Historic Preservation Commission Minutes 2008 07 21

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Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes July 21, 2008 Page 4 of 7 Tofte stated that 3000 square feet is large by Old Town standards. Miley stated it is similar size to the existing home across the street. Muckle noted that the home across the street is the original home on the lot Lewis reminded everyone that the HPC decision is to be based solely on the historical significance of the existing home. She stated that there are some resources available for preserving all or part of the existing structure including grants to remove the asbestos siding and restore the wood siding. The HPC could help with design assistance. Lewis also noted the City's incentives for a preservation bonus of additional square foot coverage and FAR coverage if the facade of the home is maintained. Muckle asked if the home has a basement and if it is dry Ramsey stated the older part of the home does have a basement that appears to have been hand dug after the home was built. It does appear to be dry. Lewis reiterated that the Commission can only consider the exterior of the home unless there are interior issues affecting the cost of preserv~t~on. Lewis asked if there were any additional comments from the public. Seeing none, she closed the public hearing and asked for Commission comments and questions. Koertje stated that residents in the audience have noted a particular concern about preserving the character Old Town. He noted that the HPC does not have jurisdiction over larger issues of character in Old Town and he urged residents with those concerns to take them to the City Council and the Planning Commission. Koertje noted that the front part of the home does add to the historic character of Old Town. He asked the applicant to consider saving that portion of the home. In considering the ordinance criteria, he thinks that the home does meet the requisite criteria for a stay of demolition as follows: • G.1. It is likely eligible for individual landmarking for its architectural integrity and original materials; • G.2. It is likely eligible for inclusion in a historic district; • G.3. the home is in reasonable condition and has no immediate problems; • G.4. the cost of repair of the original home doesn't appear to be extreme, however without specific information about the condition of the existing structure, it hard to tell. Muckle added that ownership of the home by the Slavec family contributes to the historical significance of the house. The Slavec family was well known in town. She also thanked the applicant for his willingness to work with the Commission. Koertje made a motion to place a 180-day stay of demolition on the home because it meets the following criteria: • G.1. It is likely eligible for individual landmarking for its architectural integrity and original materials;