HomeMy WebLinkAboutNovember 1976historicp reservation commission
of south bend and st. Joseph county
Agenda - Nov. 15, 1976
Page 2
Certificate of Appropriateness - response to requests
for samples
- Miscellaneous items
Legal--
- National Trust annotated model, historic preservation
ordinance
Public Relations and Education
- Report on Near Northwest Heritage Awareness Program
Standards and Historic Plan
Presidential Report
- Kresge Building "plaquing"
Staff -Report
City CE'TA
= Lawson -Fisher
- quarters - scheduled meeting
7. Old Business
8. New Business
9. Hearing of Visitors
10. Announcements and Miscellaneous Matters
3.1. Adjournment
November 16, 1976
TO: All Commission Members
FROM: Rita M. Kopczynski
Due to an unforseeable lack of quorum, the monthly
regular meeting, scheduled for Monday, November 15th,
will now be held next Monday, November 22, 1976, at
7:30 p.m. in the third floor conference room.
VAI A / X / V /
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TOTAL BUDGET $11,425.00
zz
Treasurer's Report November -19, 1976
Balance
-0-
42.17
600.00
2.49
-0-
1100
-0-
32.45
15.00
-0-
11.44
2.80
833.12
$1,539.47
1976
Line Item
Budgeted
119.1
Admin. Sec't/Research Asst.
$4,000.00
212
Postage
300.00
213
Travel Expenses
600.00
215
Books
150.00
241
Printing, other than office supplies 400.00
242
Publication of Legal Notices
200.00
243
Photography and Blue Prints
400.00
244
Stationery and Printing
125.00
252
Equipment
50.00
261
Legal Services
600.00
371
General Office Supplies
100.00
570
Dues and Subscriptions
150.00
263
Technical Assistance (survey)
4,350.00
$11,425.00
Balance
-0-
42.17
600.00
2.49
-0-
1100
-0-
32.45
15.00
-0-
11.44
2.80
833.12
$1,539.47
historic preservation commission
November 22, 1976
Page 2
Mr. Rothermel made a motion that these bills be approved.for
payment. Mr. Al Stivers seconded this motion and it passed
unanimously.
Ms. Davisson then asked Commission approval to use Community
Development Funds for employing Louis Sabo to photograph some
of the structures within the city under the auspices of the City
Survey. Ms. Kopezynski informed the Commission that she had drawn
up a contract for the photographer at five dollars an hour, and
not to exceed the sum of $100.00. The contract would run for a
month and this sum includes film and processing. Ms. Davisson
mentioned that some of these shots would.be used on the monthly
TV program on historical preservation on Channel 34.
Ms. Davisson likewise asked approval to use Community Development
Funds to purchase a large map of the near Northwest neighborhood
for $30.00 from the firm of Crumlish/Sporleder. This sum would
come under the "supplies" item of the Community Development budget.
Mr. Ted Wasielewski made a motion that both the payment to Louis
Sabo for photographic services and the purchase of the map from
Community Development Funds be approved. Mr. Stivers seconded.
this motion and.it passed unanimously.
Ms. Davisson asked Commission approval to pay Marsha Mullin
$125.00 for services rendered in doing historical research for
the Commission. This item would be paid from the Commission's
regular funds. Mr. Ted Wasielewski made a motion that Marsha
Mullin be paid this sum out of the regular budget. Mr. Rothermel
seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Mr. Rothermel made a motion that the Treasurer's Report be ac-
cepted as submitted. Mr. Stivers seconded this motion and it
passed unanimously.
Mr. Jack Smith then deviated from the agenda to announce that
the Commission had a guest this evening who wished to make a
small presentation.
Mr. Paul Pauszek then introduced himself to the Commission and —
related that he was doing the publicity for three upcoming thea-
trical shows at Central High School. He spoke enthusiastically
about the dedication that is going into the production of these—
plays. He then said that he would like the Commission to enter-
tain a motion that the Little Theatre and the two stages be de-
clared.and designated as historic landmarks. He gave a brief
history of the Little Theatre which was opened in 1950 and was
the first to be so designated in a high school. Mr. Rothermel
suggested that the Commission should have more information about
the nature of the plans for the building. He said the building
was constructed in 1913, and.is now used as an area career center
and also as an adult evening school. He said the building is not
going to be vacated or abandoned. After some discussion, Mr. Smith
referred the matter of possible landmark designation of the build-
ing and the two auditoriums to Mr. Oxian and advised him to give a
report at the December meeting. Mr. Rothermel then informed the
November 22, 1976
Page 3
Commission that the next School Board meeting would be on Monday
night on December 6th at 7:30. He said any presentation would
have to be made on December 6th. Ms. Kopczynski suggested that -
perhaps something regarding this matter could be brought up dur-
ing Historic Preservation Week in May of next year.
5. Correspondence
Ms. Kopczynski informed the Commission that she had talked with
Mr. Cloud about the grant. Mr. Gantz then called.her and in-
formed her that "the grant is coming".
She then said that two requests for information had been re-
ceived: one from Old Richmond, Inc. who had been sent copies
of the enabling ordinance with amendments, the annual report
and other articles pertaining to historic preservation.
A ltter was also received from Roger B. Cosbey who is the Town
Attorney for the Town of Bristol, Indiana and who wanted to know
about an enabling ordinance and any legislation that could be
used to preserve buildings. A copy of the ordinance and an ar-
ticle from the Connecticut Law Review pertaining to preservation
was sent to him.
Ms. Kopezynski then mentioned a letter received from Mr. Robert
C. Gaede of Cleveland, Ohio, who expressed pleasure in hearing
that the Commission obtained funds for the City Survey and also
expressed continuing interest perhaps under the provision of
"additional architectural assistance."
Next, Ms. Kopczynski informed the Commission that a letter had
been received from Chuck Lennon, Director of the Housing Allow-
ance program who expressed a desire to meet with the Commission -
to discuss the Housing Allowance. As he addressed the group be-
fore, it was decided to decline this proposal.
A letter was sent to Mr. Jim Sullivan of the Northern Indiana --
Historical Society thanking him for his co-operation in dupli-
cating the old East Race photographs.
And a letter was received from the Notre Dame architectural
library thanking the Commission for use of the County Survey
cards for duplication.
6. Committee Reports
City Survey
Mr. Ted Wasielewski mentioned that all Commission members
had received a copy of the Guidelines for the City Survey
and then made a motion that these be approved as written.
Ms. Davisson seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Ms. Kopczynski then brought the Commission up-to-date on
the number of firms who expressed interest in submitting
November 22, 1976
Page 4
proposals for the City Survey. She said she has scheduled
the firms of Troyer and Crumlish/Sporleder. Guidelines were
sent to all those that expressed interest and copies of the
legal notice were sent to three others. Mr. Wasielewski
suggested that Commission members be sent a list of all those --
firms receiving legal notices and guidelines. It was mention-
ed that those firms scheduled would present their proposals
at the next caucus meeting on December 13, starting at 7:45 p.m.
Each firm would have approximately one half hour for its pre-
sentation.
Mr. Ted Wasielewski then made a motion to take $100.00 from
the category of supplies in the Community Development budget
to a new category of "printing" for the purpose of photograph-
ing structures. Ms. Joann Sporleder seconded this motion and
it passed unanimously. (Copy of revised budget herewith at-
tached.)
Mr. Wasielewski then asked President Smith if the City Survey
Committee should.continue to serve actively. Mr. Smith af-
firmed that the Committee should serve as a standing commit-
tee throughout the City Survey.
Budget and Fiance
Mr. Oxian reported that he had talked with Commissioner Jas
inski regarding the budget for next year and during a prelim-
inary discussion reported that "things looked good." There
was no further report from this committee.
Historic Districts
Mr. Wasielewski remarked that there was no report from this
committee.
Ms. Rita Kopczynski, however, reported that the Commission
was asked by the Community Development department to submit
to the State Historic Preservation Officer a letter of en-
dorsement of the East Race River Wall and Canoe Portage, as
well as submit a statement that no historic areas or land- ---
marks would be destroyed. Ms. Kopczynski then read the let-
ter of endorsement which was sent to Mr. Cloud, and approved
by the consensus of the Commission. Ms. Davisson voiced ap-
proval of the drafting of these kinds of statements and said.
it meant the Commission was moving ahead in a professional
and official capacity. Ms. Kopczynski said petitioners of
federal funds were required by law to secure such statements
and Ms. Davisson affirmed that the Commission, in writing these
didor-bements would give it more "clout". A guest, Mrs. Doyle,
asked which "wall" was involved and she was informed of the
geographic location of the East Race.
Ms. Kopczynski then informed the Commission that a statement
written primarily by Ms. Joann Sporleder and the Historic
Preservation Planner, protesting the re -zoning petition for
November 22, 1976
Page 5
for the South Bend Heart Surgery and unanimously approved
by the Commission in caucus was read by Mr. John Oxian at
a meeting of the Area Plan Commission. It was reported
that, after much discussion, this petition was sent to the
Common Council without a recommendation. The Commission
was told that Mr. Jack Dunfee, who drew up the petition for
the South Bend Heart Surgery firm, made an impassioned.re-
buttal following the reading of the statement by Mr. Oxian.
Both Mr. Rothermel and. Ms. Sporleder indicated that, since
Mr. Dunfee was on retainer with the Historic Preservation
Commission, that there may be a conflict of interest. Mr.
Smith suggested that Mr. Dunfee be contacted on this matter
and be told how the Commission feels. Mr. Rothermel stated
that the Commission should follow up this matter with the
Common Council. Mr. Oxian made a motion that the Commission
read the statement, which was then read to the Commission by
Ms. Kopczynski, at the Common Council meeting. Mr. Rothermel-
seconded this motion and it passed unanimously. Mr. Ted Was-
ielewski was asked to contact Mr. Dunfee. Mr. Oxian made a
motion that the chairman of the Historic Districts Committee
contact the Commission's attorney, Mr. Dunfee, and reiterate
the contents of the Commission's report, stating that this
will continue to be the Commission's official action. Mr.
Stivers seconded this motion and it passed unanimously. It
was further suggested that this report be incorporated in
the minutes. (report attached).
Historic Landmarks
Mr. Oxian informed the Commission that a letter had been re-
ceived from Mr. William H. Mauk, President of the County .
Council regarding the plaquing ceremony. Ms. Kopczynski then
read the letter which stated that presentation of plaques to
the homeowners of historically landmarked homes would take
place on December 14, 1976 at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Kopczynski said
letters had been sent to the homeowners inviting them to this
ceremony. She also said that the County Commissioners will re-
ceive the plaques for the two County Courthouses and the Dar-
den Bridge. It was stated that after the presentation, the
recipients would be served punch and cookies on the 11th Floor.
Mr. Rothermel suggested.that Mr..knd Mrs. Risler be invited
also and was assured that they were. Ms. Sporleder hoped that
the firm of Crumlish/Sporleder and Judy Studer of the Area Plan
Commission be likewise invited. Mr. Smith suggested that an
invitation be sent to Southhold.
Ms. Kopczynski then spoke about the proposed landmark desig-
nation for Firehouse #7 and said that no survey card had been
made out on this structure. Mr. Smith suggested that M.S. Spor-
leder complete the survey card on this structure.
Mr. Oxian then made a -motion to have the Ehninger residence
at 50705 Orange Road - an Italianate structure - declared.
November 22, 1976
Page 6
an historic landmark. Mr. Stivers seconded this motion and.it
passed unanimously.
Mr. Oxian next suggested that the Historic Landmarks Committee
set up a meeting to concern itself with Certificates of Appro-
priateness.
Mr. Oxian then showed a piece of literature obtained from the
State of Connecticut entitled, "The Eight Most Common Mistakes
in Restoring Old Houses." Mr. Smith directed Rita Kopczynski
to write about getting additional pamphlets.
Mr. Oxian then made a motion that the Commission purchase fif-
teen more plaques, starting in 1977 under the Commission's 1977
budget. Mr. Stivers seconded this motion. There was discussion
on this motion and Ms. Sporleder suggested.that perhaps only
70 structures within the county be declared. landmarks. The -
question was also raised as to whether the plaques would cost
less if bought in quantity. Mr. Oxian first withdrew and then`.
deferredthe motion. Mr. Smith advised Ms. Kopczynski to purl
sue this matter.
Mr. Oxian then suggested that a letter be written to San An-
tonio regarding facade easements. They are doing a lot of
work in this area.
Mr. Rothermel spoke about the Colfax school and said that the
School Corporation had not received any bids in the specified
time but, nevertheless, there is a possible buyer for the
school. He stressed that the building would be properly used
but it will take some time. Ms. Sporleder said she had heard
that a Mishawaka church might possibly be interested in the
building and.might run a school there. Mr. Rothermel reported
that the building cannot be sold for less than 90% of the ap-
praised value. There was discussion on this matter.
Mr. Oxian reported that the Oliver home on Wayne Street was up
for sale. He had written a letter to the owner who was very
enthusiastic and would notify the new property owner about
possible landmark designation.
Legal Committee
There was no report from this committee
However, Ms. Kopezynski distributed -copies of a model historic
preservation ordinance she had received from the National Trust.
They were duly noted by the Commission.
Public Relations and Education
Ms. ---Davis son stated that Channel 34 - WNIT - will devote about
12 - 15 minutes to historic preservation once a month. It
might run to a half hour if a historical personage such as
Mrs. Coquillard could be interviewed. There will be an airing
November 22, 1976
Page 7
on December 7th, and Ms. Joann Sporleder would concentrate on
log houses in this segment. Mr. Louis Sabo would do the slides.
Ms. Davisson asked for ideas and suggestions for future view-
ings from Commission members. It was suggested that perhaps
Mr. Rothermel could. host a segment on history of school houses.
Ms. Davisson stressed that she was open to suggestions and.
wanted as many Commission members involved.as possible.
Ms. Davisson then spoke about a walking tour to card houses in—
the Near Northwest Neighborhood on the 27th of November, start-
ing at 10:00 a.m. at 701 Cottage Grove Avenue. There would.be
a team of eight architects and several professionals. The rain
date is Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Ms. Davisson said this was part of
the Heritage Awareness grant to do this and there will be a —
public meeting on December 12th at 2:00 p.m. at the YWCA to cap-
sulize the findings and pass out the walking maps. She said it
was really an exciting thing to see how neighborhood people are
involving themselves. She stressed that it was helping neigh-
borhoods help themselves and urged all Commission members to
take part.
Standards and. Historic Plan
There was no report from this committee.
Presidential Report
Mr. Smith spoke about the dedication of the commemorative
plaque for the site of the former Kresge store. There was
some discussion about this matter.
Mr. Smith next reported that he had received a reference in-
quiry regarding Marsha Mullin and informed.the Commission that
he had given a very high recommendation as to her qualifica-
tions in behalf of the Commission.
President Smith then spoke about the possibility of enlarged
quarters for the Historic Preservation Commission office. He
said he had had.met with several people this afternoon: He
had had.conferences with MACOG as well as Mr. Johnson - Area
Plan. --He then showed a schematic plan of proposed office
space. The space would encompass part of the foyer of Area
Plan and.would double the current space. Mr. Oxian stated
that he had talked with Mr. Jasinski regarding this matter.
Mr. Smith said that Mr. Kruse was not amenable to giving up
any of his space. It was noted that the Commission would not
pick up the costs for the renovation of putting in a new wall
to accommodate the new quarters. Mr. Smith also suggested
using the third floor conference room (Room 323) but was told
the Alcoholic Beverage Board met there once a month and would,
therefore, be unfeasible.
Mr. Smith informed the Commission that he had received. a letter
from Ruth Price in reference to establishment of historic
November 22, 1976
Page 8,
districts. Mr. Smith referred this matter to Ted Wasielew-
ski who was advised to report to the Commission.
Staff Report
Ms. Rita Kopczynski informed the Commission that the CETA
position which was previously denied was then reviewed and
approved by the mayor and.controller and now would be in
effect until September 30, 1977, pending arrival of CETA
funds from the federal government.
She then spoke about the East Race River Wall and Canoe
Portage statement which was covered earlier. She also
mentioned that the Commission had received a letter from
Lawson -Fisher asking the Commission to co-operate on a couple
of other projects. She read this letter to the Commission
and then read the reply she had drafted which, in essence,
stated that the Commission was aware of the problem but
could not now do anything in this regard. It was mentioned
that Marsha Mullin could perhaps be prevailed upon to do some
of the historical research involved. A discussion ensued as
to whether or not the Commission could accept payment for
doing this kind of work. Mr. Smith suggested that Mr. Dunfee
be contacted on this matter.
7. Old Business
Mr. Oxian reported that he had been interviewed on the "Chronicle"
show on WNDU and.had discussed the Beiger Heritage Foundation.
Ms. Davisson and Ms. Sporleder said it could possibly be improper
to take a stand as a member of the Commission without discussing
it before with the Commission. There was discussion on just what
policy the Commission should take in regard to such matters.
8. New Business
Ms. Sporleder mentioned that it might consider for purchase a
a reproduction of the "Sweets Catalog". No action was taken
in this matter.
Mr. Oxian then mentioned that the National Trust Convention --
would meet in Chicago in 1978 and he suggested that the Commis-
sion should think about whether it could set up something like
a walking tour within the city. There was discussion on this
matter and Mr. Smith voiced the opinion that it was a good idea.
Mr. Oxian then stated that an announcement in the paper that
the Commission is holding these monthly meetings should be made.
It was decided that perhaps Jenne Derbeck could write a short
article and. that the office could notify her before the meeting
is to be held. She could also be provided with an agenda so
that'she could write the article accordingly.
November 22, 1976
Page 9
9. Hearing of Visitors
Mr. Kline made the comment that he truly appreciated the in-
terest and action the Historic Preservation Commission had
taken at the meeting of the Area Plan Commission regarding
the re -zoning petition referred to earlier. Mr. Smith
thanked him for his words.
10. Announcements and.'Miscellaneous Matters
There were no announcements at this time.
11. Adjournment
Mr. Ted Wasielewski moved that the meeting be adjourned.
Mr. Al-Stivers seconded this motion and it passed unan-
imously. The November meeting stood adjourned at 9:22 p.m.
SUBMITTED BY: Russell W. Rothermel, Secretary
DRAFT PREPARED BY: Gertrud C. Gilbert
NEXT REGULAR MEETING
Monday, December 20, 1976
Conference Room 323
Third Floor - County -City Building
7:30 p.m.
November 15, 1976
TO: Area Plan Commission
FROM: Historic Preservation. -'Commission
RE: Re -zoning application No. 501-76, South Bend Heart Surgery
The proposed re -zoning for the South Bend Heart Surgery is
included in one historic neighborhood, and borders on two other
significant neighborhood organization areas. It is felt that the
residential character of this location must be maintained, and
that the natural environment should remain unmolested.
This particular strip of land is in a somewhat fragile area
and, in order to maintain a neighborhood aesthetic as well as a
natural view from Leeper Park, certain architectural responsibilities
must be demonstrated in the site plan, that at this point have not
been obvious. Among these are: architectural compatibility with
the neighborhood in regard to setbac, height massing, comparison of
roof style, and arrangement of window openings. Furthermore, it is
felt, as mentioned, the wooded area adjacent to the train track
should be left intact as one of the few remaining natural sites in
South Bend.
The site plan gives insufficient data to make a complete
judgment and, consequently, the Historic Preservation Commission
views the project unfavorably at this time.
Contractual
Supplies
Printing
Travel
:4p
REVISED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
Architectural Assistance............ 00 .................. *$ 10,000.00
Additional Professional Assistance ......................
. . ... • . 0 • . 0 0 0 • . 0 • • . . . . . • .... 0 0 0 0 • 0 .... 0 . • . 0 . • . • . 0 . 0 • .. • 0 .
. . . . • . . 0 . ... . ... . • . 0 . • ... 0 . . . • . 0 . • 0 • . . .. . . .. ..... 0 • . .... .
. . . . ... . 0000 ... . . .................. . 0000. 0 .. . .. . .... .. .. .
TOTAL
1,000.00
100.00
$ 12,000.00
November 22, 1976