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<br /> <br />STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that existing original windows that are not deteriorated beyond repair, be <br />retained and that windows that are deteriorated beyond repair and that existing replacement windows be replaced with units <br />resembling the original. As a contributing property in a historic district, and constructed of masonry, Staff does not recommend <br />the proposed Window World 4000 Series vinyl window. Staff recommends approval to replace doors, and to install vents and <br />electric meters. <br /> <br />Report compiled by <br />Elicia Feasel, Historic Preservation Administrator <br /> <br />Commissioner Molnar rejoined the proceedings at 6:45 pm. <br /> <br />PETITIONER COMMENTS: <br />Mr. Crumlish introduced the project, stating that they intend to create uniformity in the structure in the exterior appearance, <br />increase the energy efficiency, updating the electrical will require installing multiple exterior meters, and the <br />bathroom vents are a necessity for code. <br />Mr. St. Clair read a prepared letter from the property owners, Adam Sharp and David Steinberg, one lives in Florida and the <br />other in Carmel, IN, Adam has been very active at the property as the owner and has been at the property numerous <br />times. <br />“Good evening, we’d like to thank the Historic Preservation Commission for their attention and assistance regarding <br />the revitalization of the apartment building at 629 Carroll Street. We apologize that neither one of us is able to attend <br />this meeting in person. We are excited about this project and believe that it will act as a cornerstone tha t will <br />stimulate further investment and revitalization in the Taylor’s Field neighborhood. As you know, this building has <br />fallen into a state of severe disrepair and has been neglected for many years prior to our acquisition of the property in <br />November of 2018. We do feel strongly regarding preservation and the history and nature of the character of the <br />exterior of the building and have appreciated the Historic Preservation Commission’s assistance in insuring this is a <br />priority. It is worth noting that at no time during our acquisition of the building did the seller disclose to us that the <br />building was in a Historic District under any type of restrictions. We purchased this building commensurate with our <br />model of revitalizing older apartment buildings to provide safe, clean, and affordable housing to single or double <br />occupancy tenants. We believe that there is a severe shortage of this type of housing in many cities in Indiana. While <br />this is not our primary occupation–we are practicing physicians—we are both passionate about this endeavor and have <br />completed similar projects in Crawfordsville and Muncie, Indiana, over the last couple of years. Although we are <br />very committed to preserving the historical aspects of the building, the windows will all need to be replaced, <br />secondary to poor functioning and poor energy efficiency, it will be needed to install necessary safety features. We <br />currently selected a premium vinyl window that we have used in other projects that has proven to be both great quality <br />and compelling aesthetic appeal in those existing buildings. This window is available in a number of color options, <br />and we are asking for the Historic Preservation Commission to consider the vinyl replacement windows that will <br />enable us to meet all necessary criteria while ensuring that we will stay within our reno budget so as to best complete <br />the revitalization of the building. We look forward to providing safe, clean and affordable housing for the residents of <br />South Bend and hope to complete this project by the end of the first quarter of 2020, where we can once again <br />welcome new occupants to the building. It is our intention to continue to invest in South Bend and we look forward to <br />working with you in the future on additional projects. Your time and attention on this project is greatly appreciated. <br />We once again apologize for not being able to be present for this discussion in person. Respectfully, Adam Sharp and <br />David Steinberg. <br />Mr. Crumlish showed the proposed window. <br />Commissioner Gelfman asked for an assessment by Inspector Szaday of the window. <br />Inspector Szaday said that the sills and jams on the west side and south west side are compromised. Inspector Szaday conveyed <br />that a number of the windows have been replaced. The windows that do not have grids are later replacements. The <br />replacement windows are of varying qualities. Inspector Szaday discussed the location of a fire that affected <br />Mr. St. Clair explained that the entirety of the structure – inside and out – will be rehabilitated. Drywall, flooring, electrical, <br />plumbing. This project is in excess of seven figures, and is a big investment by the property owners. <br />Mr. Crumlish spoke about the extensive interior renovations and the desire of the property owner to instal l an electric heating <br />system to replace the gas boiler system that failed, leading to the eviction of all the previous tenants. The new system <br />will be redundant. <br />Commissioner Gelfman asked if the vinyl windows were the primary choice by Mr. Crumlish. <br />Mr. Crumlish explained that it was not his first selection, but he supports the project. <br />Inspector Szaday explained that the building was ordered ‘vacate and sealed’ by Code Enforcement because of the heating <br />issues. <br /> <br />COMMISSIONER DISCUSSION: <br />Commissioner Hertel expressed her disapproval of the proposed windows, voiced approval for the proposed door and venting. <br />She asked for clarification regarding the utility meter placement. <br />Mr. Crumlish explained that were they to restore the original windows, there would still be forty-plus replacement windows. <br />The applicant is attempting to create uniformity across the entirety of the building.