HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/18/1998, 6 - NOMINATION OF PROPERTIES TO THE MASTER LIST AND CONTRIBUTING LIST OF HISTORIC RESOURCES. council
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CITY OF SAN LUIS OBIS PO
FROM: Arnold Jonas, Community Dev ment Director°
PREPARED BY: Jeff Hook, Associate PI
SUBJECT: NOMINATION OF PROPERTIES TO THE MASTER LIST AND
CONTRIBUTING LIST OF HISTORIC RESOURCES.
CAO RECOMMENDATION: Adopt a resolution adding two properties to the Master List of
Historic Resources and 15 properties to the Contributing Properties List.
REPORT-IN-BRIEF
One of the Cultural Heritage Committee's 1997-99 workprogram priorities is to update the City's
listing of historic properties. The Committee has started its review in the Mt. Pleasanton
Square/Anhohn Addition, a residential neighborhood north of Downtown which was developed
in the 1920s and 1930s. From the initial review of 27 properties, 17 properties were nominated
by the CHC for historic status. Two of the 17 are recommended for the Master List of Historic
Resources because of their historical and architectural significance. 15 properties are
recommended as "contributing" historic properties due to their age, condition, and architectural
style. City Council approval is required to add properties to the Master List or Contributing List
of Historic Resources.
DISCUSSION
Advisory Body Recommendation. On March 23', April 27'b and May 26m, 1998, the
Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) voted unanimously to nominate the following properties as
historic resources(minutes attached):
Master List of Historic Resources:
• 59 Benton Way
• 1600 Madonna Road
Contributing List of Historic Resources
• 48 Benton Way
• 156, 207, 236, 282, 301, 368, 381, 397, 453, 456, 457, 460, 464, and 472 Broad Street
Situation. One of the CHC's high priorities in its 1997-99 workprogram is updating the
City's Master List of Historic Resources. Earlier this year the CHC began reviewing
properties in the Mt. Pleasanton Square/Anholm neighborhood for architectural or historical
significance. Since March, Committee members have considered 29 properties and found 17
properties that appeared to meet Council-approved standards for historic listing. Those
candidate properties are'now ready for Council consideration.
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Council Staff Report - CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 2
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) to help .preserve the historic character of
neighborhoods, and 4) to make certain historic properties eligible for preservation incentives,
such as rehabilitation loans, tax incentives, or more flexible building or zoning codes. 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
nomination to the Contributing Properties List or the Master List of Historic Resources. These
criteria were adopted by the City Council and are listed in the City's Historic Preservation
Program Guidelines (criteria attached). If the Council concurs with the CRC's nomination, it
should adopt the attached resolution adding the properties to Master or Contributing List. The
DeVaul Ranch House is part of a pending annexation. Council action to add it to the Master
List would take effect upon approval of the annexation.
Mt. Pleasanton Square/Anholm Neighborhood. with the exception of the DeVaul
Ranch house, all of the properties are located within the Mt. Pleasanton Square/Anhohn
neighborhood, an area comprised of two residential subdivisions developed in the 1920s and
1930s and located northwest of Downtown between the base of Cerro San Luis Obispo and
Stenner Creek. Predominant architectural styles are Mission Revival, Spanish Colonial revival,
Tudor Revival, Craftsman, and California Bungalow, reflecting popular architectural styles of
that time. The area's popularity was due, in part, to its proximity to Downtown and sheltered
location on the lee side of Cerro San Luis. Early residents include many prominent educators,
business owners and professionals,including:
• George and Chris Anholm, subdividers.
• Letham E. McDougal,Civil Engineer,Highway Commission.
James F. Merson, Teacher, Cal Poly.
• Marvin E. Arnold, Bookkeeper,Booth Brothers.
• J. J. Dunne, Chevrolet Dealer.
• Thomas W. Raycraft,Asst. County Farm Advisor.
This continues to be an attractive, recognizable neighborhood, with most homes in good
condition and many in original or near-original architectural character. Because of the apparent
concentration of architecturally and historically important homes, the CHC has discussed the
possibility that the Mt. Pleasanton Square/Anholm neighborhood may merit historic district
status. As an initial step, the CHC is reviewing all properties within these two subdivisions for
their architectural and historical significance. This is the first group of properties nominated for
historic listing from that review.
Master and Contributing Properties Lists. Procedures for historic nomination are
found in the Historic Preservation Program Guidelines. The Master List of Historic Resources
consists of about 175 of the City's most important residential and commercial structures which
have significant historic or architectural value to the community and which merit special
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Council Staff Report - CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 3
preservation and recognition. Master List properties are eligible to receive an historic plaque,
commemorating the historic name and 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, subject to Architectural Review Commission
approval. According to the Historical Preservation Program Guidelines, demolition of an
historical resource should be done only when: I) the condition of the building poses a threat to
the health, safety or welfare of community residents or people living or working on or near the
site, or 2) the project sponsor demonstrates that it financially infeasible to rehabilitate the
structure or preserve the historic nature of the site."
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. Contributing properties listing is primarily an honorary
designation. Changes to Contributing properties do not require any architectural or historical
review beyond that which would normally be required(none, for additions and remodels to single
dwellings or duplexes),although city policies encourage their preservation. Both Master List and
Contributing List properties are considered "historic" and may qualify for more flexible zoning
and building codes to encourage their preservation and upkeep.
Historic Nomination Procedures. Policy 6.6.1 of the General Plan Land Use Element
says that the City should identify, preserve and where possible restore historic resources. By
designating eligible properties as historic, the City helps preserve important buildings and
features of the community's heritage. In so doing, the City and property owners work together
to maintain the distinctive architectural character and "sense of place" of both residential and
commercial neighborhoods
Master List of Historic Resources Nominations
59 Benton Way
Property Owner: Jean D. Stefanech
General Plan: Low Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: Two-story, Tudor Revival-style house, wood frame construction with red brick siding
on 6000 square foot lot.
Recommended Historic Listing: Type 5 Property (significant at a local level but not eligible for
the National Register of Historic Places).
Historic Significance
59 Benton Way is a two-story, Tudor Revival style house with red brick veneer and decorative
Council Staff Report- CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 4
half-timbering, shake roof,.with tall, narrow windows with decorative diamond-shaped panes
in the top one-third. It is believed to be one of the first houses developed in the Mt.
Pleasanton Square Tract. :Distinctive ."clinker brick" from local. brickyards was used for
architectural detailing. The house has been well maintained and appears to be in good
condition. Although architecturally noteworthy, the house's primary significance relates to its
residents. Its original owner and builder, James Joseph Dunne, was a prominent business man
and leader in San Luis Obispo's auto industry during the late 1920s through the late 1940s.
Born in Ireland in 1886, Mr. Dunne came to San Luis Obispo in 1927 and he and a partner
started the Dunne and Dick Chevrolet dealership at 1255 Monterey Street in 1927. He was
active in the American Red Cross at local and national levels and served as Chairman of the
San Luis Obispo Selective Service Board during World War II. After Mr. Dunne's passing in
1947, his widow Mabel Dunne married Dr. George Dunklee. Dr. Dunklee was a surgeon and
a founder of San Luis Medical Clinic in 1937. Mrs. Mabel Dunklee was a leader in a variety
of civic organizations. She organized the San Luis Obispo chapter of the American Cancer
Society and served as president for 12 years. She also served as president for local chapters of
the Guide Dogs for the Blind, Children's Home Society, and the Women's Auxiliary to the San
Luis Obispo County Medical Society, who elected Mrs. Dunklee as an honorary life member,
the first women so honored. Mrs. Dunklee died in 1972 and a memorial arbor was erected in
her honor in Santa Rosa Park,.with contributions from about 600 persons. Dr. Dunklee died in
1981.
1600 Madonna Road
Property Owner: Bank of America/De Vaul Ranch, LLC
General Plan: Low, Medium, and Medium-High Density Residential; Public Facilities (public
park and drainage facilities); and Conservation/Open Space (40 acre minimum lot size).
Requested Zoning: R-1-PD, R-2-PD, R-3-PD, PF, C/OS-40 (property currently located in
unincorporated County; annexation to City of San Luis Obispo applied for).
Description: One-story Vernacular Farmhouse on acreage,just outside City limits.
Recommended Historic Listing: Type 5.
Historic Significance
The Solomon Foreman House, named after its owner and builder, rancher Solomon Foreman,
is architecturally unique and a remnant of 19' century ranching in San Luis Obispo's urban
fringe area. The house's estimated construction date is 1886, and both house and grounds are
in fair condition. The attractive farmhouse has had some exterior modifications over the years.
A large barn toward the rear of the property is in dilapidated condition. The ranch house and
grounds are significant for several reasons:
1) The ranch house is unique in that it was developed as a"country home" as a rural getaway
for its urban owners, before the turn of the twentieth century;
2) The property retains its building and site integrity, with relatively minor changes to the
original ranch house and grounds;
3) At 120 years old, the Ranch House is one of the City's oldest remaining ranch buildings
Council Staff Report - CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 5
and is probably the last building remaining from the Canada de Los Osos Rancho.
4) The ranch house location and views of the house from Madonna Road create a unique
environmental design continuity in an agriculture setting on the urban fringe;
5) The property is one of the last remaining ranch houses associated with the City's farming
agricultural history; and
6) The Ranch House's original setting and views of the house and gardens from Madonna
Road create a unique visual setting and historic environmental context.
The CHC recommended that along with the Ranch House, the following site features should
also be included as historic features: original privy or "outhouse," formal gardens including
fountain and ornamental plantings, and original fencing. Committee members felt that the
property should be added as a "Type 5 property", meaning that it is significant at a local level
but not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.
Contributing Properties List Nominations
48 Benton Way
Property Owners: Charles and Daphne Boatright
General Plan: Low Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: Two-story Spanish style house on 5400 square foot lot.
156 Broad Street
Property Owner: Ralph A. Jacobsen, Tre. Etal.
General Plan: Low Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: Two-story, Tudor Revival-style house with several additions/alterations on a 23,000
square foot lot.
207 Broad Street
Property Owner: Barbara F. Cully
General Plan: Low Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: Single-story Tudor Revival-style house with brick siding, on a 5100 square foot lot.
236 Broad Street
Property Owners: Mark W. and Julie Bray
General Plan: Low Density Residential
Zoning: R-1.
Description: A two-story, Tudor Revival/Storybook style house with stucco siding on a 5950
square foot lot.
Basis for Listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
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Council Staff Report - CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 6
282 Broad Street .
Property Owner: Edward Cogan
General Plan: .Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Tudor Revival style house on 5900 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectu*al character and condition.
301 Broad Street
Property Owner: Stephanie Cerquettini, et.al.
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Spanish Colonial Revival-style house red clay tile roof on 7750 sq. ft. lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character, condition.
368 Broad Street
Property Owner: Joe Layous
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story, Mission Revival-style house with parapet and tile roof sections, on 6500
sq. ft. lot.
Basis for listing: Age and architectural character.
381 Broad Street
Property Owner: Steve J. Murphy
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story California Bungalow-style house with stucco siding and porch gable roof
with prominent support brackets, on a 7500 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
397 Broad Street
Property Owners: John F. Fitzpatrick
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Mission Revival style house with stucco siding and parapet tile roof on a
5000 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age and architectural character.
453 Broad Street
Property Owner: Darlyn Daniel
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Bungalow house with brick wainscot and composition shingle, hip roof on
a7500 square foot lot.
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Council Staff Report- CHC Historic Resource Nominations
Page 7
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
456 Broad Street
Property Owner: Johnny Gin, Tre et.al.
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Mission Revival style house with tile arcade entry on 7875 square foot
lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
457 Broad Street
Property Owner: Anja K. Treur
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1 .
Description: One-story Bungalow house with recessed center entry and flanking gable roofs, on
7500 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character, condition.
460 Broad Street
Property Owner: Lorraine Zanetti, Tre et.al.
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story, Mission Revival-style house with gable tile roof and entry tower in center
front, on 7600 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age and architectural character.
464 Broad Street
Property Owner: Ronald and Sherry Saul
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story California Bungalow-Craftsman style house with horizontal shiplap wood
siding and porch gable roof with support brackets, on a 7500 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
472 Broad Street
Property Owners: Kathelene A. Henry
General Plan: Low-Density Residential
Zoning: R-1
Description: One-story Mission Revival style house with fanlight mullion window in front and tile
roof, on a 6750 square foot lot.
Basis for listing: Age, architectural character and condition.
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Council Staff Report : CHC Historic Resource Nominations _
Page 8
:ALTERNATIVES
1. Do not adopt.a resolution adding_ one or more of the candidate propeities to the
Master List or Contributing List.-
2.
ist:2. Continue the nominations item for=additional information or study, and specify ft
the additional information or anal- "'' needed. There is no mandated deadline for action,
on this item.
Attachments: -Draft resolution-
-CHC
esolution-CHC draft mim
-Excerpt,Historical.Preservation Program Guideliaes(Appeadik Q
-Historical Designation Criteria_
t'
Council Reading Ffle: Historic Resource Inventories,,Documentation of Historical Significance.
�lyi.:msvbsou�ces2.eapt
RESOLUTIONNO. (1998 SERIES)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADDING PROPERTIES AT 59 BENTON WAY AND 1600 MADONNA ROAD TO THE
MASTER LIST OF HISTORIC RESOURCES AND ADDING PROPERTIES AT 48
BENTON WAY, 156,2079 2369 282,301,368,3819 3979 453,4569 4579 460 4649 AND 472
BROAD STREET TO THE CONTRIBUTING PROPERTIES LIST
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 March 23, 1998,April 27, 1998 and May 26, 1998 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 Master List and Contributing Properties
List due to their historical and/or architectural significance to their neighborhood and 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 Master List of Historic Resources:
• 59 BENTON WAY-"J.J.Dunne House"
• 1600 MADONNA ROAD-"Solomon Foreman House"
and recommended that the City Council add these properties to the Contributing Properties List:
• 48 BENTON WAY
• 156,207,236,282,301,368,381,397,453,456,457,460,464,and 472 BROAD STREET;
and
WHEREAS,this City Council considered this recommendation during a public hearing on
August 18, 1998 pursuant to historic preservation guidelines established by Council ResolutionNo.
G -9
Council ResolutionNo. (1998 Series)
Page 2
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
Department,public testimony,the staff report, and on the City's Historical Preservation Program
Guidelines the following:
SECTION 1. Addition to Master List of Historic Resources. The following properties are
hereby added to the Master List of Historic Resources with the numeric historic rankings(Type#5)
and with the appropriate findings for National Register eligibility,where applicable,as listed in the
Documentation of Historical Significance and Historic Resources Inventory for each property,on
file in the Community Development Department. These properties are more particularly described
in Exhibit A:
• 59 Benton Way
• 1600 Madonna
SECTION 2. Addition to Contributing Properties List. The following properties have been
found to contribute to the historic and architectural character of the Mt.Pleasanton Square/Anhohn
neighborhood and meet the criteria for inclusion on the Contributing Properties List:
•_ 48 Benton Way
• 156,207,236,282,301,368,381,397,453,456,457,4609 464,and 472 Broad Street
SECTION 3. Publish Revised Master List. The Community Development Director is hereby
directed to amend the Master List of Historic Resources and 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
Master List properties'historic designation with the County Recorder,pursuant to State Law.
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Council ResolutionNo. (1998 Series)
Page 3
On motion of ,seconded by and
on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
the foregoing Resolution was passed and adopted this 18th day of August, 1998.
Mayor Allen K Settle .
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED:
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August 18, 1998
EXHMIT A
LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES
Following are legal descriptions of the properties added to the City of San Luis Obispo's Master
List of Historic Resources by City Council ResolutionNo. (1998 Series):
1. 59 Benton Way. Historic Name: "J.J.Dunne House."
City of San Luis Obispo, Mt. Pleasanton Square,Lot 43 (Assessor's Parcel Number(APN#)
052-172-015). Owner: Jean D. Stefanech.
2. 1600 Madonna Road. Historic Name: "Solomon Foreman House."
City of San Luis Obispo, Lot— Block , Tract APN# 067-241-0001). De
Vaul Ranch,LLC. (annexationpending)
Cultural Heritage Committee Minutes
March 23, 1998
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS:
1. Consideration of nominating properties located at: 48 Benton Way, 59 Benton Way,
156 Broad Street, 207 Broad Street, 236 Broad Street, and 1600 Madonna Road (De
Vaul Ranch.house) to the Contributing.List of Historic Resources or.the Master-List of
Historic Resources. (McMasters; 45 minutes).
Committee members decided to take public comment on all the properties "up front" and then
discuss the properties one at a time.
Madelline Ropner, 721 Murray Street, spoke in support of adding 59 Benton Way to the
Master List of Historic Resources. She described the original builder/owner of the property,
Mr. Dunn, and provided a brief history of the original Mt. Pleasanton subdivision.
Harvey Norton, 67 Benton Way, expressed concerns that the CHC was again discussing
historic district status for the Mt. Pleasanton/Anholm neighborhoods. He noted that many
neighbors were opposed to historic district status and had appeared at the CHC's meeting last
year to express that concern.
Committee member Kardel felt that 59 Benton Way would qualify for the Contributing List on
design criteria alone. Possibly this was the first house built in the subdivision. She felt that
with additional research, the property may qualify for the Master List. She suggested that Ms.
Ropner might find the original construction date in the County Assessor's records or building
permit records.
Gail Jacobsen, 156 Broad Street, gave a brief description of their house's history, explaining
that they bought the house in 1975 and are the second owners. Ralph Jacobsen asked what the
difference between a contributing and master list property was and how it would affect them,
and whether historic designation would apply to the entire lot.
Committee member Carr asked whether 59 Benton Way was a prototype for the entire
subdivision. If so, she supported inclusion of the property on the Master List. She was
comfortable adding properties to the Master List if they were "prototypes" of a particular
architectural style or trend.
In response to the Jacobsen's questions, Jeff Hook reviewed the criteria for historic designation
and the differences between contributing and master list historic properties.
59 Benton Way
After a brief discussion, and on a motion by Committee member Kardel, seconded by
Committee member Schrage, the Committee voted to recommend that the City Council add 59
Benton Way to the Contributing List of Historic properties based on its age (50 years+) and
Tudor Revival architectural style. The motion carried, 7-0. CHC members asked that the item
be placed on the April agenda if additional research indicated that the property would qualify
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for the Master List.
Committee member Nicholson cautioned that the Committee was proceeding on new ground in
considering houses from the 1920s and 1930s for the Master List. He noted that the fust 175
properties on the Master List were "easier" to identify,.since most were pre-1900. There were
many more properties in this newer age category, so the CHC needed to comparatively
consider properties within neighborhoods to evaluate their importance. He noted that their are
many Tudor Revival and California Spanish buildings which were designed as variations on a
theme. He added that he was not against adding these types of properties; but wanted to
ensure that the Committee proceeded with care before adding properties to the Master List.
Committee Chair McMasters agreed, but noted that this was a statewide trend, to recognize
distinctive architectural styles from the post-1920 period up to current day.
Committee members briefly discussed the historic designation criteria and agreed that the
judgement of what was historically or architecturally significant would have to change when
the CHC considered residential subdivisions developed after the 1920s. They agreed that
properties would be reviewed and taken to the City Council in "batches" and that this approach
would allow the CHC to compare properties' relative significance or importance before the
City Council took final action.
156 Broad Street
On motion of Bob Schrage, seconded by Amy Kardel, the Committee voted 7-0 to recommend
that the City Council add 156 Broad Street to the Contributing List of Historic Properties,
based on age and distinctive (Tudor Revival) architectural style. Due to the number of
modifications made to the property, committee members did not believe the property would
merit Master List status.
Committee member Whittlesey questioned whether the CHC should be considering historic
district status first, before a case-by-case evaluation of each property for Master List status.
Jeff Hook explained that last year when the CHC began looking at the Mt. Pleasanton/Anhohn
neighborhood, the Committee was overwhelmed with the number of properties. They decided
instead to focus on individual properties which made up the potential districts.
236 Broad Street
Committee member Kardel felt that this property was closest to being eligible for the Master
List of the in-city properties that the CHC was considering this evening. She wondered if the
owners would support their property being added to the Master List of Historic Resources.
Mark and Julie Bray, property owners, said they would support listing of the their property on
the Master or Contributing List.
On motion of Bob Schrage, seconded by Amy Kardel, the Committee voted 7-0 to recommend
that the City Council add 236 Broad Street to the Contributing List based on its age and
distinctive architectural style. Committee members indicated they would be willing:to consider
Master List status with additional information on the former owners, builder, architect and on
the uniqueness of the property's design.
48 Benton Way
On motion of Amy Kardel, seconded by Bob Schrage, the Committee voted 7-0 to recommend
that the City Council add 48 Benton Way to the Contributing Property List and not to return
for Master List consideration (unless requested by the property owner), based on .the
property's age and distinctive California Spanish architectural style.
207 Broad Street
On motion of Matt Whittlesey, seconded by Amy Kardel, the Committee voted 7-0 to
recommend that the-City Council add the property to the Contributing List based on its age and
distinctive architectural style. The motion carried 7-0.
1600 Madonna Road
In response to a question from Committee member Kardel, Mr. Hook explained that the
DeVaul Ranch House is located outside City limits, but that it is proposed for annexation to the
City of San Luis Obispo. The property's environmental factors, historic significance, zoning
and appropriate land uses will be considered by the City Council as part of its annexation and
planned development hearings, so it was within the CHC's purview to review the property for
historic significance and, if deemed appropriate, to recommend historic listing.
The Committee took a five-minute break to make copies of a report on the DeVaul Ranch
House prepared by Betsy Bertrando and just presented at the meeting.
Committee members felt that based on the preponderence of written information presented to
the CHC, the property clearly met the eligibility criteria for the Master List of Historic
Resources.
On motion be Paula Carr, seconded by Bob Schrage, the Committee recommended that the
City Council add 1600 Madonna Road to the Master List of Historic Resources, based on
findings that:
1) The Ranch House is unique in that it was developed as a "country home" as a rural
getaway for its urban owners, before the turn of the twentieth century;
2) The property retains its building and site integrity, with only minimal changes to the
original ranch house and grounds;
3) At 120 years old, the Ranch House is one of the City's oldest remaining ranch buildings
and is probably the last building remaining from the Canada de Los Osos Rancho.
4) The ranch house location and views of the house from Madonna Road create a unique
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environmental design continuity in an agriculture setting on the urban fringe;
5) The property is one of the last remaining ranch houses associated with the City's farming
agricultural history;
6) The Ranch House's original setting and views of the house and gardens from Madonna
Road create a unique visual setting which would be adversely affected if the house were
moved;
7) Along with the Ranch House, the following site features should also be included as historic
features: original privy or `outhouse," formal gardens including fountain and ornamental
plantings, and original fencing.
8) The property should be added as a Type 5 property, meaning that it is significant at a local
level but not eligible for-the National Register of Historic Places.
Cultural Heritage Committee Minutes
April 27, 1998
2. Consideration of additional historical documentation submitted by the property owner in
support of including property located at 59 Benton Way on the Master List :of Historic
Resources (Madeline Ropner, applicant). (McMasters; 30 minutes).
Jeff Hook introduced the item, explaining that the CHC has already nominated this property to
the Contributing List; however at its last meeting left open the possibility that with additional
documentation, it might qualify for the Master List of Historic Resources.
Madeline Ropner explained the history of the house, focusing on the contributions of its early
owners, Dr. George Dunklee and Mabel Dunklee.
After discussing the additional historic documentation presented verbally and in writing, the
Committee agreed that 59 Benton Way met the criteria for nomination to the Master List. On
a motion by Bob Schrage, seconded by Bob Pavlik, the Committee nominated 59 Benton Way
to the Master List of Historic Resources as a Type 5 property (locally significant, but not
eligible for the National Register), finding that:
1. The house's historic name is recommended as the "J.J. Dunne House", named after its
original owner/builder.
2. The house is architecturally significant as an excellent example of English Tudor Style in
San Luis Obispo, with a local influence of"clinker brick" architecturally detailing which is
believed unique for this area.
3. The house has maintained a high degree of architectural integrity and is good condition.
4. The property is associated with persons who have made significant contributions to the
community as a public servant (Dr. Dunklee) or as a community leader (Mabel Dunklee).
Cultural Heritage Committee Minutes
May 26, 1998
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM
1. Consideration of nominating properties located at: 282 Broad Street, 301 Broad
Street, 368 Broad Street, 381 Broad Street, 397 Broad Street, 453 Broad Street, 456
Broad Street, 457 Broad Street, 460 Broad Street, 464 Broad Street, 472 Broad Street,
and 515 Broad Street to the Contributing Properties List.
Jeff Hook introduced the item and explained that at last month's meeting, committee members
had reviewed these Broad Street properties and determined that there was sufficient
documentation to proceed with historic nomination and that these properties appeared to meet
listing criteria for the Contributing List of Historic Properties. He outlined the Committee's
action alternatives and noted that the property owners had received individual, mailed notice of
tonight's meeting.
Chairman McMasters noted that the owner of a. commercial building at 515 Broad, Clara
Dalidio, submitted a letter asking that her property not be included in the historic listing
program.
Committee members felt that in general, if a property owner objected to historic listing, the
CHC should honor the property owner's wishes and not forward a nomination to the City
Council for historic listing.
Hook explained that at last month's meeting, the Committee had deleted five properties from
the list of candidate historic properties because they did not appear to meet eligibility criteria;
the property at 515 Broad Street would be the sixth property deleted for the list of 17
properties originally reviewed.
On motion of Amy Kardel, seconded by Bob Schrage, the Committee nominated 282, 301,
368, 381, 397, 453, 456, 457, 460, 464, and 472 Broad Street to the Contributing List of
Historic Properties. The motion carried, 6- 0 (Committee member Whittlesey absent).
Hook noted that these nominated properties would be combined with those nominated at the
April meeting and forwarded to the City Council for action, probably in July.
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APPENDIX C. Procedures for adding properties to the
Master List of Historical Resources.
1. Who Can Aooly.
Any person may request that a property be added to the Master List of Historical
Resources. The Cultural Heritage Committee, Architectural Review Commission, Planning
Commission or the City Council may also initiate an application.
2. Where and How to Apply,
A standard application form must be completed and submitted to the Community
Development Department. The form must be accompanied by all available information
that documents the historical importance and architectural character of the building
or site.
There is no fee for applying for Historical Resource designations.
For information about data sources and help with preparing an application, contact the
Cultural Heritage Committee.
3. Actions by the Cultural Herltaee Committee,
The Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) will review the application and decide whether
it merits consideration. If the CHC finds that an application merits consideration, a
public hearing will be scheduled and the applicant will be notified.
The time, date and place of the public hearing will be advertised in the Telegram
Tribune newspaper. At the public hearing, or in no case more than 60 days from the
hearing date, the CHC will recommend that the property be added or not added to the
Master List of Historical Resources. When evaluating an application, the CHC will use
the attached criteria.
4. Actions by the City Council.
Within sixty days from the CHC action on an application, the City Council will decide
if the property should be added to the Master List of Historical Resources. These
decisions will be made at an advertised public hearing. The applicant will be
notified of the hearing date.
In making these decisions, the City Council will consider the CHC's recommendations,
public testimony and application materials. The action of the City Council is final.
If the City Council approves the addition of a property to the Master List of
Historical Resources, the City Clerk will send the applicant a copy of the council
resolution that affirms this action.
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City of San Luis Obispo Cultural Heritage committee
DELINEATION OF HISTORIC RESOURCE CRITERIA
FOR BUILDING EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
ARCHITECTURAL CRITERIA
I. Style
Describes form of building such as size, structural shape and details within
that form (i.e., arrangement of windows and doors, ornamentation, etc.)
Building style will be evaluated as a measure of:
1. The relative purity of a traditional style (as compared to building styles
in San Luis Obispo),
2. Rarity of existence at any time in the locale; and/or current rarity
although the structure reflects a once popular style;
3. Traditional, vernacular and/or eclectic influences that represent a
particular social milieu and period of the community; and/or the uniqueness
of hybrid styles and how these styles are put together.
4. The degree to which the structure has maintained its integrity (i.e.,
assessment of alterations and structural condition, if known).
II Design
Describes the architectural concept of a structure and the quality of artistic
merit and craftmanship of the individual parts. Reflects how well a particular
Style or combination of styles are expressed through compatibility and detailing
of elements. Also, suggests degree to which the architect (i.e.,
carpenter-builder) accurately interpreted and conveyed the style(s).
Building design will be evaluated as a measure of:
1. Notable attractiveness with aesthetic appeal because of its uniqueness,
artistic merit, details and craftsmanship;
2. Overall attractiveness because of craftsmanship and aesthetic value, though
.not necessarily unique;
3. An expression of interesting details and eclecticism among
carpenter-builders, although the craftsmanship and artistic quality may not
be superior.
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III. Age
._.... .._ .._........-
Age is a measure of how relatively old a structure is in the context of the
history of San Luis Obispo, primarily Anglo-American history (circa 1850). (See
Scale of Building Age).
CRITERIA FOR BUILDING EVALUATIONS
IV. Architect
Describes the professional (an individual or firm) directly responsible for the
building design and plans of the structure.
The architect will be evaluated as a reference to:
1. A master architect (e.g., Wright).
2. A known architect who made significant contributions to the state or region
(e.g., Julia Morgan).
3. An architect who, in terms of craftsmanship, made significant contributions
to San Luis Obispo (e.g., Abrahams who, according to local sources,
designed the house at 810 Osos - Frank Avila's father's home - built
between 1927 - 30).
4. An early architect who is otherwise of no special significance but can be
identified as a professional (e.g., pioneer architects of the region as
confirmed by AIA archival membership records of California and the Central
Coast).
V. Environmental Design Continuity
Describes the inter-relationship of structures and their relationship to a
common environment. Refers to the continuity, spatial relationship, and visual
character of a street, neighborhood, or area.
Environmental design continuity will be evaluated as a measure of the:
1. Symbolic importance of a structure to the community and the degree to which
it serves as a conspicuous and pivotal landmark (i.e., easily accessible to
the public, helps to establish a sense of time and place).
2. Compatibility of a structure with neighboring structures in its setting on
the basis of period, style (form, height, roof lines), design elements,
landscapes, and natural features; and how these combine together to create
an integral cultural, historic, or stylistic setting.
3. Similarity to and/or compatibility of a structure with its neighboring
structures which, collectively, although of no particular aesthetic value,
combine to form a geographically definable area with its own distinctive
character.
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HISTORICAL CRITERIA
VI- History --PC_r w n
Describes a person, group,;organization; or institution• that has been connected
with the structure, either intimately or secondarily, for at least two
generations (i.e., 40 years).
Historical person will be evaluated as a measure of the degree
or group to which a person
.was:
L Significant to the community as a public leader (i.e.;mayor, congressman,
etc.) or for his or her fame and outstanding recognition - locally,
regionally, or nationally.
2. Significant to the community as a public servant who has made early, ..
unique, or outstanding contributions to important local affairsor
institutions (i.e., councilmen, educators, medical professionals,
clergymen, railroad officials). _ . .
3. Contributions which., though minor, directly or indirectly, had a beneficial
effect on the community (i.e., firemen, law enforcement officers, postal
workers, businessmen/shopkeepers, city employees, etc.).
VII. History - Event
Associated with a social, political, economic, governmental, educational or
other institutional event that has been important to the community.
Historical event will be evaluated as a measure of:
I. A landmark, famous, or first-of-its-kind event for the city - regardless of
whether the impact of the event spread beyond the city.
2• A relatively unique or interesting contribution to the city (i.e., the Ah
Louis Store as the center for Chinese-American cultural activities in early
San Luis Obispo history).
3. A contribution which, though minor, nonetheless was important to the
community (i.e., local interest groups); or, alternatively, a unique or
interesting contribution only loosely connected with the structure, object,
site, or district.
VIII. Historv-Context
Associated with and also.a prime illustration of predominant patterns of
Political, social, economic, cultural, medical, educational, governmental,
military, industrial, or religious history.
Historical context will be evaluated as a measure of the degree to which it
reflects:
1. Early, first, or major patterns of local history, regardless of whether the
historical effects go beyond the city level, that are intimately connected
with the building (i.e., County Museum).
2. Secondary patterns of local history but closely associated with the
building (i.e., Park Hotel).
3. Secondary patterns of local history but loosely associated with the
building.
Historical context will also be evaluated on the basis of:
4. Whether or not a structure occupies its original site and/or whether or not
the original foundation has been changed, if known.
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