Historic Preservation Commission Agenda and Packet 2014 12 15

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Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes November 17, 2014 Page 3 of 10 Public Comment Jean Morgan stated this sign, in her opinion, is the biggest element of Louisville. She asked when the sign could come down based on the application. Trice stated the stay would end in February. Morgan stated citizens of Lafayette used to use the beacon above the Empire Sign to determine if the power was still on in Louisville. She said the sign is a landmark and should not be removed. Tom Rafferty, 945 Rex Street, stated he believed the sign is as important as the Grain Elevator and other items which have gone before this board. Commission Discussion Watson asked Trice what the negotiations have been with the City. Trice stated they have discussed what the best approach would be to save the sign, whether it is landmarking the building or the sign or both. Stewart asked what the reasons were for delays on the application. Trice stated it was due to the fullness of the October agenda and staff waiting on the assessment to be completed. Stewart stated the code is fairly specific about the timelines for a demolition permit. He also stated it appears the project is more of a removal and replace of the same sign, and asked if staff required the same for the Blue Parrot. Trice stated no. Stewart asked the owner if he has any intentions to get rid of the sign. Cohen stated no. Stewart then asked why he applied for a demolition request. Cohen stated it was his belief that if he was going to take down the sign for repair he needed a demolition permit. He stated they want to keep it as is as long as they can but will be open for options for what needs to be done to keep the maintenance costs low. He stated the intent is to keep the sign. Stewart stated technically they are charged to determine if this structure is a landmark and, if it is determined to be eligible, whether to place a 180 day stay on it. Watson stated if they put a stay on the property then we can go through all the necessary steps to determine how to best approach this project.