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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 Heritage Commission City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission January 4, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 8:35 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Paul Durrenberger, Rebecca Hunter, Bill Ristow, Betsy Couture, and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent:James Halik 3. Others Present: Pat Miller, Ali Hallock, Dann & Nancy Farquhar 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Wiedmeyer made a motion to approve the minutes of November. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed 5-0 with 1 abstention. C. Plaque Applications: None. D. Old Business: None. E. New Business. 1. Appeals: a. Discussion for 101 Center, 107 Center, 256 Division and 260 Division: Commissioner Couture noted that the church had raised over$400,000 to purchase the properties, so another fundraising effort to rehab the structures could happen. Commissioner Durrenberger said while that was possible it was not probable. Chairman Briska reminded the members that there is always grey area in the guidelines for cases just like these houses. Commissioner Ristow agreed completely with Briska but stated he didn't want to set a precedent for other church organizations. Commissioner Hunter asked staff if there were any conditions the commission could impose. Staff responded that the commission could overrule the DRSC denial with conditions that the owner could then appeal to council if they disagreed. Commissioner Wiedmeyer asked if the homes were eligible for the NSP program and if staff believed the rehab costs were accurate. Staff stated that the properties are not bank-owned and therefore not eligible for the NSP program. Additionally, based on estimates received to rehab the NSP homes, staff believes the rehab costs submitted by the applicant are low. Commissioner Durrenberger commented that while he would like to see the houses relocated, given their current condition, he did not think that was feasible. 101 Center: Commissioner Durrenberger made a motion to uphold the decision of the DRSC.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed 5-1 (Briska). Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 January 4, 2011 R 107 Center: Commissioner Ristow made a motion to uphold the decision of the DRSC.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Durrenberger and passed 5-1 (Briska). 256 Division: Commissioner Hunter made a motion to uphold the decision of the DRSC.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed 5-1 (Briska). 260 Division: Commissioner Couture made a motion to uphold the decision of the DRSC.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed 4-2 (Briska & Hunter). b. 162 Summit: no discussion. Commissioner Hunter made a motion to uphold the decision of the DRSC.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and failed 0-6. 2. Landmark Application—806 W Highland Avenue: no discussion. Commissioner Ristow made a motion to recommend the designation of 806 W Highland as a local landmark to the city council.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. Al) 3. 2011 Budget:Staff presented the final 2010 budget and 2011 proposed budget. 4. Request to approve membership renewals: Staff submitted a request to renew memberships in the following organizations: landmarks Illinois, Historic Illinois, National Alliance, National Trust(EJC and gift memberships), and IAHPC.All memberships total $475. Commissioner Ristow made a motion to approve all memberships.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. F. Correspondence.Staff announced magazines and newsletters were in her office. G. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Ristow to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Durrenberger and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:57 p.m. Respectfully submitted, • nifer Fritz- . ' ms Historic Preservation Planner 411) City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission March 1, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:46 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Rebecca Hunter, Betsy Couture, and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent:James Halik, Paul Durrenberger, Bill Ristow 3. Others Present: Dan Miller, Brendan Morris, Lucy Elliott 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Hunter made a motion to approve the minutes of January. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: 1. 352 Commonwealth Avenue:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance, and received the following average scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 8.25 Historical Significance: 6.75 Current Maintenance: 8.75 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Hunter to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1949,A. & M. Levine.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. 2. Some commission members did not receive the new packet with additional plaque applications for 376 Park Street and 843 Esmeralda. A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to table these applications until the next meeting to give them time to review the applications.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. E. Old Business: 1. Certificate of Economic Hardship (COE)for St.Joe's properties:Staff provided clarification from the Legal Department regarding the procedures and process that needed to be followed, specifically that the Findings of Fact for the denied COA needed to be approved by the EHC and a vote would need to be taken on the COE as a separate issue. A motion was made by Commissioner Hunter to approve the Findings of Fact for the denied COA.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. A general discussion was held among the commissioners regarding the requested COE.The commissioners were concerned that approving the COE would set a precedent for Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 March 1, 2011 demolition by neglect. Staff reminded the commission that there is no such definition in the preservation ordinance. Commissioner Couture stated that the church paid cash for the fourth property($275,000 for 107 Center) instead of fixing up the three they already owned. Commissioner Wiedmeyer added that if they could raise that amount of capital then they are hard pressed to prove economic hardship. 101 Center:A motion was made to approve the COE by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and seconded by Commissioner Couture.The motion failed 1-3. 107 Center:A motion was made to approve the COE by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and seconded by Commissioner Hunter.The motion failed 2-2. 256 Division:A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the COE and seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion failed 1-3. 260 Division:A motion as made Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the COE and seconded by Commissioner Couture.The motion failed 1-3. A subcommittee was formed to investigate alternatives to demolition. Volunteers for the subcommittee included Commissioners Couture, Wiedmeyer, and Ristow. Staff reminded the members they had 90 days to find viable economic alternatives for legal counsel to review. 2. Bungalow Historic District: Nothing to report. 3. Cell Phone signs: Staff reported that all the signs are done and will be installed this spring, but she has never received the recording for Channing Park to upload to the website. Commissioner Couture stated that Gary Joy is not doing well, but she will try to contact his wife. 4. Neighborhood Groups: No reports. Commissioner Wiedmeyer asked staff to actively solicit input from neighborhood groups to facilitate the EHC as a hub sharing resources, ideas, cross promotion, etc. F. New Business. 1. Bike C.H.A.I.N.: Ms. Lucy Elliott and Brendan Morse presented their idea to create a bike tour to connect 3 museums, several national register properties, and other points of interest on the east side. Ms. Elliott believes the museums(Historical Museum, Public Museum,and Fire Barn Museum) are strongly when they work together and this tour would physically link them. She has developed a prototype pamphlet that would cost approximately$1900-$2600 to print 1000 copies.While she has not had any commitments yet, she does expect to be able to raise additional funds and apply for a few grants, possibly requesting a $1 donation for each map to create funds for additionally printing as needed. A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to provide up to$500 in funds for this project contingent on securing additional funding.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and approved unanimously. 2. Preservation Month:Staff confirmed that the Mayor's awards will be held on the 8th floor of the Professional building on May 5th, reception at 6pm with the program starting at 7pm. Event forms are due March 25th a. Mayor's Awards Nominations: 1. Black History Family Festival:A question was raised if this award was for Dr. Folarin or the event. Staff clarified that it is for the event. Unanimous approval. 2. 730 Douglas:Staff reminded that this project was nominated last year and did not receive recognition. Mr. Miller,who nominated the property,stated that he believed the owners have gone above and beyond the grant work since the Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 3 March 1, 2011 rk completely changed the design after DRSC approval to match a recently discovered photograph of the house. Unanimous approval. 3. Dan Miller(Artisan Award): No discussion. Unanimous approval. 4. Doug Tomsha: No discussion. Unanimous approval. 5. ECC History Book:Staff provided the book for the commissioners to look over. Unanimous approval. 6. Paul Schmolke: No discussion. Unanimous approval. 7. Police History Display:Staff reminded the commission that the police force is celebrating 175 years of service to the City of Elgin. Unanimous approval. 8. Steve Stroud (George Van de Voorde Award):Several commissioners mentioned that this award was long overdue. Unanimous approval. 3. 110 S Channing Street:Staff reminded the members to follow the guidelines they have not what they wish the guidelines said. Commissioner Couture commended Habitat on the partnership with the city and looking at the picture suggested the windows could be replaced to continue the excellent working relationship. Commissioner Briska noted that energy efficiency and uniformity needed to be balanced with preservation issues. There are costs and man power issues on these large rehabs with limited resources. Commissioner Hunter mentioned that if the guidelines are lacking they can be revised but you have to go with the guidelines you have now. Commissioner Wiedmeyer was concerned that installing inferior wood windows (not old growth) next to brick mold may rot them faster. He suggested Habitat give the frames an epoxy coat before back priming. Travis Juracek r (representing Habitat) stated they would look into that and noted that their homeowners are aware of their responsibilities to maintain the homes. Commissioner Couture made a motion to uphold the denied COA.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and failed unanimously. 4. 485 E Chicago Street: Commissioner Wiedmeyer asked if the windows could be recycled. Mr. Miller commented that the chances of the windows fitted another location are slim to none. Mr.Juracek stated that Habitat was interested in recycling anything they could and invited John to come take a look at the windows if he wanted. Commissioner Wiedmeyer also mentioned that the attached curved on the arch needed to have the same profile as the sashes and be installed on the inside and outside. He asked that staff be shown a sample before all the windows were completed and installed. Mr.Juracek agreed to have staff review a sample in the field and mentioned that the arched piece will be epoxied to the sash,sanded smooth, primed and painted. Commissioner Hunter made a motion to uphold the denied COA.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and failed unanimously. G. Staff Announcements. Staff announced magazines and newsletters were in her office. H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:32 p.m. r Respecty,ly submitted, nifer Fritz- iams Historic Preservation Planner A City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission April 5, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Rebecca Hunter, Betsy Couture, Paul Durrenberger, Bill Ristow,Tom Krebsbach and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent:James Halik 3. Others Present: Dan Miller, Pat Miller 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Hunter made a motion to approve the minutes of March. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: 1. 376 Park Street:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance, and received the following average scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 6.5; Historical Significance: 6.83; Current Maintenance: 8.33 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1890, H.Juby.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. 2. 843 Esmeralda Place:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance, and received the following average scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 6.5; Historical Significance: 7.83; Current Maintenance: 8.83 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1906, D.C. Cook.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. 3. 162 Summit Street:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance, and received the following average scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 7.33; Historical Significance: 7.33, Current Maintenance: 6.66 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 April 5, 2011 A motion was made by Commissioner Durrenberger to award a plaque with the following AI inscription: 1885,J. Forrdrescher.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. E. Old Business: 1. Bungalow HD:Staff reported that no meeting has been held. Unless someone else steps up the group will be dissolved at this time. 2. Preservation Month:Staff reported on the events set in the calendar. Invitations are being sent out soon (waiting for election results) and JoEllen and Betsy will be touring the 8th Floor of the Professional building soon. 3. Neighborhood Groups: No reports. F. New Business. 1. St.Joe's Properties Subcommittee: Commissioner Couture reported that she is having a hard time getting a hold of the Father Dominguez. Staff provided her with Ted Kirpach's contact information. Commissioner Wiedmeyer reported that phone estimates from house movers stated$18,000 to$23,000 to move each house and another$20,000 to$30,000 for each foundation. Mrs. Miller passed around photos from the recent site visit. There was discussion about the utility companies not charging for relocation services if it was a city project. Also, whether or not TIF funds could be used to relocate the structures. 2. Findings of Fact: Adillk a. 162 Summit Street:A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to approve the Findings of Fact.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed 6-0- 1. (Commissioner Krebsbach abstained since he was not on the commission when the appeal was heard). b. 110 S Channing Street:A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the Findings of Fact.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed 6-0-1. (Commissioner Krebsbach abstained since he was not on the commission when the appeal was heard). c. 485 E Chicago Street:A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to approve the Findings of Fact.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Durrenberger and passed 6-0-1. (Commissioner Krebsbach abstained since he was not on the commission when the appeal was heard). G. Staff Announcements. Staff welcomed Tom Krebsbach to the EHC! And announced that Brendan Morse would be coming soon. H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Hunter to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m. Respectfully submitted, k nifer Fritz-W1 ms Historic Preservation Planner City of Elgin rub' Elgin Heritage Commission June 7, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Rebecca Hunter, Bill Ristow,Tom Krebsbach and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent:James Halik 3. Others Present: LaLuce Mitchell and Brendan Morse 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the April meeting were not submitted for approval. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: 1. 826 Brook Street:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance, and received the following average scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 7.4; Historical Significance: 8.0; Current Maintenance: 8.4 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1912 alt. 1929, K. Ford.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. E. Old Business: 1. Bungalow HD:Staff reported that Steve Stroud is willing to head the subcommittee and has asked for a meeting with the Mayor. The Mayor would like to see a program like Berwyn or Chicago's. It will probably end up being a hybrid of the two with a little unique twist to make it fit Elgin's bungalows. 2. Preservation Month:Attendance was recorded for all the events. Most activities were well attended and everyone seemed to like the Mayor's awards at the professional building. We plan to do it again there next year. Staff reported on the events set in the calendar. Invitations are being sent out soon (waiting for election results) and JoEllen and Betsy will be touring the 8th Floor of the Professional building soon. 3. Budget Update:Staff submitted a recap of all expenses to date. There was a brief discussion about other opportunities to spend the remaining funds. Chairman Briska mentioned that this is the 50th anniversary of the EAHS and the 30th anniversary of the first historic district. Grindstone productions would like to make a promotional CD from existing clips taken over the years. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to spend $500 on the promotional CD.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 June 7, 2011 • 4. St.Joe's Properties Subcommittee:Commissioner Wiedmeyer has contact 2 house movers to come and look at the properties to provide a firm number to move them. One is free but time is limited the other costs$100 but can come right away.A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to pay up to$100 for a house mover to consult on the three houses.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach and passed unanimously. 5. Neighborhood Groups: No reports. F. New Business. 1. Recent Past Survey Findings: LaLuce Mitchell, a recent graduate of the School of the Art Institute with a Master of Science in Historic Preservation presented the survey findings.The survey was conducted by landmarks Illinois with the help of the students. Four students surveyed Elgin,cataloguing only significant examples of non-residential architecture from 1935- 1975. They looked for unique features, high style(brutalism,art moderne,etc), composition, and unique materials or unique use of traditional materials. They found 75 buildings in Elgin as opposed to only 50 buildings in all of NW Cook County. 2. EHC and DRSC Appointments: We are currently 3 short on the EHC and 2 short on the DRSC. Staff proposes changing the ordinance to allow two members of the EHC on the DRSC and then two "at-large" members.The commission was receptive to the idea and staff will provide preliminary language at the July meeting. 3. 302 W Chicago Street:Staff updated the EHC on the decision by city council not to rehabilitate the property at this time. Staff suggested the EHC create a promotional brochure similar to the Veteran's Memorial brochure that let individuals make donations for brick pavers.The EAHS has agreed to be the bank so all donations would be tax deductible. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to appropriate $500 for the costs of designing and printing brochures.The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. G. Staff Announcements. None. H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Chairman Briska to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:08 p.m. Respectfully submitted, • nifer Fritz liams Historic Preservation Planner • City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission July 5, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:01 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Rebecca Hunter, Bill Ristow, Brendan Morris, and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent:James Halik and Tom Krebsbach 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the June meeting were not included in the packet and could not be reviewed for approval. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: None submitted E. Old Business: 1. Bungalow HD: Staff reported that the Mayor would like the EHC to continue to look into this idea. Steve Stroud will be setting up a meeting with the Mayor to discuss his ideas and staff will attend. 2. St.Joe's Properties Subcommittee: Commissioner Wiedmeyer and staff met with the house mover at the properties on June 10. The houses were measured, routes were explored, and alternatives discussed. The mover believes the best route is Park Street. He would move 101 Center first,then 256 Division and finally 260 Division. His estimate is$60,000 for all three and the move would take four days. His estimate does not include any prep work that is required (see below),traffic control, utility work, or the foundations at the new location which would have to be in place before the move occurred. i. Additional Work required before move: (1) 101 Center: Mover unable to inspect basement framing.This house may not be able to be moved. GC needed to demolish some of basement ceiling to expose framing at sill plate to make final determination.Then if house is able to be moved,garage would have to be removed, porches removed and roofs framed back to house, chimney removed, cistern filled in,and completely gutting the basement removing all mechanical,electrical and plumbing systems that are below the joists. (2) 256 Division: Pre-move demolition would include removing the porch (framing the roof back to the house),chimney removed, and completely gutting the basement removing all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that are below the joists. (3) 260 Division: Pre-move demolition would include removing the porch (framing the roof back to the house), chimney removed, removing the rear two-story addition and completely gutting the basement removing all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that are below the joists. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 July 5,2011 , 3. Update on 302 W Chicago Street:Staff reported that there is no update at this time. 4. Appointments to the EHC and DRSC:Staff reported that all appointments are on hold while council reviews all commissions at the city. All members should continue to serve even if their terms have hit the maximum amount allowed. City Staff is working to get the appointments to the regulatory commissions(P&D, Z&S, and DRSC) moving along quickly. At the Chairman's requests, staff will provide a current roster to both the EHC and the DRSC. 5. Neighborhood Groups: GPA reports that the 30th Annual Housewalk will be a celebration of 30 years of achievement in the neighborhood.The EAHS is hosting blah on July 14th at the Public Museum. The Fire Barn will host an open house on Saturday July 23. Membership is $15 for individuals, $25 for family. E-mail Brendan at elginfiremuseum @weebly.com or check out their Facebook page for more info. The board is working towards being open consistently(Saturday and Sunday 12-4) with two people. And the building needs repairs to the chimney, which the city is looking into. F. New Business. None. G. Staff Announcements. Magazines, newsletters, etc. H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Chairman Briska to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m. Respectfully submitted, t nifer Fritz-MO s Historic Preservation Planner A) ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, February 1, 2011 7:00 pm City Council Chambers 2nd Floor North Tower 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 AGENDA A. Call Meeting to Order and Roll Call B. Approval of Minutes 1. January 4, 2011 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. 352 Commonwealth Ave rik E. Old Business 1. St.Joseph properties 2. Bungalow Historic District 3. Update on Cell Phone Tour signs 4. Report from Neighborhood groups i. NENA ii. GPA iii. SWAN iv. ABODE v. ARCHES vi. DNA vii. EAHS F. New Business 1. Bike CHAIN project 2. Preservation Month G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment r • 1 City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission September 6, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Bill Ristow, Brendan Morse,Tom Krebsbach and John Wiedmeyer,James Halik, Betsy Couture and Rebecca Hunter 2. Members Absent: None 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present:Jennifer Fritz-Williams, Historic Preservation Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to approve the August 2, 2011 minutes with the correction that Ms. Couture was to be listed as present. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik and passed unanimously. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: 1. 826 Brook Street: This plaque was previously approved but further evidence was presented concerning the date of construction. A brief discussion followed and name of J. Moulton with the date of 1911 will be placed on the plaque. Motion by Commissioner Hunter to accept this change. Seconded by Commissioner Ristow. Passed unanimously. 2. 463 East Chicago Street: The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance, and current maintenance and received the following scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 8.25; Historical Significance: 8; Current Maintenance: 8.1. Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category, it is eligible to receive a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1876, G. Hinsdell. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach and passed unanimously. Commissioner Hunter commended the city staff for work on this plaque application. 3. 457 East Chicago Street:The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance, and current maintenance and received the following scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 7.7; Historical Significance: 8.25; Current Maintenance: 8. Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it is eligible to receive a plaque. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 August 2, 2011 A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1873,J. Penny. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Morse and passed unanimously. Note for the record that both houses were rehabilitated under the Neighborhood Stabilization by the City of Elgin. Commissioner Hunter, again, commended the city staff for work on this plaque application. E. Old Business: 1. Bungalow HD:Staff reported that there are no updates on this initiative. Reportedly, both the past mayor, Ed Schock and current Mayor Dave Kaptain are favorably inclined to the idea. However, the subcommittee, headed by Steve Stroud, has not met with the new mayor yet and the subcommittee is not currently meeting to advance the idea the matter will be dropped from the agenda until further notice. 2. St.Joe's Properties Subcommittee:Commissioner Wiedmeyer had no further updates. Contractors have been reluctant to submit bids to relocate these homes until it is more certain that the other conditions are in place to make this happen. Those include determining the cost to temporarily move overhead utility lines,securing a firm commitment on the donation of a destination lot(s)for the homes, draft specifications and soliciting bids from contractors interested in acquiring the homes for continued rehabilitation. Staff reported that the legal department is still reviewing the Heritage Commission decision on denying a certificate of financial need to permit demolition and to ensure that due process for the applicant has taken place before making recommendations to the city council. 3. Update on 302 W Chicago Street:Staff reported that applications for CDBG funds are due by December 15th. These, if obtained and approved by city council, would be used to address the structural issues in the building. 4. Reports Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Matters: Northeast Neighbors Association (NENA) will hold a Christmas house tour on December 3. Gifford Park Association's (GPA) 30th Annual Historic Elgin House Tour is September 10th and 11th. The Elgin Area Historical Society(EAHS) has the cemetery walk on September 25. The Fire Barn Museum will hold an open house on 9/25. F. New Business. 1. PA 97-0203 River Edge Redevelopment Zone Act: Recent changes to this law include some new reporting requirements and greater incentives. The act is intended to help certain cities redevelop their riverfront areas. The matter comes up for discussion because Landmarks Illinois asked Commissioner Briska if the act would benefit preservation of the Fox Valley Country Day School campus. The School property is just outside the zone covered by the act. 2. Heritage Commission Budget: In preparation for the December plaque ceremony an update of monies remaining in the budget was requested. The event is scheduled for December 8th at 6 PM at the Elgin Historical Museum. Commissioner Hunter will provide a short lecture on Elgin's Mid-Century Modern Architecture as part of the program. G. Staff Announcements. Staff reported on her experience judging the Oak Park Preservation Awards. Commissioner Halik reported that his home would be featured on an HGTV segment. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 3 August 2,2011 H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Hunter to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Halik and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarosh Saher Senior Planner r • ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 pm City Council Chambers 2"d Floor North Tower 150 Dexter Court, Elgin,IL 60120 AGENDA A. Call Meeting to Order and Roll Call B. Approval of Minutes 1. September 6, 2011 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. None E. Old Business 1. Update on St. Joe's properties 2. Update on 302 West Chicago Street 3. Report from Neighborhood groups on heritage related activities i. NENA v. ARCHES ii. GPA vi. DNA iii. SWAN vii. EAHS iv. ABODE viii.Fire Barn F. New Business 1. Survey of historic plaques and monuments in Elgin. 2. December 8, 2011, Plaques awards ceremony planning. 3. Status of Preservation Planner position and liaison role with Commission. G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment w .. rik City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission October 4, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, William Ristow, Brendan Morse, Tom Krebsbach,John Wiedmeyer, Betsy Couture and Rebecca Hunter. 2. Members Absent: James Halik. 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Sarosh Saher, Senior Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to approve the September 6, 2011 minutes. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: No plaques were reviewed or scored at this meeting. Commissioner Couture requested a replacement plaque for 320 N. Spring Street in time for the December 3 Christmas tour organized by NENA. The Commission members did a count on the number of plaques and determined that there were 4 properties currently selected to be awarded a plaque in December—826 Brook Street,457 East Chicago Street, 463 East Chicago Street and 140 North Gifford Street. Staff was requested to include the documentation on the two Chicago street houses on the net agenda for discussion by the Commission. E. Old Business: 1. St.Joe's Properties Subcommittee:the Commission asked staff whether there was any movement on this issue. Staff recounted steps that were taken by the Historic Preservation Planner to put together a chronological list of events that were gone through during the appeals process and provided that to the city's corporation counsel. There has been no further movement since that was undertaken. 2. Update on 302 W Chicago Street: No additional updates were provided at this time. There had been discussion of potentially doing a volunteer project on the property, and creating a brochure marketing the project and the property. However, with the change in staff, that appears to have been put on hold. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 October 4, 2011 3. Reports Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Matters: i. Northeast Neighbors Association (NENA)will hold a Christmas house tour on Saturday, December 3. There are seven houses on the tour. ii. Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA)—discussion took place regarding the clock on the Tower Building on East Chicago Street. It was stated that the faces of the clock are with Jerry Sorensen and the door is in a room on the 11th floor. Mr. Sorensen was looking at obtaining an auto time mechanism for the clock. The current mechanism was a combination of old and new and was still there in the building. A recent estimate that was obtained for the repair of the clock came in at$17,000. There is also a need to fix the frame. iii. The Fire Barn Museum will hold an open house on October 22 between 11:00am and 3:00pm. Commissioner Morse discussed some of the work that was completed on the building. The maintenance issues were dealt with, the chimney was fixed, new flashing was installed, the bay window was repainted and monument sign was rebuilt. F. New Business. 1. Survey of Historic Plaques and Monuments in Elgin: Chairman Briska indicated that there was no inventory of all the plaques and monuments in the city. He stated that Commissioner Halik had volunteered to conduct a survey, but had to forego it due to unavoidable circumstances. Judy VanDusen, associated with the genealogical society, had undertaken a similar effort and compiled some data, and put it together in a searchable database. Additional discussion also took place regarding a project to document in photos every gravesite in the cemetery. This was an idea by Tom Migatz, in charge of the Bluff City Cemetery. Chairman Briska stated that there is already a lot of documentation in the cemetery office that can be transferred to a kiosk for the consumption of the public along with the photographs. 2. December 8, 2011, Plaque Presentation Ceremony: The event is scheduled for December 8 at 6 PM at the Elgin Historical Museum. Commissioner Hunter will provide a short lecture on Elgin's Mid-Century Modern Architecture as part of the program. The event is usually attended by around 30 people. There was brief discussion on the program, and the refreshments that would be served at the event. 3. Status of the Preservation Planner Position and Liaison with the Commission: Staff gave an update on the position. The position had been advertised with a closing date of October 28. Following that, there would be an interview of selected candidates with a final decision made in late November or early December. Chairman Briska recommended that the Elgin Heritage Commission be involved in the interview process since the position is ultimately the liaison to the Elgin Heritage Commission. 4. Letter recommending the work of Jo Ellen Doscher:An additional item was added to the agenda. Ms. Doscher, former associate member on the Commission, had requested a letter of recommendation from the Elgin Heritage Commission for her portfolio. The work that she Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 3 October 4, 2011 r was requesting the recommendation on was for her catering of the Mayor's awards events. Chairman Briska had prepared a draft for the consideration of the Commission. He read it out at the meeting. Commissioner Couture had also provided input on the content of the letter. A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to provide a letter recommending the work of Jo Ellen Doscher prepared and signed by Chairman Briska on behalf of the Commission. The motion was seconded by Tom Krebsbach and passed unanimously. G. Staff Announcements. No announcements were made. H. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Ristow to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 0 fk,bk\ Sarosh Saher Senior Planner r City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission November 1, 2011 MINUTES A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:02 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Betsy Couture,James Halik, Rebecca Hunter,Tom Krebsbach and John Wiedmeyer. 2. Members Absent: Brendan Morse and William Ristow 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Sarosh Saher, Senior Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Couture to approve the October 4, 2011 minutes. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: 1. 457-459 East Chicago Street 2. 463 East Chicago Street These applications were placed on the agenda because Mr. Saher believed that the Commission had requested the information. However, that was not the case, and the Commission moved onto the next item. 3. 907 Cedar Avenue The plaque was presented by Commissioner Hunter. The plaque was scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance, and current maintenance and received the following scores in each of the three categories. Architectural Significance: 7.5; Historical Significance: 7.3; Current Maintenance: 7.6. Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category, it is eligible to receive a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1925,J Spitzer. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hunter and passed unanimously. There was brief discussion regarding the preparation of the December 8 plaque presentation ceremony. The invitations would be prepared in-house. The Commission recommended that they be sent out as soon as possible. Mr. Saher also indicated that he would be sending out email notifications and inserting a note on the city's Facebook page. E. Old Business: 1. Commission budget update. Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 2 November 1, 2011 There was a discussion on the Commission budget and how to allocate the balance. 411/ After accounting for the funds that would be paid to paint the plaques that were recently approved (approximately$300), a recommendation was made to provide the remaining equally to the Elgin Area Historical Society and the Elgin Fire Barn Museum for their projects that include the reconstruction of an exhibit and general maintenance to current exhibits and computer equipment. A motion was made by Commissioner Halik to divide the balance in the Commission budget between the Elgin Area Historical Society and the Elgin Fire Barn Museum. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer and passed unanimously. 2. December 8, 2011, Plaques awards ceremony final planning Discussion was held earlier in the meeting. 3. Status of Preservation Planner position and liaison role with Commission Mr. Saher stated that the application deadline for the position had closed. Over 100 applications had been submitted. A question was asked as to whether the position would even be filled due to the current budget situation. Mr. Saher replied that staff had not been given any direction other than to continue with the process of reviewing the applicants. 4. Survey of historic plaques and monuments in Elgin. Commissioner Halik indicated that he would take on the task of completing the survey of the plaques and monuments. There was brief discussion on whether to continue with the survey or not. It was finally decided to continue with the survey. 5. Update on St. Joe's properties Mr. Saher indicated that the city's corporation counsel had asked staff to ensure that all the procedures of the ordinance were followed, since a lot had happened from the time the appeal had been submitted to the Commission. He would report to the Commission with the next steps on the appeal. 6. Report from Neighborhood groups on heritage related activities. The following neighborhood group activities were discussed. i. NENA (a) The Home for the Holidays house tour is planned for December 3. (b) Sherman Hospital plans to demolish the oldest portion of the hospital building, the parking deck and emergency room in 2012. The plan to meet with the NENA board of directors to discuss. ii. DNA (a) The pizza parlor (Chooch's Pizza) was being eagerly expected to open by the middle of 2012. '111, (b) The DNA gala event was scheduled for November 18 at the casino ballroom. iii. EAHS-the benefit was scheduled on November 6 with a Woody Guthrie reprise. iv. Fire Barn—the barn held a successful open house in October. r Elgin Heritage Commission: Minutes page 3 November 1, 2011 F. New Business. 1. Dedication of Settlement marker, Nov 13 at 3 PM, NW corner of Hill Ave and Fremont Street. A brief history was discussed of the Commission's role in funding this project, along with private donations. The event is scheduled for November 13 at 3:00pm, at the NW corner of Hill Avenue and Fremont. The following additional items were discussed. 2. Web page updates were requested on the City of Elgin website. 3. Cell Phone Tour:the Commission requested the status of the remaining locations that needed to be recorded. The budget will need to be factored in to the 2012 expenses of the Commission. Staff was requested the check the usage of the site to see what the statistics were. The recording for the remaining sign needs to be completed. The Trout Park cell phone sign can be installed. Other remaining signs that need to be installed are— Lords Park, Lords Park Zoo, Wing Park Golf Course, Zeigler Court (there is a questions about what is city property where the sign can be installed), and Prairie Rock. 4. Artspace Ground breaking: the event was held on October 18. It was very well attended. The Commission commended Cherie Murphy, Sylvia Grady and the developer and architect's team for organizing the event. G. Adjournment: 1. Motion made by Commissioner Hunter to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couture and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, /1 Sarosh Saher Senior Planner