Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes-April 19, 2004

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HDC) was called to order by Chair Sheree Wenger at 7:30 p.m. Commission members Howes, Ruspi, Sterling and Techter were present. Mayor Willard Oland and two residents were also is attendance.

Commission member Ruspi made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 15, 2004, meeting. Second by Commission member Techter. The minutes were approved as presented.

The Chair read a preliminary statement to review the purpose and intent of the HDC. She then opened the hearing on Application for Work Permit HDC 02-04, submitted by Barbara and Richard DeWitt, for property located at 7200 Brink Rd.

• There were no conflicts or disclosures.
• The Secretary was called to present the facts of the application. The application states the work is for installation of a 4 board paddock fence, 5 feet in height with light gauge wire attached to the exterior of the fence, and replacement of an existing fence, at least 5 feet in height, style to be determined.
• The Secretary also entered into evidence the following exhibits: plat, letter irons applicant, drawing of picket fence labeled Exhibit A, photo of paddock fence labeled Exhibit B, photos ©f house, notice of hearing, and notice to property owners.

Comments of Applicant

Mr. DeWitt, Would like to create privacy from neighbors pool area with a 6 ft, picket fence is one area and surround remaining yard with a paddock style fence.

Mrs., DeWitt, Stated the 4 board paddock fence was chosen to blend with the environment. Considers the neighbors fences a hodge-podge of types.

Commission Members

Ms. Wenger stated the Commission is concerned about having more than one style of fencing. One stylewould be preferable.

Rebuttal by Applicant

Mr. DeWitt - Stated his willingness to compromise on one style offence.
Ms. DeWitt - Stated she is unwilling to compromise on stockade in side yard at rear of house.
Expressed her belief that they are willing to compromise on style offence and wishes the Commission to compromise on the use of a stockade style offence in side yard at rear of house.

The applicants stated they have considered building a pool and Mr. DeWitt stated he has discussed with Montgomery Count}' officials fencing requirements for a pool. He also stated that if a pool is built at some time in the future it would meet Montgomery Count}' requirements. Ms, DeWitt stated this application for fencing is not dependent on a pool being built.

Commission members questioned the use of gates, finishes. Height, and the status of an existing front yard fence.

There being no other discussion the Chair closed the record and called for the motion. Mr., Techter made a motion to approve the application based on a review of the plans with the following stipulations: 5 ft. 4 board paddock fence with wire , two gates, stained chestnut brown around perimeter, stows in drawing, and a 6 ft stockade fence , stained white, in side yard at rear corners of house. Ms. Ruspi seconded the motion. Motion unanimously approved

The Chair thanked the applicants and stated a Certificate Of Approval would be sent by certified mail within 7 days.

New Business

The Mayor addressed the Commission. Be stated he will recommend adjusting fees for permits at the July meeting of the Mayor and Council. He will recommend the fee for Historic District Work Permit remain fixed at $50,00.

He also brought to the attention of the HOC the potential annexation of approximately 25 acres. The property lies along Brink Rd and is owned by Elm Street Development. It would be an integral part of a proposed Rt 108 bypass. It is also the site of historic home known as Rolling Ridge. It is perceived this home would become part of the Historic District if annexation succeeds.

Old Business

Ms. Wenger has sent an Application for Work Permit to property owner at 21412 Laytonsville Rd, in regard to the satellite dish at this location.

Other New Business

The Commission members continued discussion of guidelines and voted to approve guidelines for lighting, foundations, and neglect, reviewed at the March meeting. A hand out was distributed regarding lighting in commercial historic districts. The members were asked to review these guidelines for future discussion. After consideration the following motions were made: Mr. Techter made a motion to adopt the guidelines for siding, based on the first and fourth paragraphs of the Oxford guidelines. Ms. Sterling seconded Motion approved

Mr. Techter made a motion to adopt guidelines for roofs, skylights, dormers, and lattice. Ms. Sterling seconded. Motion approved

An information package for residents in the historic district will be developed and distributed in the near future.

Ms Ruspi made a motion to adjourn. Second by Ms. Sterling. Motion approved and the meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary