City Council Minutes 2007 06 05 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes June 5, 2007 Page 7 of 14 Planning Director Wood explained the Old Town Overlay District was established to provide a zoning overlay re~quirement for redevelopment to retain attributes compatible with the historic downtown area and the historical residential neighborhoods. It regulates lot coverage, floor area ratio (FAR), setbacks, and building height. As houses ane purchased and remodeled, there is a trend towards scraping the existing house to allow for a larger house that maximizes the development standards. This trend threatens the character of the Old Town District and the architectural integrity of the area. The Historic Preservation Commission determined the feasibility of zoning incentives to provide property owners more square footage and FAR in exchange for the retention of the street-facing fac;ade of the home. Recommendations were made for inclusion in the Old Town Overlay regulations. The Planning Commission reviewed the ordinance and voted 6-1 in support of the incentive program. The Ordinance recommends revisions to the design and slope of roofs, set back relief, and saving of street facing facades. In order to qualify for a preservation bonus or a landmark bonus, the residential project must meet six requirements. Community Facilitator Muth addressed the changing character of Old Town and the Historic Preservation Commission's work on an incentive program, which would give homeowners additional resources and incentives to restore historic properties. Heather Lewis, 712 McKinley, Louisville, CO, Chairperson for the Historic Preservation Commission, explained the Commission recognizes the necessity for added space in Old Town's smaller historic homes in light of the needs of a modern family. Incentives would allow those expansions, but assist in the historic preservation. COUNCL COMMENT Council member Sackett ask,ed why homes must carry a 50-year old requirement for incentives. Council member Muckle explained the 50-year rule is based on the guidelines of the Secretary of the Interior. Mayor Pro Tern Brown asked how the ordinance would affect current demolition projects in the City. City Facilitator Muth stated the ordinance would not change the current demolition review process, but that staff would review all requests for the preservation bonus. Council members Marsella, Muckle and Brown commended the Historic Preservation Commission for their incentive proposal.