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Statement of Significance: 1. The original congregation was founded by Horation Chapin in 1834. 2. James Oliver, Clem Studebaker and the parishioners circa 1887 split the cost of the building 3 ways; total cost to build: $30-35,000. 3. Generations of Studebakers and Olivers worshipped, were married, and eulogized in this building. 4. The church was the site of Schuyler Colfax's memorial service. 5. The interior and exterior fabric of the building is virtually irreplaceable. 6. Beneath layers of paint (begun with a 1940 "renovation") lay frescoes of various scenes and subjects. 7. 12'+ doors are double sided: cherry on one side, black ash on the other. 8. JD Oliver's children donated the pipe organ, still in tact, as a tribute to their father. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of this amended C of A. Consider: 1. Is approving this C of A congruent with the mission of the HPC? • Yes. Without exaggeration, the building is on the brink of significant collapse or failure. This C of A will assist in the mitigation of possible damage due to the impending winter weather. The petitioner understands that the application of the shingles is absolutely temporary, and is meant only to allow for fundraising and temporary protection of the structure. 2. Is there potential detriment to the district or the surrounding built environment if it is allowed? • No. The C of A is for the temporary application of replacement materials which will be as close a match as is available to the existing slates. Little if any of the work will be visible from the east, north or south. The contractor has 20+ years roofing experience. 3. Is there risk of financial hardship to the petitioner if the C of A is denied? • Unquestionably. The entire roof and interior ceilings are deteriorating by the day. Any way to slow or to temporarily stop that damage will lower future repair bills, protect original building elements, and ensure that no one using the building is injured. *Future plans: • A local contractor, B&B Construction, has volunteered labor and equipment to assist in the demolition of the 1909 (poorly built) brick addition on the west side of the building on the parking lot. Floor joists are rotting and mold is a significant issue. Staff suggested that the area be sealed and not used for the safety of occupants. That C of A application is expected in the spring. • An investment company out of Chicago has pledged assistance with the restoration of religious icons in the sanctuary. • Grants are currently being researched to secure funds to begin the daycare center that the church sees as one of their primary goals. • Grants are also being researched to fund a paint conservator's work on the interior of the sanctuary to determine the condition of the original frescoes. • Plans are underway to launch a capital campaign to fund needed restoration work. Klusczinski: Is the petitioner here? Herdman: Teresa is here from the congregation as well as Mike Smith, contractor. Klusczinski: State your name and address for the record, please. Greene: My name is Teresa Greene, and my address is 124 Linden (?) St., Buchanon, Michigan. Kluscziniski: And you are the agentfor the property. -- Greene: -Yes, I am the representative for the Ambassadors for Christ. Klusczinski: Thank you very much. Would you care to make any statements regarding this amended, continued C of A. Greene: Only that we completely understand that this is a temporary solution, and that as far as, we thank Mike Smith and his generosityfor helping us in this endeavor. In the future, as 6