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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 Heritage Commission Agendas and Minutes ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, February 5, 2013 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. December 20, 2012 Special Meeting C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications E. Old Business 1. Appeal of Design Review Subcommittee Decision: 384 Raymond Street 2. Cell phone tour signage installation 3. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company historical marker 4. Reports from Neighborhood groups on heritage related activities F. New Business 1. Historic Home Energy Efficiency Options- Megan Butler, Field Organizer, Energy Impact Illinois 2. Sears House Preservation —Commissioner Rebecca Hunter 3. EHC 2013 Budget 4. City of Elgin Grants 5. Preservation Month G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission February 5, 2013 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, Elizabeth Femal, Rebecca Hunter, Scott Savel, John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: James Halik,Tom Krebsbach, William Ristow 3. Others Present: Megan Butler, Energy Impact Illinois 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Ms. Munro made a correction to the minutes to revise the respective meeting date for the minutes from October 2, 2012 to December 20, 2012. Chairman Briska added subheadings under "New Business" and corrected the minutes to reflect his "yes" vote on the Appeal of Design Review Subcommittee Decision: 384 Raymond Street. A motion was made by Commissioner Hunter to approve the February 5, 2013 minutes as amended. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 5-0. C. Recognize Persons Present: None D. Plaque Applications: None. Ms. Munro has received an email from Steve Stroud who confirmed that he is working on four plaque applications. E. Old Business 1. Appeal of Design Review Subcommittee Decision: 384 Raymond Street Ms. Munro updated the Commission on the project status.The property owner withdrew his appeal and his contractor is working on the specifications to include with his fiber cement board COA request as per the EHC's December 20, 2012 discussion.The contractor's tentative plans are to present the COA to the Design Review Subcommittee in February or March 2013. 2. Cell phone tour update r . Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 February 5,2013 Ms. Munro stated that she is meeting with the City's website administrator to discuss adding the cell phone tour information to the website. Commissioners also discussed marketing the cell phone tour sites with the addition of a header on the cell phone tour signs which would direct viewers to the website or to a webpage with a document showing the various locations. 3. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company historical marker Ms. Munro stated that the Public Works Department is willing to re-install and that she is working with them to install the signage with a one-way bolt. 4. Reports from Neighborhood groups on heritage related activities Hidden Treasures of the Historic Holy Hill—Sunday,April 28, 2013 The Gail Borden Library, City of Elgin, Elgin Area Historical Society, DNA, and Congregation Kneseth Israel as well as several Historic Holy Hill churches have been working to coordinate details for the April walking tour event. Approximately six—seven churches will be profiled on the tour. Each church will focus on a unique historic or architectural "treasure"/detail to showcase to the public. Ticket prices will be charged to offset the operational expenses, with the remainder to be donated to the Feeding Greater Elgin food pantry. r ABODE Commissioner Femal mentioned ABODE's presentation on history of Almora Park. F. New Business 1. Historic Home Energy Efficiency Options- Megan Butler, Field Organizer, Energy Impact Illinois Ms. Butler discussed energy efficiency programs of benefit to historic home property owners. Commissioners asked about where air leakage is most prevalent. Ms. Butler confirmed that it is most often through the roof or basement, not windows. Insulation and air sealing can often increase energy efficiency. 2. Sears House Preservation—Commissioner Rebecca Hunter Commissioner Hunter provided the Commissioners with an overview of a rare 1951 Sears "Homart" sectional home in Oakbrook Terrace that she is working with the Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society to save from demolition.The house is city owned and its demolition has been proposed to allow space for a retention pond for the new city hall. Commissioner Hunter will update the Commission on the historical society's preservation effort at a future EHC meeting. r 3. EHC 2013 Budget Ms. Munro confirmed that$5,000 has been allocated for EHC activities. A budget . Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 February 5,2013 worksheet was distributed to show projected expenditures. 4. City of Elgin Grants Commissioners discussed potential revisions to the Historic Rehabilitation Grant Guidelines and Eligibility requirements. Contractor licensing and certification and insurance, materials requirements, detailed project specifications, and expectations for projects to be completed above code requirements was discussed as essential for inclusion in the grant program. Additionally, past years have placed the EHC grant review committee's and staff evaluation ratio at 50/50. Commissioners suggested that this change to 75/25. Ms. Munro will meet to discuss the program changes in greater detail with Commissioners Wiedmeyer and Savel and Senior Planner Sarosh Saher prior to launching the grant program. 5. Preservation Month Preservation Month Brochure Commissioners mentioned various events for inclusion in the brochure and Chairman Briska reminded Commissioners to continue to send information to Ms. Munro as they finalize details. Ms. Munro will also reach out to other partnering heritage agencies for information. Mayor's Awards Event The event will be conducted on Tuesday, May 7. The Elgin Art Showcase and Lords Park Pavilion were suggested locations. The Elgin Art Showcase was suggested as the preferred location due to logistical details. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: 1. Staff Announcements Ms. Munro announced that Judith Rivera's EHC appointment is set for Council approval at their February meeting. 2. Post World War II Residential Architecture Commissioner Hunter discussed a new publication related to post World War II housing and historic preservation. She requested that consideration for its purchase be made at the EHC's March meeting. In the interim, she will forward information for the EHC's review. H. Adjournment: A motion made by Commissioner Femal to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Savel and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 p.m. Respectfully submitted,kvilemir. Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner • ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, March 5,2013 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. February 5, 2013 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications E. Old Business r1. Cell phone tour on website [ 2. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company Historical Marker 3. Oak Brook Terrace Historical Society Sears House Preservation Effort (Commissioner Hunter) 4. Preservation Month Activities 5. Historic Rehabilitation Grants 6. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on heritage related activities F. New Business 1. Design Review Subcommittee Monthly Update 2. Funding request for"A Model for Identifying and Evaluating the Historical Significance of Post-World War II Housing"for EHC ($68.00) 3. Funding request for the Elgin Area Historical Society Windmill Project ($500.00) 4. Elgin Black Heritage Video Project Overview G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment r t City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission March 5, 2013 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, Elizabeth Femal, Rebecca Hunter,Judith Rivera,John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: James Halik, William Ristow, Scott Savel 3. Others Present: George Rowe, Elgin Area Historical Society 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Under "Old Business," Chairman Briska made two corrections: "Cell Phone Tour Signage Installation" was amended to "Cell Phone Tour Signage Update" and under "Abode", it was clarified that the ABODE presentation focused on the history of Almora Park rather than an historic survey. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the February 5, 2013 minutes as amended. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 5-0. C. Recognize Persons Present: George Rowe from the Elgin Area Historical Society was introduced. D. Plaque Applications: None. E. Old Business 1. Cell phone tour on website Ms. Munro is working with the City's website manager to design a webpage that will incorporate the cell phone tour digital files.A mockup webpage will be available for the Commission's review in the near future. 2. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company Historical Marker The sign has not been installed, but plans to install the marker are underway with Public Works. 3. Oak Brook Terrace Historical Society Sears House Preservation Effort - Elgin'Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 March 5,2013 Commissioner Hunter reported that the Sears House Preservation effort was successful.The City of Oakbrook Terrace and the Oak Brook Terrace Historical Society are currently working on the details. Commissioner Hunter mentioned that the historical society is now looking for 1950s period furnishings for the house. 4. Preservation Month Activities Ms. Munro confirmed that the Mayor's Awards event will be held at the Elgin Art Showcase. Additionally, she is working on finalizing the Preservation Month Schedule of Activities. Ms. Munro presented the members of the Commission with a packet containing twelve Mayor's Award nominations. An additional nomination was added by a Commissioner at the meeting. Each of the applications were discussed by the members of the Commission. In some instances, a recommendation was made to nominate a recipient in the future if a project was not completed, or needed more information for the Commission to consider. Of the submitted applications, ten nominations were recommended for a Mayor's Award. Each of the nominees will be notified of the event and encouraged to invite their friends and family. Eight of the nominations were recommended for the general category. One nomination was recommended to receive an Artisan Award and another was selected for the George Van der Voorde award. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to recommend that ten awards be selected to receive a Mayors Award to be presented to the recipients by the Mayor on May 7, 2013. Motion seconded by Femal. The motion passed 5-0. 5. Historic Rehabilitation Grants Ms. Munro reported that the deadline for the 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grants is April 5, 2013. She reviewed changes to this year's application guidelines following the February 5, 2013 EHC discussion and upon further discussion with Commissioner Wiedmeyer and Chairman Briska. She also reported that the grant informational meeting conducted on March 7, 2013 had low attendance. Commissioners discussed the value of requiring applicants to submit an approved COA with the grant application. Pending 2014 funding availability, Ms. Munro advised that this will be included in the application process. 6. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on heritage related activities GPA Chairman Briska reported that the Annual Historic House walk will be centered around the Wing Mansion. The tour will take place on September 7, 2013. F. New Business • Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 March 5,2013 1. Design Review Subcommittee Monthly Update Commissioner Hunter discussed the value of familiarity with the Design Review Subcommittee's (DRSC) agendas. It was decided that EHC members should be included on the DRSC agenda distribution list. 2. Funding request for"A Model for Identifying and Evaluating the Historical Significance of Post-World War II Housing"for EHC($68.00) Commissioners reviewed the document details provided by Commissioner Hunter and agreed that it should be added to the EHC's library. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the purchase of the Post-World War 11 guidelines. Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 5-0. 3. Funding request for the Elgin Area Historical Society Windmill Project ($500.00) Elgin Area Historical Society Member, George Rowe provided an overview of the project and gave a status update. Tentative ground breaking plans are scheduled for windmill in May 2013. Rowe also shared various fundraising efforts for the windmill's restoration.To date, approximately$4,800 has been raised. A motion was made by Commissioner Hunter to approve the Elgin Area Historical Society's Windmill Project Fund Request. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 4-0, with one abstention (Briska). 4. Elgin Black Heritage Video Project Overview Chairman Briska provided information on an upcoming video project that will focus on Black History in Elgin.The project has been spearheaded by Ernie Broadnax. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: 1. Staff Announcements Illinois State Historic Preservation Conference—June 27—29, 2013 Ms. Munro announced that the Annual State Historic Preservation Conference will be held in Evanston on June 27- 29, 2013. She encouraged members to attend. Funding for attendance would be provided from the EHC budget.She also mentioned that in past years, the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency has provided travel reimbursement scholarships to assist in offsetting the conference expenses. 2. Other Business New Commissioner Introduction Chairman Briska welcomed the EHC's newest member, Judith Rivera. Commissioner Rivera briefly discussed her background and interest in Elgin's history and historic preservation efforts. Eigin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 4 March 5,2013 EHC Meeting Time Chairman Briska discussed the potential for changing the EHC's meeting time from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., similar to other City Commission meeting times. After discussing the meeting time, it was determined that 7:00 p.m. better accommodates Commissioners' schedule; however, changing the time may be discussed at a future date. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Weidmeyer to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Femal and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully--suubbmitted, Armig Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner r F ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, April 2, 2013 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. March 5, 2013 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications E. Old Business 1. Cell phone tour on website 2. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company Historical Marker 3. Preservation Month Activities/Mayor's Awards 4. Historic Rehabilitation Grants 5. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on heritage related activities F. New Business G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment ribk City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission April 2, 2013 A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Elizabeth Femal, Rebecca Hunter,Tom Krebsbach, William Ristow,Judith Rivera, Scott Savel, and John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: James Halik 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the March 5, 2013 r minutes. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 4-0 with two abstentions (Ristow and Savel) C. Recognize Persons Present: None. D. Plaque Applications: None. E. Old Business 1. Cell phone tour on website Ms. Munro has continued to work with the City's website manager to design a webpage incorporating the cell phone tour digital files. Upon receipt of bids from graphic designers, it appears that the cost to create the mapping graphic may be approximately$375.00. Ms. Munro requested approval for the graphic design costs. A motion was made by Commissioner Bill Ristow to approve the graphic design expense. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 5-0. 2. Re-installation of the Illinois Watch Case Company Historical Marker Ms. Munro was advised by the Public Works Department that additional expenses may be incurred on the re-installation of the marker and requested approval for the expenses. A motion was made by Commissioner Bill Ristow to approve expenses not to rexceed$250.00 for the re-installation of the sign. Motion seconded by Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 April 2,2013 Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 7-0. 3. Preservation Month/Mayor's Awards Ms. Munro provided Commissioners with a mock-up of the 2013 Preservation Month Brochure. Commissioners provided their revisions.The brochure will be made available in print and online formats. 4. Historic Rehabilitation Grants Ms. Munro reported that the deadline for the 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grants is April 5, 2013 and asked Commissioners to let her know of their interest in serving on the grant review subcommittee for a meeting that will be scheduled in mid-April. 5. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on heritage related activities GPA Chairman Briska provided an update on the Annual Historic House Walk.The event which will occur on September 7, 2013 include the Wing Mansion will also include five additional homes. F. New Business 1. Elgin Heritage Commission Appointment Munro reported that Commissioner Ristow and Commissioner Kresbach's terms will expire on May 1. Due to his two-term service, Commissioner Ristow's position will require a replacement. Until a replacement is found, Commissioner Ristow will serve until his vacancy is filled. Chairman Briska asked Commissioner Kresbach if he was interested in continuing to serve. Commissioner Kresbach stated his willingness to be re-appointed. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: 1. Staff Announcements Regional Historic Preservation Events Ms. Munro provided details on a historic preservation workshop to be held in Lockport, IL on April 26, 2013 and also reminded Commissioners of the Annual State Historic Preservation Conference will be held in Evanston on June 27- 29, 2013. She let Commissioners know that there is funding in the budget to cover the registration and travel costs and encouraged Commissioners to consider attending. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Weidmeyer to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Femal and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 7:46 p.m. Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 April 2,2013 r Respectfully submitted, Arri Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner r r Elgin Heritage Commission 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grant Application Grant Review Subcommittee Monday,June 24,2013- 8:30 a.m. City Hall Manager's Office, Mayor's Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 AGENDA A. Welcome B. Selection of Subcommittee Chairman C. Review of 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grant Applications, Round 1 a. 50/50 Application Review and Grant Recommendation 1. 806 Highland Ave. 2. 205 N. Gifford St. 3. 207 S. Channing St. 4. 359 Park St. b. 75/25 Application Review and Grant Recommendation 1. 834 Brook St. 2. 320 N. Spring St. D. Review of 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grant Applications, Round 2 a. 50/50 Application Review and Grant Recommendation 1. 650 Douglas Ave. 2. 653 Douglas Ave. 3. 162 College St. 4. 55 S. Liberty St. 5. 605 Grace St. 6. 490 Division St. b. 75/25 Application Review and Grant Recommendation 1. 832 Douglas Ave. 2. 109 Hill Ave. E. Other F. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT (847) 931-5620 {TDD (847) 931-5616) PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday,July 2, 2013 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. April 2, 2013 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. 711 Brook St. E. Old Business 1. Watch Case Marker Installation 2. Preservation Month Events Review 3. Historic Rehabilitation Grant Update 4. Cell Phone Tour Website Status 5. Review of the Illinois State Historic Preservation Conference (Commissioner Rivera) 6. Heritage Commission Budget Update 7. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update F. New Business 1. Funding request, $500 for Elgin's Black History Video Project 2. Report on DRSC activities G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT (847) 931-5620 {TDD (847) 931-5616} PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. . . . r- City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission July 2, 2013 A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Elizabeth Femal, Rebecca Hunter,Tom Krebsbach, William Ristow,Judith Rivera, Scott Savel, and John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: James Halik 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: The minutes were amended to reflect Commissioner Krebsbach's attendance. r A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the March 5, 2013 minutes. Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 7-0. C. Recognize Persons Present: None. D. Plaque Applications: 1. 711 Brook St. Discussion took place regarding the application. Commissioners agreed that the property is significant; however, they directed Staff to work with the property owner on including an architectural history with the nomination. Commissioners agreed that the architectural information could be submitted either in the form of a short narrative or with a sketch/image which shows the building's architectural style together with the applicant's identification of design details which are characteristic of the building's architectural classification. Following the applicant's submission of the requested information, the plaque application will be reviewed by the Commission. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to table review of the plaque application. Motion seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach. The motion passed 7- 0. Discussion also took place regarding future plaque applications and communicating expectations to applicants. Commissioner Ristow recommended that example applications be provided to potential applications which show the r- minimum and quintessential applications that have been approved by the Commission. Commissioner Hunter also suggested that the plaque pamphlet be updated to include research details which pertain to obtaining architectural information. This information should also be included on the Commission's City webpage. Ms. Munro also confirmed that the $50 application fee goes into the Commission's budget. E. Old Business 1. Watch Case Marker Installation Ms. Munro reported that the Public Works Department installed the marker. 2. Preservation Month Events Review Chairman Briska provided an update on the attendance numbers for the Preservation Month events. The majority of events were well-attended. 3. Historic Rehabilitation Grant Update Ms. Munro announced that the City receive ten (10) 50/50 applications and four (4) 75/25 applications. The applications will be forwarded to the City Council for review at their July 24, 2013 meeting. A significant amount of grant funding remains in the 75/25 program. Per City Code, the excess funds can be re- r allocated to the 50/50 program after 9 months (based upon the calendar year). Due to the excess funds, Commissioners inquired about whether or not the funds will be put back into the grant program or placed in the City's general budget. Commissioners discussed revisions to the grant program. Concern was expressed regarding the program's timetables and realistic expectations for applicants to obtain COA approval, contractor estimates and the required documentation to support their application request. Commissioners suggested that applications be announced immediately following the City's budget approval which would allow potential applicants to obtain their COAs and contractor estimates. In past years, the application deadline has been in March, however, discussion took place regarding potentially extending the deadline to May. Staff will assess the potential for revising the Code's nine month excess fund re-allocation requirement and other program guidelines. Commissioners also discussed increasing promotion of the grant program, especially the 75/25 component. Communication ideas discussed were door hangers, social media, and water bill announcements. 4. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Chairman Briska and Ms. Munro are working on map information to be provided to the graphic designer for inclusion on the website. The map will identify each • Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 July 2,2013 cell phone tour site with a hyperlink to the site's audio file. 5. Review of the Illinois State Historic Preservation Conference (Commissioner Rivera) Commissioner Rivera provided an overview of her Conference session.The Conference's focus was on making preservation relevant for everyone. Commissioner Rivera expressed her enjoyment of the networking and informational opportunities that the Conference provided and noted that other attendees were impressed by Elgin's established historic preservation programs. 6. Heritage Commission Budget Update Ms. Munro updated the Commission on the budget. Commissioners discussed future expenditures to anticipate such as plaques and the December plaque recognition ceremony. 7. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update Chairman Briska discussed the partnership among NHS, Landmarks Illinois, the City of Elgin and Elgin Area Historical Society's Bungalow Initiative.The initiative will focus on developing assist in developing guidelines and promotional/informational materials for the City's bungalows.The objective is to (114 create programming details to establish a city-wide Bungalow Historic/Thematic District. Although details are still under development, the anticipated district would be non-contingous and participation would be voluntary. Ultimately and similar to the City's historic districts, the EHC would oversee this program.The property owners would experience the same expectations and benefits as the City's historic district and landmark property owners. Funded through by the Driehaus Foundation, the initiative will be managed by the Elgin Area Historical Society. The anticipated project completion date is March 2014. F. New Business 1. Funding Request,$500 for Elgin Black History Video Project Chairman Briska presented a funding request from the Elgin Area Historical Society to support Phase 1 of a video project that will focus on Elgin's African American history which will span its pre-antebellum to current day events. The funding for the first phase is to support expenses related to conducting video- taped interviews and obtaining oral histories from Elgin's African American citizens. The archival footage from with out-takes will be used in a 30 to 60 minute video production. One other objective of phase 1 is to produce a short trailer from these interviews, as well other footage that already exists,to use for promotional and fund raising efforts. A motion was made by Commissioner Ristow to approve the Elgin Black History Video Project$500 funding request. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 7-0. Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 4 July 2,2013 2. Report on DRSC Activities Ms. Munro inquired about whether Commissioners were satisfied with remaining updated on DRSC activities via their inclusion on the DRSC agenda distribution list. Commissioners confirmed that this was a good way to remain apprised of the historic district projects. Ms. Munro also announced that the Commission's DRSC appointed member terms expired on June 30, 2013 and requested that the Commission appoint members to the DRSC. A motion was made by Commissioner Rivera to appoint William Briska, Bill Ristow, Scott Savel, and John Wiedmeyer to the DRSC. Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 7-0. 3. Municipal Code Amendments By resolution, the Commission directed Staff to review the Code requirements for DRSC appointment eligibility. Given the difficulty in filling the DRSC positions as well as interest in offering residents to serve on the DRSC who live outside of the historic district boundaries, efforts to investigate the potential to modify the requirements should take place. Discussion took place regarding changing the DRSC EHC membership from four to no less than three members, not to exceed six members, term limits similar to EHC membership (staggered)for historic district DRSC representatives, and the potential for one of the members to be an at-large member from outside of the historic district. The at-large member would be appointed by the EHC. A motion was made by Commissioner Rivera to pass a resolution directing Staff to amend the DRSC EHC appointments as stated above. Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 7-0. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: 1. Other Commissioner Hunter shared unique broken glass details that she discovered embedded in her porch stucco. Commissioner Ristow discussed U-46's recent Observatory preservation project and encouraged commissioners to visit the facility. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Hunter to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Femal and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. r Respectfully submitted, • ' • - Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 5 July 2,2013 1\11,m1/141-- ,'Vym1/141 Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner Approved: August 6, 2013 r ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday,August 6, 2013 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. July 2, 2013 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. 711 Brook St. (Tabled July 2, 2013) 2. 713 N. Grove Ave. 3. 851 Brook 4. 372 Congdon 5. 841 Bellevue 6. 1183 Duncan 7. 111 N. Porter E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update 3. DRSC Appointment Resolutions: Appointments from four members to three to five members, term limits for DRSC, and at-large member position creation 4. 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grant Update a. Homeowner Reimbursement Policy Discussion F. New Business 1. Heritage Commission Budget Increase Request for Historic Interpretive Signage Installation G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT(847) 931-5620 {TDD (847) 931-5616} PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. r r 1 City of Elgin rElgin Heritage Commission August 6, 2013 Approved 10-1-13 A. The meeting of the Elgin Heritage Commission was called to order at 7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chambers by Chairman Bill Briska. 1. Members Present: William Briska, Elizabeth Femal,Tom Krebsbach,Judith Rivera, Scott Savel,Judy Van Dusen, and John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: Rebecca Hunter and James Halik 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Sarosh Saher, Senior Planner Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to approve the July 2, 2013 minutes. filik Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 7-0. C. Recognize Persons Present: Dan Miller Chairman Briska welcomed and introduced the Commission's new member,Judith Van Dusen. Chairman Briska lauded Commissioner Van Dusen's genealogical and archival assistance at the Elgin Area Historical Society Museum. D. Plaque Applications: 1. 711 Brook St. (Tabled July 2, 2013) A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to untable the item. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiemeyer. The motion passed 7-0. The applicant revised their Statement of Significance to include a more detailed architectural description regarding the house's Queen Anne architectural style. Since 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: 7.6; Historical Significance: 7; Current Maintenance: 8.58 Because 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 Krebsbach to award a plaque with the following (111 inscription: 1891, Karl & Louise Schmidt. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 6-0 with one abstention (Van Dusen). Elgi9i Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 August 6,2013 2. 713 N. Grove Ave. 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: 8.16; Historical Significance: 6.3; Current Maintenance: 9.08 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: 1927, Carl & Mathilda Rauschert. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 6-0 with one abstention (Van Dusen). 3. 851 Brook 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: 4.42; Historical Significance: --; Current Maintenance: -- Because the application must receive a minimum of 6 points in each category to be eligible for a plaque award, the application was deemed ineligible and denied.The house is clad with aluminum siding over stucco. Should the siding be removed, the Commission recommended that the applicant re-submit the application. 4. 372 Congdon The Commission reviewed the application and requested that additional historical information be provided in the application's Statement of Significance before conducting further review of the application. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to table review of the plaque application. Motion seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach. The motion passed 7-0. 5. 841 Bellevue 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: 7.85; Historical Significance: 7; Current Maintenance: 7.64 Because 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1928, Louis & Marie Joerns. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 7-0. 6. 1183 Duncan 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; Historical Significance: 7; Current Maintenance: 7 Because the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. 1 Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 August 6,2013 A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1913, Walter& Martha Taylor. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 7-0. 7. 111 N. Porter The Commission reviewed the application and requested that additional architectural information be provided in the application's Statement of Significance before conducting further review of the application. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to table review of the plaque application. Motion seconded by Commissioner Fremal. The motion passed 7-0. E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update Ms. Munro updated the Commission on the website. The City's website Multimedia Production Specialist is working with the graphic designer. A concept webpage will be available in the near future. 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update Chairman Briska updated the Commission on the Initiative. A Request for Proposals has been sent to consultants. Proposals are due in August.The proposals will reflect the development of a Bungalow field guide and recommendations for a potential citywide thematic historic district. 3. DRSC Appointment Resolutions: Appointments from four members to three to five members, term limits for DRSC, and at-large member position creation Ms. Munro announced that she is working on this resolution. 4. 2013 Historic Rehabilitation Grant Update a. Homeowner Reimbursement Policy Discussion Staff updated the Commission on the 2013 grant applications. The grants were placed on the July 24, 2013 Committee of the Whole Agenda. However, the item was tabled due to a citizen request that the Council consider amending the grant program's reimbursement policy to include reimbursement for homeowners who serve as their own contractors. Due to staff's request to allow additional time to assess the benefits of amending the existing policy and in addition to the Council's request for the Elgin Heritage Commission to provide a recommendation on this matter, the Council tabled the item. Discussion took place regarding the City's Historic Architectural Rehabilitation Grant Program Guidelines for Homeowner Reimbursement.The current guidelines require that applicants submit a minimum of two estimates from which, the lowest estimate will be funded 50%or 75%by the City. In the event that the respective property owner performs any element of the project on their own, the property owner is reimbursed for material costs only. ti Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 4 August 6,2013 rMr. Dan Miller presented his request to revise the City's policy. As a past grant recipient and longtime Elgin historic district resident, he expressed concerns with the current policy. Mr. Miller stated that the homeowner reimbursement policy was initially launched to address the Council's concern with the perception of wrongdoing. He disagreed with this perception and highlighted the City's current policy for the submittal of two estimates by a homeowner in relation to his request to see a homeowner reimbursed for labor. He suggested that the City should award the homeowner a grant based upon the lowest amount and that the homeowner should then be able to apply this amount to labor and materials. It should not matter to the City whether a homeowner elects to hire a contractor or do all or a portion of the work themself. He emphasized that the work would still have to be done within the grant's 18-month timeframe and follow the City's Design Guideline and Code requirements. Chairman Briska requested staff to present their recommendation to the Council. Mr. Saher shared staff's position on the matter. He reiterated the homeowner's eligibility to participate in the program even if performing the work on his or her own and the program's 50%or 75% reimbursement of the material costs for approved work. With regard to the proposed amendment, and the belief that the idea had good merit, staff evaluated impact that such a change would have to the City. Based upon their review of the proposal, the staff recommendation is that the existing policy should not be amended due to the following concerns: 1. The program will cost the city more money. In addition to the cost of materials, labor costs will now be added. 2. The proposal will undermine the City's bidding process and the effort obtain the lowest responsive bid. Given the current requirements of applicants to obtain a minimum of two bids, homeowners have an incentive to obtain the best and lowest bid. A homeowner's self-performance intent would compromise the bidding process due to the fact that the homeowner would be seeking to receive funding from the City rather than making a payment to the City. Any incentive to receive the lowest bid would be removed as the homeowner's bid search would result in higher or less competitive bids for the labor. 3. Historic rehabilitation often adds another layer of complexity to construction projects. The proposed policy may increase the numbers of homeowner to self- perform on grant work who may not have the skills to complete a project in a manner that results in a quality historic preservation project and/or within the expected 18-month project timeframe. Additionally, from an administrative perspective, inexperienced homeowners who self-perform will require additional staff time to assure that the Design Guidelines are being met and that the Code requirements are satisfied. Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 5 August 6,2013 4. From a public policy standpoint, staff does not believe that the City should pay a homeowner for making improvements to their home projects.The spirit of the program is to enhance a homeowner's rehabilitation efforts, not to provide additional income. For example, a property owner who goes to Home Depot should not be paid out for taking the time to do a project that he or she was planning to do. The Commission discussed the benefits of the proposed homeowner reimbursement policy amendment as well as the concerns expressed by staff. The Commission also discussed the potential fraud that could result from this amendment as well as the fraud that can occur as per the existing program guidelines.The Commissioners discussed the need for a check and balance system. Under the proposed amendment, Mr. Saher suggested that potentially a third party verification would be required.This would cost the city additional money. Commissioners discussed the spirit of the program, as well as details that may need to be specifically outlined in the program guidelines. Of particular issue is the contractor who may hire a subcontractor who is the homeowner to perform the work on a project. In this instance,the homeowner is then being paid for labor; however, several commissioners raised the issue that the City should not be able to dictate the homeowner's contractor selection.The Commission suggested that the Legal Department provide a finding as to the legal requirements. Mr. Miller, upon hearing the Commission's discussion as well as Staff's recommendation, expressed his willingness to relinquish the idea; however, he still believes that homeowners should be reimbursed. Several members expressed concern about contractor and subcontractor applicants who are homeowners. Given the number of questions and issues associated with the proposed amendment, the Commissioners recommended that the existing policy remain in place. Also, it was highlighted that the current pool of applicants have been waiting and need to get their projects started. However, the Commission also noted the need for the existing policy to be reviewed by the Legal Department and directed staff to pursue a legal opinion regarding the current reimbursement policy and the potential language that may need to be outlined in the grant program's guidelines to avoid fraud or misinterpretation with regard to the homeowner and contractor specifications. A motion was made by Commissioner Krebsbach to recommend to the City Council that the homeowner reimbursement policy not be amended and to direct staff to seek clarification from the Legal Department regarding the existing policy to address any details that may require additional specificity to avoid fraudulent activity. Motion seconded by Commissioner Fremal. The motion passed 7-0. F. New Business 1. Heritage Commission Budget Increase Request for Historic Interpretive Signage Installation Chairman Briska discussed the need for funding for interpretive signage installation throughout the City's historic districts. Discussion took place regarding potential signage installation sites. Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 6 August 6,2013 A motion was made by Commissioner Femal to support Chairman Briska's request to the City for additional funding to be added to the Commission's budget to finance the signage installation. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 7-0. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: None. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Savel to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner r r Notice of meeting cancellation Regularly scheduled meeting on September 3, 2013 of the Elgin Heritage Commission No items have been received for Commission discussion, therefore the regularly scheduled meeting on September 3, 2013, has been cancelled. r The next meeting will be on the Commission's regularly scheduled meeting date of October 1, 2013, at 7:00 p.m., City Council Chambers, 2nd floor of the North Wing, City Hall, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin. Should you have any questions regarding the posting of this cancellation notice, please contact Historic Preservation &Grants Planner, Amy Munro at 847-931-6004. AM/caw Notice issued on 05/16/13 r Y ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION r Tuesday, October 1, 2013 Immediately following the Public Hearing 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. August 6, 2013 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. 372 N. Congdon (Tabled 8-6-13) 2. 111 N. Porter (Tabled 8-6-13) 3. 239 S. Aldine 4. 30 N. Alfred 5. 820 Bellevue 6. 830 Bellevue 7. 851 Bellevue 8. 859 Bellevue 9. 902 Bellevue 10. 400 Billings 11. 543 E. Chicago 12. 634 Columbia 13. 368 Congdon 14. 370 Congdon 15. 490 Division 16. 150 N. Gifford 17. 21 Hamilton 18. 162 N. Liberty St. 19. 927 Logan 20. 375 Prairie 21. 440 S. State St. 22. 630 N. Spring 23. 466 Standish r24. 440 Standish 25. 215 Villa 26. 219 Villa 27. 225 Villa 28. 315 Wheelock 29. 18 N. Worth E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update 3. DRSC Appointment Resolution: Appointments from four members to three to five members,term limits for DRSC, and at-large member position creation 4. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities F. New Business 1. Appeal: 435 Raymond St. 2. Heritage Commission Historic Rehabilitation Project Guidelines for 75/25 Grant Program G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT (847) 931-5620 {TDD (847) 931-56161 PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. r City of Elgin (111114 Elgin Heritage Commission October 1, 2013 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, Elizabeth Femal,James Halik (departed meeting at 8:15), Rebecca Hunter, Tom Krebsbach,Judith Rivera, Scott Savel, Judy Van Dusen, and John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: None. 3. Others Present: None 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Halik to approve the August 2, 2013 minutes as amended. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 9-0. rC. Recognize Persons Present: D. Plaque Applications: Commissioners discussed the plaque nominations and all nominations were scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance. Plaques must meet a minimum of 6 points in each category to be eligible for a plaque award. 1. 372 N. Congdon (Tabled 8-6-13) Motion made by Commissioner Savel to untable the item. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik.The motion passed 9-0. The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.7 Architectural Significance: 7.7; Current Maintenance: 7.4 A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1930, D. T. Glover. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik. The motion passed 9-0. 2. 111 N. Porter(Tabled 8-6-13) Motion made by Commissioner Hunter to untable the item. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer.The motion passed 9-0. rThe plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.8 Architectural Significance: 6.1; Current Maintenance: 6.7 Since the application received more than the minimum of 6 points in each category Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 October 1,2013 it was eligible to be awarded a plaque. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1914, C. & E. Bishop. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 9-0. 3. 239 S. Aldine The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 5.0;Architectural Significance: 5.4; Current Maintenance: 6.3. Since the application for the G. & H. Parkin House built in 1940,failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 4. 30 N. Alfred The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.7; Architectural Significance: 6.9; Current Maintenance: 7.4. 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 Krebsbach to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1926, W. & I. Waterman. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 9-0. 5. 820 Bellevue The item was tabled until owner consent for the nomination could be verified. A motion was made by Commissioner Halik to table the nomination for the F. &V. Knaak House, built in 1936. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 9-0. 6. 830 Bellevue The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.3;Architectural Significance: 6.6; Current Maintenance: 6.9. 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1924, W. & E. Behren. Motion seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach. The motion passed 9-0. 7. 851 Bellevue The item was tabled until owner consent could be verified. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to table the nomination for the E. &S. Bremer House built in 1940. Motion seconded by Commissioner Hunter. The motion passed 9-0. 8. 859 Bellevue The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.0; Architectural Significance: 6.0; Current Maintenance: 5.6. Since the application for the .Andresen House built in 1927 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 October 1,2013 9. 428 Billings The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 6.1; Architectural Significance: 5.2; Current Maintenance: 6.8. Since the application for the A. & G. Sorensen House built in 1909 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 10. 543 E. Chicago The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.8; Architectural Significance: 6.1; Current Maintenance: 5.2. Since the application for the As. McGlincey House built in 1879 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 11. 634 Columbia The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 6.3; Architectural Significance: 5.7; Current Maintenance: 7.2. Since the application W. & G. Nohl House built in 1927 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 12. 368 Congdon The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 8.0; Architectural Significance: 7.2; Current Maintenance: 7.9. 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 Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1929, R. & L. Covey. Motion seconded by Commissioner Femal. The motion passed 9-0. 13. 370 Congdon The item was tabled until owner consent for the nomination could be verified. A motion was made by Commissioner Halik to table the nomination for the A& F. Kimball House built in 1929. Motion seconded by Commissioner Van Dusen. The motion passed 9-0. 14. 490 Division The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.4; Architectural Significance: 7.0; Current Maintenance: 7.0. 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1892, J. &S. Fluck. Motion seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach. The motion passed 8-1-0, with one abstention (Commissioner Savel). 15. 150 N. Gifford The Commission discussed the nomination, and it was determined that the item should be tabled until the building's exterior historic rehabilitation was completed. A motion was made by Commissioner Hunter to table the nomination. Motion Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 4 October 1,2013 seconded by Commissioner Halik. The motion passed 9-0. 16. 21 Hamilton The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 5.4; Architectural Significance: 6.0; Current Maintenance: 6.7. Since the application for the C &A Head House built in 1924 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category, it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 17. 162 N. Liberty St. The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 6.9; Architectural Significance: 6.8; Current Maintenance: 7.3. 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 Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1926, R. & L. Marckhoff. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 9-0. 18. 927 Logan The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 5.2; Architectural Significance: 6.0; Current Maintenance: 7.7. Since the application failed for the W. & M. Groneman House (date of construction unknown) to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 19. 375 Prairie The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 8.3; Architectural Significance: 6.7; Current Maintenance: 8.6. 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1905, E. & L. Foote. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The motion passed 9-0. 20. 440 S. State St. The item was tabled until owner consent for the nomination could be verified. A motion was made by Commissioner Femal to table the nomination for the R. & M. Fields House built in 1922. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The motion passed 9-0. 21. 630 N. Spring The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.8; Architectural Significance: 6.7; Current Maintenance: 7.2. 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: 1926, R. &A. Bridge. Motion seconded by Commissioner Save!. The ' Elgin heritage Commission:Minutes Page 5 October 1,2013 motion passed 9-0. 22. 466 Standish The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 5.8; Architectural Significance: 5.9; Current Maintenance: 5.8. Since the application for the C. &A. House built in 1911 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category, it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 23. 215 Villa The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 5.1; Architectural Significance: 5.4; Current Maintenance: 6.4. Since the application for the C. &A. House built in 1911 failed to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category, it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 24. 219 Villa The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 8.2;Architectural Significance: 7.0; Current Maintenance: 8.0. 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1902, M. & F. Aldridge. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik. The motion passed 9-0. 25. 225 Villa The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.1;Architectural Significance: 6.6; Current Maintenance: 6.7. 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 Femal to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1902, M. & F. Aldridge. Motion seconded by Commissioner Van Dusen. The motion passed 9-0. 26. 315 Wheelock The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 4.9; Architectural Significance: 6.0; Current Maintenance: 6.7. Since the application failed for the L. & M. Leuenberger House built 1923 to meet the minimum of 6 points in each category it was deemed ineligible for a plaque award. 27. 18 N. Worth The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 6.2; Architectural Significance: 6.4; Current Maintenance: 6.4. 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 Rivera to award a plaque with the following ' Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 6 October 1,2013 inscription: 1922,J. & M. Douglas. Motion seconded by Commissioner Savel. The motion passed 9-0. 28. 916 Douglas The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.7; Architectural Significance: 7.8; Current Maintenance: 6.5. 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: 1922,J. & M. Douglas. Motion seconded by Commissioner Van Dusen. The motion passed 9-0. E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update Ms. Munro advised the Commission that the webpage update is still underway. 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update Chairman Brisk a reported that the architectural firm of Allen & Pepa was selected to work on the Bungalow Initiative project. 3. DRSC Appointment Resolutions: Ms. Munro said that the proposed resolution is still under review. 4. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities Chairman Briska reported on the successful Cemetery Walk. F. New Business 1. Heritage Commission Budget Increase Request for Historic Interpretive Signage Installation Chairman Briska discussed the need for funding for interpretive signage installation throughout the City's historic districts. Discussion took place regarding potential signage installation sites. A motion was made by Commissioner Femal to support Chairman Briska's request to the City for additional funding to be added to the Commission's budget to finance the signage installation. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiedmeyer. The motion passed 8-0. G. Staff Announcements,Other Business: None. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Savel to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Krebsbach and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 p.m. • Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 7 October 1,2013 r Respectfully submitted, AVYI lAwn441-- Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner Approved:January 7, 2014 r r Elgin Heritage Commission Historic Rehabilitation Grant Application Program Guidelines Review Subcommittee Meeting Wednesday,October 16,2013-7:30 a.m. City Hall Community Development Department Conference Room 150 Dexter Court, Elgin, IL 60120 AGENDA A. Welcome B.Selection of Subcommittee Chairman C. Review and Discussion of Historic Rehabilitation Grant Application Program Guidelines 1. Proposed Amendments D. Other E. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES,ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT,ADA COORDINATOR AT(847)931-5620{TDD (847)931-5616}PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. ELGIN HERITAGE COMMISSION Tuesday, November 5, 2013 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 C. Recognize Persons Present D. Plaque Applications 1. 370 Congdon (Tabled 10-1-13) 2. 634 Columbia 3. 440 South St. r E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update 3. DRSC Appointment Resolution: Appointments from four members to three to five members, term limits for DRSC, and at-large member position creation 4. Heritage Commission Historic Rehabilitation Project Guidelines for 75/25 Grant Program 5. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities F. New Business 1. Budget Update 2. Interpretive Signage Update G. Staff Announcements H. Adjournment THE CITY OF ELGIN IS SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WHO PLAN TO ATTEND THIS MEETING AND WHO REQUIRED CERTAIN ACCOMMODATIONS IN ORDER TO ALLOW THEM TO OBSERVE AND/OR PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, OR WHO HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE MEETING OR THE FACILITIES, ARE REQUESTED TO CONTACT THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, ADA COORDINATOR AT (847) 931-5620 {TDD (847) 931-5616) PROMPTLY TO ALLOW THE CITY OF ELGIN TO MAKE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE PERSONS. r City of Elgin Elgin Heritage Commission November 5, 2013 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, Elizabeth Femal,James Halik (requested leave from meeting at 8:10), Rebecca Hunter, Judith Rivera, Scott Savel, Judy Van Dusen, and John Wiedmeyer 2. Members Absent: Tom Krebsbach. 3. Others Present: Melissa Lane, Dan Miller 4. City Staff Present: Amy Munro, Historic Preservation and Grants Planner B. Approval of Minutes: Minutes were not submitted for approval. C. Recognize Persons Present: Melissa Lane, Gail Borden Library Ms. Lane presented a request to the Commission to include the Death Records of Elgin Illinois. . . as Recorded in the Cemetery Sextons'Leger microfilmed records, coordinated by the Commission in 1995, into the Gail Borden Library's microfilm grant funded digitization project.The digital records would be available on the library's website, www.gailborden.info/elginareamemories . Motion made by Commissioner Savel to grant permission to the library to include the death records into its historic resource digitization project. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik.The motion passed unanimously. D. Plaque Applications: Commissioners discussed the plaque nominations and all nominations were scored on the criteria of architectural significance, historical significance and current maintenance. Plaques must meet a minimum of 6 points in each category to be eligible for a plaque award. 1. 370 N. Congdon (Tabled 10-1-13) Motion made by Commissioner Hunter to untable the item. Motion seconded by Commissioner Wiemeyer.The motion passed 8-0. The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.3 Architectural Significance: 7.1; Current Maintenance: 7.1. rak A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1929, A. & F. Kimball. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik. The motion passed 8-0. algin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 2 November 5,2013 2. 634 Columbia Commissioners discussed the application which was denied at the October 1, 2013 meeting. Following the meeting, the applicant expanded the historical narrative and architectural description and re-submitted the application for the Commission's review. The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 6.6; Architectural Significance: 7.3; Current Maintenance: 7.0. A motion was made by Commissioner Wiedmeyer to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1927 W. & G. Nohl. Motion seconded by Commissioner Halik. The motion passed 8-0. 3. 440 South St. A motion was made by Commissioner Femal to untable the nomination. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera.The motion passed 8-0. The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.3 Architectural Significance: 7.0; Current Maintenance: 7.1. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1922, R. & M. Fields. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The ' motion passed 8-0. 4. 902 Bellevue The plaque nomination received the following average scores: Historic Significance: 7.5; Architectural Significance: 6.8; Current Maintenance: 7.4. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to award a plaque with the following inscription: 1925, G. & B. Chapman. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The motion passed 8-0. E. Old Business 1. Cell Phone Tour Website Status Update Ms. Munro advised the Commission that the webpage update is still underway. 2. NHS and the Elgin Bungalow Initiative Update Chairman Briska reported that a kick-off public informational meeting which will focus on bungalow type classification will be conducted at the Elgin Area Historical Society Museum will be conducted on November 13, 2013. Chairman Briska also provided an update on the project's proposed three phases. Currently,the Bungalow Initiative committee has been working with the consultant on classifications for Elgin's three most common bungalow types and their architectural character defining features. The next steps will include developing criteria for identifying bungalows with a high level of integrity and eligible for plaque and historic district inclusion.The final phase will include thematic district Municipal Code language Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 3 November 5,2013 suggestions for the Commission's review and potential recommendation to the City Council for approval. 3. DRSC Appointment Resolutions: Ms. Munro said that the proposed resolution is still under review. 4. Heritage Commission Historic Rehabilitation Guidelines for the 75/25 Grant Program The discussion discussed the Grant Review Subcommittee's recommendations for modifications to the Program's Guidelines as well as the city's Property Improvement Exterior Paint Grant Program. The Historic Rehabilitation Grant does not typically provide funding for maintenance oriented projects; however, several Commissioners noted the financial difficulty for applicants to afford historic restoration projects. After much discussion, it was determined that the historic rehabilitation program should still focus on historic restoration projects, but recommended that staff explore the inclusion of roofing projects in the city's Property Improvement Grant Program. With regard to other maintenance oriented projects, discussion took place regarding the creation of a subprogram within the city's historic rehabilitation grant program which would have a separate point system and be used only in the event that the 75/25 program had excess funds available; however, more information is needed, and the Commission directed staff to pursue the development of such a program and provide language for their review at a different date. Additionally, the Historic Rehabilitation 75/25 and property improvement grant exterior paint amounts have not changed within the past several years. Given the expense of exterior paint projects, it was suggested that that programming grant amount be modified so that grant recipients receive either a grant in the amount of$2,500 or 75% of an amount not to exceed $10,000. Ms. Munro will discuss this funding increase with city staff. 5. Reports from Neighborhood Groups on Heritage Related Activities Dan Miller reported on the Gifford Park Association's (GPA) architectural salvage effort (60). Mr. Miller also reported on District U-46's intended demolitions and the GPA's request to conduct architectural salvage on the proposed demolition properties. The Board of Education has granted permission to the GPA to do so. The GPA has also obtained architectural salvage permission from the Housing Authority for a house on South Street. F. New Business 1. Budget Update Ms. Munro provided the Commission with its current budget status. She reviewed upcoming anticipated expenses with regard to the December plaque ceremony. The ceremony expenses as well as potential signage expenses are the only expected and remaining expenses for the year. In keeping with this, Chairman Briska requested the Commission's consideration for donating the remainder of the funding to the Elgin Area Historical Society for the purchase of computer equipment. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to support Chairman Briska's request to Elgin Heritage Commission:Minutes Page 4 November 5,2013 donate the Commission's remaining funds to the Elgin Area Historical Society for the purchase of equipment. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The motion passed unanimously. 2. Heritage Commission Budget Increase Request for Historic Interpretive Signage Installation Chairman Briska requested the Commission's consideration for donating$500.00 towards the Newsome Park Signage installation. A motion was made by Commissioner Savel to support Chairman Briska's request to the Summit Park Neighbors with payment made to Elgin Community Network for funding to be contributed towards the Newsome Park signage installation. Motion seconded by Commissioner Rivera. The motion passed unanimously. Chairman Briska spoke with City Manager Sean Stegall about increasing the EHC's budget to fund signage throughout the historic district that would be of high quality and complement each other in design. G. Staff Announcements, Other Business: None. H. Adjournment A motion made by Commissioner Savel to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Rivera and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:26 p.m. Respectfully submitted, AYI/ 1\AutiA/3-- Amy Munro Historic Preservation and Grants Planner Approved:January 7, 2014 r