HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Landmark Commission - 08/26/1999 ill+ V
MINUTES
LANDMARK COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF CONFERENCE ROOM — 1" FLOOR
AUGUST 26, 1999
MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Deborah Douglas, Chairman
Mr. Alan Belcher
Ms. Sharon Brower
Ms. Betsy Chapman
Mr. Michael Cleary
Mr. Mark Luddeke
Mr. Terry Orf
Mr. Elmon Phillips
Mr. Tom Stewart
Ms. Bunny Tinker
Mr. Jerry Wagoner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ms. Lisa Garza (Excused)
Ms. Grandis Lenken (Excused)
Mr. Kevin Maraist (Excused)
Ms. Elizabeth Rentz (Excused)
STAFF PRESENT: Michael Gunning, Planning Director
Faryce Goode-Macon, City Planner
Linda Williams, Recording Secretary
Ms. Deborah Douglas, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
The roll was called and a quorum was declared.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW COMMISSIONERS:
Ms. Douglas stated she was excited to see the Landmark Commission's
membership back to its full status and that all vacancies were finally filled.
Ms. Douglas continued that five (5) new commissioners have been
appointed and they were attending today's meeting. Ms. Douglas
welcomed the new commissioners and asked commissioners to Introduce
themselves. The new commissioners are Mr. Michael Cleary, a state
certified real estate appraiser with Frost Bank who fills the competency of
a regular member. Mr. Mark Luddeke is an architect with the local firm of
Wilson, Kullman, & McCord. Mr. Luddeke moved from San Antonio and has
been in the city for ten years. Mr. Luddeke stated he is very interested in
old historical buildings and being appointed to the commission is a great
opportunity for him to get involved in local preservation efforts. Mr.
Luddeke fills the competency of an architect. Mr. Terry Orf is an architect,
formerly with Wilson, Kul!man, & McCord, and recently opened his own
firm three weeks ago, also fills the competency of an architect. Mr. Orf
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Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 2
continued he has been involved with the Old Nueces County Courthouse
for about eight years ago, and more recently, serves on a committee that
is working with the the Dusty Durrill Foundation. Mr. Orf stated he has a
general interest in historical preservation and is excited to be part of the
commission. Mr. Elmon Phillips, a retired engineer, stated he currently
serves as chairman of the Nueces County Historical Commission and is also a
member of the Nueces County Historical Association. Mr. Phillips continued
he has always had an interest in history and was looking forward to serving
on the Landmark Commission. Mr, Jerry Wagoner, retired from General
Motors after thirty-five (35) years, and Is very active in the Oso Bay
Neighborhood Association and is looking forward to the opportunity to
work with the Landmark Commission on different historical projects.
ACTION ITEM(5):
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR MARCH 25, MAY 27. AND JULY 22. 1999 MEETINGS:
Minutes for the March 25 and May 27, 1999 meetings were approved as
distributed. The July 22, 1999 minutes were approved with the following
corrections:
Page 5: Second paragraph, second and last sentences of the
paragraph "Southwell" was misspelled. The minutes read "Southwall."
Page 5: Fourth paragraph — second sentence read "Ms. Tinker also
suggested sponsoring a contest through the school district .
plaque. Sentence should read "Ms. Tinker also suggested sponsoring
a contest, not limited through the school district. . . . plaque:
Request for Owner to Classify and List Property as "Potential Landmark" at
1410 Comanche Street for Forwarding to Planning Commission and City
Council: Ms. Faryce Goode-Macon, Staff Liaison, addressed the commission.
For benefit of the new commissioners, Ms. Macon provided brief
background information about the commission's efforts in getting
property owners involved in historical preservation. The Landmark
Commission initiated an ordinance listing twenty-seven (27) properties as
"potential landmarks." Of the twenty-seven properties, four are designated
with the "HC" zoning overlay. In this process, approximately 150 property
owners were contacted to participate which resulted in twenty-seven
properties being listed as "potential landmarks." This process was
completed in 1998. In July 1999, Mr. Hinojosa contacted staff stating he
wanted his property to be listed as a "potential landmark." Mr. Hinojosa
stated the reason for the delay in returning the information to staff was
because he lost the information and had just recently found it.
Ms. Tinker stated she went by and looked at the structure. Ms. Tinker
continued she would like to talk with the owner before the Commission
makes a decision on whether or not to forward his request. Ms. Tinker
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Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 3
continued there have been so many modifications made to the structure
and she felt the Commission should talk with Mr. Hinojosa to find out what
his intentions are for the structure. Ms. Tinker stated part of the
modifications include siding and a room addition. Ms. Macon stated that
properties proposed for potential landmark status should be grouped
together and forwarded yearly or every two years to the Planning
Commission and City Council. After further discussion, the following action
was taken:
IT WAS MOVED BY MS. TINKER AND SECONDED BY MS. CHAPMAN THAT
THE LANDMARK COMMISSION TABLE MAKING A DECISION ON THE
REQUEST SUBMITTED BY MR. HINOJOSA TO LIST HIS STRUCTURE AT 1410
COMANCHE STREET AS A "POTENTIAL LANDMARK" UNTIL HE IS CONTACTED
AND CAN ATTEND THE NEXT COMMISSION MEETING.
MOTION PASSED.
APPOINT ADDITIONAL MEMBERS TO THE SUBCOMMITTEE FOR HISTORICAL
BROCHURE & UPDATE: For benefit of new commissioners, Ms. Macon
provided brief background information about the historical brochure
project. Ms. Macon stated that the Landmark Commission applied for and
received grant funding through Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) to create a historical brochure featuring local historical resources as
well as provide historical information. Ms. Macon referenced an example
of a brochure used in Fairbank, Alaska. Ms. Macon continued any
commissioner who is interested in writing history and wanting to
encourage and educate the local community regarding preservation are
requested to serve on this committee. Ms. Douglas asked what other
commissioners were on this committee and it was answered that Lisa
Garza, along with Ms. Douglas, were the only members of the committee.
Mr. Wagoner stated he was very involved in a similar project in the city
where he lived before he moved to Corpus Christi and he would like to
serve on the subcommittee. Mr. Wagoner stated he lived in indianoplis,
Indiana and the area where he lived was at the northwest corner of
indianopolis. Mr. Wagoner continued that the whole area was quite
historical and the local church he belonged to was established in 1834. Mr.
Wagoner stated he received an e-mail from the church requesting some of
the historical data that he had compiled. Mr. Wagoner stated he has always
had a love for history. Ms. Macon stated that copies of the referenced
example would be provided for any members who wanted to serve on the
committee before the next meeting. Ms. Macon continued that the
example is a starting place for the committee to use and it can be
expanded.
Mr. Phillips asked if any of the "potential landmark" properties were
marked and Ms. Macon answered that none of the properties had markers.
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Landmark commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
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Mr. Phillips asked if the markers would be a local designation or state and
Ms. Macon answered that the "potential landmarks" are city designated as
well as the "HC" designated properties. Ms. Macon continued that the "HC"
designated properties carry a 180-day stay of demolition/removal and the
"potential landmark" properties carry a 30-day stay of demolition/removal.
Ms. Macon continued that the plaque program was another project that
was funded through CDBG and she would expound on it later since it was
also an agenda item.
Mr. Wagoner asked if there were any NAS properties on the "potential
landmark" list and Ms. Macon answered no, but if he knew of any
properties that could be researched and possibly proposed for future
listing, please let Staff know. Mr. Wagoner stated that the old electrical
building; which was used to control the airbase during the war is still
located In about the 9300/9400 block of South Padre Island Drive. Mr.
Wagoner continued that a soccer field is currently located at that site. Mr.
Wagoner stated he was stationed at NAS in the late 1940s. Ms. Macon
stated that since this particular structure is not listed on the "potential
landmark" list or designated "HC," another section could be possibly added
to the brochure that could be titled "Historical Points of Interest.
Ms. Tinker stated that a survey was done of NAS properties several years
ago, but she did not remember if that structure was part of the survey. Mr.
Wagoner continued that the old Peary Place complex, located on the south
side of the equipment building, was used as housing dorms for married
personnel and the facility is still at that location.
After discussion concluded, Mr. Wagoner and Mr. Phillips volunteered to
serve on the committee.
Ms. Tinker stated if the "potential landmarks" were designated, how would
they be differentiated between the "HC" designated properties and Ms.
Macon responded that it is possible that a second plaque could be
designed for the "HC designated properties.
Appoint Additional Members to Subcommittee for Historical Plaque
Program & Update: Ms. Macon stated that the Landmark Commission also
applied for and received grant funding through CDBG to establish a plaque
marker program for "potential landmark" properties. Ms. Macon continued
that staff has been looking at several companies that can provide cost
estimates to design and make the plaques. Ms. Macon stated that at this
point, the design has not been finalized. Ms. Macon continued that the
information provided for today's meeting was retrieved from the
Internet. Ms. Macon stated the information was on the Erie Landmark
Commission out of Chantilly, Virginia, and she spoke with their
representative, Richard Bamberger. Ms. Macon stated this company
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Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 5
provides plaques for the city of Dallas' marker program. The wording for
the plaque is very standard and he suggested that the design on the
plaque be something that is very unique for Corpus Christi. The
architectural feature for the border could be waves or perhaps a pier with
water under it. Ms. Macon stated that the price of the plaques decreases
when twenty-five (25) or more are ordered. Ms. Macon continued she has
provided four sizes for the oval insert of the plaque for consideration:
7"X5", 11"X8", 10"x7", and 12"x15." Ms. Macon stated the commission needed
to decide which dimension would be the most appropriate one for the
insert. After a brief discussion, It was the consensus that the 10"x7"
dimension was the first choice and 7"x5" was second choice. Ms. Macon
stated the grant funding would cover the cost for approximately sixty (60)
plaques to be designed at 575.00 each. Mr. Stewart asked if the plaques
would be attached to the actual structure and Ms. Macon answered yes as
well as fence areas. Ms. Macon stated she has the toll-free number to the
company and the representative to ask for is Mr. Bamberger. Ms. Macon
continued she would provide all of the information to the committee.
The question was asked who was on the plaque committee and Ms. Macon
answered that Mr. Stewart agreed to serve as chairman, but other
members are needed. After further discussion, Mr. Luddeke, Ms. Chapman
and Mr. Wagoner volunteered to work on the committee with Mr. Stewart.
Mr. Luddeke stated he might be able to provide a design sketch of the
plaque before the next meeting. Mr. Wagoner stated he would get his
information to staff next week.
Mr. Wagoner asked if the Landmark Commission was committed to the
company in Virginia and Ms. Macon replied that no definite decision or
commitment had been made. Ms. Macon continued that she only gathered
the information for the subcommittee to further pursue. Mr. Stewart
added that he had been in contact with the Corpus Christi Stamp Works,
which is part of the Southwell Company, which can provide the plaque.
Ms. Tinker stated she wanted to remind the commission that it was briefly
discussed at one of the earlier meetings about how controversial it could
become in trying to select a specific building for the plaque design. Ms.
Tinker continued that was one of the reasons she suggested using the
loopy "L" as the design for the Insert. After discussion concluded, it was
decided that the Plaque Subcommittee would meet on Thursday,
September 9, 1999 at 3:30 p.m. in the Planning Department conference
room.
DISCUSSION ITEM(S):
Update On Gold Star War Memorial Court: Ms. Macon stated that the Gold
Star Committee has been working with the City Parks and Recreation
Department in trying to revitalize the court to its original state. In the past
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Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 6
year, this commission has reviewed the plans for the project and
recommendations were submitted regarding placing the markers back
against the wall, placing the Crepemyrtle trees back in its original
configuration with each marker along the wall, and even installing a
walkway. Ms. Macon stated that the Gold Star Court Committee has been in
discussion with Park and Recreation about installing the walkway. Ms.
Macon stated that Mr. Phillips had contacted her regarding what was going
on in the park because he had seen the new Crepemyrtle trees being
installed. Ms. Macon continued that after speaking with Park and
Recreation staff, she found out they had coordinated with the Gold Star
Court Committee to install the trees. Mr. Phillips asked if the markers were
going to be placed back along the wall and Ms. Macon answered yes and
Ms. Macon continued that this time, the markers would be imbedded even
further into the ground so they wouldn't be easily destroyed.
Ms. Tinker asked if the Texas Historical Commission had responded to the
Landmark Commission's recommendations and Ms. Macon answered that
THC submitted a memo to Planning and Park and Recreation regarding
proposed usage of CDBG funds for the project. At this time, no CDBG funds
are being used for the project, which would require further review by THC.
All funds for the project are donations received by the Gold Star Court
Beautify Corpus Christi Group. Mr. Phillips stated when he spoke with Ms.
Wise she told him the only thing that THC had seen was a simple sketch
hand drawn and they felt the plans should be done professionally by
someone who is familiar with plan layout. Mr. Phillips stated that placing
the walkway along the bluff does not leave very much room. Mr. Phillips
also voiced concern about replanting the Crepemyrtle trees. Mr. Phillips
stated the Crepemyrtle trees planted near the Central Library are dying,
and if the trees are not going to be watered, maybe another type of tree
should be considered. Ms. Macon stated that the Park Division will
continue to maintain the area as currently provided.
Ms. Tinker stated that she thinks the commission should get something in
writing from the Texas Historical Commission further regarding the
project. Ms. Tinker continued that she does not think that the State should
require the Gold Star Court Committee to spend money on having the plan
professionally drawn at this point. Ms. Macon commented that it was the
City's desire to have the plans drawn professionally because at that time,
Staff was unable to draw the plans for them. Staff is trying to work with
the committee since they are showing a good faith effort in trying to place
things back as they were.
Ms. Macon referenced a copy of the plan that showed the proposed
walkway. At this time, they will only install the upside down "C" design
portion of the walkway.
Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 7
Mr. Phillips stated that the city recently dug a large hole In the area to put
in another manhole which kinds of fill in the top portion along the bluff.
Ms. Macon stated she would take a field trip to see what work Park and
Recreation is doing In the area and will report at the September meeting.
Ms. Tinker stated that we need to be kept abreast of what is going on, and
if the plans have changed, they need to be reviewed again by the
commission. Ms. Macon emphasized that the commission is not being left
out of the loop - she is keeping the, abreast of what is going on. Ms.
Macon continued that only what the commission has approved would be
installed.
Mr. Phillips stated that the star figure came from the bluff with a big
concrete base with a plaque on it. Mr. Philips stated that when the bluff
improvements were made, the stars were cut from the base and placed in
storage during the revitalization of the bluff balustrade. Mr. Phillips
suggested that the commission request Park and Recreation to provide a
revised plan of the improvements. Ms. Macon stated she would speak with
Mike Gordon about it.
Update On "Buddy Lawrence" House: Ms. Macon stated that about a year
ago, the City relocated the "Buddy Lawrence House" to Mesquite Street.
The house was originally located near a local refinery. The house has been
sitting in its new location waiting to be restored. Ms. Macon stated that
the City is reviewing a proposed contract with the firm of Gignac &
Associates. The contact person is Carolyn James. Ms. Macon spoke with Ms.
James concerning future exterior the architectural drawings of the house
subject to review by the Landmark Commission. Ms. Macon explained that
this commission has to review any exterior architectural plans that will
locate in the two-block area behind Heritage Park. Before the plans can be
presented to the full commission, the Master Review Committee has to
review and discuss the plans. Members of the Master Review Committee
are: Deborah Douglas, Mark Luddeke, Terry Orf, and Bunny Tinker.
Mr. Phillips stated he went to the old site of the house at 1217 McBride
Lane and reviewed the State marker that was on site, but the marker does
not refer to the house. The marker reads "this was the site of the
Theodore Merchant Home and Vegetable Farm," but the marker does not
say anything about the house Itself. Mr. Phillips continued that he also
reviewed the markers of the houses in Heritage Park, and for the most
part, they tried to pick some feature of the house that was unusual. Mr.
Phillips continued that he had spoken with several local people about the
"Buddy Merchant House" and it was their opinion that the structure was
typical In nature to other houses in Corpus Christi and there was nothing
unusual about the house. Ms. Macon stated that several local historians
have stated that the house is one of few such structures left. Ms. Tinker
added that the Texas Historical Commission has really become more
stringent in its guidelines regarding moving of structures. Mr. Phillips
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Landmark Commission Meeting
August 26, 1999
Page 8
stated that according to the rules, if a structure has been relocated, a state
marker couldn't be placed on the structure. Mr. Phillips continued that the
marker does not need to be changed and should not be replaced. Mr.
Phillips continued that to keep in line with the other houses in Heritage
Park, a marker would be placed also on the Buddy Lawrence House. The
Nueces County Historical Commission will be requested to compile the
necessary information for the marker.
Ms. Chapman asked if it was known which group would be in the house and
Ms. Macon answered that a final determination has not been made. Ms.
Macon continued that several non-profit organizations are being
considered, but to her knowledge, it was not final.
Other Matters: Ms. Macon stated she wanted to ensure that the
commissioners received a copy of the assessment report on the Nueces
County Courthouse. Ms. Macon continued that if commissioners had any
technical questions regarding the report, they could contact Art Sosa,
Building Official, who was the coordinator, along with several other staff
members, including Ms. Macon.
Mr. Stewart asked if the commission was to take action on the resolution
that was presented at the July meeting, but there was not a quorum
present. Ms. Macon stated that for the record, action could be taken today
to approve the resolution. Ms. Macon stated that a copy of the resolution
was included in the August packet. After a brief discussion, the following
action was taken:
IT WAS MOVED BY MR. STEWART AND SECONDED BY MS. TINKER THAT
THE LANDMARK COMMISSION APPROVE SUBMITTING A RESOLUTION OF
SUPPORT FOR THE TEA 21 GRANT APPLICATION.
MOTION PASSED.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m.
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LI a Williams Fart'Faryce ode-Macon, city Planner
Recording Secretary / Staff LI on to Landmark Commisslo
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