Laytonsville Historic District Commission

Meeting Minutes-April 16, 2007

The regular meeting of the Laytonsville Historic District Commission (HDC) was called to order by the Chair, Sheree Wenger at 7:35 p.m. Commission members Howes, Ruspi, Shortley, and Sterling were present.

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

The Chair called Barbara Barber who resides at 21529 Laytonsville Rd. Ms. Barber is requesting a one year extension to her approved application, HDWP 03-06. Ms. Barber also indicated her desire to remove, repair and replace sections of a fence on the north side of her property. She provided drawings and photographs of the existing fence. She explained two to three sections of the fence at the front of the property will be removed completely and not replaced. The remainder would be replaced with in kind material; treated wood and stained white.

Ms. Wenger called for a motion to extend and amend HDWP 03-06. Ms. Ruspi moved to extend HDWP 03-06 for one year and amend the application to include removal of 2 to 3 sections of existing fence. The remaining fence will be replaced with in kind materials, and approval is in accordance with HDC guidelines. Second by Ms. Howes. Motion passed unanimously.

Ms. Wenger stated she would prepare a letter indicating the decision.

New Business

Mike Bingley, Elm Street Development, introduced Brian Davila. Mr. Davila has an interest in purchasing Rolling Ridge. Mr. Davila stated he is a registered engineer and a licensed Md. contractor. He indicated he has renovated several homes and built one new home. He expressed his enthusiasm about the project and had several questions regarding the application process and expectations of the HDC. Ms. Wenger stressed the significance of the property would require strict application of the guidelines. She stated there are many resources available for consultation purposes. Ms. Wenger explained changing the environmental setting would also come under review by the HDC. Mr. Davila would like to move forward with stabilization efforts such as front porch repairs, replacing gutters and downspouts. He indicated he has no plans to construct any addition to the exterior. Mr. Bingley noted that roof repairs are continuing and new flashing installed. It was recommended that Mr. Davila seek guidance from Maryland agencies or others charged with providing technical assistance for historical preservation. He agreed to return next month for a consultation with the HDC, in anticipation of moving forward to the work permit application process.

Ms. Wenger reported it was determined that rear stairs approved and installed at 21520 Laytonsville Rd. did not meet Montgomery County Building Codes. After discussion with county building inspector and the homeowner a walkout landing with railings was added to the design.

Members of the HDC reviewed the status of fence installation at 7200 Brink Rd. The property owner was notified that a new application would be required. The original application HDWP 02-04 has expired. It has been observed that the fence installation has continued without approval. The Mayor and Town Attorney have been consulted in regard to further action.

Ms. Wenger, Ms. Ruspi, and Ms. Sterling attended a workshop March 27, 2007,on tax credits for historic rehabilitation, sponsored by the City of Gaithersburg.

A discussion ensued regarding the need to establish a meeting of the HDC and the Mayor and Council. The Mayor has indicated he has concerns relative to the HDC guidelines. It was decided by consensus that the HDC would invite the Mayor and Council to a work session. It is believed this would be an opportunity to review the efforts that established the HDC, plans for the future, and provide general information, as well as discussion of the guidelines.

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

Respectfully Submitted,

Phyllis Sterling, Secretary