HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/20/2007, PH3 - Consideration of CHC nomination of properties in E Railroad Area to Historic Buildings Council
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CITY OF SAN LU IS O B I S P O
FROM: John Mandeville, Comm . ' evelopment Director
Prepared By: Jeff Hook, Senior Planne Esther Valle, Planning Intern
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF A CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE
NOMINATION OF PROPERTIES IN THE EAST RAILROAD AREA TO
THE CONTRIBUTING PROPERTIES LIST OF HISTORICAL RESOURCES
CAO RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the Cultural Heritage Committee, adopt a resolution adding the following
properties to the Contributing Properties List: 1342 Breck Street; 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255, 1265,
1345 #17 Ella Street; 1672 Fairview Street; 1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234, 1236 George Street;
1136, 1139, 1140, 1204 Iris Street; 1985, 2105 Johnson Avenue; 907, 2056 Rachel Street; 1908
Ruth Street; and 2006, 2033 Swazey Street.
REPORT-IN-BRIEF
Following a detailed historic survey of the East Railroad Area neighborhood, the CHC
nominated 25 properties to the Contributing list based on the properties' age, architectural merit,
and contributions to their neighborhood's historical character. These properties are part of a
neighborhood which dates back to the 1880s and whose development was closely related to the
growth of the Southern Pacific Railroad in San Luis Obispo. Many of the properties have
retained their original architectural character and most have been well maintained. A variety of
architectural styles are represented, including: Queen Anne and Italianate Victoria cottages in the
late 1800s, and Craftsman and California Bungalow styles in the early 1900s, Spanish and Mission
Revival styles in the 1920s and 1930's, and Postwar Ranch Style homes in the 1940s and 1950s.
This survey is part of a larger city-wide historical inventory being conducted on a neighborhood-
basis. The candidate properties were considered at a public hearing on November 27, 2006 and
were recommended to the Contributing Properties List on a unanimous vote.
DISCUSSION
Advisory Body Recommendation
At its November 27, 2006 public hearing, the Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) voted
unanimously to recommend the City Council add 25 properties to the Contributing Properties
List, as described in the meeting minutes, Attachment 2. These candidate properties are now
ready for Council consideration. Based on the properties' historic documentation, advisory body
recommendations, and public testimony, the City Council should decide whether the properties
meet the eligibility criteria for adding them to the Contributing Properties List. If the Council
concurs with the CRC's recommendation it should adopt the attached resolution, Attachment 1,
CHC Historic Property NominL ,ns;East Railroad Area
Page 2 of 8
adding the properties to the Contributing List.
Background
One of the CRC's primary roles is to identify, recognize and help preserve historic resources. To
carry out this role, the CHC is surveying several neighborhoods as part of a comprehensive,
citywide historic survey. The last comprehensive citywide historic survey was conducted in the
early 1980s. In 1992 Margaret Lovell, a Historical Researcher, compiled a report that focused on
historical properties within several neighborhoods. The report was part of the CHC's
workprogram to survey neighborhoods and possibly, to recommend properties to be added to the
Master List or Contributing List of Historic Properties. That effort was delayed due to limited
staff and budget resources. In 2005, work resumed with the support of a volunteer historian and
planning interns. The CHC directed staff to conduct a citywide historical survey focusing on
neighborhoods highlighted in the Lovell study: the East Railroad, Little Italy, Brook Street and
Monterey Heights neighborhoods.
Previous CHC Action
At the CHC's February 27, 2006 and March 27, 2006 meetings, the CHC reviewed properties in
the "East Railroad Area" -- also referred to as the "Ella Street" or"Terrace Hill" neighborhood --
a neighborhood bounded by Johnson Avenue, the railroad tracks, and Terrace Hill, as shown in
Attachment 3. Staff presented a photographic survey of properties in the neighborhood with
descriptions of their architecture, age and history, characteristics that might make the property
eligible for historic listing. The CHC reviewed the information and determined that several
properties had potential architectural or historical significance. The CHC directed staff to do
additional research to determine whether these merited nomination to the City's Inventory of
Historic Resources. Staff prepared additional architectural/historical documentation of these
properties, as described in detail in the historic inventories, or "primary record" for each
property. These records are included in the Council reading file under separate cover.
Based on the Council-adopted"Historic Preservation Program Guidelines,"the criteria for listing
a building as a"Contributing" historic property are that:
1. It is at least fifty years old;
2. It contributes to the historic character of the neighborhood;
3. It has retained most, if not all of its original architectural character.
After reviewing each property, the CHC directed staff to schedule those properties that met these
criteria for a public hearing to consider formal historic nomination. Property owners were
individually notified as required by the City's public notice requirements.
At the CRC's November 27, 2006 public hearing, staff provided detailed survey information
describing architectural style, age of property, ownership and noteworthy features, and slides
showing individual properties in the "East Railroad Area." CHC members reviewed each
property, took public testimony, and voted to recommend the City Council add 25 of the
neighborhood's properties to the Contributing Properties List.
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CHC Historic Property Nominai..,ns, East Railroad Area
Page 3 of 8
General Plan Policies
Historic preservation is an important community goal, as reflected in the City's General Plan:
Policy 6.6.1 of the Land Use Element says that the City should identify, preserve and where
possible restore historic resources;Policy 3.21.5 of the Conservation and Open Space Element says
the City should identify and protect neighborhoods or districts having historical character due to
the collective effect of Contributing or Master List properties. By designating eligible properties as
historic, the City helps preserve important buildings and features of the community's heritage,
maintain property values and promote the upkeep and improvement of neighborhoods.
Purposes of Historic Listing
The purposes of the historic listing are to: 1) recognize buildings which contribute to the City's
architectural, cultural and historical diversity, 2) help preserve and restore buildings which are
historically or architecturally significant; 3) help preserve the historic character of neighborhoods,
and 4) make certain historic properties eligible for preservation incentives, such as rehabilitation
loans, tax incentives, or more flexible building or zoning codes. There are two types of historic
properties: Contributing and Master List Properties:
Contributing Properties List. The Contributing Properties List contains about 400 properties,
most of which are houses within designated historic districts. Contributing properties,consist of
structures, gardens or other features which are at least 50 years old and which contribute to the
architectural or historical character of their neighborhood. Routine repair, maintenance and
minor changes to Contributing Properties are possible without City review; additions and
significant remodels require CHC and architectural review. Both Contributing and Master List
properties are considered "historic" and qualify for more flexible zoning and building codes to
encourage their preservation and upkeep.
Master List of Historic Resources. The Master List of Historic Resources consists of about 175
residential and commercial structures which have significant historic or architectural value to the
community and which merit special preservation and recognition. Master List properties are
eligible to receive a historic plaque, commemorating the historic name and construction date of
the building. Some of these properties are also eligible for State or Federal historic designation,
and may qualify for tax incentives such as the federal tax credits or the Mills Act Program. Once
added to the Master List, exterior building changes are possible, provided that such changes
promote the structure's original architectural style and character. Demolition is also possible
under exceptional circumstances, subject to Architectural Review Commission approval.
East Railroad Area
Like the Railroad District/Little Italy neighborhood on the west side of the railroad tracks, the East
Railroad neighborhood's development was linked with the growth of Southern Pacific Railroad.
The area was subdivided in 1885 as the Buena Vista Tract, a new residential neighborhood that
preceded the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad by ten years. As the neighborhood built out,
many of the early residents were employed by the railroad. Architectural styles of the homes
CHC Historic Property Nominat,,ns, East Railroad Area
Page 4 of 8
reflected the tastes of the era in which they were built, with Queen Anne and Italinate Victorian
style cottages in the late 1800s, and Craftsman and California Bungalow styles in the early 1900s,
California Bungalow, Spanish and Mission Revival styles in the 1920s and 1930's, and Postwar
Ranch Style homes in the 1940s and 1950s. The neighborhood has retained much of its distinctive
character and identity due to its location, age and range of architectural styles, with most homes
maintained in good condition and many in original or near-original architectural character. Because
of the apparent concentration of architecturally and historically important homes in this area, the
CHC has discussed the possibility that the East Railroad neighborhood may merit historic district
status.
Contributing Properties List Nominations
The CHC determined that 25 properties met the eligibility criteria for the Contributing List.
These properties are briefly described below.. Historic inventories describing the candidate
properties are available in the Council reading file and at the Community Development
Department.
The owner of property at 2033 Swazey Street has asked that her property not be included in the
Contributing Properties List, as explained in Attachment 4. At the CHC's public hearing,
another property expressed opposition to historic listing. In designating historic properties, the
Council is legitimately exercising its purview and authority to implement the City's General
Plan, analogous to municipal actions in designating land use and in zoning private property.
While it has been the CHC's and the Council's practice to take property owners' concerns into
account, historic designation does not require property owner approval.
1342 Breck Street
Property Owners: Olive Marcom
General Plan: Medium-High Density Residential
Zoning: R-3•
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 5,020 square foot lot; single-story Craftsman
Bungalow
1013 Ella Street
Property Owners: Dale E. Williams
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 5,300 square foot comer lot; two-story
Bungalow.
1015 Ella Street
Property Owners: Peter J. & Kimberly A. Shingle
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 3,980 square foot lot; single—story California
Bungalow.
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CHC Historic Property Nominauvn's, East Railroad Area
Page 5 of 8
1240 Ella Street
Property Owners: Don & Kim Spare
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Two-unit dwelling (duplex) upstairs unit (A) added pre 1940's on a 7,560 square foot
lot.
1255 Ella Street
Property Owners: Wayne R Greene,Etux.
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 9,350 square foot lot, Vernacular style with an L-
shaped floor plan.
1265 Ella Street
Property Owners: Wellman E Branstrom,Tre Etal.
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family detached residence on a 9,350 square foot lot; Vernacular style with an L-
shaped floor plan.
1345#17 Ella Street
Property Owners: Johnson DRT Associates
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Low-income elderly apartment complex on a 54,160 square foot lot; historic candidate
is an older building (Sheriff Hathway's residence)relocated on the site; now consists of a Manager's
apartment, offices and common room; Craftsman Bungalow style.
1672 Fairview Street
Property Owners: Eleanor G Snyder
General Plan: Medium-High Density Residential
Zoning: R-3
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 7,440 square foot lot; single-story Railroad
Vernacular style with Bungalow architectural elements, rectangular in plan.
1043 George Street
Property Owners: Robert Mulvaney, Etux
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 7,480 square foot lot; 1.5-story Neo-Colonial
Bungalow with a rectangular plan.
1127 George Street
Property Owners: Ron Swart
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
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CHC Historic Property NominLLis,East Railroad Area
Page 6 of 8
Description: Two-unit dwelling (duplex) on a 7,320 square foot lot; Neo-Classical Cottage with a
rectangular plan.
1205 George Street
Property Owners: Grant P.&Rachel G. Robbins
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 4,260 square foot corner lot; 1.5-story Neo-
Classical Bungalow with a square plan, with shiplap exterior wood siding.
1215 George Street
Property Owners: Angela F. Cattaneo,Eta].
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 7,470 square foot lot; single-story Colonial
Bungalow with a rectangular plan.
1234 George Street
Property Owners: Alvin V. &Reeda D. Gorham
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 3,740 square foot lot; single-story Mission
Revival style residence with a rectangular plan and a flat roof with a low parapet.
1236 George Street
Property Owners: Robert M. Burke,Etal.
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 3,620 square foot lot; single-story Mission
Revival style residence with a rectangular plan and a flat roof with a low parapet.
1136 Iris Street
Property Owners: Robert&Deborah A. Fastlaben
General Plan: Medium Density Residential, Special Considerations
Zoning: R-2-S
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 7,280 square foot lot; single-story Railroad
Vernacular Cottage with a rectangular plan.
1139 Iris Street
Property Owners: Craig R. McCollum,Tre Eta].
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 3,700 square foot lot; single-story Neo-Classical
Rowhouse, rectangular in plan.
1140 Iris Street
Property Owners: Barbara Stanford
CHC Historic Property Nominan,vns,East Railroad Area -
Page 7 of 8
General Plan: Medium Density Residential, Special Considerations
Zoning: R-2-S
Description: Four-unit dwelling on a 46,270 square foot lot; 2-story Vernacular Farmhouse has an
irregular plan and has been converted to multiple apartments.
1204 Iris Street
Property Owners: Preston H.Thomas
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached, single-family residence on a 13,490 square foot lot; 2-story Vernacular
Farmhouse has an irregular plan and is capped with a high pitched, front-facing gable roof.
1985 Johnson Avenue
Property Owners: Benjamin &Beverly Herlein
General Plan: Offices
Zoning O-S
Description: Single-family house converted to office uses on a 6,030 square foot corner lot; 1.5-story
Craftsman Bungalow style with a rectangular plan.
2105 Johnson Avenue
Property Owners: First Baptist Church of SLO
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 13,360 square foot lot; 1.5-story Craftsman
Bungalow with a rectangular plan.
907 Rachel Street
Property Owners: Elvina R. Callaway
General Plan: Medium Density Residential, Special Considerations
Zoning: R-2-S
Description: Detached two-story single-family, Railroad Vernacular house on a 47,100 square foot
lot.
2056 Rachel Street
Property Owners: David W. Fosse, Tre Eta].
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 10,090 square foot lot; 2-story Railroad
Vernacular residence with a rectangular plan and low-pitched gable roof.
1908 Ruth Street
Property Owners: Gary M. &Susan E. Kounanis
General Plan: Medium Density
Zoning: R-2
Description: Single-family residence detached on a 7,500 square, foot corner lot; single-story Mission
Revival style with a flat roof and rectangular in plan.
.�-7
CHC Historic Property Nominations, East Railroad Area
Page 8 of 8
2006 Swazey Street
Property Owners: FX& CS Del Rio
General Plan: Medium Density Residential
Zoning: R-2
Description: Detached single-family residence on a 7,010 square foot corner lot; single-story
Victorian Cottage,rectangular in plan with medium pitched crossed gable roof
2033 Swazey Street
Property Owners: Trecy M. Carpenter
General Plan: Medium Density Residential, Special Considerations
Zoning: R-2-S
Description: Detached single-family residence with a garage conversion as a second unit on a 6,970
square foot lot; single-story Neo-Classic Cottage, rectangular in plan.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Council could choose to adopt a resolution adding one or more of the candidate properties to
the Contributing List.
2. Council could choose to not adopt a resolution adding one or more of the candidate
properties to the Contributing List.
3. Council could choose to continue the item for additional information or study, and specify
the additional information or analysis needed. There is no mandated deadline for action on
this item.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Council Resolution
2. Draft CHC Minutes
3. Map Showing East Railroad Area
4. Property owner letter on property located at 2033 Swazey Street
COUNCIL READING FILE:
Historic Inventories and Photographs
G/cd-p Lw/jhook/chct2007/ERRarca_CCstaffreport2-20-07a
Attachment 1
RESOLUTION NO. (2007 SERIES)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADDING PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 1342 BRECK STREET; 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255,
1265, 1345 #17 ELLA STREET; 1672 FAIRVIEW STREET; 1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234,
1236 GEORGE STREET; 1136, 1139, 1140, 1204 IRIS STREET; 1985, 2105 JOHNSON
AVENUE; 907, 2056 RACHEL STREET; 1908 RUTH STREET; AND 2006, 2033
SWAZEY STREET TO THE CONTRIBUTING PROPERTIES LIST OF HISTORIC
RESOURCES.
WHEREAS, in 1983 the City Council adopted Resolution No. 5197 establishing the
"Master List of Historic Resources" and "Contributing Properties List" (collectively referred to as
"Historic Resources"),along with procedures for adding properties to the listing; and
WHEREAS, on February 27, 2006, March 27, 2006, and November 27, 2006, following
such procedures the Cultural Heritage Committee held public hearings to consider recommending
to the City Council the addition of several properties in the City of San Luis Obispo to the
Contributing Properties List due to their historical and/or architectural significance to their
neighborhood and to the community; and
WHEREAS, at said meetings, the Cultural Heritage Committee reviewed the historical
documentation on the following properties and recommended that the City Council add these
properties to the Contributing Properties List of Historic Resources:
1. 1342 Breck Street
2. 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255, 1265, 1345#17 Ella Street
3. 1672 Fairview Street
4. 1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234, 1236 George Street
5. 1136, 1139, 1140, 1204 Iris Street
6. 1985, 2105 Johnson Avenue
7. 907, 2056 Rachel Street
8. 1908 Ruth Street
9. 2006 and 2033 Swazey Street
WHEREAS, this City Council considered this recommendation at an advertised public
hearing on February 20, 2007 pursuant to historic preservation guidelines established by Council
Resolution No. 6157 (1987 Series).
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo
that based on the Cultural Heritage Committee's recommendation, documentation as described in
the Historical Resource Inventory for each property, on file in the Community Development
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Resolution No. (206. Series) _ Attachment 1
Page 2
Department, public testimony, the staff report, and on the City's Historical Preservation Program
Guidelines the following:
SECTION 1. Addition to Contributing Properties List. The following properties have been
found to contribute to the historic and architectural character of the City and to meet the criteria for
inclusion on the Contributing Properties List,and are hereby deemed Contributing Properties:
1. 1342 Breck Street
2. 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255, 1265, 1345#17 Ella Street
3. 1672 Fairview Street
4. 1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234, 1236 George Street
5. 1136, 1139, 1140, 1204 Iris Street
6. 1985, 2105 Johnson Avenue
7. 907,2056 Rachel Street
8. 1908 Ruth Street
9. 2006, 2033 Swazey Street
SECTION 2. Environmental Determination. The City Council hereby determines that this
action is not a "project" as defined in Article 20 of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) since it does not have the potential for resulting in a physical change in the environment,
and therefore,is not subject to environmental review requirements.
SECTION 3. Publish Revised Contributing Properties List. The Community Development
Director is hereby directed to amend the Contributing Properties List to include the properties listed
above and to publish revised historic resource listings for public distribution..
SECTION 4. Recording of Historic Properties. The City Clerk is hereby directed to record the
properties'historic designation with the County Recorder,pursuant to State Law.
On motion of seconded by and
on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing Resolution was passed and adopted this 20th day of February, 2007.
Resolution No. (20t„ Series) Attachment 1
Page 3
David F. Romero
ATTEST:
Audrey Hooper,City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
J than Lowell,City Attomey
G/cd-p Wjhook/MM0m/ERRaieaccres2-tam
Attachment 2
MINUTES
SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE
Regular Meeting of Monday, November 27,2006
The meeting convened at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room, San Luis Obispo City Hall,
990 Palm Street.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Chairperson Chuck Crotser, Vice-Chairperson Barbara Breska, Dan Carpenter, Sandy
Baer,Lynne Landwehr,Robert Pavlik, and Tom Wheeler.
Absent: none
Staff: Cari Meyers, Planning Intern; Phil Dunsmore, Associate Planner; and Jeff Hook, Senior
Planner.
MINUTES: On a motion by Committee member Carpenter, seconded by Committee member
Baer, the Committee approved the October 23, 2006 minutes as amended on a 7-0 vote.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Brandon McAdams expressed concerns about the lack of maintenance of the Camphor Trees
lining Mill Street. He noted that the trees contribute to the character of the historic district and
that they need regular maintenance and possibly, phased replacement to ensure the street's
character is preserved. On a motion by Committee member Baer, seconded by Committee
member Pavlik, the Committee directed staff to raise the issue of Mil] Street Historic District
street tree health and maintenance with the Tree Committee and City Council. The motion
carried, 7-0.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
1. 968 Monterey Street. ARC MI 158-06; Review of facade modifications in connection with
seismic strengthening of a non-contributing building in the Downtown Historic District; C-
DH zone; Robert and Ann Tartaglia, applicants.
Phi] Dunsmore presented the staff report and Craig Smith, project architect, explained the
request. He noted that the applicant was trying to retain and where necessary, replicate the
building's original brick fagade which may still exist below the existing plaster exterior. They
plan to remove brick storage wells at the rear of the building and use the brick to repair/restore
the brick fagade.
Steve Sicanoff, 1720 Johnson Avenue, expressed support for the project.
Committee member Pavlik liked the project and felt it was compatible with the Downtown
Historic District. The other Committee members agreed and felt the project was a big
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Attachment 2
CHC Meeting Minutes, November 27, 2006
Page 2
improvement over the building's current appearance. Committee Wheeler said he would like to
have more historic information on the building, such as historic uses, tenants and photographs.
On a motion by Committee member Carpenter, seconded by Committee member Baer, the
Committee voted 6:1 (Committee member Wheeler) to determine that the proposed remodel was
consistent with the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines and will be compatible with the
Downtown Historic District. The Committee referred the project to the Community
Development Director with a recommendation to approve the project.
2. 1160 and 1190 Marsh Street, 1171 Toro Street. ARCMI 152-06; Review of stairwell
renovation and new elevator for the historic Stover's Sanitarium; O zone; RKE Properties 11,
applicant.
Phil Dunsmore presented the staff report, and Rob Rossi, applicant provided background on the
proposed remodel. Craig Smith, Architect, explained how the project would meet the Secretary
of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Buildings and described the proposed
design and materials. Committee member Baer felt this was an interesting "funky" building
with great interior spaces and wide variety of historic architectural features. She generally
supported the applicant's request. Committee member Breska felt this was generally a good
solution and glass building connection did not bother her but felt the concrete block might be too
contrasting. With the proper color, however, the concrete block might be okay. Committee
member Landwehr liked the project and felt the neutral-appearing transition elevator building
was appropriate to join the two historic buildings and was consistent with the Secretary's
Standards.
Other committee members agreed with above comments and on a motion by Committee member
Landwehr, seconded by Committee member Baer, the Committee voted 7-0 to determine that the
proposed addition is consistent with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of
Historic Properties and the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines, and will not impact the
historic, architectural, or aesthetic significance of the Master List historic property provided that
the following refinements are incorporated into the project. The project is hereby referred to the
Community Development Director with a recommendation for approval with conditions to
achieve specific design refinements, as follows:
1. The color of the concrete block shall be selected to harmonize with the building's
brick color, to the approval of the Community Development staff.
2. The Jacaranda tree adjacent to the building shall be preserved.
3. Applicant shall provide historic documentation of existing building conditions and
architectural elements in the areas of the proposed work, to the approval of
Community Development Department staff.
- Attachment 2
CHC Meeting Minutes, November 27, 2006
Page 3
3. 1342 Breck Street; 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255, 1265, 1345 #17 Ella Street; 1672 Fairview
Street, 1026, 1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234, 1236 George Street; 1136, 1139, 1140. 1204
Iris Street; 1985, 2105 Johnson Avenue; 907, 2056 Rachel Street; 1908 Ruth Street;
and 2006, 2033 Swazey Street. CHC 94-04; Consideration of nominating properties in the
East Railroad area to the Contributing Properties or Master List of Historical Resources;
various zones; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant.
Jeff Hook presented slides showing 26 individual properties in the "East Railroad Area" and
explained the process for historic listing. He noted that the CHC had reviewed these properties
earlier in the year and the CHC had directed staff to provide additional research and bring these
properties back to the Committee for possible historic nomination. The Committee reviewed the
slides and historic inventories for each property and took public testimony. Chairman Crotser
opened the public hearing and several property owners of the candidate properties spoke. In
response to property owners' questions, staff explained the benefits and requirements of historic
listing and noted historic listing would not change a property's zoning nor preclude owners for
maintaining, repairing, remodeling or adding onto historic properties provided that new work
harmonized with and did not detract from the historic or architectural character of the original.
Adam Stanford expressed concern about historic listing and said he and his mother would prefer
not have their property listed. Steve and Eileen Sicanoff, owners of the historic Judge's House,
stated they have been able to work with the City on property changes and improvements and felt
property owners shouldn't fear listing; in their experience it was definitely beneficial.
After discussing each property, on a motion by Committee member Pavlik, seconded by
Committee member Breska, the Committe determined the following properties had architectural
and/or historical significance and recommended the City Council add these properties to the
Contributing Properties List:
1342 Breck Street; 1013, 1015, 1240, 1255, 1265, 1345 #17 Ella Street; 1672 Fairview Street;
1043, 1127, 1205, 1215, 1234, 1236 George Street; 1136, 1139, 1140, 1204 Iris Street; 1985,
2105 Johnson Avenue; 907, 2056 Rachel Street; 1908 Ruth Street; and 2006, 2033 Swazey
Street.
The motion carried, 7-0.
On a motion by Committee member Baer, seconded by Committee member Wheeler, the
Committee continued consideration of 1026 George Street for further study. The Community
wanted to verify the building's exterior wall material and where the building was originally
moved from. The motion carried, 7-0.
DISCUSSION ITEM:
4. Mills Act Program Assessment. Review status of Mills Act Program for various properties
throughout the City and review results of property owner survey; various zones; City of San
Luis Obispo.
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Attachment 2
CHC Meeting Minutes, November 27, 2006
Page 4
Can Meyer presented the staff report and explained staff's methodology and findings in
reviewing historic properties under Mills Act contracts with the City. She noted that with the
exception of one property, all of the properties were in good condition with no .major
preservation concerns. The Stanton House, located at 752 Buchon Street, appeared to have roof
and porch condition issues that needed repair. She also noted that survey results indicated
property owners were pleased with the program and were meeting or exceeding the performance
requirements in their contracts. Chairperson Crotser opened the public hearing and several
owners of Mills Act properties spoke in support of the program, including Steve and Eileen
Sicanoff (Judge's House), Dave Hannings (Hays/Latimer Adobe), Cathy Tait (Sandercock
House), Mark Waters (Crosset House), Bob Schrage (Graves House), Bruce Hordes (Edward F.
Bushnell House),Russ Berg (Lind House) and John Louch (George Miller House).
Mr. Waters said his historical plaque needed replacement because the building's historic name
was misspelled; and Mr. Berg requested a historic sign for the recently rehabilitated Lind House.
Mr. Hook said he would have new signs made and get back with property owners. Mr.
Hannings and Ms. Tait disagreed with the property condition notes in the staff report and
explained recent repairs and their drought-tolerant landscape themes and asked that the report be
corrected. Chairperson Crotser thanked Ms. Meyer for her excellent work and commended the
property owners on their preservation efforts and commitment to the program, and asked staff to
correct and clarify the staff report notes on the Sandercock House and Hays/Latimer Adobe as
discussed.
The report was received and filed. No further CHC action was necessary.
The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m. to the regular meeting on Monday, December 18, 2006, at
5:30 p.m.,in the Council Hearing Room, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo.
ResE,eckfully Submitted,
Senior Planner
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Attachment 4
Hook, Jeff
From: Council, SloCity
Sent: Monday, February 05, 2007 10:10 AM
To: Stanwyck, Shelly; Hook, Jeff
Subject: FW:2033 Swazey Street as Historic Resource
fyi....
From: trecycarpenter [mailto:snowbrink@sandpoint.net]
Sent: Sun 2/4/2007 12:08 PM
To: Council, SloCity
Subject: 2033 Swazey Street as Historic Resource
From: Trecy Carpenter
Dawn Brinker
P.O.Box 303
Hope,Idaho 83836
To: San Luis Obispo City Council Members
Mayor Dave Romero
Vice-Mayor Allan Settle
Council Members:
Andrew Carter
Christine Mulholland
Paul.Brown
Dear Mayor,Vice-Mayor and Council Members:
On February 20,2007 you are scheduled to review a recommendation by
the Cultural Heritage Committee for certain properties to be added to
the Contributing Properties List of Historic Resources.
Our property at 2033 Swazey Street has been included in this list for
your consideration.
While there are some.advantages to having a property designated as a
Historic Resource there are also some important disadvantages. The
future use of an Historic Property is defined narrowly with a somewhat
cumbersome and iffy process involved to make beneficial changes.
Because of this,we think it very important that properties chosen for
this categorybe significant and valid regarding both their original
and future value as true historic properties.
Our property,2033 Swazey Street has been altered due to a fire and
subsequent rebuilding sometime in the 1960's. Both the interior and
exterior have been changed due to this fire. For instance;you will
note that there are no chimneys visible on the exterior of the
building. Houses built back when 2033 Swazey was built would have
needed chimneys both for heating fires and cooking fires. The chimneys
must have been removed when the house was rebuilt in the 1960's. 2033
Swazey also includes a legal garage conversion in the rear which is a
decided departure from the original structure as built in the late
nineteenth century.
For these reasons we do not feel that our property qualifies to be
2 -17
2/5/2007
I.W10 JWd4Uy JLICUL QS EUSLUIIE AUSOUrGC rage a or L
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included in the Contributing Properties List. Attachment 4
We live in Idaho and we are not able to attend the City Council meeting
to speak to this issue. Therefore,we would like to designate our
property manager, Ellie Malykont to speak for us.
Thank you for your kind consideration.
Sincerely,
Trecy Carpenter and Dawn Brinker
2/5/2007
From: Trecy Carpenter February 4, 2007
Dawn Brinker
P.O. Box 303 Hope, Idaho 83836 [REC-FNECTo: San Luis Obispo City Council Members
EB u 6 I'NMayor Dave Romero CITY COUNCIL
Vice-Mayor Allan Settle
Council Members:
Andrew Carter
Christine Mulholland
Paul Brown
Dear Mayor, Vice-Mayor and Council Members:
On February 20, 2007 you are scheduled to review a recommendation by the Cultural
Heritage Committee for certain properties to be added to the Contributing Properties List of
Historic Resources.
Our property at 2033 Swazey Street has been included in this list for your consideration.
While there are some advantages to having a property designated as a Historic Resource
there are also some important disadvantages. The future use of an Historic Property is
defined narrowly with a somewhat cumbersome and iffy process involved to make beneficial
changes. Because of this, we think it very important that properties chosen for this category
be significant and valid regarding both their original and future value as true historic
properties.
Our property, 2033 Swazey Street has been altered due to a fire and subsequent rebuilding
sometime in the 1960's. Both the interior and exterior have been changed due to this fire.
For instance, you will note that there are no chimneys visible on the exterior of the building.
Houses built back when 2033 Swazey was built would have needed chimneys both for
heating fires and cooking fires. The chimneys must have been removed when the house
was rebuilt in the 1960's. 2033 Swazey also includes a legal garage conversion in the rear
which is a decided departure from the original structure as built in the late nineteenth
century.
For these reasons we do not feel that our property qualifies to be included in the Contributing
Properties List.
We live in Idaho and we are not able to attend the City Council meeting to speak to this
issue. Therefore, we would like to designate our property manager, Ellie Malykont to speak
for us.
Thank you for your kind consideration.
V
incearpenter and Dawn Brinker
From: Trecy Carpenter _ February 4, 20070
Dawn Brinker
P.O. Box 303
Hope, Idaho 83836
To: San Luis Obispo City Council Members
Mayor Dave Romero
Vice-Mayor Allan Settle
Council Members:
Andrew Carter
Christine Mulholland
Paul Brown
Dear Mayor, Vice-Mayor and Council Members:
On February 20, 2007 you are scheduled to review a recommendation by the Cultural
Heritage Committee for certain properties to be added to the Contributing Properties List of
Historic Resources.
Our property at 2033 Swazey Street has been included in this list for your consideration.
While there are someadvantages to having a property designated as a:Historic Resource
there are-also some important disadvantages. The future use of an Historic Property is
defined narrowly with a,somewhat cumbersome and iffy process involved to make beneficial
changes. Because of this, we think it very important that properties chosen for this category
be significant and valid regarding both their original and future value as true historic
properties.
Our property, 2033 Swazey Street has been altered due to a fire and subsequent rebuilding
sometime in the 1960's. Both the interior and exterior have been changed due to this fire.
For instance, you will note that there are no chimneys visible on the exterior of-the building.
Houses built back when 2033 Swazey was built would have needed chimneys both for
heating fires and cooking fires. The chimneys must have been removed when the house
was rebuilt in the 1960's. 2033 Swazey also includes a legal garage conversion in the rear
which is a decided departure from the original structure as built in the late nineteenth
century.
For these reasons we do not feel that our property qualifies to be included in the Contributing
Properties List.
We live in Idaho and we are not able to attend the City Council meeting to speak to this
isss re ore, we would like to designate our property manager, Ellie Malykont to speak
for us.
Thank you for your kind consideration.
Sincerely,
Trecy Carpenter and Dawn Brinker
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RECEIVED
FEB 2 0 2001
ROBERT AND DEBORAH FASTLABEN SLO CITY CLERK
.....:.................."...e...:.......................................................................................................
1289 Royal Oak P1.
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
HOME (805)481-3638 RED FILE QE4
WORK (805)481-5559 CDD DIRiAAEETING AGENDA FIN DIRcalcoastcarpet@aol.com TTORNEY FIRE CHIEFDATE o EM #�� W DIROLICE CHFFebruary 16, 2007 TC DIRR19 RIR
To: San Luis Obispo City Council Members: L'auv
c"
Mayor Dave Romero a4vex
Vice Mayor Allen Settle
Andrew Carter
Christine Mulholland
Paul Brown
Dear Mayor, Vice Mayor and Council Members,
This letter is in regards to our property at 1136 Iris St., in San Luis Obispo. On
February 20, 2007 this property along with others are being recommended for
"Contributing Properties List of Historic Resources", by the Cultural Heritage
Committee.
We attended the public hearing on November 27, 2006.. We expressed our
concern for being added to this list as did many of our neighbors. We greatly
respect the history of the neighborhood and the intentions of the Cultural Heritage
Committee, but we believe if the structure on 1136 Iris were to be named a
historical site, it would be harmful rather than beneficial to both the community as
well as our own attempts to improve the property and the aesthetic value of the
neighborhood. The house on 1136 his St. is currently in substandard condition
and in need of intensive reconstruction. We believe that building and improving
on this property would without doubt add to the beauty and appeal of the
neighborhood.
We have owned this property in a partnership for the past 17 years and in
November, 2006 closed escrow on the property buying our partners shares. Our
intentions for keeping this property were to increase the size of the existing house
(currently 650 square feet) and add a house at the rear of the R-2 zoned lot. We
contacted the City Planning Department prior to making a commitment to the
purchase to determine what requirements we would need to fulfill to develop this
property to its fullest potential. After extensive research and financial
consultations we agreed it would be possible to acquire the property and move
forward with our plans of making improvements that have been necessary for
many years.
We have invested time and money in making this project come to reality and feel
having the house deemed "historical', would be a possible financial set back for
us and a loss to the neighborhood. We respect the historical integrity of the area
and the city. All changes made to the property would benefit and uphold the
character and charm of San Luis Obispo and our neighborhood. We feel that the
intended improvements to the property as well as the limited historical validity of
the structure itself should disqualify the structure on 1136 Iris St. from possible
historical preservation and limitations on the structure's improvement. In San
Luis Obispo City research, no previous owners were noted or special events took
place to make this property important other than its location.
Our concerns of being added to the Contributing Properties list of Historic
Resources is having another committee other than the City Council have a say on
all changes we make to this house, therefore adding potential unknown excessive
costs we have not budgeted for in this project.
With respect we would appreciate your consideration of removing this property
from the list and allow us to proceed with our intended plans to make this
property more attractive and useable with out historical limitations.
Thank you for your time and consideration; it is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Robert and Deborah Fastlaben