Minutes
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE FORT PIERCE HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD HELD ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2021, IN FORT PIERCE CITY HALL, COMMISSION CHAMBERS, 100 NORTH US HIGHWAY 1, FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA.
1.
CALL TO ORDER
2.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3.
ROLL CALL
Ms. Theuns entered the meeting at 2:04 PM.
Ms. Theuns entered the meeting at 2:04 PM.
- Present:
- Michael Broderick; Kori Benton; Charlie Hayek; Holly Theuns; Anthony Westbury; George Johansen; Suzanne Boardman, Chair
- Staff Present:
-
- Jennifer Hofmeister, Planning Director
- Maria Lewicka, Historic Preservation Planner
- Alicia Rosenthal, Executive Assistant
4.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a.
Minutes from the September 28, 2021, meeting
Motion was made by Charlie Hayek, and seconded by Michael Broderick to approve the minutes from the September 28, 2021 meeting.
- AYE:
- Kori Benton, Charlie Hayek, Holly Theuns, Anthony Westbury, George Johansen, Michael Broderick, Chair Suzanne Boardman
Passed
5.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.
Certificate of Appropriateness #21-52 - Stage - 411 North 2nd Street
Madam Chair Boardman introduced the Certificate of Appropriateness for a stage at 411 N. 2nd Street.
Madam Chair Boardman asked the Board Attorney, Fran Ross, to explain the Quasi-Judicial Hearing procedures.
Before commencing this Quasi-Judicial Hearing, Fran Ross, Board Attorney, reminded the Board that they serve in both a legislative and quasi-judicial role. When acting as a legislative body, the Board engages in law-making activity by passing laws and establishing policies. When acting as a quasi-judicial body, the Board applies those laws and policies and is held to stricter procedural requirements. Quasi-judicial proceedings are less formal than proceedings before a circuit court but are more formal than the normal Board meeting. Quasi-judicial proceedings must follow basic standards of notice and due process; and decisions must be made based on competent substantial evidence. Therefore, Board members have a duty to conduct the quasi-judicial proceedings more like judges than legislators. That is why the Commission has established the uniform procedures for quasi-judicial hearings that will be followed today.
Madam Chair Boardman called the proceeding to order.
Ms. Theuns and Mr. Hayek both were recused.
The clerk confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Madam Chair Boardman inquired with the Board regarding ex-parte communications and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
Mr. Westbury no
Mr. Johansen - yes
Mr. Broderick - no
Mr. Benton - no
Madam Chair Boardman - no
Madam Chair Boardman opened the public hearing.
The clerk was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Staff Presentation:
Maria Lewicka, Historic Preservation Planner, provided an overview of the application. The subject property is located at the southern entrance to the Edgartown Historic District, across the street from the AE “Beanie” Backus home. Originally owned by the famous photographer, Harry Hill, the property comprises three (3) contributing structures, dating back to 1904. One of the buildings is located in the rear of the property and the other two (2) wood frame vernacular structures front North 2nd Street.
The applicant is requesting Certificate of Appropriateness approval for the performance stage that has already been installed in the rear of the property. The stage is an accessory structure to the “Pierced Ciderworks” establishment and is use for life music concerts and special events.
One of the goals of historic preservation is to create new structures designed in harmony with adjacent contributing structures, the close surroundings and overall development pattern.
The stage (accessory structure) is located on the back of the property and almost invisible from the street. The design scheme, combining the old truck with elements of an old structure, is an interesting, innovating and entertaining approach to a stage design. The size and scale of the stage is compatible with the other buildings located on the same property. The appearance of the structure does not seem to be intrusive or interfering with the street scenery and beauty.
Overall, the stage structure installation is consistent with Secretary of the Interior Standards #9 and #10, and staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Board approve the request.
Ms. Lewicka noted that the hours of operation and how to measure loud music will be decided upon at the Edgartown Community meetings.
Board questions for Staff: Mr. Broderick asked if there is significant push back from the Edgartown community. Ms. Lewicka stated only from the adjacent neighbor.
Applicant questions for Staff: none
Applicant presentation: Jonathan Nolli, Applicant, sworn, stated originally the stage was going to be mobile, and he needed to make it permanent. Mr. Nolli said the stage was created from old wood to make it look like an old front porch. He layered it with foam and extra wood to absorb the sound. Mr. Nolli stated he has lots of support for the stage, and he has seen an increase in sales since the music was added. Mr. Nolli said if the stage is approved he will be investing in special speakers that will hone the sound into a specific area.
Board questions for Applicant: None
Public comment: None
Staff final comments: None
Madam Chair Boardman, seeing no one else, closed the public hearing.
Comments by the Board: Mr. Benton said the stage blends in well with the FEC rail line and is a nice transition.
Madam Chair Boardman introduced the Certificate of Appropriateness for a stage at 411 N. 2nd Street.
Madam Chair Boardman asked the Board Attorney, Fran Ross, to explain the Quasi-Judicial Hearing procedures.
Before commencing this Quasi-Judicial Hearing, Fran Ross, Board Attorney, reminded the Board that they serve in both a legislative and quasi-judicial role. When acting as a legislative body, the Board engages in law-making activity by passing laws and establishing policies. When acting as a quasi-judicial body, the Board applies those laws and policies and is held to stricter procedural requirements. Quasi-judicial proceedings are less formal than proceedings before a circuit court but are more formal than the normal Board meeting. Quasi-judicial proceedings must follow basic standards of notice and due process; and decisions must be made based on competent substantial evidence. Therefore, Board members have a duty to conduct the quasi-judicial proceedings more like judges than legislators. That is why the Commission has established the uniform procedures for quasi-judicial hearings that will be followed today.
Madam Chair Boardman called the proceeding to order.
Ms. Theuns and Mr. Hayek both were recused.
The clerk confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Madam Chair Boardman inquired with the Board regarding ex-parte communications and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
Mr. Westbury no
Mr. Johansen - yes
Mr. Broderick - no
Mr. Benton - no
Madam Chair Boardman - no
Madam Chair Boardman opened the public hearing.
The clerk was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Staff Presentation:
Maria Lewicka, Historic Preservation Planner, provided an overview of the application. The subject property is located at the southern entrance to the Edgartown Historic District, across the street from the AE “Beanie” Backus home. Originally owned by the famous photographer, Harry Hill, the property comprises three (3) contributing structures, dating back to 1904. One of the buildings is located in the rear of the property and the other two (2) wood frame vernacular structures front North 2nd Street.
The applicant is requesting Certificate of Appropriateness approval for the performance stage that has already been installed in the rear of the property. The stage is an accessory structure to the “Pierced Ciderworks” establishment and is use for life music concerts and special events.
One of the goals of historic preservation is to create new structures designed in harmony with adjacent contributing structures, the close surroundings and overall development pattern.
The stage (accessory structure) is located on the back of the property and almost invisible from the street. The design scheme, combining the old truck with elements of an old structure, is an interesting, innovating and entertaining approach to a stage design. The size and scale of the stage is compatible with the other buildings located on the same property. The appearance of the structure does not seem to be intrusive or interfering with the street scenery and beauty.
Overall, the stage structure installation is consistent with Secretary of the Interior Standards #9 and #10, and staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Board approve the request.
Ms. Lewicka noted that the hours of operation and how to measure loud music will be decided upon at the Edgartown Community meetings.
Board questions for Staff: Mr. Broderick asked if there is significant push back from the Edgartown community. Ms. Lewicka stated only from the adjacent neighbor.
Applicant questions for Staff: none
Applicant presentation: Jonathan Nolli, Applicant, sworn, stated originally the stage was going to be mobile, and he needed to make it permanent. Mr. Nolli said the stage was created from old wood to make it look like an old front porch. He layered it with foam and extra wood to absorb the sound. Mr. Nolli stated he has lots of support for the stage, and he has seen an increase in sales since the music was added. Mr. Nolli said if the stage is approved he will be investing in special speakers that will hone the sound into a specific area.
Board questions for Applicant: None
Public comment: None
Staff final comments: None
Madam Chair Boardman, seeing no one else, closed the public hearing.
Comments by the Board: Mr. Benton said the stage blends in well with the FEC rail line and is a nice transition.
Motion was made by Kori Benton, and seconded by Michael Broderick to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for a stage at 411 N. 2nd Street, with the caveat that it is not the Historic Preservation Board's purview to interpret the noise ordinance or any other issues pertaining to the use and function of the stage.
- AYE:
- Anthony Westbury, George Johansen, Michael Broderick, Kori Benton, Chair Suzanne Boardman
- Other:
- Charlie Hayek (ABSTAIN), Holly Theuns (ABSTAIN)
Passed
b.
Certificate of Appropriateness #21-57 - Detached Garage - 708 Boston Avenue
Madam Chair Boardman introduced the Certificate of Appropriateness for a detached garage at 708 Boston Avenue.
Madam Chair Boardman called the proceeding to order.
The clerk confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Madam Chair Boardman inquired with the Board regarding ex-parte communications and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
Ms. Theuns - no
Mr. Westbury no
Mr. Johansen - yes
Mr. Broderick - no
Mr. Benton - no
Mr. Hayek - no
Madam Chair Boardman - no
Madam Chair Boardman opened the public hearing.
The clerk was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Staff Presentation:
Maria Lewicka, Historic Preservation Planner, provided an overview of the application. The subject property is located within the Sample Oaks Historic District. Currently, there is one (1) small Vernacular Frame house located near the middle of the west side of the property, that was built in 1926. The house has a gable roof, entrance porch and hardwood lap siding and is almost completely screened from public view by lush landscaping.
The applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness for the construction of a 32’ x 36’ concrete pad and a 25’ x 25’ detached garage. The proposed metal shell garage will be painted to match the existing house.
One of the goals of historic preservation is to create new structures designed in harmony with adjacent contributing structures, the close surroundings and overall development patterns.
The proposed garage (accessory structure) is to be located on the back of the property and almost invisible from the street. Although the design scheme and material of the proposed structure does not match with the existing historic residential structure, it is not intrusive nor does it interfere with the streetscape for the following reasons:
· The garage (accessory structure) is located on the back of the property (163.5’ from the front property line) and invisible from the street.
· The property across the street is occupied by a large parking lot surrounded by six (6) foot high chain link fence topped with two (2) strands of barber wire.
· The subject property is well maintained with a pleasant appearance including white a picket fence with attractive gates.
· The existing extensive landscaping of old trees and palms was enhanced by several beautiful foxtail palms.
Overall, although the proposed garage lacks design compatibility with the existing structure, the applicant will be painting the structure to match the existing home. Additionally, the identified location and existing landscaping provides adequate screening to protect the integrity of the subject property and the surrounding area. Therefore, staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Board approve the subject request.
Board questions for Staff: Mr. Johansen asked if the garage has to look historic. Ms. Lewicka explained the garage has to be compatible with the neighborhood and integrate with the street design. Mr. Benton asked if the northeast home on Atlantic Avenue is a contributing structure and if anything could be added, like faux stucco, to make the garage more compatible with the neighboring structure.
Applicant questions for Staff: none
Applicant presentation: Jose Alanis, Owner, sworn, explained that the thick metal shed has wind resistance of 195 mph and a 40-year guarantee not to rust. Mr. Alanis said he can paint the garage the color of the house, and he will be planting more trees and adding vining plants by the chain link fence.
Board questions for Applicant: Mr. Benton asked Mr. Alanis if he owns all three lots.
Public comment: None
Staff final comments:
Madam Chair Boardman, seeing no one else, closed the public hearing.
Comments by the Board: None
Madam Chair Boardman introduced the Certificate of Appropriateness for a detached garage at 708 Boston Avenue.
Madam Chair Boardman called the proceeding to order.
The clerk confirmed the City complied with advertisement and notice requirements.
Madam Chair Boardman inquired with the Board regarding ex-parte communications and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
Ms. Theuns - no
Mr. Westbury no
Mr. Johansen - yes
Mr. Broderick - no
Mr. Benton - no
Mr. Hayek - no
Madam Chair Boardman - no
Madam Chair Boardman opened the public hearing.
The clerk was asked to swear in those wanting to speak during this Quasi-Judicial hearing. Individuals in the audience intending to speak on this item were asked to stand, raise their right hand, and administered an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Those that were sworn in were asked to clearly state their name for the record and confirm they were sworn in at such time as they were asked to come forward to testify.
Staff Presentation:
Maria Lewicka, Historic Preservation Planner, provided an overview of the application. The subject property is located within the Sample Oaks Historic District. Currently, there is one (1) small Vernacular Frame house located near the middle of the west side of the property, that was built in 1926. The house has a gable roof, entrance porch and hardwood lap siding and is almost completely screened from public view by lush landscaping.
The applicant is requesting a Certificate of Appropriateness for the construction of a 32’ x 36’ concrete pad and a 25’ x 25’ detached garage. The proposed metal shell garage will be painted to match the existing house.
One of the goals of historic preservation is to create new structures designed in harmony with adjacent contributing structures, the close surroundings and overall development patterns.
The proposed garage (accessory structure) is to be located on the back of the property and almost invisible from the street. Although the design scheme and material of the proposed structure does not match with the existing historic residential structure, it is not intrusive nor does it interfere with the streetscape for the following reasons:
· The garage (accessory structure) is located on the back of the property (163.5’ from the front property line) and invisible from the street.
· The property across the street is occupied by a large parking lot surrounded by six (6) foot high chain link fence topped with two (2) strands of barber wire.
· The subject property is well maintained with a pleasant appearance including white a picket fence with attractive gates.
· The existing extensive landscaping of old trees and palms was enhanced by several beautiful foxtail palms.
Overall, although the proposed garage lacks design compatibility with the existing structure, the applicant will be painting the structure to match the existing home. Additionally, the identified location and existing landscaping provides adequate screening to protect the integrity of the subject property and the surrounding area. Therefore, staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Board approve the subject request.
Board questions for Staff: Mr. Johansen asked if the garage has to look historic. Ms. Lewicka explained the garage has to be compatible with the neighborhood and integrate with the street design. Mr. Benton asked if the northeast home on Atlantic Avenue is a contributing structure and if anything could be added, like faux stucco, to make the garage more compatible with the neighboring structure.
Applicant questions for Staff: none
Applicant presentation: Jose Alanis, Owner, sworn, explained that the thick metal shed has wind resistance of 195 mph and a 40-year guarantee not to rust. Mr. Alanis said he can paint the garage the color of the house, and he will be planting more trees and adding vining plants by the chain link fence.
Board questions for Applicant: Mr. Benton asked Mr. Alanis if he owns all three lots.
Public comment: None
Staff final comments:
Madam Chair Boardman, seeing no one else, closed the public hearing.
Comments by the Board: None
Motion was made by Charlie Hayek, and seconded by Anthony Westbury to approve Certificate of Appropriateness 21-57 for the installation of a detached garage at 708 Boston Avenue.
- AYE:
- Holly Theuns, Anthony Westbury, George Johansen, Michael Broderick, Kori Benton, Charlie Hayek, Chair Suzanne Boardman
Passed
6.
NEW BUSINESS
a.
Administratively Approved Certficates of Appropriateness - September 2021
7.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
There were no comments from the public.
There were no comments from the public.
8.
CONSIDERATION OF ABSENCES
a.
Absence from the September 28, 2021, meeting
Motion was made by Charlie Hayek, and seconded by George Johansen to approve the absence of Mr. Benton from the September 28, 2021 meeting.
- AYE:
- Anthony Westbury, George Johansen, Michael Broderick, Kori Benton, Charlie Hayek, Holly Theuns, Chair Suzanne Boardman
Passed
9.
ADJOURNMENT