HomeMy WebLinkAboutLandmark Preservation Commission - Minutes - 07/13/2016City of Fort Collins Page 1 July 13, 2016
Ron Sladek, Chair
Doug Ernest, Vice Chair City Council Chambers
Meg Dunn City Hall West
Bud Frick 300 Laporte Avenue
Kristin Gensmer Fort Collins, Colorado
Per Hogestad
Dave Lingle Cablecast on FCTV Channel 14 and
Alexandra Wallace 881 (HD) on the Comcast cable system
Belinda Zink
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Regular Meeting
July 13, 2016
Minutes
• CALL TO ORDER
Chair Sladek called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
• ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Dunn, Zink, Hogestad, Wallace, Gensmer, Lingle, Sladek
ABSENT: Ernest, Frick
STAFF: McWilliams, Yatabe, Schiager
• AGENDA REVIEW
No changes to posted agenda.
• STAFF REPORTS
None.
• PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
Landmark
Preservation
Commission
City of Fort Collins Page 2 July 13, 2016
• DISCUSSION AGENDA
[Timestamp: 5:37 p.m.]
1. CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 2016 REGULAR
MEETING.
The purpose of this item is to approve the minutes from the June 8, 2016 regular meeting of the
Landmark Preservation Commission.
Ms. Dunn & Chair Sladek recused themselves from the vote due to being absent on June 8th.
Mr. Lingle pointed out a typographical error to be changed prior to publication.
Mr. Hogestad moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission approve the minutes of the
June 8, 2016 regular meeting. Ms. Gensmer seconded. Motion passed 5-0.
[Timestamp: 5:39 p.m.]
2. 222 LAPORTE AVENUE - RECOMMENDATION TO DECISION MAKER ON ALTERATIONS TO
LABORATORY BUILDING (BUTTERFLY BUILDING)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a Final Development Review and Recommendation to the
Decision Maker on Proposed Alterations to the Historic Poudre
Creamery Laboratory Building (Butterfly Building) at 222 Laporte
Avenue.
APPLICANT: Brian Hergott, Facilities Project Manager, Operation Services
Mr. Hogestad and Ms. Zink disclosed having participated in the Design Review for this project.
Staff Report
Ms. McWilliams presented the staff report stating the applicant is proposing alterations consisting of
relocating and widening the north entrance, color changes, and signage including an interpretive
reconstruction of the early Dairy Gold sign. The building has been determined to be individually
eligible as a Fort Collins landmark.
Applicant Presentation
Jason Kersey, au Workshop, gave the Applicant presentation showing slides of the building in its
original location and new location and discussed the building’s Googie architecture. In terms of the
north entrance, the proposal is to move the door one foot four inches further from the corner and make
the door one foot wider. Mr. Kersey detailed the needed components of the interior of the building in
order for it to be used as a coffee shop. He stated the color scheme may need to be addressed at a
later date as the current plan may not be the ideal one and detailed the proposed signage.
Public Input
None
Commission Questions and Discussion
Mr. Lingle asked about the color scheme. Mr. Kersey replied the gray-on-gray works today, but isn’t
necessarily true to the Googie era style. Mr. Hogestad asked why the door is moved and widened.
Mr. Kersey explained that there were inefficiencies in the layout of the space, and a bigger outward
swinging door would work better for deliveries. Ms. Dunn asked about the width of the door. Mr.
Kersey replied the original door was two feet wide and the proposed door is three feet wide.
Mr. Hogestad asked if there would be an alternative equipment layout that would work with the original
door position and expressed concern about such a major alteration to the building. Mr. Kersey replied
moving the door was not the first option; however, it allows for a much more efficient layout. Brian
Hergott commented on difficulties relating to deliveries and customer access with the original door
layout. Mr. Lingle noted the door is on the rear façade of the building and stated he is not particularly
concerned with the proposed alteration, adding that it is an adaptive reuse. Ms. Zink asked how the
location and size of the door work with the brick module. Mr. Kersey replied the movement of the door
will still allow it to land on a module.
City of Fort Collins Page 3 July 13, 2016
Chair Sladek noted that the building has already been altered by being moved. He stated that while
he understands Mr. Lingle’s point that the change to the door may be a necessity for an adaptive
reuse, he stated he would need to hear a strong argument to be convinced.
Chair Sladek asked if the building tenant could address the reasons for moving the door. The tenant,
Tim LaGreca spoke, explaining that he and his wife, pastry chef Elizabeth Meyers, operate a
commercial kitchen in town and provide desserts for various restaurants in the area. He stated not
having a commercial kitchen would make the use of this building impossible due to the lack of space
and discussed the design limitations of the building. He discussed wanting the building to stand out
and be noticeable and detailed the need for a wider rear door for their operation to be successful. He
emphasized that the 26” width of standard baking sheets, and the carts necessary to move the
pastries properly, would not fit through the existing door.
Chair Sladek requested comment on the layout from Mr. Hergott. Mr. Hergott replied meeting ADA
and health requirements were very challenging and eliminating the bathroom would not be possible.
Chair Sladek asked about the possibility of moving the bathroom to another corner so the window
would not have to be frosted. Mr. LaGreca replied that was the original layout; however, it would not
fit. He went on to discuss the importance of the design and functionality, adding that they explored
numerous layouts throughout what was a very thorough design process.
Mr. Lingle asked if the air conditioner on the north elevation would be visible from other vantage
points. Mr. Hergott replied it will be painted to disappear and is covered by the roof slope from various
angles.
Mr. Hogestad stated there are several scenarios he thought could work and would like to see previous
versions of the tenant’s plans in order to be convinced this is the only option.
Ms. Dunn asked about the sign and name. Mr. LaGreca replied the actual sign will say ‘bakery’ or
‘bakery and coffee.’ Ms. Dunn asked if the tenant had considered using an orange trim on the
building. Mr. Hogestad stated the design review resulted in trying to get away from a gas station feel.
Chair Sladek suggested using brighter colors would be indicative of the Googie architecture. Ms.
Wallace would like to see the roof line emphasized with a brighter color. Ms. Zink stated the beam
should contrast with the soffit.
Mr. Hogestad suggested finding out what the original colors of the building were and expressed some
doubt the building is representative of Googie architecture.
Mr. Lingle asked if a motion could include a condition that the final color scheme come before the LPC
at a later meeting or that it would be approved by Staff. Ms. McWilliams replied the final decision
remains up to the Commission and Staff would need very clear direction should they be given the
direction to make the decision. Mr. Lingle stated he would like the colors to come back before the
Commission.
Mr. Hogestad stated the signage likely does not meet the Sign Code and the proposal may require a
recommendation from the Commission. Mr. Hergott replied he would like to receive a
recommendation regarding the rear door and signage package if possible.
Ms. Dunn requested information regarding the location of the loading dock and transportation of
product from the truck to the back door. Mr. Kersey replied loading will occur from the alley, up a ramp
to the back door. Mr. Hergott noted the alley acts as the civic spine and stated the mid-street crossing
is on the west side of the subject building. Ms. Dunn requested an image of the new back door. Mr.
Kersey replied the current door is wood and it is planned to be replaced with a wood grain fiberglass
door with no windows. Chair Sladek asked if the new door would be painted, to which Mr. Kersey
replied that it would. Mr. Hogestad suggested a painted metal flush panel door.
Chair Sladek asked if there is room for patio seating around the building. Mr. Kersey replied in the
affirmative. Mr. LaGreca discussed the specific outdoor seating plan and pedestrian traffic flow.
Chair Sladek asked if neon was considered for the sign. Mr. Kersey replied a LED light with letter
tracing has been considered.
Commission Deliberation
City of Fort Collins Page 4 July 13, 2016
Mr. Lingle moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission recommend to the Decision
Maker approval of the work proposed for the Poudre Valley Creamery Laboratory Building at
222 Laporte Avenue, finding that it is substantially in compliance with the standards contained
in Land Use Code section 3.4.7 in regard to compatibility with the character of the existing
historic building and with the project’s area of adjacency for the following reasons:
• The new construction is designed to respect and is compatible with the historic
character of the Butterfly Building.
• The proposed door alteration is a minor modification to a non-primary façade.
As a condition to the motion, the proposed final color scheme for the exterior of the building
and the final design of the signage, including colors, lighting and font style, come back to the
Landmark Preservation Commission at a future meeting for approval.
Mr. Yatabe halted the proceedings prior to a second to interject some information about the process.
He questioned why this would not be considered a demolition/alteration review and discussed the
various processes which could possibly be utilized under Land Use Code 3.4.7 or Municipal Code
Section 14.
Mr. Lingle asked if this process is essentially a demolition/alteration review. Ms. McWilliams replied
Staff will take its direction from the City Attorney’s Office. Mr. Yatabe stated Section 3.4.7(f) applies to
new construction. Chair Sladek stated the staff report references that section; however, it appears
Section 3.4.7(d) is the applicable section. Mr. Yatabe questioned whether there are two applicable
provisions and requested a brief recess to examine the Code language.
The Commission took a brief recess at this point in the meeting.
Mr. Yatabe suggested tabling the item until the next meeting and discussed his concern regarding the
applicability of Section 3.4.7 as opposed to Section 14.
Chair Sladek asked Mr. Hergott if he would undergo undue hardship should this item be tabled to the
next meeting. Mr. Hergott replied that would not be his preference; however, it may be the only option.
Mr. Lingle withdrew his motion.
Mr. Lingle moved that the 222 Laporte Avenue alterations to the Laboratory Building, otherwise
known as the Butterfly Building, item be continued to the next regular meeting of the Landmark
Preservation Commission on July 27. Ms. Gensmer seconded. Motion passed 7:0.
[Timestamp: 7:20 p.m.]
3. POUDRE GARAGE (BDR160007) – REQUEST FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE DECISION
MAKER
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a proposed addition to 148 Remington Street, a Fort Collins
Landmark (Ordinance No. 134, 1997), constructed in 1937. The project
is a four-story addition with a setback above the third story. The
addition would add approximately 8,900 square feet to the 4,224
square-foot original structure, resulting in a total building area of
13,130 square feet. The mixed use project is in the Old City Center
subdistrict of the Downtown District and would include six residential
units totally 5,600 square feet, office/restaurant/retail area totaling
4,700 square feet, a common interior area of 1,450 square feet, and an
eight-space parking area of 1,400 square feet. Several individually
eligible and landmarked properties are adjacent to the project. This is a
Basic Development Review (BDR) process, therefore the
Commission’s recommendation will be to the Director of Community
Development and Neighborhood Services. There is no public hearing
associated with a BDR decision. The Director’s decision may be
appealed to the Planning and Zoning Board.
APPLICANT: Jason Kersey, [au]workshop, llc
Staff Report
City of Fort Collins Page 5 July 13, 2016
Ms. McWilliams presented the staff report noting the property is a designated Fort Collins landmark.
Additionally, she discussed other individually eligible and landmarked properties which are adjacent to
the project.
Chair Sladek requested confirmation this item is to be considered under Section 3.4.7. Mr. Yatabe
explained how this item may be reviewed under Section 3.4.7 or Chapter 14 given this is an alteration
to a designated property. Ms. McWilliams stated the earlier review of this project showed it presented
in two parts, as a new development which would fall under 3.4.7 and as the use of an existing historic
structure which would fall under Chapter 14. Mr. Yatabe stated the distinguishing issue between this
project and the previous project is the aspect of new construction being considered in this case. Chair
Sladek discussed the need for a review under Section 3.4.7 and noted a report of acceptability should
be issued by the Commission.
Ms. McWilliams suggested tabling the item as the staff analysis and recommendation is based on
3.4.7, and no preparation has been made for a Chapter 14 discussion.
Mr. Lingle discussed the various review criteria. Ms. McWilliams stated this project was initially
examined as an infill development; however, if it is to be considered an addition to a landmarked
building, it would be reviewed under Chapter 14. Mr. Hogestad argued this should be considered
under Chapter 14 as it is an attachment to a landmarked building.
Mr. Yatabe suggested tabling consideration of the item to the next meeting.
Chair Sladek expressed a preference for continuing to the next meeting unless the Commission feels
they are ready to move forward under either 3.4.7 or Chapter 14. Mr. Lingle agreed with tabling the
item to get Staff’s analysis under Chapter 14.
Commission Deliberation
Mr. Lingle moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission continue the Poudre Garage
project development proposal at 148 Remington Street to the July 27th regular meeting. Ms.
Zink seconded. Motion passed 7:0.
Mr. Kersey asked what should be prepared for the next meeting. Chair Sladek replied the current
presentation is sufficient; however, staff will present a new review based on the appropriate review
criteria.
Mr. Hogestad reminded the Applicant that on the previous item (the Butterfly Building), the
Commission had asked for some additional information regarding paint colors, signage, etc..
[Timestamp: 7:42 p.m.]
4. 221 EAST MOUNTAIN AVENUE - PRELIMINARY DESIGN REVIEW & REQUEST FOR
RECOMMENDATION TO DECISION MAKER
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a proposal to construct an approximately 65,000 square foot,
four- story building at the southwest corner of East Mountain Avenue
and Mathews Street. The project is adjacent to several designated and
individually eligible buildings, including the Old Town District. The
development proposal (PDP160011) will be subject to Basic
Development Review.
APPLICANT: Jason Messaros, BHA Design, 1603 Oakridge Dr., Fort Collins
Ms. Zink, Chair Sladek and Ms. Dunn disclosed having participated in the Design Review.
City of Fort Collins Page 6 July 13, 2016
Staff Report
Ms. McWilliams presented the staff report noting this review process considers the impact of the
proposed development on historic resources within a defined area of adjacency. An existing vacant
brick building on the property has been found to not be individually eligible. Staff has found the
proposed project to be substantially in compliance with Land Use Code Section 3.4.7.
Applicant Presentation
Mark Melchi, MAVD, gave the Applicant presentation and showed slides of the proposed project.
Public Input
None
Commission Questions and Discussion
Mr. Hogestad requested information about the stone veneer materials. Mr. Melchi replied the corner
elements are planned to be local stone; however, a final selection has not been made. It will be similar
to the elements of the Bohemian building. Mr. Hogestad complimented the proposed building and
stated it works well within the historic context in terms of the modulation, materials, window patterning
and the finer details.
Ms. Dunn complimented the proposed building as fitting appropriately in the Old Town area, and
expressed appreciation for the way the Applicant incorporated the Commission’s earlier comments into
the design.
Ms. Zink stated the new design is excellent and includes thoughtful improvements. She appreciated
the recess of the fourth floor.
Ms. Dunn complimented the way in which the corner is accented. Chair Sladek commended the
elegant design stating it reflects the modern yet historic aesthetic and fits into the historic environment
in a way that complies with 3.4.7.
Commission Deliberation
Mr. Hogestad moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission waive conceptual review and
move directly to final review. Ms. Dunn seconded. The motion passed 7:0.
Mr. Hogestad asked about the color on the west elevation. Mr. Melchi replied they were asked by the
DDA to place a hard surface material on the first floor for durability. The elevation drawing is the
current plan.
The Commission discussed the recommended area of adjacency.
Ms. Zink moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission adopt the area of adjacency listed
in the staff report for the project at 221 E. Mountain Ave. Ms. Gensmer seconded. The motion
passed 7:0.
Mr. Hogestad moved that the Landmark Preservation Commission adopt a resolution
recommending to the Decision Maker the approval of the development proposal located at 221
East Mountain Avenue as presented at the July 13, 2016 meeting of the Commission, finding
that the project is in compliance with Land Use Code 3.4.7 and does not adversely affect the
historic integrity of the area of adjacency. The Commission further finds that the project
design uses traditional proportions and historic modules typically found in the surrounding
historic context; uses massing and appropriate step backs to mitigate heights that are relative
to the historic context; uses compatible solid to void window patterns; uses historically scaled
materials; uses similar pedestrian scale to that of the area of adjacency; uses material choices
to reduce mass. If the design changes substantially, the project would come back to the
Commission.
Ms. Zink seconded. The motion passed 7:0.
• OTHER BUSINESS
None