Laytonsville Historic District Commission

Meeting Minutes-May 15, 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, and Sterling were present.

The Chair opened the hearing on HDWP 04-06, submitted by Elm Street Development, for property located at 7215 Brink 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 garage/shed and a block utility building.

· The Secretary entered into evidence the following exhibits: hearing notice, notice to contiguous property owners, photo prints and disc, and plat.

Comments of Applicant

Mike Bingley, Elm Street Development Stated the request is to demolish two outbuildings that are in a state of collapse. He indicated there should be no threat of damage to other buildings or trees on the property as a result of this demolition.

Public Comment

David Deal, 7409 Brink Rd. Stated he believed the demolition of these buildings would be an enhancement to the property.

No persons were opposed to the application.

Commission Members

Ms. Sterling asked if any significant trees would be threatened by the demolition. Mr. Bingley indicated they would not.

The Chair closed the hearing and called for the motion. Commission member Ruspi made a motion to approve the application for demolition of two outbuildings, with a condition that care be given to protect significant trees on the property. Second by Ms. Howes. Motion unanimously approved.

Ms. Wenger thanked the applicant and stated a Certificate of Approval would be issued.

Old Business

Mr. Bingley presented a new proposal for the entrance signs to Rolling Ridge subdivision. The proposal calls for a hanging sign on a wooden post at the lane entrance and a stone monument documenting a history of Rolling Ridge. The stone monument would be placed some distance from the lane and be incorporated with the approved fencing that will front the new homes in the Historic District. Discussion included size, materials, and location of proposed signs. Mr. Bingley will have the landscape architect prepare a concept plan of these proposals for consideration at the next meeting of the HDC.

New Business

Ms. Wenger called on David Deal who asked for a consultation on plans to modify the farmhouse, Rolling Ridge. Mr. Deal is negotiating the purchase of the home. He was accompanied by his architect, William Hancock. Two concepts were presented, labeled Elevation A and Elevation B. The proposals place an addition to the rear of the house. The plan also calls for a modification of the kitchen ell, a later addition, not part of the original structure. Mr. Hancock stated the roofline of the addition would not be visible from the front of the original home. Discussion regarding restoration work on the original structure ensued. Ms. Wenger quoted Department of Interior Standards for restoration. She indicated the project would be given strict oversight due to the historical significance of the home. It was recommended the consultation be continued until the June 19, 2006, meeting.

Resident Michele Shortley was introduced. She has expressed an interest in being appointed to the vacant seat on the HDC.

Commission members discussed the architecture and Md. Historical Sites Inventory of Rolling Ridge. Ms. Sterling suggested the HDC seek professional guidance on plans for Rolling Ridge, given its significance.

Ms. Wenger indicated the need to take action on HDWP 06-05, property located at 7000 Brink Rd. The hearing on the application was continued on March 20, 2006. The applicant has not incorporated the recommendations of the HDC into the plan, nor provided a viable alternative. The applicant failed to attend subsequent meetings and has not corresponded in any way since the March meeting. Ms. Ruspi made a motion that the application be denied, due to the failure of the applicant to meet the stipulations of the HDC. Second by Ms. Sterling. Motion unanimously approved. Ms. Wenger will draft a letter to notify applicant of the decision and outlining the reasons for denial.

Ms. Wenger reminded HDC members of the upcoming seminar on infill design scheduled for June 10, 2006, sponsored by Maryland Historical Trust. All members are registered to attend.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary