Laytonsville Historic District Commission

Meeting Minutes-March 19, 2007

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HDC) was called to order by the Chair, Sheree Wenger at 7:40 p.m. Commission members Howes, Ruspi, Shortley, and Sterling were present.

Commission member Ruspi made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 19, 2007, meeting. Second by Commission member Howes. The minutes were approved as presented.

The Chair opened the hearing on HDWP 03-07, submitted by Joshua and Catherine Pomeroy, for property located at 21404 Laytonsville Rd.

· There were no conflicts or disclosures.

· The Chair called on the Secretary to present the facts of the application. The description of the work is the construction of a detached two car garage, 28x30 feet, with a greenhouse extension and workshop, and partial loft.

· The Secretary entered into evidence the following exhibits: drawings, hearing notice, notice to contiguous property owners, photographs, plat, sign affidavit, sample of gutter and siding, and letter of explanation written by the applicant.

Comments of Applicant

Mr. Pomeroy explained the project is to provide a two car garage, space for a greenhouse, workshop, and loft. Changes to the roofline were made following a February consultation with the HDC. Skylights in the original plans were eliminated and two dormers were added. Mr. Pomeroy indicated the siting of the building meets minimum side yard requirements and the height at 19 feet is an appropriate scale with the house. He provided a rendering of the street view of the proposed garage.

Public Comment

Charles Hendricks 7011 Brink Rd.

Mr. Hendricks stated his general approval of the project and added he thought the presentation looked quite nice.

There were no persons opposed to the plan.

Commission Members

Ms. Wenger stated she was glad to see a more simplistic roofline in the modified plan. Ms. Shortley indicated the use of natural materials for the siding are appropriate and gave appreciation for the research given the project. Ms. Shortley asked the applicant about choices for the doors and windows. She recommended that 2 over 2 divided light windows be used, given their predominant use throughout the historic district and on the home of the applicant. Ms. Sterling read the general design guidelines for windows. Ms. Ruspi thought the size and scale of the building was appropriate.
It was noted that a waiver of the height and footprint requirements stated in Section 115 of the Town’s Zoning Ordinance was approved after a Public Hearing on March 6, 2007. The Chair closed the record and called for a motion. Ms. Shortley made a motion to approve the application, having inspected the plans as revised, finding the plan compatible with the guidelines and in character with adjoining properties, with a condition that 2 over 2 windows be used. Second by Ms. Howes. Motion unanimously approved.

Ms. Wenger thanked the applicant and indicated a Letter of Approval would be sent within seven days.

New Business

Ms. Wenger noted a request made by the applicant to re-issue permit HDWP 02-04, dated March 19, 2004, for property located at 7200 Brink Rd. The application expired six months after issuance because no work had been started. This condition is stated in the Certificate of Approval and the applicant was notified of the expiration. By consensus the HDC agreed to require a new application. Ms. Wenger will notify the property owner.

Old Business

Ms. Wenger provided an update of the discussion by the Mayor and Council at their March 6, 2007 meeting, regarding the home at Rolling Ridge. Mike Bingley, Elm St. Development, appeared before the Council and reported on work performed in order to meet the requirements of the Demolition by Neglect process. Items discussed were security fencing, No Trespassing signs, roof repairs, and evaluation of conditions. The Mayor requested a written marketing plan for the house and a monthly maintenance report. Mr. Bingley will make another report at the Town’s next regular meeting.

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

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary