Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes-August 16, 2004

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HOC) was called to order by Chair Sheree Wenger. Commission members Techter and Sterling were present. Commission members Ruspi and Howes arrived while the meeting was in progress. Also present were two residents and Mayor Oland.

Mr. Techter made a motion to approve the minutes of the July 19,2004, meeting. Second by Ms. Sterling. Motion approved.

Old Business

Chair Wenger stated an application for work permit had been submitted by Susan Phillips and Neal Bataller for their residence at 21513 Laytonsville Rd. She also stated the application was not complete and therefore returned to the applicant. Mr. Bataller and Ms. Phillips came forward to discuss the process and clarify the incomplete issues. Ms. Wenger pointed out the submission requirements on the application and reiterated that the application would not be acceptable until all requirements were met. Omitted from the application were sample materials, dimensions and north arrow, and drawings marked final. Mr. Bataller expressed his concern that the HDC was moving to final stages of process without reviewing the design, and HDC had not indicated if design was acceptable. It was noted that a consultation of the project had occurred at the regular meeting of the HDC on June 21, 2004, and was attended by Ms. Phillips. That section of the recorded minutes were read aloud. Commission members attempted to clarify the hearing process. The applicants were asked to re-submit the application with all the necessary requirements.

New Business

* An application for work permit has been submitted for property located at 21606 Laytonsville Rd. The application is complete and a hearing is scheduled for Sept 20, 2004.

* Ms Wenger stated the need to modify the Application For Work Permit by adding "preliminary plans are unacceptable" and information regarding available tax credits. Mr. Techter recommended adding page numbers to the information package.

* Commission members discussed recommendations made by Scott Whipple of the Md. Historical Trust regarding the ordinance. Mayor Oland will pass recommendations of the HDC to the town attorney and members of the council. Sections of the ordinance under review are Section 103;, Section 104, and Section 105.

« Also discussed was a discrepancy between the towns building permit and the HDC Certificate of Approval for beginning and completion of work. Mayor Oland agreed the town building permit will be changed to conform to the language of the HDC Certificate of Approval.

• HDC members continued their discussion of applying and understanding the authority granted in the ordinance. Mr. Techter feels the HDC must make clear, to the public, the elements being considered in the hearing process. Also discussed was the need to more clearly define the term "lenient", as it applies to the ordinance.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at approximately 9:15 p.m. Respectfully Submitted

Phyllis Sterling