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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-03-11- HSPB minutes CITY OF PALM SPRINGS HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD MEETING Minutes of Regular Meeting Tuesday, March 11, 2003, 8:15 a.m. Large Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, California 92262 ROLL CALL Present This Meeting Present Yea-to-Date FY 2002-2003 Excused Absences To-Date Jim Isermann, Chairman X 8 William Scott, Vice Chairman X 8 Lee Bledsoe X 7 1 Ron Chespak X 8 James Hayton 7 2 Shevlin Rush X 7 1 John Williams X 7 1 STAFF PRESENT: Doug Evans Director of Planning and Zoning Jing Yeo Associate Planner Loretta Moffett Senior Secretary * * * * * * Chairman, Jim Isermann called the meeting to order at 8:22 a.m. * * * * * * REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: The Agenda was available and posted in accordance with state and local procedures for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Department of Planning & Zoning counter by 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 6, 2003. * * * * * * PUBLIC COMMENTS: NONE * * * * * * Mayor Will Kleindienst reported that there was a busload of 30 architectural students from Austria who visited the City on March 10 and did not have a guide. They stopped at City Hall for assistance and there was no one who could readily assist them in showing them various architectural buildings throughout Palm Springs. This happens with great frequency, most are organized, some are not. The P.S. Architectural Brochure would have been an excellent piece to have had available. There were no tour materials or maps at our front desk to give them. Mayor Kleindienst suggested that perhaps one of the HSP Board members could be available for future occurrences of this nature, and further asked if this might be done on a rotating basis among the HSP Board Members. Chairman Isermann briefed the Board that the 30 students came over to his neighborhood and toured his home and he walked them around the neighborhood. Also gave them the ModCom map of Palm Springs which had 50 modern sites to drive by. It clearly states that occupants of the homes are not to be disturbed. These maps are available at the Visitor's Center and Modern Way. Board Member Williams commented that it might be wise to send visitors to the Visitor's Center first, they could pick-up whatever materials, maps, etc. they want and could continue on their tours. Director Evans suggested that the City purchase copies of the ModCom map for the Clerk's office and Planning. A Work Program item could be prepared wherein a docent tour might be considered to meet expectations by visitors for answers and materials. When the Tramway Gas Station site opens as the new visitor's Center, a docent may be necessary. Board Member Williams pointed out that the Visitor's Center's mission is not to sell hotel rooms, but to advise what to see and do in Palm Springs. They do need to be better equipped because there is a huge interest and will be more so when the new Center opens. This Board could work with the Visitor's Center to put together a program, and during the busiest hours have someone there from staff who can provide information about the new Center, it's history, and highlight some of the other buildings in Palm Springs. With a printed piece, anyone could present this to interested visitors. Director Evans commented that the Visitor's Center must be better, the challenge will be how to get all the information in the Center. Several agencies are requesting a presence. There is a separate meeting this Friday on the Visitor's Center. When the Work Program is discussed later in this meeting, think about a Speakers Bureau where people could volunteer when needed. It could be a good service for the entire community – there are many people within the community who could speak. AGENDA ITEM #5 - PALM SPRINGS BRIEF HISTORY & ARCHITECTURAL GUIDE: Chairman Isermann asked Tracy Conrad, visiting Planning Commissioner and former HSP Board Member, to talk with the Board about the new brochure. Tracy Conrad explained her involvement and assured the Board that she was not trying to usurp its responsibilities. Ms. Conrad brought a copy of the original brochure for each member from the 1980's to show Historic Site Preservation Board Minutes Page 3 of 5 March 11, 2003 the evolvement of this piece of information. Ms. Conrad served on the HSPB for four years and felt the original piece was not adequate for telling the rich history of Palm Springs, culturally and architecturally, so her objective was to re-write the brochure. The original old photos are an amazing treasure and were obtained from the Historical Society, permission from people to put their private homes in the brochure along with the historical photos then had to be obtained. She went to Julius Shulman who lent his photos to the publication, interviewed Stewart Williams about his father who worked for some of our pioneers, and his own projects. The Mayor and City Council approved the brochure recognizing that it is something the City needs. They expanded it into mid-century modern to also capture that portion of Palm Springs' history. At the end of Ms. Conrad's term on the HSPB, the supply of brochures was sold out, so she volunteered to work on an updated version to expand and include the Class 1 sites that have been designated since the last publication. The delay has been having to wait for permission from Julius Shulman to publish one more photo, then a proof will be made available. Director Evans pointed out that the City has new printing equipment so the re-print of this brochure can be done quickly, will be more cost-effective, and we will not have to maintain a large supply on hand. Vice Chairman Scott expressed his appreciation to Ms. Conrad for all the work and the quality of the brochure. His concern is that when the brochure needs updating again, and this Board's name appears on the brochure, that one of the members needs to be involved. Ms. Conrad agreed that whatever the Board's direction, she would be happy to work within those parameters. Director Evans indicated that we would re-print the existing brochure as needed until the new one comes out. We have about 125 on hand at the moment. Board Member Williams asked about other sites that are being included in this re-print. Ms. Conrad responded that the Miller House, the Steel houses, fire station are the top Class 1 sites now being included. The bank buildings and the Tropics are included because people come to Palm Springs to see. They are not designated sites but are an important part of Palm Springs history. Four new pages will be added. Board Member Ron Chespak volunteered to work with Tracy Conrad. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Chairman Isermann asked for approval of the Minutes from the February 11, 2003 meeting and asked for comments or corrections. M/S/C Williams/Rush(6 yes,1 absent) to approve the February 11, 2003 Minutes as presented. Historic Site Preservation Board Minutes Page 4 of 5 March 11, 2003 CHAIRMAN'S REPORT: Chairman Isermann advised that the evaluation process for the survey is underway. There should be more to report at the next meeting. Director Evans reported that the funds have been received and staff is ready to go once a consultant is selected and the Council approves the contract and stated that it would about six (6) months. Consultant will be selected, then negotiate the actual contract provisions and time frame, and then prepare a contract to take to Council. There might be a delay, as the purchasing department actually does the contract work and they are backlogged with contract work for the City right now. Takes about two to four weeks to get the contract to Council once the consultant has been selected. AGENDA ITEM #1 - DISCUSSION OF CITY'S HISTORIC PRESERVATION ORDINANCE (Chapter 8.05 PSMC), DUTIES, ACTIVITIES: Board Member Williams asked for more clarification of the Class 2 historical designation with regards to HSPB review of a Class 2 building when the owner wants to remodel. What is the required process? Director Evans: HSPB review is not required on a remodel. On a demolition, staff could issue a stay of demolition under the ordinance. A demolition permit would have to go through the Planning Department. A stay of demolition could be imposed on any building that meets the time criteria which is 45 years of age or older. Class 2 sites probably gain value because of the designation itself. Stay of demolition is a Board act, staff would impose it and it would be brought to the HSP Board. Board Member Williams has discussed this with owners who are hesitant to go with a Class 1, but might consider a Class 2 as it does not restrict the building. AGENDA #2 - PALM SPRINGS PRESERVATION FOUNDATION: Board Member Scott reported on Preservation Foundation and a little about ModCom. The Modernism Show had 75 dealers selling items for mid-century from the 1903 to 1970's. The event was at the Convention Center. The Friday night opening gala expected about 250 people, but over 450 attended....a huge success. The ModCom and Foundation had booths Friday thru Sunday, March 7 - 9, had visitors from all over the United States, including tour group from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Produced a lot of information about Palm Springs and the architectural elements here. Julius Shulman visited and signed his books. Sold-out the first night of the artist, Schag's serigraph. The Modernism group had over 240 people attend their Saturday function, turned people away. The producers, Dolphin Productions, who produce all over the United States, said it was the best turn-out they have ever had. They will be back for the fourth event next year. Historic Preservation Site Board Minutes Page 5 of 5 March 11, 2003 AGENDA ITEM #4 - PALM SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE: Board Member Williams reported that he could not attend the Modernism Show, but understood it was a great success. The next ModCom meeting will be this Saturday, March 15 at Modern Way at 10 a.m. AGENDA ITEM #3 - PALM SPRINGS HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Board Member Bledsoe reported that this past Sunday was the event of the year...the bringing out of the Palm Springs First 100 Years by former Mayor Bogert. The book is available at the Library and the Historical Society. All the original plates from the first book had been lost, so they had to start from scratch and re-create everything for the new book. Director Evans added that it was 'standing room only' at the Library and Mayor Bogert had a long line of people who wanted his signature on the book. His wit and humor for being in the 90's was fantastic. AGENDA ITEM #6 - UPDATED ON CONTACTS WITH POTENTIAL HISTORIC SITE PROPERTY OWNERS: Board Member Rush reported that he had not been able to contact one of the two property owners, but has left messages and should have more to report next meeting. One was the Wexler Home on Verbena and the second was the Edras House in Little Tuscany. The owners actually contacted Chairman Isermann to discuss this issue. Chairman Isermann reported that he met with J. R. Roberts the current owner of the Edras house and he is very interested in putting this Stewart William's house forward for designation. A package will be presented at the next meeting. He sent formal letters out to the others who he was to contact. Board Member Williams stated he had made initial contacts with commercial property owners. There was great hesitation to put their properties up for Class 1 status, so he will continue working with the owners. Chairman Isermann reminded everyone to proceed even though it is a time consuming process. Director Evans encouraged the Board to not undersell Class 2 designations, because it gets people in a position where the property is recognized, and in the right instances it helps property values. Historic interest has increased property values in Palm Springs and this may be the first step to make a property owner comfortable to move on to a Class 1 designation. If a property owner is interested in a Class 1, they are eligible for the Mills Act which is a substantial reduction in property taxes that comes from the County's portion of the property taxes, not the City's. Very good deal for a residence and still maintains the property tax for the City. If a property owner agrees to a Mills Act Contract, the plaque must be visible to the public. Historic Preservation Site Board Minutes Page 6 of 5 March 11, 2003 AGENDA ITEM #7 - DISCUSSION OF CITY'S GENERAL PLAN HISTORIC RESOURCES CHAPTER 9: Director Evans reported that the Chapter had been passed to the Board for review. This will be a two-year process, but need more input now. No comments needed today, but the Board should look at the policies, see where changes might be made, add your handwritten notes, etc. We're trying to outline a Work Program so we can see where the resources need to be allocated. Key element of this will be the survey which will be a critical component of the Board's future tasks. Chairman Isermann asked all Board Members to read this before the next meeting and make their handwritten comments. AGENDA #8 - HSPB WORK PROGRAM 200: Director Evans explained that each Board and Commission is required to provide the Council with a work program which becomes a report from the Department of Planning and Zoning. One will also be provided for the Planning Commission. Eventually it's an overall informational document and really talks about everything that the Department of Planning and Zoning does along with the individual Work Programs for the Boards and Commissions. This will probably be the most successful year for the Board relative to the survey, and offers a great opportunity to expand the interest in historic preservation. Suggest possibly one or two Board members this year do a survey of the existing properties that have plaques. Look at the condition of the plaques, the presence or absence of the plagues, the location to be sure they are still visible to the public. There are two Mills Act contracts which require visibility to the public. Chairman Isermann asked for an update on the plaques and the one outstanding plaque for the Miller house. It was brought up at one meeting and was thought to be ordered. Director Evans indicated that staff is still working on that and will report at next meeting. There is another outstanding plaque for the Tramway Gas Station, which has been put on hold. This will be brought up at the Friday study session as to location. Staff charged the architect with finding a location for this plaque. It should be a routine to validate that all plaques are still in good standing and for the Board Members to become more familiar with the various sites. Chairman Isermann asked for a volunteer to survey the plaques. Board Member Rush volunteered to take on the plaque audit. Historic Preservation Site Board Minutes Page 7 of 5 March 11, 2003 Board Member Williams stated that he had not been able to find the Pirrozi house and the Oasis Hotel Tower plaques. All the others were obvious and quite nice. Director Evans agreed that the Pirrozi plaque is difficult to find, it had been placed on the best rock, but necessitates coming on the property to view it. This is a Mills Act contract and needs to be in a better location for public viewing. Staff tried to get good locations for all plaques and respect the desire of the property owners. After the survey is done, one question might be..."Are the plaques in the best locations? The funds allocated in last year's budget for plaques has not been spent so there are funds carried over and available which will be used to contingencies. The survey may need more funds at the end. It is unlikely in this year's budget, considering what the State promises to do to cities, that we will get the same allocation as last year. Board Member Williams asked if the Class 2 sites automatically got plaques? Plaques could be offered to the commercial property owners who agree to Class 2 designations. Director Evans indicated that they are plaqued. The Kaufmann house plaque is difficult to find and after the survey, a letter to them might inquire if they are willing to purchase a new plaque it could be the more modern version which would better fit their building. The location and visibility needs to be resolved on the Kaufmann house, this is also a Mills Act contract, but discretion and respecting privacy is a factor. Director Evans re-iterated that the survey update has been discussed; Board is making progress on the historic designations; may want to add a Palm Springs Historic Tour program with a call-out list when stranded visitors need assistance. Might even want to talk about the contact list being a tour guide list and perhaps a docent type program. Volunteer docents could receive donations. Bus tours could be considered. Board Member Williams offered to take on this challenge and will meet with Linda Forte. Will provide a survey of brochure, informational materials, etc. available and report at the next meeting. Director Evans asked if this could be called..."Historic Preservation Public Information Program"...or if there is a more creative name. The Board's consideration of this and a vote is needed today so it can be provided to the Council as part of their Board and Commission update. Board Member Williams pointed out that the only thing not on as part of the Work Program is to try to get more of our architectural resources here designated as either Class 1 or Class 2 sites. Historic Preservation Site Board Minutes Page 8 of 5 March 11, 2003 Director Evans suggested that "local" or "city" could be added. In fact, "city" should be added under Historic Designations paragraph of the Work Program 2003. Staff will expand this section so it reflects what the Board is doing. Board Member Williams moved that this be accepted as the Board's Work Program for 2003. M/S/C William/Bledsoe (6 yes, 0 No, 1 absent) Chairman Isermann asked for additional Board or Staff reports. Associate Jing Yeo updated the Board on the Wexler Steel homes plaquing. Six of them are installed with one more to be completed. Director Evans reported the Ruddy Museum on the Village Green will be donated to the City with an endowment fund sufficient (with revenues) to maintain the Museum and the building in the future. Director Evans will be one of the three directors for this Museum. The time and period of the Museum is about the time the City of Palm Springs incorporated. It is not an historic building, it was built by Mr. Ruddy for his Museum, and it is really worth the price to see it and is a unique part of Palm Springs. Chairman Isermann reminded everyone of the special study session this Friday at 8:15 a.m. regarding the Tramway Gas Station - Visitor's Center. The meeting was adjourned at 9:24 a.m. Next HSPB meeting will be April 8, 2003 at 8:15 a.m. Respectfully submitted, Douglas R. Evans Director of Planning and Zoning :ldm HSPB Minutes 3.11.03