HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/17/2010 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.A. Dear City Council Members,
Once historic buildings are altered their story is forgotten and those with memories and a
:onnection to the building are lost as supporters. As one of the main branches of the Palm
Springs Public Library system in its prime, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library deserves to
keep its heritage. So many new libraries are more like play houses than learning environments
Nhich is not ideal for this library in particular; rich in history and inviting to those who enjoy and
appreciate the space for what it is, a resource which just by entering you gain knowledge of a
time before and inspiration to carry into the future. This being said, I ask you to please reject
the proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and support the restoration of
Ns historic civic building.
Thank you,
Julie Reyes Taubman
Comments by David Gray
City Council,November 17,2010
Good Evening. My name is David Gray, and I live at 1735 Capri Circle, and currently serve as
the President of the Board of Trustees of the Palm Springs Public Library.
However, this evening I wish to make my remarks as a library user, frequent consumer at
downtown shops and restaurants, and someone who strongly believes that the public library is a
historic meeting place for all Americans.
Many people have spoken tonight about the proposed remodel of the historic building
downtown, and it seems this discussion has become one of form over function. When the
Welwood Murray library was built, Palm Springs was a small village and the building was just
the thing that the newly-formed city needed. It fit the needs of a 1940s library and its citizens.
Today it does not. In fact, it really hasn't been a part of the city's delivery of library service for
nearly 20 years.
There are many reasons for this, but principle among them is that libraries are one of the services
most affected by technological change. No longer do you search for a book from a card catalog.
No longer do librarians get you a book from a set of closed stacks.No longer do library users go
up to a reference desk to find the answer to their questions.
As an article in last Friday's LA Times stated, "libraries are reinventing themselves in ways
unimaginable even a few years ago... Many public libraries are ... becoming digital activity
centers,where in addition to books; visitors can find game rooms, computer clusters or Internet
cafes. Collections of DVDs have swelled, as has the number of high-definition televisions" ...
showing news, stock reports and local travelogs.
Tonight, as you consider what changes need to be made to make this historic structure's small
footprint and trapped courtyard accessible, manageable and flexible, I would like to remind you
ZO /d
that today's library is more than a building housing books. It is a community gathering space,
hence the community room being proposed, as well as handicapped-accessible bathrooms.
By providing informational tourist kiosks, self-serve checkout, and Internet connectivity, this
building can once again be a magnet downtown that draws in today's library users, tourists to our
city, as well as future library patrons that may be seen switching among Facebook and YouTube,
all the while researching a text file for their homework.
To go back to recreating a library of the 1940s may make a perfect movie set and appeal to some
people's nostalgia for the library of the past, but it is not what will draw in future generations of
library users and visitors alike.
Thank you.
Jay Thompson
From: roxann [riploss@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 2010 3:21 PM
To: Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; ginny foat; Chris Mills; Lee Weigel
Cc: Craig Ewing; Jay Thompson
Subject: The Wellwood Murray
Hello, All,
As one who remembers well the fight led by Councilwoman Deyna Hodges to SAVE
the Wellwood Murray, I am greatly concerned once again by the proposed changes
to that wonderful and historic building. Although called a MAA (minor architectural
project), the proposal being considered by this City Council will be for an addition
which will tack on footage which constitutes MORE than one third of the extant
building. This is not MINOR. And, if this is approved, ironically, "her" reading room
and name will be lost.
This corner (of Tahquitz Canyon Way and Palm Canyon) is the very center of our
downtown. The need for a restoration rather than a rehabilitation could NOT be
more vital to the persona of the city, for residents and tourists alike. This, and the
Old Plaza, are important links to our past....and to our "brand". As the owners of this
property, the City (we) has an obligation to find a better way to enhance its use and
in the spirit of the legators.
I have listened as the interior and exterior changes have been presented to various
groups at City Hall. No two presentations have been alike. The configurations, the
size, the height are different each time. This, of course, is worrying. Whatever its
final incarnation, the roof extension is jarringly different from the John Porter
Clark's original architecture and detracts from it. No preservation expert was
included in the committee which proposed these changes.
The clerestory windows will be covered over. Support columns will be lost. Mature
trees which can be seen from far north on Palm Canyon will be gone.
If radiated heat is the argument for change, it is easily (and more economically)
handled by replacement glass. Making the outside seating area more attractive
could include things as simple as moving the vermin-infested dumpsters at the east
entrance! Resurfacing the patio, including a fountain, painting the area, using more
attractive outdoor furniture and so forth. The library could easily be re-wired for an
electronic, book-less library with thirty or more stations for tourists and residents.
I ask, as someone deeply committed to the town, tourism and our history, that you
not allow this appeal to go forward.
Thank you,
Roxann Ploss
z`T 1 /. 4.
Dear Council and Mayor: }-
RE: Wellwood Murray Library Modifications
I am a member of the Metropolitan Club in San Francisco which recently underwent a
major restoration that took about 10 years from conception to finish. Here is a link to the
history of the building: httt)://www.nps.gov/histoLy/NR/feature/wom/2005/club.htm
After the 1989 earthquake,the members decided to pursue a voluntary seismic retrofit of
the building. Although the building was not `red tagged' by the Building Department, it
was prudent to think about future generations, considering its history. Specialists were
identified for many aspects of the building, including restoration of the original plaster
putti adorning the pillars.
Concomitant to this effort, a group of members pursued national historic designation for
the building.The building had previously been listed by the city in the 1980's as a
historic resource. The building was included in the National Register for Historic Places
in 2004. http //metropolitanelLibsf org/viCWCustOMPage.aspx?id=7
The first step in the process was the identification of an architectural firm credentialed
and experienced in historic preservation. A committee interviewed firms for several
years. One of the members involved in this effort was Alice Carey, a preservation expert.
http://www.careyandco.com/alicecareybio.htm
The Wellwood Murray Library is as valuable to Palm Springs in terms of historic
resources, as the Metropolitan Club is to San Francisco. Therefore, I am concerned that
the proper steps in choosing a preservation architectural team were not taken, including
defining its highest and best use as a historical resource.
At this point, my recommendation would be to stop the process immediately and begin
anew interviewing architectural specialists in historic restoration. Any demolition at this
point is out of the question without a proper preservation team in place.
Sincerely,
14
Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council,
I am a part-time resident of Palm Springs and own a Class One Historic mideentury house.
First of all, I strongly support the adaptive reuse of existing historic structures and am excited
that the Welwood Murray Library is planning to be back in use as an information facility. That
is, after all, its original purpose.
I confess that I am not totally educated on the details of the planned renovations of the Library—
nor is that important, as I am not an architect. What 1 would ask you to consider is that this
beautiful historic structure right in downtown Palm Springs was one of the first to receive Class
One Historic status and needs to be treated as such.
The purpose of the Historic Site Preservation Board is to ensure that designated structures are
maintained in the spirit of their original design and not damaged by unnecessary alteration. I
have always found the HSPB to be reasonable, sensitive, and responsive, and I respect their
objective of protecting historic sites. So if their assessment is that the redesign is inappropriate,
then it must be inappropriate. I would think that it would be rather easy to modify the proposal
to accommodate the HSPB's objections so that all parties are supportive of the plan going
forward. Therefore, I do not think that the HSPB's denial should be overturned.
I also question the intentions of making this information facility "electronic" and spending a
good deal of funds for equipment that will itself be obsolete in two years. People can access the
internet anytime and anywhere—in the main library or even in Starbucks across the street. Why
would they go to an historic Library for that purpose? Be creative and offer something unique in
the Welwood Murray Library, like books.
Respectfully,
Brian McGuire PhD
3125 North Sunny View Drive
bmcguire98443La2roadrunner.coin
. Z'rEM r .A
Cindy Berardi
From: davidlaw25@aol.com
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 5:37 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'lease forward to the City Clerk and place in the official record
do not support the design of John Porter Clark and want the library to be preserved
)avid Balinsky
'80 s avnida caballeros
'alm Springs 92262
Cindy Berardi
From: canyouguessit@aol.com
i U " J;
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 6:04 AM
To: davidlaw25@aol.com; CityClerk
Subject: Re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
do not support the design of John Porter Clark and want the library to be preserved and enhanced as a centerpiece of historic
'alm Springs.
=A Silverstein
!80 S. Avenida Caballeros
'alm Springs 92262
1 1 ii c i)ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Kathryn Tomasino [kathryntomasino@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 9:15 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray
I support the sensitive restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and do not support the proposed very
unsympathetic remodeling
Kathryn Tomasino
760.333.9990
W htt�://www,palmsp.._r_in2reales..tateresource.com/
kathry_ntor since i�y_ahc�o,cnm
3K Lane Real Estate
?045 E.Tahquitz Canyon Way
?alrn Springs, CA 92262
)RE N01762787
Jiew my listings-click http://tiiiyurl.conVktsl:is.tii.ng_5
i i n c inn i n
Cindy Berardi
From: Wendy Ketteridge [wendy.ketteridge@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 10:10 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Library
We are in full support of the restoration of the above structure,
and heartily oppose the planned proposal of the City Governments'
plans for this memorial. Let us keep Palm Springs as a City of known
Historic Treasures.
Sincerely Wendy and Clive Ketteridge
Cindy Berardi
From: Bob Y [ryes12@dc.rr.com]
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 10:12 AM tt .l
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Library renovation
support the sensitive restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and do not support the proposed very unsympathetic
emodeling.
'yob Yesselman
,049 Hazeltine Plaza
!aim Springs, CA 92264
is 760.832.8239
760.774.3974
ryesl2Qdc.rr.com
AConsider the environment. Please don't print this e-mail unless you really need to.
Cindy Berardi
From: tricia jurovic [tricia.jurovic@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2010 8:15 AM �; -
To: CityClerk
Subject: I DO NOT SUPPORT THE PROPOSED WELWOOD LIBRARY RESTORATION
support the sensitive restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and do not support theDroposed very
rns m athetic remodelin ."
What makes Palm Springs unique, & authentic is the character of the good architecture built in our citY.
t is a shame that the city approved the tear down of the entire mega block at Alejo for an unsound project.
,et's be sensitive and do the right thing for our city.
,ESTORE THE WELWOOD TO ITS DESERBVED LEGACY.
,RICIA JUROVIC
RONA A.)S.DUBY ; KENNETH R.FvLTO
822 NORTH TOPAZ CIRCLE.
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
November 12,2010
I
Mayor Steve Pougnet
Mayor Pro-Tern Rick Hutcheson
Councilwoman Ginny Poat
Councilman Chris Mills
Councilman Lee Weigel
Dear Mayor Pougnet and Members ofthe City Council:
We write as concerned homeowners regarding the pending appeal of the decision.of the Historic
Site Preservation Board to deny a certificate of approval for the proposed remodel and expansion
ofthe Welwood.Murray Memorial Library("WMML").
We first purchased a historically significant midcentury modern home here in 2006,alter visiting
Palm Springs for more than 15 years. We then purchased a larger midcentury modern home here
in 2007. The architectural history of Palm Springs was(and remains)a very important factor in
our decision to live here. We are therefore keenly interested in the City's plans for the WN4ML.
As observers of the process to date,it appears to us that the project architects have attempted to
implement the program imposed by the Council's subcommittee,which would convert WMML
into a branch ofthe City's library system. Their design,masquerading as a supposed"adaptive
re-use"ofthis historically significant building,would make many unnecessary and detrimental
changes to the original design of architect John.Porter Clark.
It seems extremely unfortunate that consideration has not been given to a sensitive restoration of
WMML to preserve this significant architectural treasure,instead ofthe present ill-considered
adaptive re-use. Given the prominent location of WMML in the very heart of downtown Palm
Springs,it would seem that abetter use for the building would be some sort of historical library,
which could showcase the City's illustrious history ofarchitectural design. A historical library of
this type would likely act as a magnet for architectural.tourism,which is clearly a significant
feature ofthe local economy.
Further,l had the opportunity to attend the recent meeting of the Library Board of'lTrustees,at
which its earlier vote to appropriate$800,000 towards furniture,fixtures and equipment for a
remodeled WWML was reaffirmed. At that meeting,it became painfully clear that there are
significant concerns among members ofthe Library Board and the Library's senior staff about the
adaptive re-use of W WML. The Director of Library Services forcefully expressed her concerns
about the sufficiency of the Library's operating funds to staff,re-open and operate WMML as a.
branch library. At least one member of the Board of"I"rustees also repeatedly questioned the
wisdom of appropriating$800,000 for WWML,at a.time when the Main.Library apparently
requires significant renovations.
Given the foregoing concerns,we urge the Council to re-visit the decision for WWML to be
remodeled for use as a branch ofthe Main Library. We encourage instead that consideration be
given to a sensitive restoration of WMML,and for its use as a historical library_
1: 11incerely,
Ronald S.Dubv Kenn Fulton
Cindy Berardi
From: Stephen Monkarsh [smonkarsh@bjustfabulous.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 11:14 AM .,.
To: CityClerk; Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Lee Weigel
Cc: james@bjustfabulous.com; 'Jeff Wolter'
Subject: Welwood Murray Library Appeal
fo the Clerk and City Council
would like to voice my concern over Councilmember Chris Mills' appeal of the decision
Denying the requested renovations to the Welwood Murray Library by the HSPB and
4AC. This building is a Class One Historic site for a reason and any alterations should be
:arefully considered to maintain the architectural integrity of this special building. As a
;mall business owner and a concerned resident, I strongly urge the Council to DENY the
kppeal. Palm Springs has many architectural treasures, which must be preserved and
-maintained. They are a great source of revenue to the City and to small business
)wners such as myself because tourists come to Palm Springs not just to enjoy the sun
ind natural beauty, but because of our reputation as having some of the best examples
)f mid-century modern and other architecture in the Country. There is great interest in
'alm Springs architecture, design, and history, which is directly related to the numerous
;ales of books at my store, Just Fabulous, on these topics. I know first-hand that
maintaining and protecting our heritage is important on an economic level as well as a
iistorical one.
'lease vote NO and DENY this appeal.
sincerely,
Stephen C. Monkarsh
:EO
;tephen monkarsh
ust fabulous
i15 north palm canyon drive
)aim springs, california 92262
;. 760-864.1300
-o
760-832.9109
3justfabulous.com
just fa�IOUIOUS
'lease note that this e-mail is meant for only
he intended recipient of the transmission,
ind may be a confidential communication
�r a communication privileged by law. If you
eceived this e-mail in error, any review, use,
lissemination, distribution, or copying of
his e-mail is strictly prohibited. Please notify
is immediately of the error by return e-mail
ind please delete this message from your system.
hank you in advance for your cooperation.
Cindy Berardi
From: Palm Springs Modern Tours [psmoderntours@aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 8:58 AM
To: CityClerk; Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Lee Weigel; Chris Mills
Subject: Welwood Murray Library appeal
o: Mayor and City Council
-'r: Robert Imber, Palm Springs Modern Tours
te: Welwood Murray Library
=fFective, new purposes at the WML is a promising goal and obvious welcome addition to our community.
'et, following diligent due process and appropriate, thoughtful denial by the HSPB and AAC here we are
igain in a fictionalized battle to secure the very fabric of our community, extant historic architecture that is a
primary economic tourism drive that sustains Palm Springs. That such blatant disregard for our architectural
end familial heritage is spearheaded by civic leadership and the library, the very entity charged with
maintaining community education, is particularly shocking and distressing. Please ensure that our City's
iistory and early heritage are not further damaged with glaring changes as we renew downtown in the new
entury. Do not allow adverse changes to this important, intact CLASS ONE HISTORIC SITE. Can we not
progress by honoring the past, as demonstrated in communities nationwide that respect their built
environment and build a future from it?
lust we ignore the intrinsic value of FOUR DECADES of Palm Springs history, families, education and architecture found at the
eart of our center...the corner of Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Canyon?Tourists savor the sites as locals enjoy them; they
re our history, and when extant they should be integrated into our redevelopment...alter them unnecessarily and we damage our
lentity and future:
923 - The Oasis Hotel, by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright. Palm Springs first significant Twentieth
;entury building, of remarkable innovation and design a decade ahead of it's time. With only a tiny remnant
Bmaining, predicated on the absolute promise of a forthcoming restaurant (while preservationists were
dmonished as being in the way of business and true progress) demolition was allowed of an entirely intact
lvo story 1923 Lloyd Wright building. We got a parking lot.
936 - La Plaza, by architect Harry Williams, father of E. Stewart Williams. An innovative, "new fashioned
enter" of the times, still functioning today and graciously evoking enduring Spanish Colonial Revival
rchitecture that is integral to our world-acclaimed architectural collection.
940 - The Welwood Murray Library, a place for education honoring early families and the very past that
ave us Palm Springs. Designed by Palm Springs first resident architect it embodies materials and forward-
iinking ideas that are no less remarkable today. In 1940, would they not have expected a charming "Santa
larbara-like" library...wood-paned windows with deep sills full of ceramic planters, decorative ironwork and
owing geraniums? Yes...but we were privileged to get an avant-garde, unadorned, stacked concrete
tructure with steel casement windows trimmed in experimental dyed-green concrete forms and a brilliantly
inctional interior. How progressive it was for the decision makers to accept such new thinking, such
ieaningful simplicity inside and out, in behalf of the City. Please respect that vision.
953 - E. Stewart Williams Oasis Building...still magnificent, mostly intact but damaged and neglected so
such economic viability and inherent beauty are shrouded. I needn't reiterate the world of Preservation's
iternational perception of the astonishing anomaly established with the decision to cut the baby in half by
esignating only half of the building.
-o
urge your acceptance of the HSPB and AAC decisions and the testimony of organizations and individuals
ur an APPROPRIATE post-haste rehabilitation at the Welwood Murray Library. Please devise a reasonable,
espectful approach to a restoration of which all parties will be proud.
Zespectfully submitted,
Zobert Imber
'alm Springs Modern Tours
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: dantarnoveanu@gmail.com on behalf of Dan Tarnoveanu [clan @architecture-restbrat'ro'n.com]
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2010 8:23 AM
To: Steve Pougnet; CityClerk
Subject: Wellwood Murray Memorial Library ;!_
Attachments: Letter To Steve Pougnet 1.pdf
)ear Mayor Pougnet:
ly name is Dan Tarnoveanu, founder and owner of Renaissance Art,Restoration&Architecture (RARA). I met you last
ear during the California Preservation Foundation Convention in Palm Springs, where I had the opportunity to visit many
nportant historic properties—I fell in love with Palm Springs'wonderful(old or modern)treasures.
attended last month's (October 12th) City's Historic Site Preservation Board meeting, where the proposed remodel project for
Vellwood Murray Memorial Library was presented. The purpose of this letter is to express my support for an accurate
estoration of this historic library as opposed to the proposed remodeling by Escalante Architects, which actually fails to meet
istoric preservation standards.
Vellwood Murray Memorial Library has been nominated and approved by the City of Palm Spring as a historic site;
herefore, if this proposed remodel project is approved, it will irrevocably destroy the character, as well as, the historic and
rchitectural values of this extremely important historic building,
propose a pure and sensitive restoration that meets the historic preservation standards for the following reasons:
The building is in good shape and does not need any remodeling.
The cost of restoration will be by far much lower than the cost of remodeling
A restoration project is a"green"project and will use less energy than a remodeling project.
The building will keep its original function as a library to be used by this generation and the generations to come.
The City of Palm Springs will preserve one of the country's exceptional historic sites with its architectural significance well
intact,which will add another tourist attraction.
)n October 12th, the city's RSPB voted 5-1, approving a motion to deny the Certificate of Approval request for the remodeling of
he Welwood Murray Memorial Library. Also, at the the city's Architectural Advisory Committee meeting, the committee voted a
nanimous 3-0 vote, recommending denial of the proposal to remodel the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. These two
ccasions clearly expressed the desire of the City of Palm Springs,it's people,as well as,the experts in the field.
s a member of Palm Springs Historic Preservation Foundation, and as an architect specializing in historic preservation for more
han 30 years, I have seen great historic buildings destroyed through insensitive remodeling,which denied the future generations
he opportunity to appreciate these historic sites and learn more about their past. Therefore, I am very passionate about
reserving historic places because I strongly believe that "there is no future without preserving our history and our
ulture."
have a master's degree in Architecture from the University of Architecture"Ion Mincu"in Bucharest,Romania; as well as a
naster's degree in Art Conservation. In Europe, I participated in the restoration of several historic churches and monasteries,one
d which was the most important landmarks in Romania: Cozia Monastery,a Byzantine style complex,built in 1386. Here in the
J.S.,I have 21 years of hands-on experience in historic preservation and art conservation; as well as,being a consultant for public
end private firms. In all my projects,I adhere to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
Preservation, Restoration,Rehabilitation and Reconstruction). I received several awards for most of my projects.
n San Diego, my most important completed project is the restoration of the Interiors of the House of Hospitality in Balboa Park
the project architect was David Marshall). For this project,I received the National Trust for Historic Preservation Award. My last
project in San Diego, completed in May 2010, is the restoration of the entrance of Simon Levi Co.historic building, constructed in
927. For more information about my background and award-winning projects, please visit my web site: www.architecture-
estoration.com.
'his Wednesday an appeal to continue with the remodeling project will be discussed. I hope that you and the City Council will
:ontinue to forbid the remodeling and support the preservation of this historic Murray Memorial Library.
'hank you for your time. I look forward to seeing you at the meeting this Wednesday.
Sincerely yours,
)an Tarnoveanu,Associate ALA,
'S.
I ttached is the actual letter in pdf format for your hard copy file.
)an Tarnoveanu, Assoc. AIA
Zenaissance Art, Restoration & Architecture
1447 Sean Taylor Ln, San Diego, CA 92126
VVebsite: www.architecture-restoration.com
.. . ........................................................................................
:mail: dan(r�,a.rchitecture-restoration.com
?hone: 619-677-5764
well: 612-868-8500
?AX: 888-810-0270
There is no real future without preserving our history and our culture." Dan Tarnoveanu
Cindy Berardi
From: Mike Kilroy [m1@kilroy.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 13, 2010 11:10 AM I u;
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
honorable Mayor and Council Members:
'he proposed addition to the Welwood Murray Memorial Library is both incongruous and unnecessary. I believe, like many
others,that maintaining the authenticity of the John Porter Clark-designed library in its present floorplan is vitally
rnportant.
\s one fortunate enough to be the owner of a number of historic and architecturally significant properties in Palm Springs
ncluding the John Lautner-designed Elrod House, I have come to appreciate the myriad subtleties inherent in the original
lesigns of such properties,the value of them to the community and the wider world, and the care with which one much
candle them to maintain their integrity.
'lease be a proper steward of this important building and uphold the decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board.
'hank you.
Aike Kilroy
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Jones, George [George.Jones@wolterskluwer.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2010 10:20 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Nov 17th City Council Meeting
lease forward this note to the City Council and place it in the official record.
o the City Of Palm Springs. City Council Members
respectfully request that the reasons for my opposition to the proposed renovation of the Welwood Memorial Library be
Fficially recognized and considered. As a descendant of Welwood Murray(my great, great grandfather), I also raise my voice in
pposition on his behalf and in unison with other family members.
ask that the City Council consider rejecting the pending appeal to reconsider the proposed renovation as contrary to the
iterests of those citizens of Palm Springs, both past and present, who have treasured not only the books within this library's
�alls but also the architecture and historical significance of the building itself.
Chile the entrance and front facade of the building are clearly treasures, the interior space threatened by the remodeling plan
arrently under consideration should be viewed as no less valuable to the community. In our age of drive-by, curb-appeal
•chitecture, I submit that those citizens and visitors who use the interior of the building place an even higher value on its
resent design and on its preservation.
ie integrity of the inside space provides an environment that speaks to the architectural history of the community and the
)mmunity's pride in its pioneering roots. Irreversibly marring a part of the Coachella Valley's heritage should be too high a
rice to pay for some flashy structural changes that will only tarnish with age.
s recognized by the November 3, 2010 vote of the city's Historic Site Preservation Board "to deny the Certificate of Approval
it the flawed and unnecessary remodeling," a proposal that irreversibly damages such an important asset to the City's proud
eritage has no merit in being reconsidered. Particularly in light of more appropriate renovation options that are available, I
!spectfully ask the Council to reject the appeal,
ncerely yours,
eorge G.Jones, Esq.
IcLean,Virginia
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Bernie and Barbara Cain [caincos@mindspring.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2010 1:20 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: RE: Welwood Murray Memorial Library hearing Wednesday, Nov 17 l '
Jty Council Members, Palm Springs:
Ne very much support a sensitive restoration of this beloved and unique downtown building in lieu of the unsympathetic one
hat has been proposed.
'our two appointed boards have recommended appropriately in our minds, and their recommendations to you who appointed
hem should be respected/heeded.
iernie and Barbara Cain
)esert residents, PSMA ADC Boardmember and PS Modcom Boardmember
Cindy Berardi
From: Vincent Williams [desertmod@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2010 2:05 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear City Clerk,
Tease include my note on the official record for city council meeting November 17th, 2010.
would request that you uphold the recent decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board to
ieny the Certificate of Approval for the unnecessary and flawed remodeling of the library. I
)elieve that the standards for historic rehabilitation should be followed on an important historic
'alm Springs building.
(ind Regards,
✓intent Williams
:)unmor Neighborhood - Palm Springs
ynci�n�n
Cindy Berardi
From: GeraldHMark@aol.com
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2010 4:58 PM
To: CityClerk
Cc: Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Chris Mills; Lee Weigel
Subject: Welwood Murray Library Appeal
To Palm Springs Mayor, Mayor Pro-Tem, and City Council Members:
As new homeowners in the city of Palm Springs, we are concerned about the possibility that the Class I Historic Site status of
the Welwood Murray Library might be jeopardized and dismissed. We encourage you to DENY the appeal as submitted by
Councilman Chris Mills.
We request that this letter be part of the public record for the next City Council meeting.
Dr.Gerald Markovitz and Mr. Cameron Jobe
1127 S. Sagebrush
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Cindy Berardi
From: JimHarlan@aol.com
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2010 8:26 PM
To: CityClerk 0" 17
Subject: Welwood Murray Library
Council Members,
Please reconsider the proposed renovation of the Welwood Murray Library. The City of Palm Springs contains many significant
buildings many of which are in need of repair. This could be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate a sensitive renovation of a
Class 1 Historic Site.
Sincerely,
James R Harlan,Architect
432 S Monte Vista Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
310 625 2598 ph
888 486 9201 fax
www.jamesrharian.com
Cindy Berardi
From: HHPS [ipo2000@earthlink.net]
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2010 9:42 PM
To: CityClerk
Cc: Robert Imber; Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Lee Weigel
Subject: Welwood Murray Library Appeal--PLEASE INCLUDE THIS LETTER AS PART OF PUBLIC RECORD FOR CITY
COUNCIL MEETING THIS WEDNESDAY---
Letter of support of DENYING THE APPEAL--To be submitted as public record for meeting November 17th, 2010,
6pm at City Hall, Palm Springs, California
To: City Clerk& Council Members:
The Welwood Murray Library is a unique building is and an excellent example of early, innovative architecture by
Palm Springs first resident architect, John Porter Clark, one of the architects behind by home. Although an adaptive
re-use for a new purpose is a welcome idea. The proposed alterations and additions are damaging to the historic
fabric and architectural integrity of this pristine Class One Historic Site. Even after due process and denial by the
appropriate official Civic bodies, Councilman Chris Mills has submitted an Appeal to reverse the HSPB decision in
order to make way for the proposed alterations. I am in support of DENYING THE APPEAL..
Class One Historic Site Owner
Mark Anthony Puopolo
-o -
Jay Thompson
From: Ginny Foat
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 12:16 PM
To: David Gray
Cc: Jay Thompson !
Subject: RE: Library Article
Dear David:
I am John Morris, Volunteer intern for Councilperson Ginny Foat. I just wanted to confirm that we are in
receipt of your e-mail regarding the Welwood Murray Library. We have received many constituent a-mails
regarding this issue. Councilperson Foat appreciates you taking the time out of your day to share your
thoughts about this issue with our office. Please know that she considers all resident's comments when
voting on an issue. I have also forwarded your email to the City Clerk so that it gets included in the official
record.
Make it a great day.
John Morris
From: David Gray [ma i Ito:daveprmarketing@gmai1.com]
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 8:58 AM
To: Steve Pougnet; Ginny Foat; Rick Hutcheson; Rick Hutcheson; Lee Weigel; Lee Weigel; Chris Mills;
Chris Mills
Subject: Library Article
Steve, Ginny, Rick, Lee & Chris
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fl-libraries-20101112,0,6514361..story?page=1
In thinking about the renovation of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library, I would direct your
attention to an article in today's Los Angeles Times about libraries needing to reinvent
themselves. This is exactly what the library program as outlined in the proposal for the
renovation of the building is looking at. Today's libraries cannot be what we had in the past as
much as they might look lovely, but they will be no more relevant to today's society or the future
than the example of the "General Store" that sites on the Village Green. While that type of store
served the village of Palm Springs 75 to 100 years ago, no one would or does use that type of
grocery store, hardware store or drug store anymore.
Please remember that a beautiful building on the outside can still be a wonderful asset to the
community if it modernized and updated.
Thanks.
David L. Gray, Principal
Gray Public Relations & Marketing
Palm Springs, California
760-320-4147/617-784-3819 mobile
daveprrnarketin �a),gmail.com
Follow me on Facebook
11/16/2010
Jay Thompson
_.... ..... ..
From: Ginny Foat
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 12:09 PM
To: Pamela Price
Cc: Jay ThompsoniY
Subject: RE: Welwood Library
Dear Pamela:
I am John Morris, Volunteer intern for Councilperson Ginny Foat. I just wanted to confirm that we are in
receipt of your e-mail regarding the Welwood Murray Library. We have received constituent a-mails
regarding this issue. Councilperson Foat appreciates you taking the time out of your day to share your
thoughts about this issue with our office. Please know that she considers all resident's comments when
voting on an issue. I have also forwarded your—mail to the City Clerk so that it gets included in the official
record.
Make it a great day.
John Morris
From: Pamela Price [mailto:pamprice57@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2010 2:59 PM
To: Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; marilyn will; Ginny Foat; Ginny Foat; Lee.Weigel@palm-springs-
ca.gov
Subject: Welwood Library
Please do not allow this local treasure to be turned into a what has been proposed.
I am contacting other members of the City Council. I do not agree with
Chris Mills proposal. My Star is was dedicated here in 2003, by the way,
right near the entrance.
Pamela Price
co author
Day Trips from Los Angeles
and
Fun with the Family in Southern California
www.globepeguot.com
Public Art Commissioner
Cathedral City
11/16/2010
HEELER' S
a:
November 16, 2010
Palm Springs City Council
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Dear Members of the City Council:
I have closely reviewed the concept and plans for the remodeling of the Welwood-Murray Memorial
Library and think the project would clearly be a great enhancement for the downtown area of Palm
Springs. An improved and modernized library would make a wonderful amenity for residents and
visitors and I urge you to uphold the appeal and approve this project.
Formal research in the fields of urban planning and architecture tells us that rehabilitating buildings
that facilitate high quality community gathering, especially libraries that are culturally and
intellectually stimulating, is a critical component of the revitalization of downtowns. The location of
the Welwood-Murray building is certainly in a high-profile portion of the Palm Springs downtown
landscape so this particular situation is exceptionally important in the big picture of bringing this area
of the city back to life.
One of many positive elements of having an updated library at the Welwood-Murray site, which would
feature both traditional and more modern media, is that it won't cost patrons anything to utilize it, thus
it is not dependent on an economic turnaround happening first so it will bring more people downtown
as soon as it opens,
The city's staff is recommending approval of the project and it meets the Secretary of Interior's
guidelines for historic rehabilitation. I hope that as the city's policy makers you will rely more on the
staffs research and recommendations and your own expertise in situations like this instead of
subterfuge from a loud but small group of relative newcomers that want to save us all by making their
home and/or business the last one that can exist in town.
With the funding being secured by the Friends of the Library, the Library Board and the city's
Redevelopment Agency it's a home run project. Let's not give in to scare tactics by narrow special
interest groups that want to see only their small vision for the city.
Sincerely,
Bob Marra
President
78-370 Highway 111, Suite 250 ♦ La Quinta, CA 92253
PALM SPRINGS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
#dip, 980 EAST TAHOUITZ CANYON WAY
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA 92262-0119
(760) 416-6000
FAX (760) 416-6015
LORRI S. McCUNE, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools
DARD OF EDUCATION: SHARI STEWART, President— RICHARD R.CLAPP, Clerk
)STIN BLAKE, Member-- GARY JEANDRON, Member— MEREDY SHOENBERGER, Member
2.
November 15, 2010
To whom it may concern,
Regarding the remodel of the former Welwood Murray Library, I am delighted that the City is moving
forward to once again make this a family friendly venue, and a centerpiece of Palm Springs life. Having
grown up here, I have fond memories of trips to the Welwood Murray Llibrary with my mother. It is a
gorgeous building, and it would be nice to see it back in service, so to speak, as a cultural activity center.
Working in the arts, I can tell you that there is always a need for suitable settings for shows and
concerts.
Thank you!
9�t-t- �
Louisa Castrodale
Visual & Performing Arts Specialist,Palm Springs Unified School District
Cindy Berardi
From: Kyle Blood [kyle_blood@hotmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 3:35 PM
To: CityClerk; Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Chris Mills; Lee Weigel
Subject: Welwood Murray Library Appeal
)ear Sirs/Madames:
am writing in hopes that this email becomes part of the Public Record for the upcoming City Council meeting.
t has come to my attention that the Welwood Murray Library, a Class One Historic Site, is in need of additional space for the
(rowing needs of the community.
since my mother runs a public library in my home state of Maine, I fully understand the necessity of our public institutions to
:eep up with modern technologies and the increased demand in public services.
n any town, the library serves as an architectural beacon of the City, for it represents history, community, and academia--all of
ihich is reflected by, traditionally, important and prominent architecture.
"herefore, any architectural alteration to a Class One Historic Site, must, in my opinion, be worthy of the Historic Site itself.
,s I'm sure you all realize, Palm Springs is unique in its architectural heritage; there is no other city like it in the United States or
Isewhere in the world. And, as such, the City's architectural significance will long serve as one of its strongest economic assets.
as do many of my peers in the design and architecture fields, currently vacation and eventually plan to invest in properties in
'aim Springs in the future, owing to the pristine architecture only found in your City,
learing of issues like this, where a Class One Site could be desecrated for the sake of mere expediency, is totally disheartening.
know that there are enough trained, talented, and conscientious architects in this country, especially in California, who work in
ie modernist vocabulary who could devise an addition worthy of the Murray Library's Class One distinction.
P, as I understand it, the proposed addition has not been approved by either the Historic Site Preservation Board or The
,rchitectural Advisory Committee, then why not create a public-works "competition" of sorts, whereby an architect can proffer
oncepts that are in keeping with John Porter Clark's original design, and thereby not only preserve the integrity of the existing
tructure but also advance the concept of Modernism that Palm Springs gave birth to?
y creating a contest, the community could be involved and perhaps an unknown architect's dreams could be realized. Isn't this
xactly how Palm Springs attained its current glory may decades ago?
see no reason for which the Welwood Murray Library, and its Class One Historic Site designation, should be compromised.
✓ith due respect,
yle Timothy Blood
yle Timothy Home, LLC
www.kyletimothy.com
ell: 917 597 2312
Fax: 646 530 8617
_a
Cindy Berardi
From: Christina Patoski [christinapatoski@earthlink.net]
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2010 9:46 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Preserve the Welwood Murray Library
Mayor and Council:
'lease support the preservation of the Welwood Murray Library, including its interior. The library is one of
he most distinctive architectural landmarks in a city that has developed a distinguished international
eputation for its significant inventory of important modern architecture. Because the Welwood Murray
_ibrary was designed by one of Palm Springs' most celebrated architects, it is incumbent on you to honor
he historic landmark status bestowed upon it and to preserve this exquisite building in its entirety for us and
uture generations to use, admire, study and learn from.
Blowing the interior of the library to be altered will set a terrible precedent that could threaten the other Palm
iprings architectural gems that bring inestimable value to the city and help to make it a very special place to
ve and visit. Don't be shortsighted--you can find Targets, Banana Republics and Old Navys anywhere in
he United States, but there's only one Welwood Murray Library.
:!--[if!supportEmptyParas]--><--[endifJ--> Sincerely,
,hristina Patoski
'2751 Sage Court
'aim Desert, California 92260
117/269-2326
1/1 7i1)ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Karen Prinzmetal [kprinzmetal@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2010 8:42 AM 17 ;
To: CityClerk; rick; steve; ginny; chris; lee
Subject: Welwood Murray Library Appeal - Please put this into the Public Record
'lease put this into the Public Record.
)ear City Clerk and City Council Members:
�s a resident of Palm Desert and an active participant in the Coachella Valley Architectural Community,
am very concerned about the proposed changes to the beautiful and historic Welwood Murray Library
1940). This building, on the corner of Tahquitz Canyon, is one of the important tourist attractions and
esident attractions because of it's charm and historic significance. We must all work together to DENY
,HE APPEAL to change his special. Historic Site by John Porter Clark. An adaptive re-use for a new
►urpose is a very welcome idea. Unfortunately, the proposed alterations and additions are wholly
rnsatisfactory and damaging to the historic fabric and architectural integrity of this pristine Class One
listoric Site. The proposal has been appropriately DENIED by the Historic Site Preservation Board
RSPB) and The Architectural Advisory Committee (AAC).
'lease Deny the Appeal and help preserve Welwood Murray Library and enable it to find a great new use
or the community.
,hank you for your attention to this very important matter
Caren Prinzmetal
'alm Desert
1/17/10
111'7/'1)A1!l
J l�SA 225 Bush Street www.esassoc.com
1. Suite 1700
San Francisco,CA 94104
415.896.5900 phone
415.896.0332 fax
a 2
August 3,2010
Subject: Welwood Library- Review for Compliance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation.
To Whom It May Concern:
The Secretary of the Interior is responsible for establishing Federal preservation standards and for advising
agencies on the preservation of historic properties. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
address the most prevalent treatment—Rehabilitation—which is defined as "the process of returning a property to
a state of utility,through repair or alteration, which makes possible an efficient contemporary use while
preserving those portions and features of the property which are significant to its historic, architectural,and
cultural values."The Standards have guided Federal agencies in carrying out their historic preservation
responsibilities for properties in Federal ownership or control; and State and local officials in reviewing both
Federal and nonfederal rehabilitation proposals. They have also been adopted by historic district and planning
commissions across the country.
The Standards(Department of Interior regulations, 36 CFR 67)pertain to historic buildings of all materials,
construction types, sizes, and occupancy and encompass the exterior and the interior, related landscape features
and the building's site and environment as well as attached,adjacent, or related new construction. The Standards
are to be applied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonable manner,taking into consideration economic
and technical feasibility. There are 10 Rehabilitation Standards. Standard 49 is most applicable to new exterior
additions,such as the new entrance proposed for the Welwood Murray Library:
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy historic materials that
characterize the property. The new work shall be differentiated from the old and shall be compatible with the
massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the historic integrity of the property and its
environment.
After a careful review of the proposed plans by Escalante Architects, it is my professional opinion that the
proposed project would meet the spirit and intent of Standard#9. Although the proposed new addition would
partially obscure the existing clerestory windows from exterior view by changing them from exterior windows to
interior windows,they would not result in the wholesale destruction of this character defining feature of the
property. The windows would remain intact, and in their original location. They would be viewed from the
interior of the building, instead of the exterior, but would remain visible to the public(as the library is publicly
accessible). The addition itself would have a curvilinear plan which echoes the plan of the existing building,and
would be generally compatible with the single-story massing of the building. Its size and scale would not
overwhelm the existing building,but would remain subordinate to the historic structure, and would be constructed
on a secondary fagade(i.e.,the rear of the building), allowing the structure to"read"a historic building.At the
same time, the addition would be clearly differentiated from the old,through the use of a frameless glass window-
wall system and a flat roof, which will allow the new addition to read as a compatibly modern addition. Finally,
the objective of the addition is to provide an "equal access to the disabled" per the federal ADA requirements.
The State Historic Building Code allows for flexibility in meeting ADA requirements while preserving the
integrity of historic buildings.
Sincerely,
Brad Brewster,ESA Architectural Historian and Preservation Planner
November 17, 2010 Clooff,
A R C H I T E C T
Palm Springs City Council i
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way,
Palm Springs, CA 92262
RE: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Rehabilitation Project
Honorable Mayor Pougnet, Esteemed City Council Members,
I would respectfully encourage you all to vote in favor of this project as proposed.The Architects have
proven beyond all reasonable means that it's design is in conformance with the guidelines established
by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Rehabilitations, a fact that's been confirmed by
highly accredited Historic Preservationists. It's important to note that the current Historic Designation of
the Welwood Murray Memorial Library will remain unchanged after the proposed Rehabilitation's has
been completed. As you may know, I was part of the selection committee that chose Escalante
Architects for this project. Their proposal was innovative and relevant.
Should the Council vote against the proposed project, it's highly likely the Library will not move forward
with this project, and instead redirect their secured funding to other projects at the Main Library
Branch. Such a decision by the Council would condemn the Welwood Murray Memorial Library to
another decade or more of abandonment at the heart of the Palm Springs Downtown.
Some have suggested that the Welwood Murray Memorial Library might be used as a museum to
highlight the Library, and other Palm Springs Landmarks, but have made no mention of how such a
project would be funded,especially when given the challenge of securing donations in this current
economic climate.
Rather than considering the Welwood Murray Memorial Library in terms of its past,just as one might
reflect on the memories of a late relative,consider how the Welwood Murray Memorial Library might
continue on for generations to come as a vital and relevant Library.Such relevance to our youth,their
children,and their children's children is the only means which will perpetuate the importance of this
iconic Library to the community for generations years to come.
Such vitality can be the spark which could well breathe new life into our downtown, and with that, a
renewed prosperity for the City of Palm Springs.
Rexp
J es Cioffi, Architect
21.21 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, SUITE 3
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA 92262-7021
TEL 760 325 1557
FAX 760 327 8214
W W W.CIOFFIARCHITECT.C OM
The Honorable Steve Pougnet
City of Palm Springs �;
3200 Tah j quitz Way j " 1 ir.i.` "" 6
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Dear Sirs,
I want to express my support of the proposed Welwood Murray Library renovation. I am a 30
year resident of Palm Springs and I served with Denya Hodges and Jan Carter on the campaign
committee to save the Welwood in 1988. I am a twice former president of the PaImSprings
Library Board and I also served on the Design subcommittee for this project as a Board
representative.
I think this strategically located building deserves to be used for the greater good of the city's
residents. It is an integral part of the downtown corridor of businesses and tourism that support
Palm Spring. The ability to create a space that can be utilized by all the citizens plus visitors who
come to Palm Springs offers a great opportunity to do something unique and worthwhile. It also
shows a commitment on the City's part to not let another building lie dormant in the center of
town.
The renovation plan retains over 80%off the original structure so that it's fagade and basic
interior will be kept intact. The elimination of the porch enclosure that has no building permit and
is not in the original plans restores the original concept of the space.. It currently makes for a
dark interior and destroys the outdoor aspect that was an integral part of the original design
concept. Escalante has done an amazing job of utilizing that view corridor at the intersection to
create an open inviting space. It can not only serve as an express Library and visitor's center but
can feature programming from the Library plus outside entities such as the Film Festival and truly
add a cultural addition to the City
The concept of utilizing architecture as a cultural draw is certainly not new to Palm Springs .The
idea of adaptive reuse while maintaining the basic historical entity of the structure is what we set
out to achieve and Escalante Architects studied renovations where the Gates Foundation has been
active in helping imagine the Libraries of the Future.This is what this project is about—the future
of Palm Springs not the past. The recent renovation of the 1893 Rouse department store in
Riverside into the UCR Culver Center for the Arts was an integral part of the revitalization of that
downtown core and is an excellent example of adapting a historical building into a new space that
serves multiple purposes.
1 hope that you will all vote to secure making this project is a reality. Thank you
Yours,
R.nw WULLSOV�,
500 East Amado Rd #422
Palm Springs, CA
92262
760-218-5080 Cell
CC: City Council Members: Ginny Foat, Chris Mills, Lee Weigel and Rick
Hutcheson, City Manager David Ready
I.J 32
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Jay Thompson
From: john moore [calljackmoore@earthlink.net]
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2010 3:38 PM I{r i'r 17 'i'I I
To: Jay Thompson
Subject: Welwood Murray Memoorial Library
Hi Jay,
I, too, am against an extensive remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library.. It looks so nice as it is
- sitting there on the corner. If restrooms are added might they become some more dirty public restrooms
that someone has to maintain and maintain. And, please, no cutting down of trees. We need all the
shade we can get;we are a desert, after all. With the growing smog problem the trees help some in
reducing that problem.
Please make this letter part of the public record.
Thank you, Jay.
Jack Moore
240 Tunis Street
Palm Springs, 92264
jack moore
call iackmooreCa7earthlink.net
EarthLink Revolves Around You.
1 1/17/2010
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C..gOF010k% CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: November 17, 2010 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: Consideration of an Appeal of the Historic Site Preservation Board action
of October 12, 2010 to deny an application for a Certificate of Approval for
remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library, located at 100 S. Palm
Canyon Drive; Appellant: City of Palm Springs
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Craig A. Ewing, AICP, Director of Planning Services
SUMMARY
An appeal was filed on October 12, 2010 by Council member Mills, requesting the
Council overturn the decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board (RSPB) to deny a
Certificate of Approval for the remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. The
appeal was filed the day of the HSPB's decision and is therefore timely filed. In
accordance with Municipal Code Section 2.05.080, the City Council will conduct a public
hearing on the appeal.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt Resolution No. "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CALIFORNIA UPHOLDING
THE APPEAL, REVERSING THE DECISION OF THE HISTORIC SITE
PRESERVATION BOARD, AND GRANTING A CERTIFICATE OF
APPROVAL FOR THE REMODEL OF THE WELWOOD MURRAY
MEMORIAL LIBRARY, LOCATED AT 100 S. PALM CANYON DRIVE".
ACTIONS TAKEN TO DATE
On October 3, 1984, the City Council voted to designate the property at 100 South Palm
Canyon Drive, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a Class 7 historic site.
(Subsequent amendments to the Historic Preservation ordinance converted the Class 7
historic designation to Class 1.)
On May 11, 2010, the Historic Site Preservation Board approved a Certificate of
Approval for a remodel and expansion of the library.
ITEM NO.
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 10
On July 13, 2010, the HSPB continued a request to amend the 5/11/10 approval,
regarding the design and height of the proposed new roof.
On August 4, 2010, the applicant (City) decided to resubmit the entire project for
consideration and approval by the Board.
On October 12, 2010, the Historic Site Preservation Board voted 5-1-1 (Gilmer
opposed; Grattan recused) to deny a Certificate of Approval for the remodel and
expansion of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library.
On October 12, 2010, Council member Mills notified the City of his appeal of the HSPB
decision.
BACKGROUND
In 1938, George Welwood Murray and Corneilia White gift-deeded an 80' by 100' corner
lot, while local residents contributed $26,500 to erect a 4,500 square foot library. The
library was designed by John Porter Clark and constructed by Charles Chamberlin. The
new building was completed in 1940 and served as the City's main library until October
1975 when the new library was built at Sunrise Park. For the next several years the
Welwood served as a branch to the main library. In 1992, the City closed the library.
From 1992 to 2009, the building served as a reading room open to the public, operated
by the Save the Welwood Murray Foundation, a private not-for-profit organization.
The Welwood Murray Memorial Library was closed in 2009 in anticipation of a complete
interior renovation project. The City has established a new program for the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library: It should become a downtown destination, offering the
information access of a branch library with opportunities for civic engagement and urban
vitality. Further, the City determined that the existing interior configuration, with tall dark
book stacks, ordered seating and a large central reference desk, would not serve this
vision and a new design was developed.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City now proposes that the building be renovated and re-opened as a branch
library. Patrons will be offered a variety of book and media options, computers and
internet access. Informal seating would encourage connections between people and
information as well as people with each other. This adaptive reuse of the interior allows
the main building to be preserved while offering flexible space and self-service research
capabilities. In addition, a small dedicated community room is proposed at the west end
of the building.
The primary construction project is a 1,589 square foot addition to the rear of the
building in the existing courtyard. The existing library building includes a structure
commonly named the Billie Lu Floan Room which will be demolished to make room for
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 3 of 10
the addition. The portion proposed to be demolished was added sometime in the
1950's; a building permit cannot be located. The concrete columns of the original
building, located within the space of the Billie Lu Floan Room, will be retained.
The new addition includes a curvilinear glass wall facing the interior plaza, while the
new roof will join the main structure just below edge of the existing roof, above the
existing clerestory windows. The addition will extend twenty-five (25) feet out into the
courtyard area, but does not encroach into a Redevelopment Participation Agreement
ten (10) foot access easement that burdens the property.
The new structure will be constructed of galvanized metal, clear tempered and green
floating glass. The roof will be made of fibertite roofing and cream-colored ridged foam
insulation. The existing concrete columns will be extended to support the higher roof
and the extensions will be visibly differentiated from the original columns. The new
addition will open directly onto the new landscaped courtyard allowing for an indoor /
outdoor experience. Existing mechanical equipment located in the courtyard will be
consolidated into a new electric room.
New exterior walls sections are also proposed as part of the rear expansion, and these
walls are to be board-formed concrete to match the existing structure. Exterior colors
are white to match existing; mint green will be used as an accent color to frame the side
windows and entries facing Tahquitz Canyon Way and Palm Canyon Drive.
The interior remodel involves removal of all partition walls, shelving, cabinetry, and
plumbing. The revised interior will include handicap bathrooms at the very south end of
the building, a dedicated community room at the east end, and modular furnishings
(shelving, desks, tables, chairs and sofas, book kiosks and service areas) throughout
the remainder of the building. Final interior finishes have not been selected.
HSPB ACTION
The Historic Site Preservation Board has held three meetings on the proposal, including
a review of the entire project on October 12, 2010 (see attached staff report). At the
October meeting, the Board discussed the following (draft meeting minutes are
attached.):
• Comments of the AAC meeting of October 11, 2010. (The AAC voted to
recommend against approval by a vote of 3-0-3);
• If the proposed Categorical Exemption was adequate for the project;
• If the overall program for the library, as prepared by the Council's library
programming and design committee, was appropriate;
• The lack of a historic preservation voice on the Council's committee;
• The affect of the proposed addition on the clerestory windows and interior light;
• Insufficient appreciation by the City for the building's authenticity and its potential
for restoration; and
• Loss of palm trees in patio caused by the addition.
3
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33--Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 4 of 10
Following the discussion, the Board voted 5-1-1 to deny the application. Chair Gilmer's
vote against the resolution was based on his conclusion that the Board should retain
jurisdiction over the project and require preparation of an Environmental Impact Report.
Board member Grattan recused herself from the item due to a potential conflict of
interest.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The project is an initiative of the City Council, which appointed a committee to develop a
program for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. That program proposes an updated
branch library of the City's library system, including a range of services suited to the
current and anticipated future information needs of the public. Also included is a
remodel and expansion of the rear portion of the structure and a renovation of the
interior in support of the new range of library services.
The Council committee's design plan is subject to review under Section 8.05 (Historic
Preservation) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code. A Certificate of Approval must be
granted prior to issuance of a building permit. Further, the site is a public building and
the interior as well as exterior are subject to Certificate of Approval review.
Based on the comments of the HSPB (see attachments), the Certificate of Approval was
rejected in part because some Board members determined that the City should restore
the library to its original appearance — both interior and exterior— and use. Other Board
members questioned the Council committee's decision to program the library for
contemporary information services, and suggested instead that a "research library /
museum" facility be developed using the layout, materials and furnishings of the original
building. Concerns were also raised regarding proposed rear addition, including how it
might affect the appearance of the exterior clerestory windows (which would become
interior to the building under the new roof).
Applicant's Appeal
In a review of the required findings for granting a Certificate of Approval, the applicant
asserts that a faithful restoration of the structure is not mandated; that is, an adaptive
re-use of a facility may be allowed. Further, the applicant has provided a review of the
proposed addition and reconfiguration against the Secretary of the Interior's Standards
for Rehabilitation, which the applicant believes demonstrates that the proposed project
is an appropriate renovation and use of the historic library:
1. A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires
minimal change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships.
"Though it will remain a Library, it will essentially be given a new use by being
updated to an 'Electronic Library' providing access to all available information
resources from around the world, by means of all available forms of wireless and
digital communication.
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 5 of 10
"By updating this traditional Library, it will re-establish the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library as a vital resource to the entire community, as well as the many
visitors who come to our city from around the world. The Welwood Murray
Memorial Library will become a central information and research institution
relevant to people from all walks of life, and to all generations. But most
important, it will remain relevant to future generations who will look upon the
Welwood Murray Memorial Library not as just a glance at the past, but as a
valued resource."
2. The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The removal of
distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that
characterize a property will be avoided.
"I believe it can be argued that past changes that enclosed the original patios
were in fact detrimental to the building in that it removed the "patio" experience
that in itself is part of the overall fabric of Palm Springs Architecture. More
important, it is essential that certain modifications are made to the original
building in order to provide accessibility as required by the Americans with
Disabilities Act, which is a Federal Mandate that requires such accommodations
be made."
3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use.
Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural
features or elements from other historic properties, will not be undertaken.
"Clearly, the proposed Reading Room Expansion is not designed to mimic any
Historic Architectural style, such that it attempts to appear as part of the Library's
past history, or to force elements from other historic properties into the design,
such as from the neighboring Lloyd Wright designed Oasis Hotel. To the
contrary, it clearly adheres to the intent of the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation in that it is 'designed and constructed to be clearly
differentiated from the historic building."'
4. Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will
be retained and preserved.
"Again, I believe it can be argued that past changes that enclosed the original
patios were in fact detrimental to the building in that it removed the 'patio'
experience that in itself is part of the overall fabric of Palm Springs Architecture.
"Other past alterations, such as the installation of evaporative coolers above the
roof of the existing workroom, were accomplished by blocking out windows so
that sheet metal ducts could penetrate the building. In the proposed
Rehabilitation, all mechanical components will be concealed. And again, it is
essential that certain modifications are made to the original building in order to
provide accessibility as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which is a
J
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
RSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 6 of 10
Federal Mandate that requires such accommodations be made."
5. Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of
craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved.
"The strongest character defining materials and features of the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library are best represented on the primary exterior elevations, facing
Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Canyon Drive. While secondary exterior
elevation features, such as the tile roofing, clerestory windows, patio columns
and the exterior wall facing the courtyard will remain visible from the courtyard."
6. Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than replaced. Where the
severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature
will match the old in design, color, texture, and, where possible, materials.
Replacement of missing features will be substantiated by documentary and physical
evidence.
"Because the Welwood Murray Memorial Library is in generally good condition,
repair is not needed, except for the interior ceiling as the attic must be accessed
for asbestos removal. The building exterior will otherwise be cleaned.
"The ceiling will be replaced with drywall, finished with a similar finish, and the
would molding re-installed."
7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest
means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.
"Chemical treatments will not be used to clean the building exterior."
8. Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources
must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.
"None exist, therefore this does not apply. However, should any artifacts be
uncovered during any phase of the project, all appropriate guidelines will be
followed."
9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy
historic materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The
new work shall be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic
materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of
the property and its environment.
"The Reading Room Expansion will effectively restore, and enhance the spatial
relationships that characterize this building in original intent, which was to include
a `patio' experience, by re-establishing the interior and exterior relationship that
once was. And again, it is essential that certain modifications are made to the
s
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 7 of 10
original building in order to provide accessibility as required by the Americans
with Disabilities Act, which is a Federal Mandate that requires such
accommodations be made."
10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in a such
a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic
property and its environment would be unimpaired.
"The proposed Reading Room Expansion, if removed in the future to facilitate a
full `Restoration', can be removed without damage to the original building, fully
maintaining it's essential form, and most important, it's strongest character
defining materials and features."
The applicant believes that the project can be seen to meet the requirements of the
Certificate of Approval and the Standards for Renovation of a historic site. A separate
letter prepared by a third-party architectural historian, Page and Turnbull, has been
submitted by the applicant in support of the above analysis (see attached letter).
Analysis of Appeal
Staff notes that the factors to be considered for issuance of a Certificate of Approval
are:
1. The historic value and significance, or the architectural value and significance or
both, of the structure and its relation to the historic value of the surrounding area;
2. The relationship of the exterior architectural features of any structure to the rest
of the structure itself and to the surrounding area;
3. The general compatibility of exterior design, arrangement, texture and material
which is proposed by the applicant;
4. Archaeological or ecological significance of the area. (Section 8.05.190)
In considering these factors, staff believes that the distinctive architectural elements of
the building include the architecture of the street-facing walls, the tile roof, and the
underlying structure of the building, including the concrete columns of along the rear
(plaza-facing) walls. All of these features will be preserved.
The interior elements include wall and ceiling finishes, as well as lighting fixtures,
furnishings and wall fixtures, such as attached bookshelves. The building's interior
finishes help define the architectural period and have arguable historic value; new
interior finishes have not been selected at this time. The furnishings and fixtures define
the library activities of the time, and may also be argued to have historic value.
However, other than the general references to the building being the City's first public
library, nothing about the interior of the building was specifically defined as having
historic value by the City Council when the site was designated in 1984.
In the Resolution No. 15248, the Council's designation of the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library stated:
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 8 of 10
"NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California
does resolve as follows:
Section 1. The Welwood Murray Memorial Library shall be designated a
Class 7 Historic Site pursuant to City Ordinance No. 1140.
Section 2. No permit for the exterior alteration to the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library shall be granted without the prior approval of the
City Council."
Neither in the background of the resolution nor in the accompanying staff report does
the City recognize the interior arrangement of the library as having historic value. The
resolution imposes no limits on interior alterations of the building (see attached).
It should also be noted that the Class 7 designation is defined in Ordinance No. 1140
(effective until 1988) as:
Class 7.
Site qualified for designation at Federal, State, County and City level. Archival
file will be maintained. Site may not be modified nor object removed without the
approval of the City Council. Site will be plaqued. Usage may be limited by the
City Council. Eligible for review at any regularly scheduled meeting of the board"
This classification was redefined when the City overhauled the Historic Preservation
ordinance in 1988 with Ordinance 1320. Class 7 was converted to Class 1, which
reads:
Class 1.
Structure/site qualified for city designation; may be qualified at the federal, state
and/or county level. Archival file will be maintained. Structure/site may not be
modified nor objects removed without the approval of the city council; usage may
be limited by the city council to the extent that it may impair the integrity of the
site. Site will be plaqued. (Intended for use when the structure or site still exists
as it did during the historical period or is restorable).
Two important preservation policies that could affect the building's interior were carried
from the old Class 7 to the new Class 1: That the removal of objects is subject to
Council approval, and that usage may be limited by the City Council.
Staff believes that a key element in the evaluation of both the library project and the
appeal is that, notwithstanding the clear authority to do so, the Council placed no limits
on the usage of the building or interior of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library.
Consequently, it appears from the record that the Council's determination of the historic
value of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library is the physical structure and its place as
the city's first library.
Consequently, staff believes that the project can be found to conform to the factors to
be considered in granting a Certificate of Approval:
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial library Page 9 of 10
1. The historic value and significance, or the architectural value and significance or
both, of the structure and its relation to the historic value of the surrounding area;
The historic value of the site, including the original structure and architectural
elements, as well as the use as a public library in the City's original downtown
will be preserved.
2. The relationship of the exterior architectural features of any structure to the rest
of the structure itself and to the surrounding area;
The original exterior architectural features will be preserved, and the demolition
will be of only a non-original element of the building. The new addition provides
a clear architectural contrast to the historic structure, and a repaint to original
colors will not be a detriment to the overall historic value of the property.
3. The general compatibility of exterior design, arrangement, texture and material
which is proposed by the applicant;
The exterior design of the street facades and the roof, as well as the concrete
columns facing the interior plaza are preserved. The addition to the rear (plaza-
facing) side of the building is larger than the non-historic enclosure proposed to
be replaced, but the new enclosure is similarly lower in scale as compared with
the original building. Similar board-formed concrete materials are used on
certain replacement walls, but the new enclosure uses glass and modern roof
materials in ways that distinguish the addition from the original building. There
are no false historic elements proposed to be added.
4. Archaeological or ecological significance of the area.
There are no archaeological or ecological issues of significance related to the
site or structure.
The interior will be refinished with a contemporary library layout, which does not impact
the historic elements of the site, as established by the City Council's 1984 designation
resolution. The Council's committee has determined that the existing configuration no
longer serves the needs of library patrons today. Instead, an adaptive re-use of the
library is proposed that supports the new ways that people use libraries. A more
informal, self-directed approach to seeking and exploring library resources will be
offered, including the availability of both traditional and non-traditional library media,
such as internet access.
The fixtures, colors and materials for the interior have not been selected, nor have final
landscape plantings have been chosen. The Council may condition the applicant to
return to the Board or staff for final approval of interior finishes, such as trim pieces,
paint, and lighting fixtures. (Landscape materials are not part of the historic
designation.)
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Staff has reviewed the proposed project against the City's historic designation and has
concluded that the proposed project will not cause a substantial change in the
significance of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a historic resource.
Consequently, staff recommends that this project be determined to be categorically
19
City Council Staff Report November 17, 2010
HSPB 33—Appeal; Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 10 of 10
exempt from environmental review per Section 15301(e)(1) of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
CONCLUSION
The Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) denied a Certificate of Approval for the
renovation and expansion of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. The applicant has
filed an appeal. In review of the background information, staff believes that the
proposed project meets the required factors to be considered for issuance of a
Certificate of Approval. Staff recommends that the City Council uphold the appeal and
overturn the decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board. Should the Council grant
the Certificate, it may add any conditions it deems appropriate.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact.
—1 6— �� -q / � G
1CT—a)g'A- .fiWng, A194r Thomas J. W on
Dir r of Planni q91pervices Assistant C Manager, Dev't Svcs
David H. Ready
City Manager
Attachments:
1. Draft City Council Resolution
2. Vicinity Map
3. Letter from Page & Turnbull, November 2, 2010
4. Appeal memo dated October 13, 2010
5. Minutes of HSPB Board, October 12, 2010 (draft)
6. HSPB Staff report, October 12, 2010, with attachments
7. City Council Resolution No. 15248 (October 3, 1984)
8. City Council Staff Report (October 3, 1984)
10
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM SPRINGS CALIFORNIA UPHOLDING AN
APPEAL, REVERSING THE DECISION OF THE
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD, AND
GRANTING A CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL FOR THE
REMODEL OF THE WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL
LIBRARY, LOCATED AT 100 S. PALM CANYON DRIVE
WHEREAS, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library ("Library"), located at 100 S. Palm
Canyon Drive, was built in 1940 as the City's first public library; and
WHEREAS, on October 3, 1984, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 15248,
designating the Library a Class 7 historic site (now Class 1), as follows:
"NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California
does resolve as follows:
Section 1. The Welwood Murray Memorial Library shall be designated a Class
7 Historic Site pursuant to City Ordinance No. 1140.
Section 2. No permit for the exterior alteration to the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library shall be granted without the prior approval of the
City Council."
and
WHEREAS, on April 13, 2010, the applicant, City of Palm Springs submitted an
application for a Certificate of Approval to renovate the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive; and
WHEREAS, on May 11, July 13, and October 12, 2010 the HSPB held public meetings
on the application for renovation and expansion of the Library; and at which meetings
the HSPB considered a staff report, related exhibits and public testimony; and
WHEREAS, following consideration of all information presented at the meetings,
including a complete review of the entire project on October 12, 2010, the RSPB, by a 5
to 1, (Gilmer opposed) with one abstention (Grattan) denied the application for a
Certificate of Approval; and
WHEREAS, on October 12, 2010, Council member Mills, on behalf of the Council Ad-
hoc Welwood Library Sub-committee, file an appeal with the City Clerk seeking to
overturn the decision of the HSPB regarding denial of the Certificate of Approval; and
WHEREAS, on November 17, 2010, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the
appeal of the HSPB decision to deny the Certificate of Approval on the Library located
at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive; and
1 �
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence
presented in connection with the meeting on the appeal, including but not limited to the
staff report, and all written and oral testimony presented.
THE CITY COUNCIL DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: That the historic value of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library is the
physical structure, including the architecture of the original building, the street-facing
facades, tile roof and concrete columns, as well as the Library's status as the City's first
public library building.
SECTION 2: That the proposed project will not cause a substantial change in the
significance of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a historic resource; that the
historic value of the Library will be preserved and not adversely affected by the
proposed renovations; and that the project is, therefore, categorically exempt from
environmental review per Section 15301(e)(1) of the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
SECTION 3: That the project conforms to the factors to be considered in granting a
Certificate of Approval as contained in Section 8,05.190, as follows:
1. The historic value and significance, or the architectural value and significance or
both, of the structure and its relation to the historic value of the surrounding area;
The historic value of the site, including the original structure and
architectural elements, as well as the use as a public library in the City's
original downtown will be preserved.
2. The relationship of the exterior architectural features of any structure to the rest
of the structure itself and to the surrounding area;
The original exterior architectural features will be preserved, and the
demolition will be of only a non-original element of the building. The new
addition provides a clear architectural contrast to the historic structure,
and a repaint to original colors will not be a detriment to the overall historic
value of the property.
3. The general compatibility of exterior design, arrangement, texture and material
which is proposed by the applicant;
The exterior design of the street facades and the roof, as well as the
concrete columns facing the interior plaza are preserved. The addition to
the rear (plaza-facing) side of the building is larger than the non-historic
enclosure proposed to be replaced, but the new enclosure is similarly
lower in scale as compared with the original building. Similar board-
formed concrete materials are used on certain replacement walls, but the
new enclosure uses glass and modern roof materials in ways that
distinguish the addition from the original building. There are no false
historic elements proposed to be added.
4. Archaeological or ecological significance of the area.
There are no archaeological or ecological issues of significance related to
the site or structure.
12
SECTION 4: Based on the above findings, the City Council hereby upholds the appeal,
reverses the decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board of October 12, 2010 and
approves a Certificate of Approval for the remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library located at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive, subject to the following condition:
1. That prior to issuance of building permits, the applicant shall submit to the
Director of Planning Services for approval all interior floor, wall and ceiling
finishes, including trim pieces, attached lighting fixtures and paint colors.
Review shall be limited to assuring that the interior finishes are compatible
with the historic interior and exterior colors and materials, and the proposed
use.
ADOPTED THIS 17t" of November, 2010.
David H. Ready, City Manager
ATTEST:
James Thompson, City Clerk
1 �
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on ,
by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
14
oti vr.�M sA*
N Department of Planning Services
C.qX,F°x"' Vicinity Map
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO.: HSPB - 3 DESCRIPTION: An appeal of the Historic Site
Preservation Board action of October 12, 2010 to
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs deny an application for a Certificate of Approval
for remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library, located at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive;
Appellant: City of Palm Springs
15
Ire ighing d'iange in design,rewm l;,o€'s.i r,t Itrt«i.>CaV
November 2, 2010
John Rivera
Escalante Architects
121 South Palm Canyon Drive, Ste. 222
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760,323,1925
John.rivera@escalantearchitects.cam
RE: Proposed Rehabilitation of Welwood Murray Library, Palm Springs [10173]
Dear Mr. Rivera,
This letter addresses the compliance of the proposed rehabilitation of the Welwood Murray
Library at 100 South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, California with local, state, and
national historic preservation standards and guidelines, including the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for the Rehabilitation. Currently, the Welwood Murray Library is a locally
designated historic resource, and is listed as a Class 1 Historic Site, as defined by Palm
Springs Municipal Code Chapter 8.05"Historic Preservation."
For this project, Page&Turnbull completed the following:
- Reviewed the architectural drawings of the proposed rehabilitation authored by
Escalante Architects(received September 21, 2010);
- Reviewed the memorandum produced by Brad Brewster of ESA(dated August 3,
2010)
Reviewed the historic images provided by the Escalante Architects and conducted a
cursory review of available background resources on the internet;
- Conducted an in-person site visit on September 27, 2010. The site visit and project
review were conducted by Principal/Historic Architect, John D. Lesak,AIA LEED AP
FAPT, and Richard A. Sucre, Senior Architectural Historian. All staff conducting the
review of the proposed project meet the Secretary of the Interior's Professional
Qualification Standards in Historic Architecture or Architectural History;
Reviewed the analysis completed by John Rivera of Escalante Architects (dated
October 12, 2010); and
Attended the City of Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board Hearing on
October 12, 2010.
Page&Turnbull did not conduct any additional research on the Welwood Murray Library.
ARCHITECTURE
BUM)lt,4G TECHNOLOGY
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16
Welwood Murray Library, Palm Springs(Page 2 of 2) November 2, 2010
Based upon our review of the proposed project and existing building, the proposed
rehabilitation of the Welwood Murray Library is sensitive to the building's historic character
and would comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, as well as
the provisions of Palm Springs Municipal Code Chapter 8.05.185-190 (Application for Permit
to Construct or Alter Structures and Factors To Be Considered Upon Application,
respectively). The analysis conducted by Escalante Architects (dated October 12, 2010)does
appear to be accurate based upon the information provided to date. Furthermore, the
proposed rehabilitation would not affect the primary character-defining features of the
Welwood Murray Library, and the building would maintain its eligibility for listing in the local
register of historical resources. New construction is clearly differentiated from the existing
historic building, the view from the primary facades along Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz
Canyon Way are preserved and unobstructed, and the new design offers visual cues as to
the historic use of certain features of the building, such as the exterior porch. Ultimately, the
Welwood Murray Library would maintain its eligibility for listing as a Class 1 Historic Site.
Further refinements in the design of the proposed project could offer interpretative
space/exhibit within the interior of the existing library,which could be dedicated towards the
history of the library and the surrounding neighborhood. This interpretative space could be
offered as a community benefit, and could range in form from wall-mounted histories to
historic artifacts. Additional conversations with interior stakeholders would need to occur.
Please let me know if you have any further questions or comments.
Sincerely,
_ C_
Richard A. Sucre
e':��
Senior Architectural Historian
ARCWTECTURE
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17
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
CITY CLERKS DEPARTMENT
(a4
MEMORANDUM
TO: Craig Ewing, Director of Planning Services
FROM: James Thompson, City Clef ew^
SUBJECT: Certificate of Approval HSPB xa.
Welwood Murray Memorial try
DATE: October 13, 2010
This serves as notice that I was contacted by Councilmember Mills on behalf of the City
Council Ad Hoc Welwood library Subcommittee, (Councilmember Mills and
Councilmember Weigel), to request City Council review of the decision of the Historic
Site Preservation Board's denial of the Certificate of Approval submitted and requested
by the City, with respect to the Welwood Murray Memorial Library.
The City Council review is subject to the procedure as provided in Chapter 2.05 of the
Palm Springs Municipal Code. Please contact me when the Planning Department is
prepared to place the Council review on an upcoming agenda.
lg
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD DRAFT
October 12, 2010 Meeting Minutes
Large Conference Room, City Hall
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, California 92262
BOARD BERS: Present Present FY FY: 2010/2011
This Meeting: Year-to-Date: Excused Absences:
John Gilmer, Chair X 4 0
Barbara Marshall, Vice air X 4 0
Thomas DeLeeuw X 4 0
Sheila Grattan X 4 0
Roxann Ploss 4 0
Brian Strahl 4 0
Leo Cohen X 4 0
Staff Representatives:
Craig A. Ewing, AICP
Director of Planning Services
Staff Liaison,
1, CALL TO ORDER: Chair Gilmer called the meeting to order a -15 a.m.
2. ROLL CALL: Present: Chair Gilmer, Vice Chair Marshall, T. DeLee S. Grattan,
R. Ploss, and B. Strahl. (L. Cohen arrived at 8:45 a.m.)
3. POSTING OF AGENDA: This Agenda was available for public access at the
Hall exterior bulletin board (west side of Council Chamber), City Clerk's office an
Planning Services' counter on or before 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 6, 2010.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Richard Kip Serafin, PS Preservation Foundation invited the Board, staff and public
to a home tour of the DeBrabant house, 982 Avenida Palmas, on Sunday, October
17, 2010, 2 to 4 p.m.
Gary Johns, commented on Item 7A, asking the Board to consider the interior
demolition, the addition of the new structure and the impact of the project on the
building.
Ron Marshall, President of Palm Springs Preservation Foundation, commented on
Item 7A, asking the Board to give consideration to the special significance of the
building to the City.
Ron Duby, read a letter from Sarah James regarding Item 7A, supporting use of the
library as a research library / museum.
Eric Rosenau, read a letter from Phillips Welwood Murray regarding Item 7A,
recommending a renovation of the existing library.
Chris Menrad, read a letter from Pete Moruzzi of PSModCom regarding Item 7A,
supporting rehabilitation of the existing library.
19
Historic Site Preservation Board Agenda Page 2 of 4
Tuesday,October 12,2010 [ .DRAFT
Dan Tarnoveanu, owner of Renaissance Art, Restoration & Architecture, supported
restoration of the Welwood Library and offered his assistance.
M/S/C Grattan, 6-0, Cohen absent) To approve minutes of the August 10,
2010 meeting, in corrections on page 3 offered by Board members Ploss
and Grattan.
6. PUBLIC HEARING:
None
7. CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL REQUEST(S):
...� 7A. Case HSPB 3 (Welwood Murray Library) —An application by the City of Palm
Springs to remodel and expand the existing public library at 100 S. Palm
Canyon Drive, a Class One historic site, Zone C-B-D, Section 15. (CE)
Director Ewing summarized the staff report.
Board member Grattan recused herself from this item due to a potential
conflict of interest, and left the room.
Board members asked questions regarding the review procedures, the
historic designation as it applies to the site, the nature of the existing porch
enclosure and the proposed CEQA Categorical Exemption.
Allen Smoot, representative of the applicant, summarized the history and
purpose of the remodeling project. John Rivera, project architect, submitted
an analysis of the proposed project under the Secretary of Interior's
Standards for Rehabilitation (36 CFR 67) and described the proposed
physical improvements.
Board member Cohen arrived.
Board members raised questions on:
• The new roof as it connects to the existing building wall and columns,
• Compliance with ADA standards,
• The effect of the new roof addition on ambient interior lighting,
• The exterior appearance of the addition
• The purpose of a remodel /expansion versus a full restoration
At the invitation of Chair Gilmer, David Gray, President of the Library Board
of Trustees described its work to develop a program for use of the building as
a branch library. The HSPB ask about using the library as a research facility.
The Board discussed:
2 20
Historic Site Preservation Board Agenda Page 3 of 4
Tuesday, October 12, 2010 DRAFT
• Comments of the AAC meeting of October 11, 2010. (The AAC voted
to recommend against 3-0);
• The inadequacy of the proposed Categorical Exemption;
• The overall program for the library, as prepared by the Council's
library programming and design committee;
• The lack of a historic preservation voice on the Council's committee;
• The affect of the proposed addition on the clerestory windows and
interior light;
• Insufficient appreciation by the City for the building's authenticity and
its potential for restoration; and
• Loss of palm trees in patio caused by the addition.
M/S/C (Marshall / Strahl, 5-1-1; Gilmer opposed; Grattan recused) To deny the
application for a Certificate of Approval.
Board member Grattan returned.
8. OTHER BUSINESS:
8 Nomination for National Register of Historic Places; O'Donnell Residence /
47 W. Alejo Road, Adoption of Letter of Support
Sta ted that the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) would meet to
review application on November 5, 2010. A draft letter of support has
been pres ed for the Board's consideration
M/S/C (Marshall / Ploss, -0) To direct staff to send the draft letter to SHPO.
9. COMMITTEE REPORTS
9A, Las Palmas Business oric District Committee — Board member
DeLeeuw reported that work tinues on the district research.
9B. Public Outreach Committee -- it Gilmer indicated that the next
meeting is set for November 1, 201 . Director Ewing summarized the
work of the committee to update an arify Chapter 8.05 (Historic
Preservation).
10. STAFF & OTHER REPORTS:
Director Ewing noted that he will be out of town during the Novemb 9, 2010 Board
meeting, and Principal Planner Edward Robertson will be in attendanc .
11. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS:
Board member Strahl noted the trash bins and maintenance problems next to th
Welwood Murray Memorial Library.
3 21
*PALM SAP
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Re ort
Date: October 12, 2010
Case No: 5.1032 — HSPB # 3 — Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Application Type: Certificate of Approval
Location: 100 South Palm Canyon Drive
Applicant: City of Palm Springs
Zone: CBD (Central Business District)
General Plan: CBD (Central Business District)
APN: 513-144-006
From. Craig A. Ewing, AICP, Director of Planning Services
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The certificate of approval request is for the renovation of the existing 4,030 square foot
library facility; new construction equaling 1,589 square feet in the rear courtyard area,
demolition of a non-original addition, and building re-paint. The renovation and new
construction will include sustainable energy systems enhancing natural light, and
provide for new technology upgrades. The interior will be remodeled to provide updated
library services. The Welwood Murray Memorial Library is a Class 1 Historic Site.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Historic Site Preservation Board approves the certificate of approval request
for the renovation, expansion and related interior and landscape improvements to the
existing library, subject to conditions of approval.
PRIOR ACTIONS TAKEN ON THE PROJECT
On October 3, 1984, the City Council voted to designat* the property at 100 South
Palm Canyon Drive, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a Class 7 historic site.
22
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report October 12, 2010
HSPB 3—Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 6
(Subsequent amendments to the Historic Preservation ordinance converted the Class 7
historic designation to Class 1.)
On May 11, 2010, the Historic Site Preservation Board approved a Certificate of
Approval for a remodel and expansion of the library.
On July 13, 2010, the HSPB continued a request to amend the 5/11/10 approval,
regarding the design and height of the proposed new roof.
On August 4, 2010, the applicant decided to resubmit the entire project for consideration
and approval by the Board.
BACKGROUND AND SETTING
Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Shortly after the City's incorporation in 1938, a group of citizens arranged for the
donation of land and construction funds to build a permanent public library in the
downtown area. George Welwood Murray and Corneilia White gift-deeded an 80' by
100' corner lot, while local residents contributed $26,500 to erect a 4,500 square foot
library. The Murray parcel was accepted by the City after a special election was held in
November 1938 which approved the conditions of the gift. The library was designed by
John Porter Clark and constructed by Charles Chamberlin.
The new building was completed in 1940 and served as the City's main library until
October 1975 when the new library was built at Sunrise Park. For the next ten years
the Welwood served as a branch to the main library and was staffed with one paid
employee and a pool of volunteers.
Since 1975 there have been a number of attempts to use the library site for non-library
purposes. These have included a tourist information center, a restaurant, and
commercial development. The property's gift-deed restrictions, its popular history as a
library and litigation have precluded any of these proposed uses from occurring.
In September 1984, the Library Board approved the modification to the rear patio so as
to be compatible with the new Wessman development named Plaza de Las Flores,
In March of 1987, the City Council requested the Library Board to prepare a
recommendation as to whether the library branch should continue to operate as a public
library or, instead, be closed and incorporated into the Wessman project. After lengthy
deliberations the Library Board strongly encouraged the City Council to develop the
Wessman Project around the Library patio area. In October 1987, the City Council
acted to close the library.
Citizens groups initiated a lawsuit to prevent the sale of the property, and an injunction
was issued which precluded the library closing. The court ultimately ruled that the City 23
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report October 12, 2010
HSPB 3—Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 6
must continue to operate the facility as a public library and the non-library use of the
property would not be permitted.
Finally, construction of Plaza Las Flores located adjacent to the Library site included a
Redevelopment Participation Agreement dated November 22, 1988 that affects how the
library site may be developed. This document, as amended, defines 10-foot wide
easement which restricts the building of any structures and allows public access.
DESCRIPTION AND ANALYSIS
The Welwood Murray Memorial Library was closed in 2009 in anticipation of a complete
interior renovation project. In establishing the new program for the renovation, the City
determined that as a branch library, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library should no
longer be simply book collections, but should evolve into a destination that
simultaneously provides a portal to other places, a space for civic engagement and a
locus of urban vitality. Consequently, the existing configuration of tall dark book stacks,
ordered seating and a large central reference desk would no longer serves the needs of
library patrons.
Looking forward, the applicant proposes the availability of modern connectivity through
computers and Internet access, as well as comfortable seating that encourages
connections between people and information as well as people with each other. This
adaptive reuse of the interior preserves the main building, while offering various book
and media options, flexible space and self-service capabilities. In addition, a small
dedicated community room is proposed at the west end of the building.
The proposal is to construct a 1,589 square foot addition to the rear of the building in
the existing courtyard. The existing library building includes a structure commonly
named the Billie Lu Floan Room which will be demolished to make room for the
addition. The portion proposed to be demolished was added sometime in the 1950's; a
building permit cannot be located.
The new addition includes a curvilinear glass wall facing the interior plaza, while the
new roof will join the main structure just below edge of the existing roof, above the
existing transom windows. The addition will extend twenty-five (25) feet out into the
courtyard area, but does not encroach into the Redevelopment Participation Agreement
ten (10) foot access easement.
The new structure will be constructed of galvanized metal, clear tempered and green
floating glass. The roof will be made of fibertite roofing and cream-colored ridged foam
insulation. This portion of the building will open directly to the new landscaped
courtyard allowing for an indoor / outdoor experience. Existing mechanical equipment
located in the courtyard will be consolidated into a new electric room.
New exterior walls sections are also proposed as part of the rear expansion, and these
walls are to be board-formed concrete to match the existing structure. Exterior colors 24
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report October 12, 2010
RSPB 3—Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 6
are white to match existing; mint green will be used as an accent color to frame the side
windows and entries facing Tahquitz Canyon Way and Palm Canyon Drive.
The interior will be remodeled by the removal of all interior partition walls, shelving,
cabinetry, and plumbing. The revised interior will include handicap bathrooms at the
very south end of the building, a small dedicated community room at the east end, and
modular furnishings (shelving, desks, tables, chairs and sofas, book kiosks and service
areas) throughout the remainder of the building. Final interior finishes as well as final
landscape materials have not been selected.
REQUIRED FINDINGS
Definition of an Historic Site,
Section 8.05.020 of the Municipal Code provides the definition of an historic site, as
follows..
(a) Historic Site.
An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but
not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements, an archaeological
excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting,
materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect and:
That is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the
nation, state or community; or
1. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to
national, state or local history, or
2. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local
history; or
3. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of
construction; or
4. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose
individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value, or
5. That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may
lack individual distinction; or
6. That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state
or local history or prehistory.
Staff has evaluated this application for the proposed addition of 1,589 square feet to the
rear of the Library building, a re-paint, and the demolition of a rear courtyard portion of
the building located at 100 S. Palm Canyon Drive and finds that the project will modify
certain elements of the historic nature of the building, especially the building interior.
The site plan as presented will not be in conflict with the Redevelopment Participation
Agreement easement requirements by providing a ten (10) foot wide non-construction
area for building openings and Staff finds the plan to be in conformance. 2 5
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report October 12, 2010
RSPB 3—Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 6
The distinctive architectural elements of the building will not be compromised because
the new 1,589 square foot courtyard addition is at the rear of the building; the demolition
of a small portion of the building is a non-original element; and a repaint to original
colors will not be a detriment to the overall aesthetic look of the property. Those
elements of the building facing the street which date to 1940 will not be altered, and the
rear addition will be complementary to, but not a mimic the look of the original building.
The historic character of the interior will be replaced with a contemporary library layout.
The applicant has determined that the existing configuration no longer serves the needs
of library patrons today. Instead, the applicant proposes that the interior should support
the new ways that people use libraries including a more informal, self-directed approach
to seeking and exploring library resources and the availability of both traditional and
non-traditional library media, such as internet access.
This adaptive reuse of the interior preserves the main building, but eliminates the stacks
of books, ordered seating and central reference desk. In their place, the proposal offers
various media options, flexible space and self-service capabilities. In addition, a
dedicated community room is proposed at the east end of the building.
The fixtures, colors and materials for the interior have not been selected, nor have final
landscape plantings have been chosen. The applicant proposes to return to the Board
for final approval of interior finishes and landscaping.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
This project is categorically exempt from environmental review per Section 15301(L), (1)
of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
CONCLUSION
The distinctive architectural elements of the building will not be compromised by the
proposal. The new construction in the rear courtyard area (including a demolition of a
non-original addition) and building re-paint will renovate the structure to a more useable
space, preserve its original street-front exterior and support its continued use as a
library. The interior will be adapted to the new role libraries play in society, and will
result in removal of many existing elements, including shelving and furnishings. Staff
recommends that the RSPB issue a certificate of approval for the project, subject to final
approval of the interior finishes and landscape plantings. The Board may wish to offer
recommendations on the interior finishes and landscape plantings as part of its
conditions of approval.
NOTIFICATION
There are no public notification requirements for this application.
26
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report October 12, 2010
HSPB 3—Welwood Murray Memorial Library Page 2 of 6
r g wing KP
Director of Plan ' g Services, AICP
ATTACHMENTS
1. Exterior Perspective
2. Demolition Plan
3. Site Plan / Floor Plan / Landscape Plan
4. Basement Floor Plan
5. Roof Plan
6. Exterior Elevations
7. Detail Wall Section (New Roof to Existing Wall)
8. Letters from Palm Springs Preservation Foundation w/ attachments
27
_.._.. ......... -- .__...__........ ........... ------
A PALM SPRINGS
_ PRESERVATION
FOUNDATION
August 30,2010
Chair,Architectural Advisory Committee
City of Palm Springs(Plsming Services)
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Sprmgs,CA 92262
Re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library(W ?VII.)Project
Dear Chair Ortega,
Attachments(1)through(3)are forwarded for your information and to assist you during
your deh-be atiions regarding the proposed Welwood Murray Memorial Library project.
PSPF has also established an advocacy page concerning the library project at
(� httpJ/www.pvreservationfmmdaotion.org/welwood murisy html.
If you have any questions please feel fine to contact the foundation at(760)837-7117.
Sincerely,
Ron Marshall
President
Attachments:
(1)Pahn Springs Preservation Foundation letter ofAugust 9,2010
(2)Mr.Phillips Welwood Murray letter of August 12,2010
(3)Ms.Sara S.1.James letter ofAugust 16,2010
RECEIVED
AUG 31. 2010
1775 EmA Palm Canyon Ddw.she 110-195.Pakn 5p tv%CA 92264
7O M7--7117 kdb@VepreswvadonftuxWmxq " www-psp msovEgonWrwagon.org
28
--------------
_ - 'PALM SPRINGS
-PRESERVATION
, .. FOUNDATION
cJ -
August 9,201.0
The Honorable Steven Pougnet
3200 East Tahquitz Carryon Way
Palm Springs,CA 92262
i
Tear Mayor Pougnet, 1
Re: Welwood Mmay Memorial Library(Class I Historic Site) s
On August 4,2010 Palm Springs won Fix board ramb rs Ron Marshall and Crary
Jobna met With members of the Pahrn Sp n ngs city smw siaff(Le.,the City fir,asmsWt coy
manW,city attorney and du+edw of planning services)to discuss de foundation's concerns
regaW[ing the Welwvod Murray Memorial Ldmy prgject. Also present were the chair ofthe
historic site presarvation board and the cry eve oviaseeing c project- The meeting Was
cordial and there Was a frank and v6de4anging exchange of views regardiing the pwiect. Among
the issues raised were:
➢ failure ofthe city's"ad hoc"subcommittee clamed with the pqject to include a
kinowledgeable preservation expert,
➢ ration ofthe project as a minor architectural approval(MAA)rath=then a major
approval WM(may dde-slepping PlVoinS aormnL9don review),
- ➢ minimal solicit Won ofpublic comment on the project design,
➢ failure ofthe p to meet any of @te US.Secretary of lnti aloes standards for the
rehabiliWion ofhistoric buildings,
➢ uneven city staffmWoit to the city boards clm ged with reviewing the project(i.e.,the
A�Advisory Committee and the Igistoric" Site Preservation Board),
➢ a sense that the pmject is being"hurried"fhtrough the city bcmeauc racy,and
➢ PSPF's opinion that because the project constitutes a"sipmeant adverse change"to this
historic resource an F.nvironmem d Impact Review(EIR)is required under the Califoram
Environmental Quality Art(CBQA).
On a positive notes we wed our view that 1h=is a unique opportunity for the city to do a
first-rde and sensitive restoration ofthe library. This opin*inity is available because:
➢ as a Class l site theme is no debate about the historic or architectural importance ofthe
building,
➢ there is no developer prmsuoring the city to"gear the building down,"
➢ as a civic building the city has control over both the building's interior and exterior,and
➢ the library is still remarfably intact.
Finally,we asked that an"original design"or"minimum impact design"be offered to the city
leadership in tatW=with the autart over-designed proposal.
1776 Ead Palm Canyon 0livia.We 110-1W Patin CA 92204
76aB37-7117 ' 'www ag
29
Re: Welwaood Murray Memorial L%rary(Class 1 lEsbmic Site) }
We thank the city for allowing us the opportunity to express our caucus. If you have my
qwsdons pease dowt lobe to cqntact to fomadation at(760)837-71 17,
Sinoerely, .
i
Ron Marshall {
Ptesiaerxt !
Copy to:
City Cal members(GhY I''cmff,Lee Weigel,Cbnis 1Vl&and Rick Wtchesorl).
City M (David Ready)
aty AVorneY(Doug How)
H atmie She Pry Berl.
Palm,Springs Idistorical Society
Palm Springs Madero Canoe
Desert Sun(MadecarMandoza)
2
1775 East Palm Canyon cam.sub 110.1l75,,Palm Springy cA GM
7W-837T117 v WW.
pqpeWVWMdbLUKWiOI
30
P11l.LJPS WSL.'1!!IOOD MURRAY
41261 Woodhaven West Drive
y� Palm Desert, CA 92211
August 12,2010
The Honorable Steve Pougrtct
Mayor of Palm,Sprit
3200 East Tab*itz Canyon Way
Palm SpsrinaA.CA 92262
Subj:Welwood Murray Memorial library
Dear Mayor Pougaet,
As a dexxndc nt of Palm Springs pioneer Dr.Welwiood Murmy,I-have followed relent eveats
regarding the Wclwood Murray Memorial Library ptoject with great.--bWest.
I have been troubled that the proposed project is not a renovation,but rather an uasympa
(and wtneceasaty)remodeling which tears off the rear of the building. To add fwfln insult,the
project proposes to append am unseemly roof sbucturc drat sports a swiss-Chem hole design!
Frankly,this proposal is an. M I to this historic,and arcbhecually�brn'lding-
I have been in comet with odd relatives ofmine and we would be thrilled if the h1rra ry could
be used to house rare and local.Wsbary books and possiNy even include rotating exhibits
gating the histrny of Palm Springs and The C edbella Valley. This would attract tourists to
the downtown and be a resource do the local aommunity. Finally,nat only is a scnsittive
vm ration the smart thing to do,fx maially it seen$far less costly them the plan before you.
I have also been in contact with the Palm Springs he ratiou Fou ndat m and applaud their
efforts to convmoe the city to pursue a sros win renovation of the h'ba y.
Please don't hesifatc to contact me at(760)3604963. I would also be happy to meet with you in
person.
fly.
Phillips Welwood Murray
Copy tD=Palm Springs City Council members(Foat,Weigel,Mit'Ils and Ikon),City
ManaW.Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board,Palm Springs Pr ion
Fob,Desert Sun mwspVw(Attn:Ms.Menu)
31
i
Sara S. J.James
4509 Clark Road
Crozet,Virginia 22932
August 16,2010
The Honorable Steven Pougnet
Mayor of Palm Springs -
3200 E.Tahquiz Canyon Way
Patin Springs, CA 922e2
Re:Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Dear Mayor Pougnet,
i
It has recently come to the attention of the members of my family that some significant changes
are being considered that would affect the appearance and use of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library. As direct descendents of Dr.Welwood Murray(Palm Springs co-founder Welwood
Murray was our great-great grandfather), we have a special interest In the future of the WelwoW
Murray Memorial Library.
We are concerned and alarmed that the city''s proposed design for the library's'remodeling'
erects new walls,demolishes existing wails and attaches a fnrelgn roof shimiure to this i
historically Important budding. All of these changes would fundamentally and negatively Impact
the architecture of the building, and do a disservice to architect John Porter Clarks original vision.
The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation's ongoing efforts to achieve a sensitive restoration of
. the original library structure are closely aligned with our hopes to maintain the historical integrity
of the Library, and we would ask you to support the Foundation in their efforts.
We would also suggest that the best use of the downtown library would be as a research library
resource for the Coachella Valley, housing relevant materially from the main library and the
historical society. This would be a use consistent with the restrictions stated in the deed, and
fitting for a building with such history.
If you have any questions, I would be glad to speak with you. You can contact me at(434)960-2286.
On behalf of the descendents of Welwood Murray, sincerely,
Sara S.J.James
Copy to:
City.Council members(G. Foat, L.Weigel, C. Mills and R. Hutchenson)
City Manager(D. Ready)
City of Palen Springs Historic Site Preservation Board
Palm Springs Preservation Foundation
342
RESOLUTION NO. 15248
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING THE WELWOOD MURRAY
MEMORIAL LIBRARY AS A CLASS 7 HISTORIC SITE.
WHEREAS the Welwood Murray Memorial Library and its associated personages and
past events have contributed substantially to the history of the City of Palm
Springs; and
WHEREAS the Welwood Murray Memorial library has long been a landmark for both
residents and visitors in the City of Palm Springs; and
WHEREAS Ordinance 1140 of the City of Palm Springs allows for the designation
of historic sites; and
WHEREAS on July 9, 1984, the Historic Site Preservation Board initiated pro-
ceedings to designate the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as an historic site;
and
WHEREAS on September 10, 1984, the Historic Site Preservation Board held a
public hearing on said designation and unanimously recommended to the City
Council designation of said property as a Class 7 Historic Site; and
WHEREAS the Board of Trustees of the Palm Springs Public Library concurs in
the recommendation of the Historic Site Preservation Board; and
WHEREAS the City Council concurs in the recommendation of the Historic Site
Preservation Board regarding the historic value of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library; and
WHEREAS the designation of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library shall further
the purposes and intent of Ordinance 1140; and
WHEREAS the designation of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library shall promote
the sensitive preservation of said site.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City- Council of the City of Palm Springs, California does
resolve.as follows:
Section 1. The Welwood Murray Memorial Library shall be designated a Class 7
Historic Site pursuant to City Ordinance No. 1140.
Section 2. No permit for the exterior alteration to the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library shall be granted without the prior approval of
the City Council.
ADOPTED this 3rd day of October , 1984.
AYES: Councilmembers Biter, Foster, Maryanov and Mayor Bogert
NOES None
ABSENT: Council.member Smith
ATTEST: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
r
Bye �-� C
City Clerk City Manage
REVIEWED & APPROVED:
33
LIP M-A
DATE: October 3, 1984
T0: City Council
FROM: Planning Director via Community Development Director
CASE NO. HSPB-3 - WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY
RECOMMENDATION:
The Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) recommends that the City
Council receive public comment regarding the designation of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library as an historic site, and the HSPB further
recommends that the Council designate the Library as a Class 7 Historic
Site.
BACKGROUND:
At its meeting of July 9, 1984, the HSPB initiated proceedings to
designate the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a City historic site.
The HSPB, on August 13, 1984, held its public hearing regarding the
Library's designation but continued the hearing pending recommendation
from the Board of Trustees of the Palm Springs Public Library. At its
meeting of August 30, 1984, the Library Board unanimously agreed to
support the designation of the Welwood Murray Library as a City
historic site.
The HSPB, on Sept 10, 1984, based upon written documentation and the
support of the Library Board, recommended by unanimous vote (Boyd.
absent) designation of the Welwood Murray Library as an historic site.
The Library is presently eligible for the National Register of Historic
Places; however, Stephen Becker, the Riverside County Historian, has
advised that any impact to the library structure or site would reduce
or even eliminate the possibility of this Federal listing and may
affect other designations as well. For this reason, the HSPB recom-
mends that the site receive designation as a Class 7 historic site.
Class 7 is the most restrictive category for historic designation
allowed for in Ordinance 1140, and reads as follows:
"Site qualified for designation at Federal, State, County
and City level. Archival file will be maintained. Site may
not be modified nor object removed except by order of the
City Council. Site will be plaqued. Usage may be limited
by the City Council. Eligible for review at any regularly
scheduled meeting of the Board.
Concern over this site began during the latter part of 1982, when pro-
posals were being made for the use of the property on which the adja-
cent McCallum Civic Building stands which would also have involved
major changes to the Welwood Murray Library. At its meeting of
November 8, 1982, the HSPB, finding that the Library holds intrinsic
historic significance in the development of the City of Palm Springs,
resolved to unequivacably oppose the sale of the libary building or
property in general and specifically as a condition of the sale of the
adjacent McCallum Civic Building/property; and to further oppose any
interior or exterior alteration, infringement of air rights, or
intensification of land use in conjunction with the disposition of the
VXX adjacent property. None of the proposals for the McCallum Civic
Building site were finalized at that time; however, the City is again
A-
looking for an interested party to redevelop the adjacent property.
In 1938, George Welwood Murray donated the land on which the library
stands as a memorial to his father, Dr. Welwood Murray, with the stipu-
lation that the library building be constructed and maintained by the
newly-incorporated City of Palm Springs, and that it be known as
Welwood Murray Memorial Library; Cornelia White donated an additional
strip, of property at the easterly end of the site. The existing
I
34
CASE NO. HSPB-3
October 3, 1984
Page 2 �
structure, designed by John Porter Clark and constructed by Charles
Chamberlain, opened for business in Feb. 1941 and was the first
permanent home of the Palm Springs Public Library. With the completion
of the Library Center at Sunrise Plaza in Oct. 1975, the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library became the downtown branch.
The historic site designation has been identified as exempt under the
provisions of CERA.
fIAIC. _ __ APPROVED: ¢ T_
MARVIN D. 0 S JOHN A. ANGI E
Director of Planning Dire for of Community evelopment
APPROVED: / q
- ' City Manage
ATTACHMENT:
1. Resolution
2. Map
3. HSPB Minutes of 7/9/84, 8/13/84 and 9/10/84
4. Library Board Minutes of 8/30/84
35
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36
ES - July 1984
H5P6 MINUTES u y 9,
Page 2
* Resource Inventory Update. The survey is complete and Pat g will be
ready to begin the State forms when she returns fraffi vacation with
completion anticipated for early August.
* Palm Springs Historical Society. No report.
Riverside Co. Hist. Comm'ssion. Kitty Hayes reported that the July
meeting will e e ed.,.July 11 at the Kieley house in Idyllwild
at 12 noon. _�--
* Review Hist. Site/Dist. Classifications. Discussion ensured that
cer n c a�sd.ficata-ons--as.ada-Rted wit in Ord. 1140, may not be
prw-fate or relevant. The Board i taff to revise and/or
clarify the classifications and bring recommendations to the Board.
Settingof Public Hearings for Hist. Site Designation.
i
/ MOTION: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/McKinney) to initiate proceedings to
/ designate the Cornelia White house, the McCallum Adobe and the
Welwood Murray Library as City Historic Sites and setting the
dates for the public hearing as August 13, 1984.
* _Added Starters:
Historic Site Marker. 'rFie and
will be presented at the next meting.
Desert Fashion Plaza. Kitty Hayes suggested the use of sma �hotos
part of a historical path Win the shopping center as 5 ad seen in a
new shopping center near Old Town, San Diego. FA photo would not
require much space and could be placed between t W shops.
Election of Officers FY 1984-85. Kij<ty�Hayes nominated the existing
officers for the new term - unanim9usfy passed.
E1 Mirador Hotel. Staff rglayed a suggestion from Jacqulyn Weiss that a
letter be sent to thQ%new hospital board encouraging them to move
forward with negoti.a-tions with California Historic Properties regarding
adaptive reuse V'the Hotel. Chairman Boyd will write a letter to Duke
Kosslyn, Ho s Bd. Chairman, with copies to other board members.
Ad journment.r-"
Ther eing no further business, Chairman adjourned the meeting at 4:45 p.m.
WP/P-6
3 �
�i3� .
August >" ' 1984 HSPB MINUTES Page 2
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Noel Brush presented the mold of the histoo-pTa'que as prepared by Matthews
for review by the Board. It receive orable comments from the Board, and
Kitty Hayes and Janice Lyle w' ork with Mr. Brush regarding the lettering
style to be used befog sentation is made to the Planning Commission and
City Council.
AGIDA ITEMS
/ublic Hearings
Welwood Murray Memorial Library/Historic Site Designation (Case #RSPB-3).
Staff presented it recommendation to the Board members. The public hearing
was opened with comment from John Courtmeyer, representing the Chamber of
Commerce regarding concerns that private properties in the downtown area were
being designated historic sites without adequate notice. He was informed that
all sites in the area considered for designation thus far have been in the
public domain and that public hearing notices have been sent to surrounding
property owners. Jacqulyn Weiss commented that the Library Board had not
received notice of the hearing although they should have no objection to the
designation. Kitty Hayes made additions to the written staff report.
Motion: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/Lyle) to continue the public hearing to
the September 10, 1984, meeting and to direct staff to send notice
of said hearing to the Library Board.
Discussion ensured regarding comments from the Chamber of Commerce that they
would like to be notified of HSPB actions in the downtown area. Staff agreed
to add them to the mailing list to send them meeting agendas.
rnelia White House/Historic Site Designation (Case #HSPBW4). aff
presented i s r n to the Board members. The public in was
opened and closed with no public a ditio to the
written staff report.
Motion: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/Henderson) to r mend to the City
Council that they designate the Corneli ite House as a Class 7
Historic Site.
McCallum Adobe/Historic Site Desi gnati Case #HSPB-5). Staff presented its
recommendation to the Board members he public hearing was opened and closed
with no public comment. Kit Hayes made additions to the written staff
report. -�
Motion: joyunnotff��
S/Cimously (Hayes/Henderson) to recommend to the City
that they designate the McCallum Adobe as a Class 7
ric Site.
Resource Inventory Update. Pat Young reported that, although the survey is
complete, there is much work remaining to complete the State forms. She
38
3
s r �, 1984 HSPB MINUTES---. Page 2
AGENDA ITEMS
PUPL"7FC HEARINGS \
WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY / HISTORIC SITE DESGNATION CASE #HSPB-3 .
j' This pulic hearing was continued from the August 13, 1984, meeting.
Staff commented that the Board of Trustees of the Palm Springs Public Library,
at their meeting of August 30, 1984, unanimously endorsed the recommendation
of the HSPB to designate the Welwood Murray Library as a Class 7 Historic
Site. A letter was received from Dr. Beatrice E. Willard, owner of the pro-
perty immediately adjacent to the library on the south, in favor of this
designation.
The public hearing was closed with no further public comment.
MOTION: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/Milanovich) to recommend to the City Council
that they designate the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a Class 7 Historic
Site.
HOUSE OF MURPHY / HISTDRIC SITE DESGNATION CASE #HSPB-6 .
Staff presented a written ons to e
Board. Discussion ensued regarding the proper classification for desig ion
of this site and the appropriateness of plaquing the site. The public earing
was opened and closed with no public comment.
MOTION: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/Weiss) to recommend to the y Council that
they designate the House of Murphy as a Class 5 Historic Si
MOTION: M/S/C unanimously (Hayes/Lyle) to forward letter to Fuddruckers
Restaurant requesting that they fund and erect plaque commemorating the
House of Murphy with the recommendation that su plaque/commemoration include
a photograph or some other suitable represent on of the original building.
* * * *
* Resource Inventory Update. S ff reported that the appropriate steps
are being taken to extend P Young's contract.
* Palm Springs Historical ociet . Elizabeth Kieley presented an overview
of the coming year's rospects for funding and volunteers. She invited
those present to sit the Historical Society museum and thanked the
staff for i�u`nty
its in the past.
* RiversideHistorical Commission. Kitty Hayes reported that Ole
Nordland ill be made Historian of the Year for Riverside County at the
Commis,sIonis meeting in October, rather than the September meeting which
/wasncelled.
Carey died two weeks ago. She was and early-day teacher in Palm
s, who later became principal of Frances Stevens School, and
served as a volunteer for many organizations, including the Palm Springs
Historical Society.
J �
M1NLIl•ES - -[-he Palm Springs Public Library Board of 1'ru tccs August .ill, . 1984
RECOMMENDATION TO APPRO_VL Motion (Pighetti/Bronstein) to adopt the proposed
c REVISED LIBRARY ORGANIZA-_ organizational chart (see agenda packet) as presented
TIONAL CHART DUE TO NEW� effective October J, 198,1 (3-0)
MAIN ENTRANCE PROJECT
BOARD VACANCY rrustee flat Wilson has resigned from the Boar effective
August S because she relocated to San Fran 'sco. Board
President Lsbitz plans to contact Mayor ogert to tiuggest
possible replacement canidates.
SCIifaDULING OF BOARD The Board royursted that the m ling time be uh;urged to
MEETINGS FISCAL. 185 4:llo p.m. on the last Thurs of each month effective
----—-- September .
REPORT ON NEW MAIN Mr. Weiss reported at construction is scheduled to
ENTRANCE begin on Septembe 4 and conclude (except for restroom
modifications) y November 29. A possible display of
original pr•• idential documents for the opening ecru-
monies i- eing pursued by the City Librarian.
RECOMMENDATION TO APPROVE Mo ' n (Pighetti/Bronstein) to approve for submission
AGREEMENT WITH NANCY WATT' Council a $0,800 Agreement with Nancy C. Watt for
FOR PROGRAM PLANNING AN the program, planning and public relations work for
PUBLIC RELATIONS WOR the library division for fiscal 1985 (3-0) .
RECOMMENDATION APPROVE Motion (Pighetti/Bronstein) to approve for submission
AGREEMENT W I SALLY MC- to Council an Agreement covering the administration of
MANUS FO AUMINSTATION the P;Jlm Springs Historical Socitey's Museum and "Little
OF H ORICAL SOGiEf'S' T- (Ions rTTtir`"Fiscat i�kt5_�3-1)), Mr. Weiss informed the
MU M —LITTLE 11005E Board that the. proposed Agrcemell luded a 6.67% hourly
wage increase bringing that amount to -per hour.
DISCUSSION OF HISTORIC Motion (Pighetti/BronsteiL
the Historic Si
SITE PRESERVATION BOARD'S Presevatiou Board's nominWelwood MurryPLAN TO NOMINATE THE WEL- Memorial Library as an Hunder the City'sWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LI - existing Historic Site Or ).BRARY AS AN HISTORIC SITE
—UL%LUSSION OF MEMORIAL The Board agreed to honorof "Max" C byFOR "MAC �irrg-items-wcks_iutmction;
- � dedicating the Friends of the Palm Springs Library wall
in the: new entrance to him, and dedicating the " -nt
Palm Springs Unified School District/Librar •ducat ion
Collection to him.
INFORMATION ITEMS The City Librarian distributed a August 29 draft
of the revised Material Se�.ertion Policies to the Board
for future discussion o s'a component of the Library
Master Plan.
ADDED STARTERS None
PUBLIC COMMENTS Nolte'
ADJOURNMENT fhe meeting adjourned at 5:25 p.m.
Rcsp)�ttfu)ljy submitted,
�lttSiry �iss
City Librarian
40
lj+ ►LM S,o�» City of Palm Springs
Palm Springs Public Library
* 300 South Sunrise Way•Palm Springs, California 92262-7699 ...
Tel: (760)323-READ• Fax: (760)320-9834 • Web:http://www.palinspringslibr'a--F-' .org
�gti�oeN�P
November S, 2010
Board of Library Trustees Mayor Steve Pougnet, ..,b
Councilmember Ginny Foat, Councilmember Rick Hutcheson,
David L. Gray Councilmember Chris Mills & Councilmember Lee Weigel
President City of Palm Springs
Donna Chabon 3200 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
President Pro Tem
Mark.- Zacovic Dear Mayor Pougnet and City Council members:
Treasurer
Anthony Ellerd Since late 2008, the Palm Springs Board of Library Trustees has been planning a
Trustee new service program to reintegrate the Welwood Murray Memorial Library into
Bruce Mcloud the Palm Springs library system. It was, and still is, the Board's hope that the
Trustee repurposed and renovated Welwood Murray Memorial Library branch will act as
a community focal point in the downtown corridor. We envision this iconic City
landmark as the nexus for residents,the business community, tourists and culture
seekers alike, by providing a handicapped-accessible and updated space for
community events and gathering, connectivity to information, and the first stop
for news and tourist information.
In support of this project, at its regularly scheduled Board Meeting on Friday,
February 26, 2010, in a unanimous vote, the Palm Springs Public Library Board
of Library Trustees voted to "approve a budget of$800,000 from the Library
Trust Fund for the FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) of the Welwood
Murray Library project."
We are very excited by this opportunity to work with the City on this project, and
urge the City Council to vote to proceed with the project as currently designed.
and envisioned. To that end, the Board at its most recent regularly-scheduled
board meeting on Friday, October 29, 2010,. once again "expressed its support of
the Welwood Murray Library project as designed, and reaffirmed its commitment
of$800,000 of Trust Funds to the project."
Sincerely,
David L. Gray
President
Cc: Barbara Roberts
PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY 41
Kathie Hart
From: Craig Ewing
Sent: November 03, 2010 4:59 PM
To: Barbara Marshall; 'Brian Strahl'; 'John Gilmer'; Leo Cohen (ps4leo@aol.com); Roxann Ploss
(riploss@gmail.com); 'Sheila Grattan'; 'Tom Deleeuw'
Cc: Jay Thompson; Kathie Hart
Subject: Appeal Hearing on HSPB Decision on Welwood Murray Memorial Library
To Al I,
Please note that the City Council will conduct an appeal hearing on the HSPB's denial of the Certificate of
Approval for the Welwood Library. The hearing is set for the regular Council meeting of Wednesday,
November 17, 2010. The agenda and staff report will be available on the City's web site Thursday morning,
November 1 1 th. Please contact the City Clerk's office if you have any questions about the appeal hearing,
Craig A. Ewing, AICP
Director of Planning Services
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-323-8269
Whon I alrn working On a prC.1k)lem I nevei think a:jbOut.beauty.
I only think about how to solve the problem.
But Wher) I have finished, if the soiutiorI is not beautiful,
I know it is wrong.
- Buckrninster Fuller(1895-1983)
4 `'!v►
11/01/1(1
PALM SPRINGS
PRESERVATION
F O U N D A T I O N 2 Pf, T , 0r,
14
November 49 2010
The Honorable Steven Pougnet
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Dear Mayor Pougnet,
Subj: Welwood Murray Memorial Library(Class 1 Historic Site),HSPB#3
The board of directors of the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation has been vigorously
advocating the sensitive restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library for many
months. Accordingly, in your imminent review of this matter,we ask you to uphold the
recent, and overwhelming, decision by the city's Historic Site Preservation Board to deny
the Certificate of Approval for the flawed and unnecessary remodeling of this much-loved
historic library building.
It is our fervent view that the Welwood Murray Memorial Library should be sensitively
restored in accordance with well-established U.S.Department of Interior standards for
historic rehabilitation. A sensitively restored historic building of this caliber will quickly
become the centerpiece of the downtown area and will attract residents and tourists alike.
Additionally,we ask that future decisions about this important historic resource be
informed by an inclusive, community-wide discussion about the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library's best and highest uses.
If you have any questions,please contact the foundation at(760) 837-7117 or via email at
info@pspreservationfoundation.org.
Sincerely, r
Ron Marshall
President
1775 East Palm Canyon Drive,Suite 110-195,Palm Springs,CA 92264
7W837-7117 * info@pspreservationfoundation.ong * www.pspn)smabonfbun&-Aon.org
43
Cindy Berardi
From: Jerri Freed Uerri.freed@sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 10:04 AM n
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'lease forward this e-mail to the Palm Springs City Council and place in the official record that this e-mail
eras sent.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building..
(hank you,
Terri Kuttig
'alm Springs
Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 5602 (20101108)
Che message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
ittp://www,eset.com
44
Cindy Berardi
From: ck@christopherkennedy.com
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 12:21 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Memorial Library
'lease forward this email to the City Council and place in the official record.
)ear Palm Springs City Council:
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
.ibrary(1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
mportant, and historic, civic building.
ks an interior designer with a degree in architecture -- who happens to love Palm Springs -- I ask you to reconsider the
e-design and use of this important space. I would gladly donate my time and services to such an endeavor.
7Varm regards,
fhristopher Kennedy
:HRISTOPHER KENNEDY, INC.
70 EAST RESEARCH DRIVE,SUITE 10
'ALM SPRINGS,CALIFORNIA 92262
'760,325.3214 F 760.322.3709
iww.christopherkennedy.com
� J
i 7 iRi�ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Clara Nelson [cara@claravoyantdesign.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 2:40 PM
TO: CityClerk `� - 12
Subject: re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'lease forward this email to the city council and place it in the official record.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Thank You.
Sincerely,
Mara Nelson
46
O
Cindy Berardi
. ......T _ T
From: MODERN MECCA[modernmecca@g mail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 2:42 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
ro the Palm Springs city clerk:
please forward my e-mail to the city council and place in it the official record.
Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940)designed
)y architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building."
'-laudia Andrade-Desbiens
?resident, Modern Mecca
dodem Mecca
vvww.modernmeccd.com
iantiago Street Lofts
736 N Santiago Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701.
- 310.245.6097
- rnodemp ec.c.a c@gma l.com
4x
1 i9i1)ni n
V
Cindy Berardi
From: Ann Thibault thibault.a verizon.net ,;a r r p 0,
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 2:51 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: WELWOOD MURRAY LIBRARY
)ear City Council,
am a long time resident of Palm Springs (since 1963) and I am
►sking that you do NOT support the WelWood Murray Library
-emodel as it could damage it's historical importance.
Chank you,
knn Thibault
lalm Springs, CA
48
i 7 iRi�n�n
Cindy Berardi
From: Bonnieruttan@aol.com
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 2:53 PM
12
To: CityClerk
Cc: Ginny Foat; Lee Weigel; Steve Pougnet; Chris Mills; Rick Hutcheson
Subject: Welwood Murray Library
Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel
of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter
Clark. Rather, we ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and
historic, civic building.
Thank you for your consideration of this issue.
Bill and Bonnie Ruttan
1111 Abrigo Rd
PS
4a
i ��Qi7ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: lainescott@aol.com
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:14 PM ?
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear City of Palm Springs,
'Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library
1940)designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and
iistoric, civic building."
(hank you,
-aine Scott
L]
Cindy Berardi
From: Hugh Wakeham [hugh@wam.ca]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:05 PM
To: CityClerk
Cc: Daryl Morrell; Dennis May; Diane Ross
Subject: Welwood Library
Dear City Clerk,
would like to ask that this email be forwarded to the city council and placed in the official record.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
Sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
this is an important heritage legacy in the City of Palm Springs, and must be treated as such.
Regards,
-lugh Wakeham
sponsorship Marketing Group, LLC
Nakeham +Associates Marketing, Inc.
)irect: 760-832-7563
vww.wam.ca
WAM
5.1
Cindy Berardi
From: Richard Patenaude [patnod@mac.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:18 PM 1,j I
To: CityClerk
Subject: WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY
Honorable Council Members:
Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
important, and historic, civic building.
As the "preservation officer" for the City of Palm Springs from 1984 to 1999, I recall the pride the community had for
Is fledgling historic preservation program. The Library was one of the first sites to be designated as an official historic
structure and she continues to contribute to the special "feel" of Downtown Palm Springs. Without its historic and
.inique places, Palm Springs would not have the same appeal it enjoys today.
[ still recall returning to my City Hall desk after attending a state preservation conference to find a note telling me that,
while I was away, someone had altered the windows of the Library. Angry that this could have happened, I rushed
Downtown. After to speaking with someone on site, I discovered that the "alterations" were temporary and part of a
Film shoot. I returned to the office much relieved, finding that the planners were enjoying the joke they had played on
ne. I tell you this to let you know how important preservation was to me then as a resident and employee of the City;
it remains important to me as a visitor, especially since I had a hand in it.
[ encourage you to continue to support your historic preservation program and the many places that contribute to the
�ity of Palm Springs as a unique place.
Sincerely,
Zichard E. Patenaude
Planning Manager, City of Hayward
Cindy Berardi
From: Paul Kaplan [paulkaplanre@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:23 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
?lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
-ibrary (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
mportant, and historic, civic building.
Paul Kaplan
Modern Real Estate Group
Website: www..M. dCenturvModeniPS.com
Email: Paulo PaulKaplanklealtor.com
Phone: 760-285-8559
Fax: 760-406-4221
Treater Palm Springs Realty DRG 01325586
'aryl's 1lorne Picks of the week.
53
1 N/IAI n
Cindy Berardi
From: Pamela Bieri [rbieri@dc.rr.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:39 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear City Clerk
)lease forward this email to City Council for official documents. Please do not support the unnecessary and historically
lamaging propsed remodel of the 1940 John Porter designed Welwood Murray Memorial Library. Please consider a more
ensitive restoration of this historic building in downtown Palm Springs.
hank you!
'amela Bieri
760) 568-4422
bieri@dc.rr.com
p.b
6ta.Mm MAurnMc w NAEm ktxnoNS
Tele0 "eIr—O-le 760568442
%51 Office Box 10601,,Rs&m D"drt„CatAf ip 42,155
54
i iQi7ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Rod Powers [powersrpm@chartermi.net]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:42 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear City Clerk,
?lease, Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library(1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive
•estoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Roderick Powes
r
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Steven.R.Keylon@wellsfargo.com
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:45 PM
: i
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear Sirs —
Please forward my email to the City Council, and make sure it is placed in the official record.
My name is Steven Keylon, I'm on the Board of Directors at Village Green, a National Historic Landmark
:ommunity in Los Angeles.
'm writing because I'm very concerned that the proposed remodeling of the wonderful Welwood Murray
Memorial Library is completely out of character for the building. The Library building is a valuable historic
and cultural property, in a very prominent location in Palm Springs. Please don't destroy more of the
iistoric character in Palm Springs, which is after all why so many people travel to your wonderful city from
around the world, to experience so much great mid-century modern architecture and design. Why
damage or destroy the historic attractions which make you a draw for tourism?
ro ruin such a great resource would truly be a shame. Once these things are gone, they're gone forever.
s what is being proposed going to enhance downtown Palm Springs the way a sensitively restored
Welwood Murray Memorial Library building would?
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support
-he sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
thank you
Steven Keylon
5250 Village Green
.os Angeles, CA 90016
323-293-2868
56
Cindy Berardi
From: Tom O'Connell [tomoc@earthlink.net]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 3:58 PM '
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Library
Dear Mr. Thompson-
This is the type of building that makes Palm Springs so cool and unlike the newer communities.
Please do not support the unnecessary and historically-damaging proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library designed by architect John Porter Clark.
Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important and historic civic building.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
Tom
Tom O'Connell
tomoc@earthlink.net
1 '
Cindy Berardi
From: Marianne O'Connell [marianneoconnell@earthlink.net]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:12 PM _ r
To: CityClerk t
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please do not support the unnecessary and historically-damaging proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library(1940)designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
important and historic civic building.
Thank you,
Marianne O'Connell
marianneoconnell@earthlink.net
58
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Grant and Helen Costello [sabel@xtra.co.nz]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:19 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'o The City Clerk
Ay husband and I have just returned to New Zealand after a 2 week stay in Palm Springs, something both
A us have wanted to do for sometime as Palm Springs represents to us the epicenter of modernism. We
spent a marvelous couple of weeks exploring the commercial district and walking / driving around some of
he suburbs made famous by the extraordinary beautiful building of the modernist era.
can honestly say if it wasn't for these buildings we would have seen no reason to visit and would probably
lave headed north to Las Vegas. Please look after what makes you town so unique you have a goldmine
)f treasures there that are worth preserving. If you don't Palm Springs will become like all the other
aceless towns we drove past. Please look after what few buildings you have left and support sensitively
estoring rather than remodeling your commercial buildings - in particular the Welwood Murray Memorial
_ibrary.
Ne have every intention of revisiting Palm SPrings in the future as long as its integrity remains.
Cinds Regards
ielen and Grant Costello
kuckland, New Zealand.
Cindy Berardi
From: Marty Danielson [smartmktr@yahoo.com] C�
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:38 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Libary
_'ity Council:
Please stop the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important,
end historic, civic building." Palm Springs future depends on it's architectural significance to draw thousands of visitors
:o the city and not the "West LA" environment found in the East End of the Vally.
Martin A. Danielson
Palm Springs resident for 14 years
60
1 1/8/201 n
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Sydney Smith [ssmit49@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:44 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Library
"lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library (1940)
iesigned by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic
)uilding."
iyd Smith
61
Cindy Berardi
From: Paul Schumaker [paulschumakerla@aol.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:44 PM n ,w
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Library
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
>ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
thank You,
'aul Schumaker
?154 George Dr.
'alm Springs, CA 92262
Cindy Berardi
From: Jordan & Jonathan Updocs2@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:59 PM
To: CityClerk
Cc: info@pspreservationfoundation.org
Subject: Wellwood Murray Memorial Library
ask that you kindly foroward this message to the Palm Springs City Council, and that it be placed in the official record:
)ear City Council Members,
)lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
'ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
sincerely,
)r. Jonathan Petrie
A registered Palm Springs voter)
63
i iQi?ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Roxanna Suggy [roxannasuggy@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 5:44 PM 3 �yy
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940)
request that my email be forwarded to the city council and placed in the official record. "Please do not support the
innecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940)
lesigned by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important,
tnd historic, civic building."
Fhank you for your consideration,
toxanna Khan
ell 949-395-3232
toxanna
.ove never fails. 1 Corinthians 13.8
64
w�
Cindy Berardi
From: Kirk S. Olsen [kso@kirkolsen.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 6:36 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
'lease forward this e-mail to the Palm Springs City Council to be placed in the Official Record.
3lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray
AAemorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive
-estoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Sincerely,
(irk S. Olsen
� J
Cindy Berardi
From: Dick Burkett [dickburkett@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 6:57 PM •-�..
To: CityClerk
Subject: Wellwood Murray Memorial Library
"lease forward my email to the city council and placed in the official record.as follows: "Please do not support the unnecessary, and
iistorically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940)designed by architect John Porter Clark.
Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building."
Opportunity will not interest itself
in the person who isn't interested in it... Napoleon Hill
)ick Burkett
760 774 5795 cell
760 327 2640 tel
ii c kburkett@gmail..com..
66
i i iRi�nt n
Cindy Berardi
From: Karen Strickland [exoticona@mac.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 10:12 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Forward to City Council and Record
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
>ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Sincerely Karen Strickland
i i iQi�n7 n
Cindy Berardi
From: Debra Hovel [debrahovel@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 10:22 PM , 11 0
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray library
hello,
Ay name is Debra Hovel. My husband Richard and I are part time residents of Palm Springs because of the
)reponderance of mid century and other priceless architecture. We feel that Palm Springs is a gem of a town due to the
vigilance of the preservation groups determined to save these significant buildings for future generations. Any damaging of
his inheritance would be a real shame. These buildings can not be replaced once they are remodeled or torn down.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
.ibrary (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
mportant, and historic, civic building.
)ebra and Richard Hovel
68
O
Cindy Berardi
From: David Keens [dkeens@sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 6:09 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Library
'lease forward this email to the Palm Springs City Council, and place it in the official record.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the John Porter
lark designed Welwood Murray Memorial Library (1940). Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive
-estoration of this important, and historic, civic building. The rich architectural history of Palm Springs is
)ne of the most important characteristics of the city, making a visit or residence there a unique opportunity
:o view some of our nation's true treasures. Please respect and preserve the heritage and legacy of this
vonderful architectural oasis.
Respectfully,
]avid Keens
Dfficial Texas State Artist
'rofessor of Art and Art History
Jniversity of Texas at Arlington,
\rlington, Texas
WO E. Alto Circle
'alm Springs, California
69
1/R/?nl n
Cindy Berardi
From: Jim Gadomski Dimgadomski@embargmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 7:16 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Ourray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
-ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building."
im Gadomski
170-329-9059
70
_a
Cindy Berardi
From: Olaf Olsen [olafolsen@ymail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 10:27 AM ^^ r
To: CityClerk
Subject: Re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
3ello,
am asking that my email be forwarded to the city council and placed in the official record. Please do not support the
innecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940) designed
)y architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic,
;ivic building.
Olaf Olsen
�10 East Palm Canyon Dr.
'alm. Springs, CA 92264
317) 445-1.961
71
�iRi2n�n
Cindy Berardi
From: Lisa Gibson [Igibsondesign@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 11:27 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library- Proposed Remodel
Ne won't be able to attend the city council meeting and ask that you forward this email to the city council to be placed in the official
ecord.
-o the city council,
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940)
lesigned by architect John Porter Clark. Rather,we ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic
wilding.
sincerely,
.isa &John Gibson
155 West Hermosa Place
Jnit#22
'aim Springs, CA
72,
Cindy Berardi
From: Laurie Lerner[Iserenity7@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 11:52 AM 'w t
To: CityClerk
Subject: welwood murray library r _
dear council - i ask for your support - in carefully refurbishing this historical beauty. a large part of palm springs
;harm - is it's old buildings. thank you for your support! Sincerely- Laurie Lerner 12007 St. George Circle
7a
i i iszi�ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Claire victor [cvictor@dc.rr.com)
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 3:39 PM `,
To: Jay Thompson; CityClerk; Steve Pougnet; Ginny Foat; Rick Hutcheson; Chris Mills; Lee Weigel
Cc: Ron and Barbara Marshall
Subject: Against Proposed Remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library
)ear Mr. Thompson,
'lease enter my comments below into the public record and distribute copies to City Council.
t has come to my attention that an appeal will likely be heard by City Council against the Historic Site
'reservation Board's thoughtful 5-to-1 decision to stop the remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
-ibrary.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
)lrray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
-ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
respectfully submitted,
Claire Victor
MO East Molino Road
'alm Springs, CA 92262
74
1/s/201 n
u
Cindy Berardi
From: Laura Daniel [laura.fran@mac.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 3:52 PM i „ r-,
To: CityClerk
Subject: Wellwood Library
Dear City Clerk,
'lease forward this message to the city council.
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
(hank you,
-aura Daniel
'aim Springs home-owner and resident
75
1/R/2()1 n
Cindy Berardi
From: Guy Munselle [guy@actuateis.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 6:15 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please forward this to the city council and place it in the official record.
?lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library(1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
mportant, and historic, civic building.
Thank you
suy Munselle Jr
;uy c actuateis.com
760 851 5140
76
1 1 N/Ini n
Cindy Berardi
From: Arianne Keens [akeens@sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 9:14 PM
To: CityClerk c U;
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
To the Palm Springs City Clerk:
I recently received the latest news regarding the Welwood Murray Memorial Library's proposed remodeling. This beautiful
building is so prominent along Palm Canyon Drive and as a future resident of Palm Springs, it disappoints me to think that
a city with such a well-known history for its mid-century architecture would consider changing such an important structure. I
do not support the unnecessary, historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the 1940 Welwood Murray Memorial Library.
I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this significant and historic civic building.
Thank you for forwarding this e-mail to the city council and placing it in the official record.
Sincerely,
Arianne Keens
Gifted and Talented Specialist
Moseley Elementary School
Grand Prairie ISO
Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas
1 �l
Cindy Berardi
From: anne abercrombie [atabercrombie@msn.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2010 10:04 PM
To: CityClerk Ll�;t,
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please forward this email to the city council and place in the official record.
Members of the Palm Springs City Council;
Please do not support the historically damaging and unnecessary remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library designed by John Porter Clark. Please support the sensitive restoration of this historic and important
civic building.
Anne T. Abercrombie
Palm Springs
78
Cindy Berardi
71
From: Penny Hildebrand [palmspringspenny@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 06,2010 10:41 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Preserve the Welwood Murray Memoria
"Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray
Memorial Library(1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive
restoration of this important, and historic, civic building."
Penny Hildebrand
Realty Executives
760.660.8542 - Cell
760.844.7500 - Office
760.844.7550 - Fax
._A mspringspenny@gmail.com
wwwpennyhildebrand.com
Lie. #01783944
79
y y i4 i�ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: bill Hertel [billhertel@verizon.net]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 12:04 PM M i''t'� r-,
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please don't support the unnecessary and historically damaging proposed remodel of the
NNelwood Murray Memorial Library. I ask that your support a sensitive restoration of this historic
-ivic building.
Sincerely,
Nilliam L. Hertel
226 N, Airlane Dr.
'alm Springs, CA 92262
so
1/A/2010
Cindy Berardi
From: Thomas Carnase [carnase@carnase.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 4:02 PM o" r�
To: CityClerk
Cc: info@pspreservationfoundation.org
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial library
1 li7i10
'-ity Of Palm Spring
5200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
?alm Springs, CA 92263
Dear Mr. Thompson,
?lease see that this is distributed to the City Council members and made part of the public record.
do not support the unnecessary and HISTORICALLY DAMAGING proposed re-model
)f the 1940 Welwood.Murray Memorial Library designed by John Porter Clark, however, I do
support the sensitive restoration of this important civic building for future generations
:o enjoy.
3istoric sites are never available for re-model!
Thank you kindly,
Thomas Carnase
300 East Molino Road
?alm Springs, CA 92262
91
i �iszi�n7 n
Cindy Berardi
From: Ellen Barr[ewjbar@verizon.net]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 4:50 PM _ r.-
`:>
y;lii ,,_
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please forward this email to the City Council and place it in the official record:
Vlembers of the City Council:
'lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the
,ensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building. As a descendant of Welwood Murray
;urrently residing in Florida, I request that you respect the integrity of the current building, its historic
Significance, importance to the community, and the spirit in which it was given to the city of Palm Springs. I
eras fortunate to have an opportunity to visit the Library a few years ago and was favorably impressed.
Nelwood Murray wished to make a lasting and positive contribution to the city that was important and dear
:o him. I hope the City will continue to respect his gift and his wishes. Thank you for your thoughtful
,onsideration of this matter.
Sincerely,
Ellen Barr
Cindx Berardi
From: Dennis May[dennisamay@gmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 7:51 PM
To: CityClerk
Cc: Hugh Wakeham; Ellen Lockert; Nelson Simmons; Diane Ross; Daryl Morrell; Kevin Naddaf;
Nina Jackson
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
To the Palm Springs City Council:
We are writing regarding the preservation and restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. We urge you to
support a sensitive restoration of this historic civic building. We ask that you oppose the unnecessary, and historically
damaging, proposed remodel of the library.
We are two of a rapidly growing number of Palm Springs residents and property owners who are dedicated to the
preservation of historic buildings in and around Palm Springs. We will be immensely disappointed and angered if the Palm
Springs City Council allows anything be done to the Welwood Murray Memorial Library that would detract from its original
appearance and design.
Dennis May
Daryl Morrell
1121 S. Paseo de Marcia
Palm Springs, CA 92264
dennisamay@gmail.com
darylmorrell@gmail.com
y
i 83
O
Cindy Berardi
From: Vincent Bartz [vhb747@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 9:55 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Remodel Project
)ear Sir or Madam:
am an owner of a mid-century home in Palm Springs. One of the reasons for purchasing a home in Palm Springs was
he on-going preservation of the historical architecture that has brought Palm Springs world recognition. To alter or
lestroy such architecture is to negate the value that historically important buildings bring to Palm Springs in terms of
purist dollars, real estate value and potential business opportunity and growth.
?lease do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
I-ibrary (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark.
lather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Thank you,
Vincent H. Bartz
84
Cindy Berardi
From: Judy Slutzky gjslutzky@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 7:58 AM
To: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Library
"ahn Springs City Council,
?lease do not support thehistorically damaging and unneccessary remodel of the Welwood.Murray Library designed by
[ohn Porter Clark. Please support the sensitive restoration of this historiccivic building..
thank you,
Ludy Slutzky
1560 Bolero Circle
3S
)2264
124 Via LIDO NORD
JEWPORT EACH, Ca
85
i 7 iszi�ni n
Cindy Berardi
From: Steve Swayze [poolside.5@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 9:02 AM r
To: CityClerk
Subject: Wellwood Murry Memorial Library
'alm Springs City Clerk,
'lease forward this email to the City Council and have it placed in the ofFical record.
`Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library
:1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark, Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this important, and
iistoric, civic building."
3incerly,
3tephen Swayze
100 W. Arenas. #1
'alm Springs, CA. 92262
88
1 1/8/2010
Cindy Berardi
From: Marilyn Hannah [marilyn_hannah@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 3:30 PM
7O: CityClerk
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
]ear Palm Springs City Clerk
live on the other side of the world in Auckland, New Zealand but have an interest in mid-century architure and have heard about
:he proposed remodelling of the Welwood Murry Memorial Library.
:'m writing to ask the Council not to support the proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library, which, from what I
lave read will be historically damaging and is unnecessary.
have quite a collection of books about Palm Springs mid-century architecture and they show some wonderful buildings but also
ist many that have been lost. For me, it is that unique architecture that defines Palms Springs and is the reason I plan to visit.
Ne have a similar situation in New Zealand where, following an earthquake in the early 20th century, the city of Napier was
eebuilt in the Art Deco style and for that reason is a destination for tourists from around the world.
'lease be kind enough to forward my email to the City Council and place it in the official record.
Many thanks and kind regards,
Marilyn Hannah
kuckland
4ew Zealand
Cindy Berardi
From: vapdep [vapdep@aol.com]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 4:20 PM
To: CityClerk
6 dJ0
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please forward this to the City Council,
Fo Whom it may concern, We are very concerned on the restoration of this historic building. We are not in support of
:he remodeling of this building that in any way would be damaging to this structure. It should be perserved as it was in
1940. Any deviation of this does not have our support and should be stopped. Vickie Pruter.
88
-o
Cindy Berardi
From: Caroline Gooden [cmjgood@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, November 08, 2010 6:01 PM
To: Cit Clerk
Y
Cc: Sally James
Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Please forward this email to the City Council and place it in the official record; thank you.
Members of the City Council:
I am writing to urge you to support the sensitive restoration of the Welwood Murray library,
consistent with his original wishes and design for perpetuity, and not as proposed by Clark architects.
As a descendant of Welwood Murray, I request that you respect the integrity of the current building,
its historic and community significance, and the spirit in which it was given to the city of Palm Springs.
Welwood Murray wished to make a positive contribution to the city that was important to him. I hope
the City will continue to respect his gift and his wishes, and not support Clark's renovation design.
Thank you for your careful consideration of this matter.
Sincerely,
Caroline Gooden, Lexington, KY
C'
7 i in��ni n
L
City of Palm Springs
Palm Springs Public Library
* * 300 South Sunrise Way•Palm Springs, California 92262-7699
Tel: (760)323-READ • Fax: (760)320-9834•Web: http://www.palmspringslibrary.org
cp<rFoRN�P
November 5, 2010
Board of Library Trustees Mayor Steve Pougnet,
Councilmember Ginny Foat, Councilmember Rick Hutcheson,
David L. Gray Councilmember Chris Mills & Councilmember Lee Weigel
President
City of Palm Springs
Donna Chabon 3200 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
President Pro Tern
Mark J. Zacovic Dear Mayor Pougnet and City Council members:
Treasurer
Anthony F,llerd Since late 2008, the Palm Springs Board of Library Trustees has been planning a
Trustee new service program to reintegrate the Welwood Murray Memorial Library into
Bruce Meloud the.Palm Springs library system. It was, and still is, the Board's hope that the
Trustee repurposed and renovated Welwood. Murray Memorial Library branch will act as
a community focal point in the downtown corridor. We envision this iconic City
landmark as the nexus for residents, the business community, tourists and culture
seekers alike, by providing a handicapped-accessible and updated space for
community events and gathering, connectivity to information, and the first stop
for news and tourist information.
In support of this project, at its regularly scheduled Board Meeting on Friday,
February 26, 2010, in a unanimous vote, the Palm Springs Public Library Board
of Library Trustees voted to "approve a budget of$800,000 from the Library
Trust Fund for the FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) of the Welwood
Murray Library project."
We are very excited by this opportunity to work with the City on this project, and
urge the City Council to vote to proceed with the project as currently designed
and envisioned. To that end, the Board at its most recent regularly-scheduled
board meeting on Friday, October 29, 2010, once again"expressed its support of
the Welwood Murray Library project as designed, and reaffirmed its commitment
of$800,000 of Trust Funds to the project."
Sincerely,
David L. Gray
President
Cc: Barbara Roberts
90
PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Cindy Berardi
From: InsideOutsidelnc@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, November09, 2010 1:35 PM
To: CityClerk
Subject: WelwoodMurray Memorial Library
Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood
Murray Memorial Library (1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support
the sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
Please forward this to the City Council and put in the official record.
thank you,
William Kopelk
91
Cindy Berardi
From: Sally James [sallyjames@juno.com]
Sent: Sunday, November 07, 2010 3:32 PM
To: CityClerk c .l `6 ; i U
Hello. My name is Sara James, and I am a descendant of Welwood Murray, residing in Crozet Virginia.
I have been following the proceedings concerning the remodeling project of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library in Palm
Springs. It is with great concern that I request that you please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging,
proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library(1940) designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask
that you support a sensitive restoration of this important, and historic, civic building.
I would further ask that this email be forwarded to the city council and placed in official record.
Thank you.
Sara James
Cindy Berardi
From: Carol Leibowitz[leibowitz c@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, November 05, 2010 4:39 PM
To: CityClerk
Please forward this email to the Palm Springs City Council and ask them to`place it in the public record.
"Please do not support the unnecessary, and historically-damaging, proposed remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial
Library(1940)designed by architect John Porter Clark. Rather, I ask that you support the sensitive restoration of this
important, and historic, civic building."
Carol Leibowitz
1 4. v
Pam Spacings
ECDAA0
November 10, 2010
Palm Springs City Council
3400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Re: Welwood Murray Library
Dear City Council Members:
Palm Springs Economic Development Corporation (PSEDC) is concerned about the fate of the Welwood
Murray Library as it relates to the economic well being of downtown Palm Springs. Our Board of
Directors feels the Library is an important asset to our downtown especially since it is located on one of
the most important pieces of real estate in the city. Given its location, the Library has the opportunity to
enhance the future of our downtown area by creating an updated gathering place for Palm Springs area
residents, the business community and tourists.
According to the deed documents, the building must be used for library purposes, or the building will
revert to the Welwood heirs. Previous attempts to have non-city tenants run the library have not been
successful.
It is our understanding the City of Palm Springs has asked the City Library Board to assume the
management of the facility and we feel that is a good decision. The Library Board, along with the City's
Welwood Murray Memorial Library Subcommittee, has determined that in order to successfully manage
the facility, the interior must be completely reconfigured and the original porches that were cement
blocked-in during the 1950's must be replaced with a modern structure, while completely retaining the
external elements of the original structure. It also must accommodate modern library services, including
new technologies.
The committed Trust Funds of$800,000 by the Palm Springs Board of Library Trustees for the remodel
provide a win-win situation for the City of Palm Springs as renovating this building will bring resurgence to
this important corner of our downtown corridor.
In conclusion, PSEDC's Board of Directors supports the Library Board in its intent to operate the
Welwood Murray Library as a modern library facility, including complete internal renovation and
replacement of the 1950's add on with modern elements. We recommend the Council approve the
proposed remodel.
Respectfully,
c�
Lyndon T. Calerdine
President
Palm Springs Economic Development Corporation
"To identify and advocate quality economic development for the greater Palm Springs area"
P.O. Box 3205 - Palm Springs, CA 92262 - 760-325-1625 - psedc@psedc.com