11-08-99 Zoning & Annexation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Zoning and Annexation Committee November 8, 1999 Page 2 The Committee then reviewed Bill No. 87-99 which is a request to establish the property located at 1040 West Washington as an historic landmark. Mr. John Oxian made the presentation. He noted that this was his first "open-ended recommendation". The property in question is the Engman Natatorium which was built in 1921-1922. It was built to model the Culver Natatorium and that of the Chicago Athletic Club. He noted that the building meets the criteria as an historic landmark in that it represents the"character, interest or value as part of the development, heritage or culture" of the city; that it embodies innovative architectural characteristics; and it is suitable for preservation. Mr. Phil St. Clair, Park Superintendent, stated that the natatorium has a long and rich history however it is currently an eyesore to the residents of Washington Street. He noted that his department would like to demolish the building since it is not practical to restore it. He further believes it could be used as a recreational site for Hansel Center. Mr.Don Fozo,Building Commissioner,noted that many sections of the roof have caved in and that the walls are bowing out. Council Member Pfeifer stated that she lives directly across from the natatorium. She has received many complaints about the building. She believes it would be best to raze the building since many people dump trash around it. She recommended that the front of the building be preserved and would make a commitment to work toward that goal. Council Member Hosinski inquired whether a feasibility study had been conducted. He suggested that the preservation of the facade be looked into by the Park Superintendent and the Building Commissioner. He suggested that the bill be tabled to allow such study to take place. Mr. Oxian stated that he has a 1997 letter from the Park Superintendent stating that a feasibility study of the natatorium would be completed in 1998. As of this date, he has not received an update. Following further discussion,Council Member Pfeifer made a motion, seconded by Citizen Member Carpendar that Bill No. 87-99 be tabled and that a report from the Park Superintendent and the Building Commissioner on the feasibility of preserving the front facade of the natatorium be completed before years end. The motion passed. The Committee then reviewed Bill No. 99-110 which would approve a petition from the Board of Zoning Appeals for the property located at 1511 Pulaski Street. Mr. Kenneth Fedder, the attorney for the South Bend Warehousing & Distribution Corporation, made the presentation. He noted that his client proposes to commence a business for the collection, storage and recycling of paper. The Board of Zoning Appeals at their meeting of October 21, 1999 gave a favorable recommendation to the petition. Catherine M. Brucker, Assistant Zoning Administrator, reviewed the findings of fact from the Board of Zoning Appeals and noted that it is being sent with a unanimous favorable recommendation to the Common Council.