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STAFF REPORT CONCERNING APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS Date: 11/10/05 Application Number: 2005-1028 Property Location: 2300 Portage Avenue Property Owner: Alderwoods Group, Toronto, Canada Landmark or District Designation: Local Landmark— designated in 2000 Rating: Significant —12/ Notable STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE/HISTORIC CONTEXT Romanesque Style gatehouse designed by Claude K. Howell, notable Midwest architect in 1900 Granite masonry units are cut and constructed in much the same way as other stone buildings in the area including Tippecanoe, Copshaholm, and the Birdsell House, which were constructed by expert German stonemasons. They shaped granite boulders with hand tools and fitted each into the fagade. APPLICATION ITEMS: Demolition of the entire structure RECOMMENDATION This is a case of demolition by neglect. The building does not serve the needs of the cemetery administration, so the owners have not put the necessary money into the building to maintain it nor have they sought another use for the gatehouse. They have let it sit hoping that it will deteriorate to a point where it would not be economically feasible to repair; thereby, tying the hands of the Commission. In 2002, HPC's Inspector reviewed the building and found repairs were needed, especially the roof. A letter was sent to the owners requesting repair of the building. Photos of the building were also sent to Code Enforcement, but this building has not been placed on their agendas. The building does need repair but it is not beyond repair. As an administrative office for a cemetery, the building might not make enough revenue to cover maintenance costs, but other uses would certainly be able to support the building economically. Any number of uses could be found for the building besides cemetery administration purposes - an interfaith chapel for memorial services, an upscale restaurant, offices, or banquet/event space. The city may be purchasing right-of-way from the cemetery to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Portage and Lathrop. These monies could be used for the repair building. Staff does not recommend approval. There will be a report from the Landmarks Committee on this matter presented at the November meeting.