Laytonsville Historic District Commission

Meeting Minutes-July 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 and Sterling were present. Commission member Ruspi was absent.

Commission member Howes made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 19, 2006, meeting. Second by Commission member Sterling. The minutes were approved as presented.

Old Business

The Chair called upon Mike Bingley, Elm Street Development, to present final draft of the entrance signs, with landscape plan, for the Rolling Ridge Subdivision. New drawings were presented and dated 06/28/06. Commission members reviewed and discussed the plans. Ms. Howes made a motion to approve the plan, based on review of the plan submitted. There was no second and the motion failed. Ms. Wenger invited Mr. Bingley to return with another plan. Mr. Bingley expressed his concern regarding the amount of time already spent to design an acceptable plan. Members provided comments related to the design submitted. Ms. Sterling indicated she is concerned that adding signs to introduce subdivisions breaks up a continuity that exists within the historic district. Another subdivision is planned within the historic district and approval of this sign would set a precedent. She believes the historical marker is appropriate. Ms. Wenger indicated she believes the entrance signs create exclusionary status to the subdivision. Mr. Bingley stated he believes the sign is simple and attractive and would provide direction. It was agreed the HDC would have a work session before the next meeting. The purpose of the work session would be to discuss specific design options and provide comments to Mr. Bingley before the next regular meeting.

Commission members continued discussion of a design choice for the pavilion to be located on the Town Hall property.

New Business

The property owner at 21513 Laytonsville Rd. recently called Ms. Sterling to inquire about a roof replacement. Ms. Sterling provided information regarding the permit process. She informed the homeowner they could pick up the application for work permit at the Town Hall and also recommended they attend the HDC meeting. However, they were not in attendance.

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

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary