Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes September 20,2004

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

Commission member Techter made a motion to approve the minutes of the August 16, 2004 meeting. Second by Commission member Ruspi, The minutes were approved as presented.

The Chair opened the hearing on Historic District Work Permit Application (HDWPA) HOC OS-04, submitted by Timothy and Michele Shortley, for property located at 21606 Laytonsville Rd.

* There were no conflicts of interest or disclosures.

« The Secretary was called upon to present the facts of the application. The application states the work is for an addition of a fence, replacement of non-historic kitchen window, restoration of widows walk, addition of clapboard trim and shutter to side of house, removal of metal screen door.

* The Secretary entered into evidence the following exhibits: plat, notice of hearing, notice to property owners, samples offence and window, photographs, and letter from property owners describing the project.

Comments of Applicant

* Mr. and Ms. Shortley discussed the aspects of the work to be performed ..The wrought iron fence will be installed across the front property line of approximately 230 feet, and continue approximately 262 feet down the south property line. A fence like trellis would be installed at the rear and north side of the property, and be ivy covered. Due to cost constraints the applicants plan to replace the trellis over a period of three to five years with the exact wrought iron fence installed in the front and side. Also discussed were the replacement of two "non-historical" windows on the north side of the house, adding clapboard to the enclosed porch, and returning widows walk to the residence, as shown in early photos. The applicants commented on the continuing process of paint removal on the house and stated no decision has been made on the colors.

Public Comment

* John Broyles 6924 Sundown Rd. Stated approval for the project

* Mayor Willard Oland Stated approval for the project

Commission Members

* Ms. Sterling stated her desire to see a definitive date for completion of the fencing in the rear and north side of the property. Mr. Techter suggested a five year commitment.

There being no further discussion the Chair closed the record and called for the motion. Ms. Sterling moved to approve the application based on review of the plans and subject to a stipulation of a five year commitment to complete fence around entire property. Mr. Techter seconded. Motion unanimously approved.

The Chair thanked those attending and stated a Certificate of Approval would be sent within 7 days and would reflect the stipulations.

The Chair opened the hearing for HDWPA HDC 04-04, submitted by John and Jennifer Broyles, for property located at 6924 Sundown Rd.

• There were no conflicts of interest or disclosures.

• The Secretary was called to present the facts of the application. The application states the proposed work is painting the body, trim, doors and roof of the residence.

• The Secretary entered into evidence the following exhibits: notice of hearing, notice to

property owners, photos, and sample paint chips. Comments of Applicant

• Mr. Broyles briefly described the project.

There being no further comments from the public or the Commission members the Chair closed the record and called for the motion. Ms. Ruspi made a motion to approve the application. Ms. Sterling seconded. Motion unanimously approved. The Chair stated a Certificate of Approval would be issued within 7 days.

Old Business

• The HDC members have reviewed the Town's existing sign ordinance. Ms Sterling stated the present sign ordinance does not require an application or approval process. The ordinance was adopted prior to the existence of the Historic District. A general consensus was reached to recommend the Mayor and Council review and amend the current sign ordinance.

New Business

• A preliminary discussion was held with Jill and Jim Ruspi. The Ruspis reside at 71 11 Brink Rd. and are considering adding a roof and lattice to an existing deck. They provided photos and a sketch of the proposed work.

• Mr. Abrams, town attorney, has reviewed the issues raised by Mr. Whipple of the Md. Historical Trust regarding the Historic District Ordinance. A copy of his comments are attached to these minutes.

• The Chair has received a letter from Mr. Kline, attorney for Elm St. Development. The letter provides a legal description of the property known as Rolling Ridge.

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

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary