Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Landmark Commission - 07/25/2002 MINUTES LANDMARK COMMISSION MEETING ;� CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS E aECEIVE® o JULY 25, 2002 � CITY SEFFIrARY'S _n MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Deborah Douglas, Chairman -)169/..99-'4 Ms. Susan Abarca Mr. Alan Belcher Ms. Sharon Brower Mr. Michael Cleary Mr. Myron Grossman Ms. Grandis Lenken Dr. Richard Moore Mr. Terry Orf Mr. Elmon Phillips Ms. Bunny Tinker MEMBERS ABSENT: Dr. Thomas Kreneck (Excused) Mr. Kevin Maraist (Excused) Mr. Tom Stewart (Excused) Mr. Alan Wahiers (Excused) STAFF PRESENT: Ms. Faryce Goode-Macon, City Planner Ms. Linda Williams, Recording Secretary Mr. Alan Belcher, Vice Chairman, called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The roll was called and a quorum was not present. Upon arrival of Ms. Abarca at 4:43 p.m., a quorum was declared. ACTION ITEM: Approval of Minutes for June 27, 2002 Meeting: The minutes for the June 27, 2002 meeting were approved as distributed. DISCUSSION ITEMS: With approval of commission members, order of the discussion agenda items wee re- arranged. Sesquicentennial Video Contract with Quadrant Productions: Ms. Macon stated that at the last meeting, the possibility was discussed of securing additional funding for the video production. Ms. Macon continued that since that meeting, it was decided no additional fundraisers would be pursued and another direction would be taken. Staff held a meeting and it was decided that the video production would be done with the S15,000 that is currently in the city's coffer. Ms. Macon went on to say that since the city has a service contract with Quadrant Productions, their services will be used to produce the video. Ms. Macon continued that staff has been meeting with their video production team to review various ideas and options on how best to use the money appropriated in accomplishing the task of producing the video, as indicated by the Landmark Commission. Ms. Macon reminded commissioners that it was also discussed that the video would highlight the history of Corpus Christi and it would be directed more so to third and fourth graders in an effort to help the Corpus Christi Independent School District with the TEKS performance standard testing. Ms. Macon continued that in doing this, staff had to review the manuals SCANNED Landmark Commission Meetings July 25,2002 Page 2 to make sure that the needed components would be appropriate. Ms. Macon referenced a handout that was Included In the packets. Ms. Macon stated the handout was a simple outline compiled by Museum staff and other staff members. The outline would be used for a display the Museum would be doing for the Sesquicentennial Celebration. This outline would also be given to Quadrant Productions so they would have an idea of what direction the script should take. Ms. Macon continued that the video production team from Quadrant Productions was Invited to today's meeting to give them an opportunity to show examples from various clips of their work so that commissioners might feel comfortable In working with them. Ms. Macon stated that the same video subcommittee was In place and would be working with the production team. The committee will review the script as it is written. The production team also would like feedback from the commission as to what additional information you would like to see included in the video. Ms. Tinker asked what was the time line for the video production and Ms. Macon answered that the original time line of September 9th would not be met. Ms. Macon continued that this has been addressed with management and the plan was to have the video completed soon after the September 91" date. Ms.Tinker stated that after the commission reviews the outline,would the commission submit their comments before August. Ms. Macon answered that the outline presented was for Quadrant Productions, but they will inform the commission on how the scriptwriter will Incorporate the outline. Ms. Macon continued that they want to get started as soon as possible In getting clips compiled and a draft done. Ms. Macon clarified that no action had to be taken on this agenda item. At this point, the floor was turned over to the production team leader. Mr. Frank van Heugton, owner of Quadrant Productions Introduced members of the team. Mr. Van Heugton introduced Paul Pope and Chris Hale. Mr. van Heugton stated he was the director of the video, Mr. Pope was the scriptwriter, and Mr. Hale was the assistant director and editor. Mr. Van Heugton continued he wanted to clarify several items concerning the outline provided by the Museum. Mr. Van Heugton stated that rough Drafts would be submitted for the commission and staff to review before any filming would actually begin and the team would not move ahead until they received an approved script. Mr. Van Heugton asked Mr. Pope to address several ideas that the team received after several meetings with Museum staff at this point and of the direction they would like to go with the video,and also receive feedback from the commission. Mr. Pope stated the outline the commissioners received was really no more than some essential kinds of things to be covered. The outline will be taken and fleshed out to get more specific ideas from It. The video production for the Museum display and eventually for CCISD distribution, will be approximately eight to twelve minutes long, most likely twelve minutes. Mr. Pope continued that drafts would be submitted to receive comments and input before the shooting phase of the video begins. Mr. Pope stated they wanted the final production to be of such caliber that it would not only appeal to third and fourth graders, but to all ages. The video will be kept simple enough for students in keeping with the TEKS standards, but also edifying and entertaining. Mr. Pope continued that since the team has a definite time line, all of the city's history would not be included In the video- lust the highlights. Mr. Pope stated with regard to the students in the school district, the teachers would follow up with detailed information and the Museum exhibit would provide details that the video would not cover. Mr. Pope continued that it was hoped that the video would provide a real blended flavor of the growth of Corpus Christi and how It all happened. Mr. Pope opened the floor for any questions or comments. Mr. Grossman asked if the video would contain just shots of pictures or would there be any acting involved and Mr. Pope answered there might be some short reenactment in the video to liven it up some. Mr. Pope continued that new video will be used to the extent Landmark Commission MeetlngW V July 25,2002 Page 3 possible and old pictures will be used with moving cameras to make them active. Various techniques will be used to keep the production lively. There will be a variety of different voices used and excerpts taken from old letters will also be used. Different things will be used to keep the project Interesting. Mr. Pope continued they are looking for historical motion pictures that could be possibly used for the video- he continued there were some McGregor footage available and he was told that local resident,Joe Kelly also so had motion picture footage. Mr. Pope went on to say that if anyone knew of a resource that could be used,they would like to be contacted. Ms.Tinker asked how old did the film have to be or the person with the footage and Mr. Pope answered that the footage should be at least forty to fifty years old since for it to be considered of some historical nature. It was possible for an eighty year old person to have home movies that old or older, especially if they were shot during the 40s and 50s. Mr. Grossman stated he hoped the production team would be able to have some vignettes included In the video. Mr. Grossman continued he felt the vignettes would be the most effective way of keeping the audience's attention and recreating a specific period of time. Mr. Van Heugton stated they would try to work some vignettes In, but because of budget constraints, they were not sure how many. Mr. Grossman asked If they had any local voluntary actors that could be used and Mr. Van Heugton answered that the Museum had some concern about the quality of the actors and being able to pull it off. Mr.Van Heugton continued they wanted to make sure that everything was done properly since there were time and budget constraints. Mr. Van Heugton continued they have had great success in using student actors from Del Mar College and Texas A & M - Corpus Christi. Mr. Belcher commented that he had seen re-enactment groups from Gollad in various productions and they did an outstanding Job. After all comments were concluded, the commissioners viewed several short clips of video productions the team had produced. Some of the examples highlighted were: • Environmental preservation of the State of Louisiana; • 21re Century-Port of Corpus Christi; • Laguna Madre;and • Corpus Christi Padre Island. After the commission viewed the video clips, commissioners stated they were very pleased with the examples that were shown. Mr. Van Heugton stated he was very proud of the individuals that make up Quadrant Productions and he felt the commission would enjoy working with the group. Ms.Tinker asked when would the team begin work on the video and Mr. Van Heugton answered that they were shooting for December 2002 and the Commission most likely would not review any scripts until around September. Ms. Macon asked commissioners If there was anything that they wanted to pass on to the team or ask about after viewing the video clips and several commissioners had comments. Mr. Van Heugton deferred to Mr. Pope to answer questions regarding the video. Mr. Pope recommended that commissioners take the time to review the outline that was provided and submit any comments or suggestions to Ms. Macon. He continued that within the next couple of weeks, the team would begin research and it was doubtful if anything would be ready for script writing at that time. Mr. Pope stated If commissioners had comments for him, they could submit them to Ms. Macon and she would get them to him before the August meeting, if need be. Ms. Tinker asked what is the coordination point for the school district regarding the test standards and Mr. Pope responded that Mr. Stryker would confirm with the school district. Ms. Douglas asked if the production team would be receiving feedback from school district teachers to ensure that the materials were appropriate and on the right track. Mr. Pope stated the team would be working with two ladles from the school district- Dixie Benford and Mary Crystal. Dr. Moore stated that since he was late In arriving at the meeting, he Landmark Commission Meeting S July 25,2002 Page 4 would like to obtain a copy of the video that Quadrant provided for the Commission's review. Ms. Macon stated that what was presented today was just clips from various productions the team complied for today's review and a copy of the clippings would be available for his review. Ms. Tinker asked for clarification regarding the available funding for the video was the THC grant of $15,000 and Ms. Macon answered yes the only funding available was the THC grant. Mr. Grossman asked why was it decided that no one would attempt to raise the money and Ms. Macon responded that anyone could raise the money. Ms. Macon continued that the Sesquicentennial Committee was still functioning with the four people that attend the meeting. Ms. Macon stated that If those four committee members wanted to hold a fundraiser, they could do so. Mr. Grossman asked why the committee was such an exclusive group and Ms. Macon replied that the Sesquicentennial Committee was not an exclusive group - approximately twenty people were appointed to serve on the committee, but only four or five members attended on a consistent basis. Ms. Tinker suggested that the video be at least fifteen minutes In length instead of twelve. After all comments and discussion concluded, no action was taken. Thanks were expressed to Mr. Van Heugton and the Quadrant Production team for attending today's meeting and making available the video clips for the commission to review. At this point in the meeting,the meeting was turned over to Ms. Douglas to chair. HC - Historical Cultural Application Review of former Temple Beth El Synagogue at 1315 Craig Street: Ms. Macon stated that at last month's meeting, she informed commissioners that a zoning application for a"HC"zoning overlay would be forthcoming for commissioners to review and that application packet would be included In the mall out. Ms. Macon continued the building was the original location for the Temple Beth El congregation;which moved to Its new location on Saratoga Boulevard. Ms. Macon stated that Reverend Danny Spears, Pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church, currently located in the building, submitted a zoning application requesting a "HC"zoning overlay for the old Temple Beth El Synagogue. Ms. Macon stated she discussed the various options available for consideration and she recommended the congregation pursue the "HC-F" designation. Ms. Macon referenced the handout"Article 28A-"HC" Historical-Cultural Landmark Preservation,which Is contained in the zoning ordinance. Ms. Macon explained, for benefit of new commissioners, that on page 2 of the hand out, last paragraph explained the definition of the"HC-F"classification. The classification does not pertain to the Interior of the building or any of the facade that does not face a major right-of-way. Ms. Macon continued she recommended that Reverend Spears apply for the "HC-F" classification as she felt it was less restrictive and would be more supportive by the congregation. Ms. Macon further explained that with the "HC-F" classification, the commission would most likely have facade review of two sides of the structure that face Craig Street Ms. Macon continued that Reverend Spears was at today's meeting to answer any questions the commissioners might have regarding the church. At this point In the meeting, the floor was turned over to Reverend Spears. Reverend Spears stated he was at today's meeting to answer any questions the commission might have regarding why the church is seeking the "HC" designation or any questions In general about the church, neighborhood, etc. Mr. Grossman stated that he attended Sunday school at the old Temple Beth El Church and he was familiar with the building. Mr. Grossman asked for clarification regarding the designation Reverend Spears was applying for. Ms. Macon explained that there are six different classifications that can be applied for. Ms. Macon continued that most people do not want to apply for the full "HC" classification. Ms. Macon clarified that there was not a "HC" classification that controlled the Interior of a building. Ms. Macon went on to say that In the past, there was only one "HC" classification, but over the past ten years, "HC classifications have expanded to six. Ms. Macon stated she and Reverend Spears met to discuss the different"HC" classifications. Ms. Macon continued that after their meeting, It was decided that the "HC-F" classification would be more Landmark Commission MeetingW S July 25,2002 Page 5 acceptable by himself, the congregation and Board of Directors. Ms. Macon continued that another factor that was taken into consideration was the review process with the Landmark Commission for any possible revisions made to the church. Ms. Macon stated the "HC-F" designation would give the Landmark Commission review of the facade only and It does not include the Interior of the church. Mr. Orf asked for clarification on which sides the Landmark Commission would have review of and Ms. Macon stated all of the sides that will face the street. Mr. Phillips stated that the Nueces County Historical Commission had been working with several members of the Metropolitan Church trying to get a historical marker for the church and the research for the marker was almost finalized. Mr. Phillips continued that Anita Eisenhauer had several questions and Reverend spears stated he had met with her and they were waiting to hear back from her. Mr. Phillips continued the commission was ready to proceed with purchasing the marker. Ms.Tinker asked Mr. Phillips if the marker was as to the congregation and he responded the marker would be for the building. Mr. Phillips continued that the Jewish Community built the building and It still remains intact and so has all of the exterior markings which commemorates this as being the first Jewish congregation in that location. Reverend Spears concurred with Mr. Phillips' statement. Ms. Tinker asked Reverend Spears If the thrust for the "HC application would be for the building also and he answered yes. Ms. Tinker asked Reverend Spears had he spoken with the Temple Beth El congregation regarding the application and he answered he had not. Reverend Spears stated that his congregation bought the church and before they purchased it, the building was used as a Montessori school. Ms. Tinker questioned the accuracy of a statement made on page 10 of the reference of Palmer Street in the Del Mar Subdivision. Ms. Tinker stated she could not find that street name in any of her research. After a brief discussion, it was a consensus that the street name should be Palmero and it would be corrected. Ms. Macon stated the reason she placed the "HC" application as a discussion Item on the agenda was to give additional time for commissioners to thoroughly review the application so that possible action could be taken at the August meeting. Mr. Phillips asked if Dexter Harmon was also the architect for Wynn Seale Middle School and Ms. Macon answered she did not know. Ms. Tinker complimented Reverend Spears on the wonderful research provided for the application and Reverend Spears explained that he did not perform the research. Reverend Spears continued that after he spoke with Ms. Macon about the information needed for the application, Mr. Charles Les Henne, who is a architectural student at Texas A & M pursing his masters degree, contacted us. Mr. Henne spoke with someone at Temple Beth El and they recommended he talk with us. Mr. Henne was required to do a project of a historical narrative that had t0 meet State requirements for a designation and he chose their building. Ms. Abarca asked Reverend Spears what will the "HC-F" designation do for the church In addition to the marker being planned and he answered that the church plans to further pursue county and state designations. Reverend Spears continued that having the historical designations provide opportunities for them to apply for and receive grant monies t0 help maintain the building. Reverend Spears stated there are approximately sixty-three (63) active members in the congregation and the church has a limited budget, but the church building is very large. Reverend Spears continued that the congregation loves the building and they have a great opportunity for outreach and growth in the community. Ms. Tinker asked Reverend Spears why did he not consider pursing full "HC" designation for the building and he answered he did not know. Ms. Tinker asked would there be a problem if they went for a full designation under "HC-I" or did the church have future plans to add on to the building that would encumber them from pursing a higher designation. Reverend Spears answered that the church is planning interior renovations and Ms. Tinker answered Landmark Commission Meeting 410 July 25,2002 Page 6 that the commission very rarely reviewed interior renovations. Ms. Tinker continued she felt the church should pursue the "HC-1 designation,which was for public buildings open to the public. Mr. Belcher referenced the chart and the restrictions associated with the "HC-I" designation and Ms.Tinker stated the "HC-II" designation would still apply. Reverend Spears responded to Ms. Tinker's comment by stating he had not considered designating the entire building and he was not familiar with the "HC-I" designation. Ms. Macon stated for clarification that she recommended Reverend Spears to apply for the "HC-F" designation because she felt it would be more acceptable and easier to seek approval from the congregation. Mr. Grossman stated he concurred with Ms. Tinker's suggestion that the "HC-I or HC-IP designations be pursued. Mr. Grossman continued he saw no reason that the designation could not be pursued. This particular building has some very unique characteristics besides the two sides facing the street. There are other Items that need to be protected also. Mr. Orf stated that in the future, If the church had to make upgrades and modifications to the facility for their functioning purposes, under a full "HC" classification any plan changes to the building would have to be approved by the Landmark Commission. Mr.Orf continued if the church applied for the two-side facade designation, the Landmark Commission would have to review and approve any changes or modifications to those two facades only. Mr. Orf continued he wanted to make sure that this information had been explained to Reverend Spears and he fully understood. After further discussion, Reverend Spears stated he did not feel comfortable in making the decision to apply for a higher "HC" designation. Reverend Spears continued he would take the information he received at today's meeting and discuss the zoning application with the Board of Directors t0 poll them tO see If they would be interested In designating the entire building instead of applying for the"HC-F for two sides of the building. Reverend Spears stated he would contact Ms.Macon after he met with the Board of Directors to let her know of the board's decision regarding which designation to move forward with on the application. After all discussion and comments concluded, Ms. Douglas expressed thanks to Reverend Spears for attending today's meeting and thanks to his congregation for their support in historical preservation. Ms. Douglas continued their involvement could be the beginning of renewed interest in our city's historical resources. Gold Star Court Update: Ms. Macon stated that after last month's meeting, staff met and the two groups are working to find the most durable solution so that the item does not go before City Council. Ms. Macon continued it was hoped that that a solution could be found within the next month. Mr. Phillips informed commissioners that the Central Library would be submitting a grant to create a web site for the Gold Star Court like they did for the Old Bay View Cemetery. Mr. Phillips also informed commissioners that he received a letter from Lindsey Baker, Chair of the Texas History Department with Tarleton State University. The letter requested assistance in providing information regarding historic crime sites throughout Texas. Mr. Phillips stated he would make the information available to commissioners; and possibly, provide the requested information. OTHER MATTERS: Ms. Tinker stated the City Manager is leading the Sesquicentennial Committee. Ms. Tinker continued that staff members from Planning and Public Relations are also helping lead the charge,along with any committee members that were present at the first meeting. At the last committee meeting, staff passed out an agenda of what needed to be done for the celebration. Landmark Commission Meetings w July 25,2002 Page 7 Mr. Grossman asked what members from the committee attended the meeting and Ms. Tinker answered that she, Rosene Bunyon, Les Cassidy, and Geraldine McGloin, were at the last meeting. Ms. Macon clarified that the city has not disbanded the Sesquicentennial Committee and all members were still in place. Ms. Tinker added several members were trying to raise money to purchase fireworks. Ms. Macon stated several activities were planned leading up to the September celebration. Some of the activities planned are the Folk Life Festival in Heritage Park, a parade of city vehicles; several schools will be participating in the parade. Free hotdogs and cokes will be available. City Council will read excepts from some of the original minutes. Ms. Tinker stated that a time capsule will be placed at the Central Library in celebration of the Sesquicentennial and will be opened in 2006. Ms. Tinker continued she was open for suggestions on what items should be placed Inside the capsule. After a brief discussion, Ms. Brower suggested placing an ad in the newspaper announcing a contest would be held asking for suggestions and Ideas of the items to be placed Inside the capsule. There being no further business,the meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m. Ind Li ams r _ Faryce Good aeon, IW Planner Recon • g secretary Staff Liaison Landmark Commission IH WOROWNDAVANDMARKNILYMINSOL.WO