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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Landmark Commission - 01/24/2002 N 3458>8 9j O� MINUTES MAR 2002 LANDMARK COMMISSION JOINT MEETING WITH PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE& ' CCE!/E.) 7; THE ARTS & CULTURAL COMMISSION .N Clry SECREThsvG m J MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY —WATERGARDEN R�1 bFFhlc JANUARY 24, 2002 \2n r;S MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Deborah Douglas, Chairman Ms. Susan Abarca Mr. Alan Belcher Ms. Sharon Brower Mr. Michael Cleary Ms. Grandis Lenken Mr. Kevin Maraist Dr. Richard Moore Mr. Elmon Phillips Mr.Tom Stewart Ms. Bunny Tinker Mr. Alan Wahlers MEMBERS ABSENT: M . Myron Grossman (Excused) Dr.Thomas Kreneck (Excused) Mr.Terry Orf (Excused) STAFF PRESENT: Faryce Goode-Macon,City Planner Linda Williams, Recording Secretary Ms. Deborah Douglas, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 5 p.m. The roll was called and a quorum was declared. ACTION ITEMS: New Business: Presentation on Proposed Artesian Park Development Project: Mr. Jim Moloney, Executive Director of the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, addressed the joint boards. Mr. Moloney stated that Mr. Ed Harts, former publisher of the Corpus Christi Caller Times, has donated $1 million towards a redevelopment project for Artesian Park. The project would commemorate the beginning of the Mexican-American War. This location was one area of the encampment site for General Zachary Taylor and his troops for several months. Mr. Moloney continued that in addition to the $1 million donation, the Foundation also received a S100,000 grant from CDBG, bringing the total amount of funds to $1.1 million. Mr. Moloney stated that the $100,000 would cover the project design fees. Mr. Moloney continued that Mr. Peter Walker, of the internationally-renown landscape design firm of Peter Walker &Partners of Berkeley, California,was retained to prepare a preliminary design proposal for the project. In addition to the 51.1 million for the project, Mr. Robert Rowling has indicated his willingness to donate his property located on the southern half of the block across the street from the park once design approval and acceptance of the project are received from the City. Mr. Moloney introduced Mr. John Dykema, architect with the local firm of Bright & Dymekas Architect, Inc., and who will also be working with Mr.Walker. Mr. Moloney continued that Mr. Dykema would provide more information regarding the park project. SCANNED Landmark Commission Joint McWg S January 24,2002 Page 2 Mr. John Dykema addressed the boards. Mr. Dykema stated that Mr. Walker made a presentation to City Council sometime ago regarding the proposed park project. Mr. Dykema continued that Mr. Walkers firm would be designing the theme for the park project. Mr. Dykema stated he brought the video of Mr. Walker's presentation that was made to City Council and wanted the boards to review it. The video Is approximately 20 minutes in length and it puts things in perspective for the project. Mr. Dykema continued that after viewing the video, he would he answer any questions. At this point In the meeting, the video was shown. After the video showing, the floor was opened for questions and comments. Mr. Dykema began the discussion session by stating that the Park Service hoped that the City Council would give a resolution of support so that the project could move forward. Mr. Dykema continued that the proposed project was a commemoration of the event that occurred when General Taylor's army encamped In the park In 1846. it was continued that this was the beginning of a dispute between Mexico and the United States regarding where the boundaries of Texas started and ended. Texas wanted to be included with the United States and the dispute was whether the Rio Grande River or the Nueces River was the correct boundary. This dispute eventually led to the Mexican-American War. Mr. Dykema continued that West Point had been newly created and was the site where the largest group of the American Army was located in one place. During the next five to six months, part of the army moved down to the Rio Grande River and during this time, General Taylor's army encamped at the site here in the city. While the army was encamped at this location, a water well was dug by the soldiers, but the water was sulphurous. Two years after the army's departure, General H. L. Kinney gave this property t0 the city and It was named Artesian Park. Mr. Dykema continued that at one time, this park was a very popular spot for recreation, but now it was very rarely used. Mr. Dykema emphasized again that Mr. Harte wanted to give something back to the community and that was the reason he donated the S1 million towards the park project. Before the council presentation, Mr. Peter Walker came to Corpus Christi and met with foundation members and our firm to do research and learn about the history surrounding the park. Mr.Walker used several history books and came up with a scheme he thought addressed what happened during that time. Mr. Walker's design was in two images — to reflect General Taylor's encampment during the Mexican-American war, lighted pup tents were proposed and to the south, a grassy mound/pyramid design would reflect Mexico's involvement in the war. The park would be used as a festival site, a place for the people working in the downtown area could eat lunch, and also the park would be an added tourist attraction. After Mr. Dykema's comments, the floor was opened for public comment. Before the public question and comment session began, Ms. Douglas, Chairman of the Landmark Commission, asked audience participants who wanted to speak to keep their comments no longer than three minutes. Three speakers signed up to address the boards. Mr. Walter Plitt, of Brownsville, Texas, addressed the boards. Mr. Plitt stated that he was a volunteer in the preservation business and is currently serving as Chairman of the Palo Alto National Park Committee. Mr. Plitt continued he has been working In preservation for approximately thirty years and everything he was about to say he learned the hard way. Mr. Plitt stated their group began their project at the Palo Alto National Historic site and Palo Alto Battlefield Park with a lot of opposition and misunderstanding. The project began with Congressman Ortiz' first term of office. Over a three to five year time span, all the negatives were resolved. Mr. Plitt continued that he put together a map and it was edited and critiqued by the Matamoros Historical Association. The history and research that were completed help heirs claim their land rights and as far as the community and the differences with relating t0 an unpopular war. The City of Corpus Christi has an unique and very historical site and the opportunity to make an effort to get it on the National Register and to bring the National Park Service and the Texas Historical Commission Park Service in as partners to the project. Mr. Plitt continued that the foundation would not get a Landmark Commission Joint Mee January 24,2002 Page 3 commitment from the Park Service until all procedures were followed. Mr. Plitt went to say that the foundation and others have an opportunity to work with people that have already completed a successful project relating to the Mexican-American War and the International Cooperative Agreements have already been done between the two State Departments. The equivalent to the Mexican Park Service, to the United States Park Service to Mexico and all the friends from Brownsville to Laredo and to Nuevo Laredo. Mr. Plitt stated there are people on their committee, Mexican citizens and Mexican-Americans from South Texas, who would be happy to come and speak to your group and discuss any problems or situations that have been encountered. Mr. Plitt continued their committee has members who are experts on Mexican history, are bilingual, and would be happy to come and make a presentation. Mr. Plitt stated, in his personal opinion, the proposed pup tents and dirt mound pyramids were inappropriate. Mr. Plitt continued he felt the Foundation should place those plans on the shelf and work with professional people from the Texas Historical Commission and the National Park Service, along with friends and neighbors of Mexico, citizens of Corpus Christi, and the Mexican Americans of South Texas. Mr. Plitt went on to say that those Individuals could be involved and help come up with ideas and different ways at looking at the project in honoring these fallen heroes. Mr. Plitt continued that the Foundation has an opportunity to be part of the history trail from Corpus Christi to Harlingen, Port Isabel, Brownsville, Matamoros, and further south. Mr. Plitt stated his organization has been working on this historical trail for several years and some work has been accomplished. Mr. Plitt continued he wanted to encourage the people involved in this project to move Into a procedure and process relating to the Texas Historical Commission to satisfy every Interest group. Mr. Plitt stated they were very grateful and appreciative of the work that has been by all individuals involved. Mr. Moses Canales, 917 Stirman Avenue, addressed the boards. Mr. Canales stated he was speaking in opposition of the proposed plans for the park and he was concerned about the history book the architect used as a reference to create the scheme. Mr. Canales continued that Anglo writers usually wrote a lot of the history books written about the Mexican- American War and there were a few Mexican American history writers and historians. Mr. Canales cited one book titled "They Call Them Greasers,"which was a book that depicted the Anglo's attitudes toward Mexican Americans during the period of 1821 to 1900 by Arnold() DeLeon. Mr. DeLeon is a history professor in Texas and is one of the few authors who have written Mexican American History. Mr.Canales referenced the"Awesome 300"and he stated that in South Texas, the Mexican American also had their "Awesome 300" and they were listed in a guide to Spanish and Mexican land grants in South Texas. This book represents virtually every Mexican American family In South Texas who had land grants given to them by either the Spanish Government or the Mexican Government. Mr. Canales continued that there are hundreds and thousands of descendants that are living here in South Texas. This whole concept was very nice and he always felt that what currently exist In the park was sufficient. Mr. Canales went on to say that maybe if Mr. Harte had gotten input from the community; a different plan would have been developed. Mr. Canales stated that Mr. Dykema presented this plan to the Park and Recreation Board back in November and, at that time, he made the statement, in so many words, that It was this plan or nothing." Mr. Canales continued that from his perspective, he would take nothing. Mr. Canales continued that, at this time, the Mexican American community is already split on the project and should this go forward there would be even more division within the Mexican American community. Mr. Canales stated this is the wrong idea that is going out and if this is the "It or nothing," he would take nothing. Mr. George Balli asked Mr. Canales, in his opinion, where did he think the division came from and Mr.Canales answered that he was letting the board members know what he has heard throughout the community, on the talk radio,and talking with co-workers. The final decision on the project will come from this committee. Rosie Gonzales addressed the boards. Ms. Gonzales stated she was speaking on behalf of the organization, Descendants of Mexican War Veterans, and they were very interested in Landmark Commission Joint Meg Vie January 24,2002 Page 4 placing a monument at this location. Ms. Gonzales continued that the organization would like to see a monument in place that was dedicated to peace that the people have celebrated for over 150 years. Ms. Gonzales stated her group did not want anything that was divisive and tier purpose at today's meeting was to inform the boards that each member of the organization were willing to come and answer any questions. The board members are very knowledge and familiar with the Mexican American War. Expressions of thanks and appreciation were extended to the three speakers before further discussion ensued. Mr. Phillips stated he was confused when he first heard about the organization, and asked for clarification whether the organization was for both Anglos and Mexican Veterans or Mexican Veterans only and Mr. Plitt answered that the organization was for both groups. Mr. Plitt stated their organization would be dedicating the Heritage Visitor Center located in the Palo Alto National Park on February 23, 2002. The interpretive stories displayed in the center honor and tell the story of soldiers on both sides. Mr. Plitt continued there were scoundrels and heroes on both sides of the Rio Bravo as well as both sides of the Nueces River and we cannot continue to pay for the sins of our forefathers. The prejudices have to be put aside and focus on honoring those veterans on both sides. Vic Menard, Chairman of the Park and Recreation Board, asked Mr. Plitt if there had been any collaboration between any of those museums and cities in this effort to establish the historical trail. Mr. Plitt answered there has not been anything formally done between Brownsville and Corpus Christi, but in their long range plans, they are planning to develop and put time and effort into the project. The National Park Service has done a study on the historic significance of the original trail from Corpus Christi to Matamoros. Mr. Menard again asked if any collaboration had been done between the museums of those cities on the Battlefield Park and Mr. Plitt answered yes. Ms. Douglas stated that the Master Review Committee of the Landmark Commission met on last week regarding the Artesian Park project and discussed possible recommendations that would be given by Bunny Tinker. The floor was turned over to Ms.Tinker. Ms. Tinker stated that the Master Review Committee is a subcommittee of the Landmark Commission that reviews everything that comes before the commission regarding properties that are historic. The Master Review Committee reviewed the Artesian Park presentation on last week. Ms.Tinker continued that the Landmark Commission has review of any changes that affect that portion of Artesian Park that has the "HC" Historical-Cultural overlay zoning. Because this portion is co-joined, the commission also discussed the proposed expansion of the new side. The Master Review Committee does not have a recommendation because the final vote was split two to two. Ms. Tinker continued that members of the Master Review Committee are Mr. Phillips, Mr. Belcher, Ms. Douglas, and herself. Ms. Tinker provided brief background information regarding Artesian Park. Ms. Tinker stated that initially, H. L. Kinney, founder of the City of Corpus Christi, gave the park to the City two years after General Taylor's army camped at the site. Ms. Tinker continued that at the end of the 1800s, the park was the center of the city - historically, socially, culturally, and politically. The troops camped there for approximately six to eight months and many water wells were drilled and the sulfur from the wells was used for medicinal purposes. The marker currently located there is a Texas Historical Commission marker and the materials submitted in 1975 showed the southern boundary of the encampment at Mann Street, two blocks north of Artesian Park. Ms. Tinker continued that the Master Review Committee's vote came down to those who felt that Taylor's presence was significant enough that the project should go forward and that actually this was another embellishment to a park which had been constantly embellished since the last 18005 - fountains, bandstands, etc. Ms. Tinker went to say that it is well documented that the park was the active center of the city from the 18005. The Women's Monday Club raised funds to buy two lots that adjoined the initial gift from H. L. Kinney and presented them to the City Landmark Commission Joint W*9 January 24, 2002 Page 5 in 1908. Constant revisions have been made to the structures on this property. Ms. Tinker stated she wanted to correct a statement contained in Mr. Moloney's letter to the National Park Service about the current structures dating back to the 19305 - this statement was Incorrect. The gazebo and arbors currently in place were built in the 1980s, which was also during the same time frame the park was designated "HC." The Landmark Commission's discussion, at that time when the park was designated, was more emphasis was placed on the park being the center of the community as opposed to the brief time General Taylor's army camped at the location. Ms. Tinker stated she felt that the Committee's split vote was based on the fact of why the "HC" designation was granted. Ms. Tinker continued there were those who felt that this was further use of the park expansion being used as it had been used since the 1800s and those who felt the emphasis now is that General Taylor's army camped there and some part of the Mexican-American War occurred there. Ms.Tinker stated neither of those scenarios was true. After Ms.Tinker's report, she stated there would no be no recommendation from the Landmark Commission because of the split vote. Mr. Plitt stated that the groups needed to come together and enter into a partnership with the Texas Historical Commission in getting this project moved forward. Mr. Plitt continued that with the donation of the additional land and matching funds should be an important consideration in seeing this project come to past. Mr. Moloney stated he would like to address the issue of divisiveness. Mr. Moloney continued he had a long conversation with Mr. Harte today and he, in no way, has any intention of having a divisive park. This is not to be an issue that splits the city in any way. In addition to this issue, we have been told that the proper references were not used. Mr. Moloney continued that the major reference used in the project was a book entitled "The U.S.-Mexican War; which was written around the documentary program shown on PBS. It tells a very balanced account of the war from both visions - the United States and Mexico. Mr. Moloney read a special quote from Alfred Arteaga, a writer. The quote read: The U.S.- Mexican .S:Mexican war is a clear and thorough presentation of the history that straddles one border and fills the comment. For here are the facts, here are the historical prodigious; here are the elements of humanity that clash in a so momentous affect. This book comes to us in the very best manner that history comes to us - a mirror of ourselves today told in the brilliant light of real events. The U.S. history is forever altered after this book. It fills a need and it moves us to a better understanding of who we are: Mr. Moloney continued this was the book that Mr. Walker primarily used as a reference. It is a balanced step telling of the story of the Mexican War from both sides. Mr. Moloney restated again, that this park was in no way to be a divisive issue to the community, and if has become one, the plan probably will not exist. Ms. Tinker asked if the name of the park would be changed if the proposal goes through and Mr. Moloney answered the name would not change. A question was posed regarding the statement if the park proposal was not accepted and approved there would be nothing and Mr. Moloney clarified that was not what was stated. Mr. Moloney continued he stated that if the proposed plan for the park became a divisive issue, the plan would not exist. If there is an outcry of a certain segment or even a smaller group of people in the city felt this proposal was a problem and an insult to them, then Mr. Harte would withdraw his proposal. Mr. Harte does not intend for this proposal to be divisive to the community. Ms. Tinker stated before discussion concluded about the Landmark Commission's position, she asked Master Review Committee members if she had stated the report in the manner that was discussed and it was answered yes. A question was posed to Mr. Moloney and Mr. Dykema if they could provide background information as to why an interpretive historical approach to arrive at the park design rather than just cleaning up the park and make it a nice park. Mr. Moloney answered that the Landmark commission Joint Mee[7R9 110 January 24,2002 Page 6 whole idea was that we would allow the foremost and well-renown landscape architect in the country to create a design in a park that was historical significant. Mr. Moloney stated the park was called Artesian Park because an artesian well was drilled. Mr. Moloney explained that during their research, they had an archeologist do a study of the site and the study determined that four different artesian wells had been drilled In the park over the years. All four wells were high in sulfur. The actual well that was dug by General Taylors troops was probably dug on the vacant lot and there was a home located at the site in the 18405, which he used as his commissary. Mr. Moloney continued because of General Taylors use of the house for a commissary was the connection to the park. Mr. Moloney continued that research concluded the troops did not actually camp anywhere on the parkland, but that was what was given to the city and extended by a group of ladies when they purchased the two lots in 1908. Mr. Dykema stated that in answer to the question that was posed, in his opinion, it was more interesting and valuable to have the story and knowledge. As Mr. Walker suggested, telling the story was good. We all become wiser and more knowledgeable as we learn more. Mr. Dykema continued that he did not know if just doing grass and trees in the park was an option Mr. Harte wanted to do, but he did know that Mr. Harte was Interested in developing a story based on what happened In the war. Elizabeth Reaves, member of the Arts and Cultural Committee, addressed the joint boards. Ms. Reaves stated she has heard several positive things at today's meeting and she was glad that Mr. Harte did not want this proposal to be a divisive issue. Ms. Reaves continued she heard Mr. Dykema's statement at the beginning of his presentation that the proposal was still in its preliminary phase and not set In stone. Ms. Reaves stated she has done a lot of research on narrative perspective and anything based on this premise requires that It represent more than one point of view. Ms. Reaves urged Mr. Dykema, as architect for the proposal, along with the Landmark Commission, Arts and Cultural Committee, and also LULAC, to make sure that all cultures are honored. Ms. Reaves stated that the land design Itself was very thoughtful. Mr.Walker is obviously an excellent landscape architect, but she was personally concerned that only one textbook was used for his research instead of seeking out several books to make sure different perspectives would be used. Ms. Reaves continued she was excited about the project and hoped that it did not fail and nothing happened. Ms. Lela Gutierrez addressed the boards. Ms. Gutierrez stated she felt everyone should be educated as to exactly what the project really is. Ms. Gutierrez continued this was the first time she fully understood what the project was about. Ms. Gutierrez stated she would like for the groups to have a town hall meeting to explain what the project Is about and receive input from the community. Ms. Gutierrez went on to say that if the groups took this approach, she was sure the divisiveness would be eliminated. Ms.Tinker stated the best example of why history is so important is that she has constantly seen this referred to as an "army of occupation" and she has seen an accurate copy of the orders sent to General Taylor and It was called an "army of observation: Ms. Tinker continued that the orders were written that way and she felt this was how a lot of problems are started and history lost. Ms. Tinker clarified there is a lot of difference between "occupation" and "observation." Ms. Tinker stated she personally felt the word "occupation" started off negatively. From the Landmark Commission's standpoint, it is very important that close attention be given to details. Mr. Menard stated that the Landmark Commission's report that the park's present configuration happened a little more than ten years ago. Mr. Menard continued that he was on the Park Board at that time also and the board was responding to a situation to that configuration because, at that time, the park was being used as a hangout for the homeless Landmark Commission Joint Mee* s January 24, 2002 Page 7 and vagrants. This present configuration occurred as a result of that situation. Mr. Menard stated that as the groups look at what is being proposed at today's meeting, he was pleased in one way that the proposal would not allow the same type of activities to take place. Mr. Menard continued that he wanted to make sure that placement of the pup tents would not attract the same situation and Mr. Dykema responded that the pup tents would not be big enough for anyone to get inside. Mr. Menard asked what was the total area of the two sides being proposed and Mr. Dykema answered he thought the block was approximately 440 feet square,a little less than four acres, but he was not sure. One of the board members stated that a lot of family and descendants of troops that fought in this war are still around and sensitivity should be shown regarding the park proposal. Mr. Menard wanted to know if there consideration had been given about a collaboration with a supporting exhibit or a new exhibit here in the museum rather than a less intrusive extension to the park and it was answered no. Mr. Belcher,Vice Chairman of the Landmark Commission, addressed the boards. Mr. Belcher asked Mr. Dykema for clarification regarding his statement"it's this design or no design"and Mr. Dykema answered that he was not sure what context that statement was taken from. Mr. Dykema stated that creating a design could be tricky business and, at some point, the designer has to make a statement. Mr. Dykema continued that what was being presented was a proposal and it can certainly be shot down. Mr. Dykema went on to say that it was very possible that Mr. Harte might be willing to entertain the idea of other designers coming in, but he was not sure who would cover the cost to hire a new designer. Mr. Belcher stated he just wanted clarification as to the statement. Mr. Belcher went on to say that he has given some thought to the proposal since the Master Review Committee met on the park plan. Mr. Belcher continued that he teaches at Moody High School and 98 percent of his students are Hispanic. W. Belcher continued he asked students in his government classes as well as some of his colleagues what they thought about the park plan. Mr. Belcher continued that he felt the sensitivity would remain for those families that lost their land as a result of the Mexican War. Mr. Belcher continued that from a historical perspective, bringing in other cultures destroys the historical significance. Mr. Belcher stated to him personally, the historical significance of Artesian Park was Zachary Taylor and the fact that he and his troops camped there. After any war, there was a great loss for some people and a great gain for some people. Mr. Belcher continued that all of us as Americans have benefited from the Mexican War in the fact that the war occurred and the United States took the land. This event set in motion other events that led to the Civil War and ended slavery. Mr. Belcher continued that if anybody lost in this war, it was the Native Americans. The Mexican War opened the expansion onto the plains that ended the Native Americans' way of life. Mr. Belcher continued that he still maintains that the historic significance of Artesian Park was connected to Zachary Taylor and his troops. Mr. Belcher went on to say that he supported the park design in the Master Review Committee meeting because he felt something world class was needed to bring historic tourist dollars to Corpus Christi. We don't have much history left in the city- most of it has been demolished and torn down or eaten up with new hotels. M . Belcher stated that commissioner members received a copy of a letter written by Mr. Joe Mclver. Mr. Belcher continued he wished they had received Mr. Mclver's letter before the Master Review Committee meeting. In Mr. Mclver's letter, he suggested placing two bronze eagles as monuments representing United States and Mexico. The monuments would measure 8 to 10 feet in height as opposed to this proposal. Mr. Belcher continued he supported the plan proposal because wants the city to attract the people that would be interested in our history-the tourists. Mr. Belcher stated he was also concerned about the cost of maintaining the park if the proposed plan is approved and accepted. Landmark Commission Joint Mee* 1110 January 24,2002 Page 8 Michael Gunning, Planning Department Director, addressed the boards. Mr. Gunning stated that part of the idea of planning a joint board meeting was several points: Mr. Dykema and Mr. Moloney would not have to make the presentation three additional times. Also, to get everyone together to share and receive information. This does not mean that each board will not have sufficient time in which to make a decision regarding the proposal. Also, the joint board meeting will accelerate the time frame in which comments can be taken back to City Council to move the project faster. Mr. Gunning continued that no decision has to be made at today's meeting. After further discussion ensued, the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee and the Arts and Cultural Commission took the following action: The Park and Recreation Advisory Committee approved the park plan as submitted with a recommendation that the project move forward. The Arts and Cultural Commission approved placing the park plan as a discussion item for their subcommittee with a recommendation to the full Committee for action at their February meeting. The Landmark Commission took the following action: IT WAS MOVED BY MR. BELCHER AND SECONDED BY MR. PHILLIPS THAT NO ACTION BE TAKEN AT TODAY'S MEETING ON THE PROPOSED PARK PLAN FOR ARTESIAN PARK, BUT THE PLAN WILL BE PLACED AS AN AGENDA ITEM FOR THE FEBRUARY 28, 2002 REGULAR MEETING. MOTION PASSED. After all discussion and comments concluded on the Artesian Park proposal, the Arts and Cultural Committee and the Park and Recreation Board adjourned. Special thanks were expressed to Mr. Moloney and Mr. Dykema for attending today' meeting and presenting the park proposal. OLD BUSINESS: Gold Star Court Update: Ms. Bunny Tinker gave the report on the Gold Star Memorial Court. Ms. Tinker continued that before Christmas, Mr. Leland Johnson came before the Landmark Commission. The topic at the meeting was the four-panel granite monument placed at the site without the Landmark Commission's approval as to placement or design. At that meeting, three or four options were given to him - that he go back to the monument company and see what they could do, perhaps turn the monument around and re-scribe it, remove it all together, or partially bury it In the ground at an angle. Mr. Johnson was to report back to us in January as to which option the group would approve. Ms.Tinker stated that the Master Review Committee met with Mr. Johnson, Crystal Mead of Beautify Corpus Christi, and Betty Black, original member on the Gold Star Court, on January 17, 2002 In the Planning Department conference room. Ms. Tinker continued that the proposal Mr. Johnson submitted was that the stone, which is now placed on a concrete base and raises the monument by a foot, be removed to the lower left portion. It was felt that would offset the Gold Star Mother's light post;which Is to the right. Located at the bottom will be the retaining wall that is necessary because of the walkway that will be cut Into this area; which currently does not exist. The monument was to have been placed in the center of the retaining wall. The monument lists names of the men killed in the war; which are also the same names that are on Inscribed individual plaques Just below the Upper Broadway balustrade. It was felt people could not see and know all of the names on the plaques and it Landmark Commission Joint Meek January 24, 2002 Page 9 would be brought down to this level so people would know who these men were. Any of the solutions presented are temporary until funding is received to build the retaining wall. The Master Review Committee's recommendation is that the monument be removed from the concrete base and leaned back down on the ground and elevated 20 degrees going up the bluff. The Committee's vote was split 3 to 1 - Mr. Phillips wanted the monument totally removed. Mr. Cisneros stated members of the Gold Star Court were not present at today's meeting because they were having their annual meeting of the Beautify Corpus Christi. Mr. Cisneros continued that he would have a project design for construction, but has sent out RFPS t0 bid the project because of funding. The design is to be an inset in the retaining wall. The present solution is temporary because it has not been built. Mr. Phillips commented that the monument is so high you cannot see the sign. Once the grading is done and the retaining wall Is installed, it will be lower. Mr. Cisneros added that Mr. Chuck Anastos and his firm did the conceptual drawing. After all comments were concluded, the Landmark Commission accepted the recommendation. Approval of September 27, 2001 Minutes: The September 27, 2001 minutes were approved as distributed. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7 p.m. • Lint. Williams Faryce Goo,Macon,City Planner Recti ding Secretary Staff Liaiso • Landmark Commission IH WORD\LANDMAR INANMINS2002.DOC)