Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes-June 21,2004

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HOC) was called to order by Vice Chair Merritt Techter at 7:30 p.m. Commission members Howes, Ruspi, and Sterling were present. Chair Sheree Wenger was absent. Also present was one resident and three guests.

Vice Chair Techter accepted the minutes of the May 17, 2004, meeting as presented and read the preliminary statement.

Consultations

Homeowner Susan Phillips presented proposed plans for a renovation and addition of her residence at 21513 Laytonsville Rd. The Laytonsville Board Of Appeals has approved a variance for this project. She stated her desire to move this project forward to the application process of the HDC, She reviewed the project which includes a two story addition to the rear of the house. Also, an existing deck would be removed. The existing structure of the main house would not be altered. Preliminary drawings were reviewed. Commission member Techter stated the primary concern of the HDC are changes visible from the public way. Questions from the commission members concerned windows, existing trees, and the existing and new roof. A homeowner information package, including guidelines, was given to Ms. Phillips. Aspects of the application process were discussed. Ms. Phillips anticipates submitting an application for work permit in the near future.

Representatives from Elm St. Development were called to make their presentation. Present were attorneys for Elm St Development, Jody Kline, and Soo Lee-Cho. Mike Bingley, of Elm St. Development was also present. Jody Kline indicated this was a follow-up meeting to the May 17 HDC meeting. This meeting is part of the process in negotiating an annexation agreement with the Town of Laytonsville of approximately 27 acres along Brink Rd. The property includes the historic home known as Rolling Ridge, A draft of the Schematic Development Plan was provided. Discussion of the plan included the proposed historic designation and environmental setting of Rolling Ridge, easements, outlets, and lane. A meeting was held on June 8, 2004 with MNCPPC historic preservation staff to discuss the annexation proposal. In attendance was Mayor Willard Oland, Stan Benning, land planner for the town, Elm St. Development representatives, and HDC member Phyllis Sterling. Ms. Sterling reported on the meeting. MNCPPC staff will make written recommendations to the town on the proposal. The Town will hold a public hearing July 6, 2004, on the annexation proposal. The record will remain open following the hearing until recommendations are received from MNCPPC.

Old Business

Chair Sheree Wenger prepared a draft letter to accompany the information package for homeowners in the historic district. A copy was distributed to members of the HOC. Comments can be sent to the Chair.

New Business

The members agreed by consensus to seek assistance from the Maryland Historical Trust, regarding certain aspects of Rolling Ridge, should it be annexed. Ms. Wenger will schedule a consultation.

Ms. Sterling has agreed to seek re-appointment to the HDC. Her current term expires July 1^st.

The HDC will prepare the annual report to the Mayor and Council. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling