch elements. Committee Member Baer concurred.
Vice-Chair Brajkovich spoke in support of the project and the use of exposed brick,
crown molding, and smaller, understated signage.
Committee Member Papp commentedonthe difficulty of evaluating a façade remodel of
a historical building for which the historical appearance is not known; noted reservation
about the use of arch-shaped forms andthe proliferation of exposed-brick buildings in
the downtown area.
Chair Hill spoke in supportofthe project and the use ofwood doors; noted concern
aboutthecurvilinear element at top of the façade and its apparent conflictwith design
guidelines.
There were no further commentsfrom the Committee.
On motion by Committee Member Papp, seconded by Chair Hill, toadopt a resolution
findingthe project consistent with the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines andto
recommend the Community Development Director approve the project design subject to
findings and conditionscontained in the staff report, with the following revision:
A.Condition 1. shall be modifiedto indicate that plans submitted to the Director for
reviewshall include the modification of the existing façade and roofline to
include simplified linear brick molding.
AYES:Committee MembersHillandPapp
NOES:Committee MemberBaer, Brajkovich,and Kincaid
RECUSED:None
ABSENT:2 Positions Vacant
The motion failed on a 2:3vote.
On motion by Vice-Chair Brajkovich,seconded by Committee MemberBaer,to adopta
resolutionfindingthe project consistent with the Historic Preservation Program
Guidelines and recommend theCommunity Development Director approve the project
design subject to findings and conditionscontained in the staff report, with the following
revision:
A.Condition 1. shall be modified to indicate that plans submitted to the Director for
review shall include the modification of the existing façade and rooflineto
include simplified linear molding.
Draft CHC Minutes
July 27, 2015
Page 4
AYES:Committee Members Baer, Brajkovich, Hill, Kincaid, and Papp
NOES:None
RECUSED:None
ABSENT:2 Positions Vacant
The motion passed on a 5:0vote
2.549 Buchon Street.ARCH-1387-2015; Review of two new residences in the Old
Town Historic District. The project is categorically exempt from environmental
review (Section 15332: Infill Development Projects); R-2-H zone; John Cutter,
applicant.
Rachel Cohen,Assistant Planner, presented the staff report recommendingthat the
Committee adopt a resolution recommendingthat the Community Development Director
approve the proposed two new residential units, based on findings and subject to
conditions,whichshe outlined.
John Cutter, applicant and owner, summarized the project, noted measures taken to
achieve compatibility with,and historical sensitivity to,the surroundings.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:There were no comments from the public.
COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
Committee Member Papp noted concern about the potential forfalse historicismin the
use ofimitation craftsman-styleconstruction.
Vice-Chair Brajkovich spoke in support of the project and its compatibility with
surroundings; commented that it would be desirable to includeadditional bracing on
building corners,rather than just the peak and additional detail around the windows.
Chair Hillspoke in support of the project and its compatibility with surroundings;
commented that additional detail such as corbels would be desirable.
There were no further comments from the Committee.
On motion by Committee Member Papp, seconded by Committee Member Kincaid,to
adopta resolutionrecommending that the Community DevelopmentDirector approve
the proposed two new residential units, based on findings and subject to conditions
contained in staff’s report.
AYES:Committee Members Baer, Brajkovich, Hill, Kincaid, and Papp
NOES:None
RECUSED:None
ABSENT:2 Positions Vacant
The motion passed on a 5:0vote.
Draft CHC Minutes
July 27, 2015
Page 5
COMMENT AND DISCUSSION:
4.Staff-Senior Planner Leveille gave a forecast of upcoming agenda items.
5.Committee-None
ADJOURNMENT:The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by,
Erica Inderlied
Recording Secretary