HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Landmark Commission - 09/23/2004 Ihr
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MINUTES (I", 0
LANDMARK COMMISSION MEETING
CM'COUNCIL CHAMBERS rSEPTEMBER 23, 2004 apo-*�p;L 2dO5 ro to
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Myron Grossman, Charman 4,1
Ms. Susan Abaco sus r, _,
Dr. David Blanke ,^r
Ms. Grandis Leen
Dr. Richard Moore
Mr. Elmon PIMRps
Mr. Craig Thompson
Ms. Bunny Tinker
Mr. David Wallace
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr.James Bright (Excused)
Mr. David&own (Excused)
Dr. Thomas Kreneck (Excused)
Mr. Kevin Maoist (Excused)
Mr. Herb Morrison (Excused)
STAFF PRESENT: Ms. Faryce Goode-Macon, City Planner
Ms. Linda Williams, Recording Secretary
ROLL CALL:
Mr. Myron Grossman, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The roll was called
and a quorum was declared.
ACTION ITEMS
Approval of the Are 24, 2004 and August 26, 2005 Minutes: The June 24 and August 26,
2004 minutes were approved as ds dbuted.
Master Review Committee's Recommendation on the 'HC-IV" Designation of Property located at
1323 North Chaparral Street: Mr. Herb Morison addressed the commission. Mr. Morrison stated he, Ms.
Bunny linker, and Mr. Elmon Phillips met at the property located at 1323 North Chaparral to review the
property. Mr. Morrison continued that the applicant appeared at the June meeting and had submitted
his application requesting the 'HC' designation. Mr. Morrison stated he was very Impressed with the
restoration of the properly and felt Mr.Collins had done an excellent job in restoring it. Mr. Morrison
continued that Ms. Tinker would submit the Master Review Committee's recommendation.
Ms. linker stated that the group met at Mr. Collin's property and was given a tour of the house
and they saw a partial structure that at one time was an aid fire station located in the back of the
properly. Ms. linker continued she did not know the history of the fire station and they toured the interior
of the house and it was very interesting to review the work that Mr.Collins had done.
Mr. Grossman asked if there was an indication that showed that the properly had one time
been a fire station and Ms. linker answered the only thing that was still standing was a Three-bay garage
in the back of the house. Ms. linker stated the group made several suggestions to Mr. Collins regarding
the exterior changes made:
SCANNED
Landmark Commission Meeting 4
• September 23,2004
Page 2
O it was suggested that the next lime the ewes brackets were printed they
should be painted the same cola; and
O Mr.Collins was encouraged to replace the screens back on the house.
Ms, linker continued when the Lamdnak Commission was formed In 1970, this house was on
the original list of historic structures and she was glad to see Mr.Cots'willingness to restore the house to
its original state and he was to be commended for requesting the 14C"designation. After all cur rmhmui lb
and discussion concluded, Ms. Tinker stated the Master Review Committee recommends that the
properly located at 1323 North Chaparral be granted the designation that Mr. Collins requested. Mr.
Philips added that he was also appreciative Mr. Collins'wBingness to take on the project aid do such a
wonderful restoration job.
Dr. Moore asked If Mr. Collins received the designation on his properly would that mem that he
could not make any changes to the exterior and Ms.Taker answered that the designation would Impose
a 30-day delay with the madmum delay of 180 days, but after that time frame, he could do what he
wanted to do to the properly.
After al comments and discussion concluded, the following action was taken:
IT WAS MOVED BY MS. TINKER AND SECONDED BY MS. LENIt1N THAT THE HOUSE LOCATED AT
1323 NORTH CHAPARRAL BE APPROVED FOR A'HC-W DESIGNATION.
MO11ON PASSED.
Mr. Grossman stated at one lime, the Landnak Commission discussed the possibility of
pursuing as a project, the Installation of markers identifying the various histoicd districts and Interests
throughout the city, especially in the Old Irish Town area with dl of the actMly going on with the
expansion to the bayfront area and now Mr. Coins'properly. Ms. Macon stated that maybe the Junior
League would be wiling to undertake this project since they had done a lot of preservation work in the
area.
Proposal for 1-IC-ft Designation of property located at &IoM Steel and Moaam Avenue Area:
Ms. Macau stated this project was brought to the landmwk Commission by Mr. Torn Utter, former
Assistant City Manager for the City and he has requested the commission's support and participation In
getting the proposal completed. Ms. Macon continued that Mr. Utter was at today's meeting to discuss
the proposal with commissioners. After a brief introduction, Mr. Utter addressed the Commission.
Mr. Utter stated it was his pleasure to be at today's m meeting and the Landmark Commission had
always been one of his favorite city boards to work with. Mr. Utter briefly discussed the various historical
projects he worked on with the Landmark Commission. Mr. Utter continued he thought Idea of placing a
marker In Old Kish Town was excellent and he would personally help find some funding to get the project
off the gourd. Mr. Utter went on to say that he was at todays meeting to discuss lie properly located
al 1315 Bright Street, which was the tamer medical office of the late Dr. Hector P. Gana Mr. Utter
expressed thanks to staff and to Texas A& M University at Corpus Christi for Melt outstanding support and
research efforts In getting the documentation together fa the designation. Mr. Utter continued that the
City Manager and Mayor will assist In finding federal funding for tits project. The bulling by itself is not
red significant, but the history of what hx,rmprn rod hi the building is what Is considered to be significant.
For over 35 yeas, Dr. Garcia held community rr rodumy> with lord citizens like Dr. Colson, Reverend
Harold T. Branch,and others that realy made a difference M the city. Mr. Utter continued that we do not
have too many people In the city that has received the Civil Medal. Mr. Utter stated that staff and the
city waited to do something. The City has designed parks in Dr. Gacia's honor and for other Lulac
members.
Landmark Commission Meeting 4/0
September 23,2004
Page 3
Mr. Utter continued that the Hispanic population will be a majority In the state of Texas, but the
legacy that Dr. Garda left will also be an attraction to not only the local Hispatic convntmily, but it will
attract people from di over the country to come to study his papers. Mr. Utter continued that it was real
interesting that he deliberately left his papers here In the city. Mr. Utter went on to say from staff's
staidpoint,this was a very special project and over the yeas, he has participated in many preservation
efforts that have preserved a part of our local heritage.
A question was posed regarding what the building would be used for and Mr. Utter answered
that the bulling would be used as an interpretive center and we think it will be an excellent addition to
the University classroom dverslly cu niculuan. Mr. Utter continued that this project Is the one support that
has not been degraded but dl kinds of people events took place at this location. Mr. Utter continued
that the bulking served in a capacity other than just his medical building. Not any were medal needs
addressed, but comma lly needs were discovered aid kr w rwnded in this bulking.
Ms. linker stated in reviewing materials provided by Dr. Kreneck, the group could not get Inside
of the building to actually review anything. Ms. linker asked if their group community meetings were
actually held at the office or was it part of the day-to-day medical care. Ms. linker continued that many
of the documents housed at the University were generated from his office.
Dr. Blare added that most of the transactions for the G.I. Forum took place at the office site
and some were even held in his car on his way to various meetings.,
meetings.
Mr. Utter stated that the medical office was not only a place necessarily where the G. I. Foam
was organized, but it was also known as Dr. Garcla's place. The real historical and significant Impacts of
ideas aid plans were formulated and evolved out of that building that resulted in change and
betterment for the Hispanic community. Mr. Utter continued that Dr. Garcia has been the only local
citizen that he knew of that received the Medal of Freedom of Life for his achievements as an activist for
chi rights. Mr. Utter went on to say that it was redly remarkade that Dr. Garcia was so active in the civil
rights movement and was a full-lime doctor at the same. the ikst seventeen (17) years of his medical
practice had passed before the G.I. Forum was established.
Mr. Philips asked If the dug store would be pal of the project aid Mr. Utter answered that he
wanted the Landmark Commission to take care of the actual designation and determine what should
be included in the application for the maker and the City would be trying to secure the furdng. The
initial research will be brought back to the commission for review and submittal.
tal.
Ms. Tinker read Into record the definition for a landmark designation or for a '1-1C-1' designation
which would be based on the inch/Mud. The designation would be based upon the life aid works of Dr.
Garcia more so than the building since it was built in the 1960s.
Mr. Grossman stated he concurred with Mr. Utters comments regarding the cMl rights
movement spearhead by Dr. Garcia through the establishment of the G.I. Forum and the project was
worthy of the designation.
Memo of Support from the Texas A& M University-Corpus Christi Faculty of the former Medial
Office of Dr. Hector P. Garcia being nominated as a 'Historicd land'na c Dr. Blarke expressed thanks to
Mr. Utter for bringing forth the project which was very note worthy. this adds validity to the established of
the G.I. Forum/LULAC organizations. Dr. Blanke continued that that the University was very excited about
the possibility of the landmark designation and had written a letter of support. Dr. Blanks read the letter
of support from the University into record.
•
Landmark Commission Meeting k
September 23,2001
Page 4
Master Review Committee's Recommendation on the brooerlv located at Briahf Street O.
Manue Ms. Tinker asked if there would be a group housed in the facility and who would
maintain the building once the renovations were completed. Mr. Utter stated that the building wild be
not be used as an office per say, but It would be an center for educational purposes only show casing
some of the accomplishments and documents written by Dr. Gacio. The local G. I. Faun would be
the group that would oversee the building after its corpletion. Mr. Utter continued that staff would be
speaking on behalf of the group before the Hanning Commission and ultimately at the Cl/Canal
level for find opprovd. Mr. Utter continued that Dr. Gacids cMI rights movement was for a
demographic of people that needier someone to speak for them. His documents were not done for
poltficd purposes, but to the betterment of a people.
Ms. linker stated that included In the packet of information was a site/location map showing the
location of the properly at Morgan Avenue and Bright Street, view of the property along Morgan Avenue,
and a side view of the property. Ms. Tinker Continued that even though they were not dile to tour the
building, but because of Dr. Garcta's legacy and his impact on the community was worthy to be
recognized. The designation would be based on the merits of the bulling, but on the works of Dr.
Garcia. After al comments and discussion concluded,the following action was taken:
IT WAS MOVED BY MS. TINKER AND SECONDED BY MR. WAUACE THAT THE LANDMARK
COMMISION APPROVE SUBMITTAL OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT MORGAN AVENUE IND BRIGHT
STREET,FORMER MEDICAL OFFICE OF DR.HECTOR P.GARCIA,FOR A`HC-1`DESIGNATION
BASED UPON THE CRITERIA ESTABLISHED N ARTICLE 28-A, 01.04, IDENTIFYING WITH A PERSON
WITH THE CULTURAL AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY.
MOTION PASSED.
Thanks were expressed to Mr. Utter for attending today's meeting and bringing the proposal for
designating Dr. Hector P. Garcia's medical office.
DISCUSSION PREM:
Finollffna Plans for landmark Commission Workshop: Ms. Macon stated that every sear, the
Landmark Commission scheduled an annual workshop to set goals and brainstorm potential projects.
Ms. Macon continued that the date for the wokshop w8 be the regular meeting date of October 28,
2004 and It will be held off-site at Ms. Tinkers property located in Flour Bluff. Ms. Macon stated
connissioners were requested to bring ideas for discussion to be placed on the agenda for the
workshop. Ms. Macon continued that one of the Items the commission could possibly do would be to
take a bus tour using RTA Ms. Macon continued she had to inquire whether Of not the PTA would still
make available a city bus for the tour.
Mr. Thompson stated during the sinner, he visited in Milwaukee and Chicago at read how
the historical groups produced neighborhood maps with descriptions of the various neighborhoods with
historical punts of significance for each one. Mr. Thompson continued that there were sane great
neighborhoods in the city and maybe producing a map of this type would be a project the commission
could do. Several neighborhoods were mentioned that might be considered for tris project Saxet
Heights, Gardendale, Leopard Street Corridor, Morningside Addition, as well as others.
Mr. Grossman asked Mr.Thompson to provide and collect the information and possibly present It
to the commission. Mr. Thompson stated he would be wiling to do the legwork in calling people or find
the maps for the research. Mr.Thompson volunteered to copy the maps if they were made available.
Landmark Commission Meeting 4
• September 23,2004
Page 5
Ms. linker commented that the Nueces County Historical Commission did a similar project
several years ago that provided some of the same information. The finished product was a spiral
notebook with all of the information.
Ms. Macon slated she could call the Texas Historical Commission to see If tis would be a viable
project for funding. Ms. Macon continued that the Carty Commission also did a maker trail brochure
depicting location of the various markers throughout the county.
Mr. Phillips informed commissioners of an apartment complex located across the street from the
Alameda Oaks Nursing Center. The complex is located in the 12W block of Tenth Street. Mr. Philips
continued that The building was built in the 1920s and the front of the building is beautiful. The building is
comprised of two or twee stories. Mr. Phillips continued that the millwork was beautiful.
Other Matters:
Ms. Tinker Informed commissioners that a marker dedication ceremony was held for the aid
Bayview Cemetery and the project was not brought before the Landmark Commission to review the
design, calor, or location of the markers. Ms. Tinker continued that since the cemetery is 'HC"
designated, the Landmark Commission should have been involved. The marker dedication marked the
graves of the sixhy-rune (69)soldiers who died of dysteria. Mr. Philips commented that the makers were
a nice size and were very nice,
Ms. Tinker commented that she spoke with Norma Urban and the Downtown Management
Group is spearheading a project for several parks in the downtown area: Artesian, Spohn Park and the
Gold Star Memorial Pork, and the La Retama Pork. Ms. linker continued that more information would be
provided once formal plans were submitted. Ms. Tinker staled she informed Ms. Urban that the
Landmark Commission had review of any proposals for the parks since they were NC designated.
There being no further business, tie meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
111
•
••�rl r 1 im
Linda WJNams • e •.. A Maces. ,City Planner
Recor.ing Secretary Staff Uaison t• andmak Commission
IH KM?nxORD1M MRr.MM+Wt W12304rNfm
SUMMARY SHEET
LANDMARK COMMISSION MEETING
SEPtEMSER 23, 2004
1. The Landmark Commission approved the Master Review Committee's recommendation to
accept and approve a request for a 'HC-W" designation on property located at 1323 North
Chaparral Sheet.
2. the Landmark Commission heard a formal proposal from Mr.W.T. Utter to accept and approve
a request for 'HC-1' designation of the former medcd office of Dr. Hector P. Garcia. The
designation would be obtdned on the basis of Dr. Hector P. Gorda's service to the community.