Laytonsville Historic District Commission

Meeting Minutes-April 17, 2006

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

Commission member Ruspi made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 20, 2006, meeting. Second by Commission member Howes. The minutes were approved as presented.

The Chair opened the hearing on HDWP 03-06, submitted by Roy W. and Barbara Barber, for property located at 21529 Laytonsville Rd.

· There were no conflicts or disclosures.

· The Chair called on the Secretary to present the facts of the application. The application calls for the demolition of a playhouse, the construction of a pergola and enlarging a patio area.

· The Secretary entered into evidence the following exhibits: hearing notice, notice to contiguous property owners, photos and drawings, plat, and signed affidavit of sign posting.

Comments of Applicant

Ms. Barber stated the request for work permit includes the demolition of a wooden playhouse in rear yard. The application also requests the construction of a wooden pergola, stained white, and extension of the patio and sidewalk area in the rear yard. She provided a drawing of the pergola and its approximate location. She also provided pictures of pavers to be used for patio.

There was no public comment and no discussion by the Commission members.

The Chair closed the hearing and called for a motion. Commission member Techter made a motion to approve the plan as presented. Second by Ms. Sterling. Motion unanimously approved.

Ms. Wenger thanked the applicant and stated a Certificate of Approval would be provided within 7 days.

Old Business

Joel Winters , NV Homes, provided brick samples for consideration by the HDC. The brick choices are for homes built at the Jones Farm subdivision. The HDC identified several choices that will be available to homebuyers. Mr. Winters indicated NV Homes is requesting a temporary sales trailer be placed on Lot 3.

Mike Bingley, Elm Street Development, introduced Dick Viola. Mr. Viola designed an entrance monument for the subdivision. Mr. Bingley is proposing the monument be in the right of way of Rolling Ridge Lane and serve as way to identify the subdivision. The proposal is a stone pier 5 ft. in height and 3 ft. wide and would include a marker that would provide a short history of the property.

Ms. Wenger indicated she would prefer the monument be smaller and less conspicuous. She stated her opinion that the house at Rolling Ridge has retained a subtlety throughout its history.

A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the purpose of the monument, alternative examples of design, as well as size and scale. Mr. Viola agreed to scale down the plan and show an alternative to the original design, based on the concerns of the HDC. He will present the plan at a future meeting.

New Business

Ms. Wenger announced there will be a daylong seminar sponsored by the Maryland Historical Trust titled “The Principles of Good Design: Infill and Additions in Historic Districts”. The seminar will be held on June 10, 2006. Commission members interested in attending will submit an application to Ms. Wenger. The cost for each HDC member is $25.00. Ms. Sterling recommended a request for the Town to cover the cost for each HDC member wishing to attend.

Commission member Techter will be moving and announced his resignation from the HDC, effective immediately. Commission members must be town residents. HDC members expressed regret to lose his presence on the Commission and thanked him for his service. The term of office for Mr. Techter and Ms. Ruspi will expire July 1, 2006.

Ms. Ruspi indicated her belief that the HDC should proceed with the designation of contributing and non contributing resources in the Historic District. Further information and advice will be necessary to be begin this process. Ms. Sterling suggested seeking input from the Maryland Historical Trust and other municipalities.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary