Laytonsville Historic District Commission Meeting Minutes-October 18, 2004

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

Mr. Techter made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 20, 2004, meeting. Second by Ms. Howes. Motion approved.

Old Business

• The Chair called upon Sidra Berman and Martin Berman. They explained their request to modify Historic District Work Permit (HDWP) 01-04. The location of the property is 7115 Brink Rd. Ms. Berman stated they were unable to retain any of the original walls of the house due to previous fire damage and termite destruction. This factor created a need for new construction permits from Montgomery County. The applicant is requesting an amendment to the original design submitted and approved by the HDC. The changes include adding one window to the front and one window to the rear of the house. A screened porch, that was part of the original design, will be constructed. The applicant also discussed adding a basement that would not exceed the original footprint of the house. Montgomery County is requiring a new well. The members of the HDC agreed by consensus to approve the modifications. The changes will be attached to HDWP 01-04.

• Commission members continued discussion of the proposed annexation of Rolling Ridge. Members reviewed plats and discussed recent visits to the site. There are still questions and concerns regarding the size of the lot for Rolling Ridge, its driveway, screening and landscaping, easements, and outbuildings. In order to provide clarification of these issues, Ms. Wenger will arrange for the HDC to meet with Elm St. Development and their attorney.

• HDWP 02-04, to add a fence at 7200 Brink Rd., was approved on April 19, 2004. The applicant has not met the criteria of the work permit to commence work within six months from date of approval. The Chair will forward a letter to the applicant.

• The members briefly discussed the Town's sign ordinance. Ms. Sterling recommended the Chair submit a letter to the Mayor and Council regarding the apparent need to review the present ordinance. One concern of the HDC is the lack of a permit process for signs at this time.

New Business

• Ms. Wenger stated a resident made an inquiry recently about placement of a mail box in the historic district. There are currently no guidelines or standards for mailboxes. Commission members discussed the possible need for a standard where mailboxes are placed on sidewalks.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary