HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Historic Preservation Committee 02-27-2006CITY OF PALM DESERT
BUILDING & SAFETY DEPARTMENT
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
To: Rachelle Kla sen, City Clerk
From: Mary l*,ministrative Secretary
Date: April 26, 2006
Subject: Submission of Approved Minutes for the Historic Preservation
Committee Meeting February 27, 2006
Attached is a copy of February 27, 2006 minutes of the Historic Preservation Committee
approved by the Committee on March 27, 2006. Please include on the next City
Council agenda.
Thank you
Attachment
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CITY OF PALM DESERT
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
MINUTES
FEBRUARY 27, 2006
Council Chambers
I. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Kent Routh called the meeting of the Historic Preservation Committee to
order at 10:02 a.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present: Absent:
Bonnie Bowie
Gale Broeker
Jan Holmlund
Kim Housken
Bob Pitchford
Kent Routh
Jim West
Vera Handley (alternate)
Also Present:
Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building and Safety
Hal Rover, President Historical Society
Mary Clark, Recording Secretary
III. SWEARING IN OF NEW MEMBER — Rachelle Klassen, City Clerk, swore in Gale
Broeker, a new member to the Historic Preservation Committee.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Committee Member Jan Holmlund moved to accept the minutes of the January
30, 2006 meeting with the corrections noted on Pages 2, 4, and 6. Committee
Member Bonnie Bowie seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved
7-0.
V. CONTINUED ITEMS
A. Palm Desert Lodge, Case No. HP 06-01 — Voting on recommendation to
City Council for historic classification/designation. Chair Kent Routh
indicated that a motion was needed to approve the Staff Report.
Motion #1: Committee Member Jan Holmlund moved that the property
located 74527 Highway 111, Palm Desert, California —Palm Desert Lodge
be recognized under Paragraph 29.05.020 Definitions as #7 of historic
interest to the City. Ms. Holmlund quoted that definition "it has yielded or
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
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may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history
or prehistory." In addition, that it also fits under Paragraph 29.05.125
Created by Council. on Page 3 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance as
Class 6. "Site qualified for designation at the federal, state, county and city
level. An archive will be maintained. Site is eligible for a six month stay of
demolition. Site is eligible for plaquing. Usage may be limited by the City
Council. Eligible for review at any regularly scheduled meeting of the
Board."
Committee Member Bob Pitchford seconded the motion.
Discussion:
Committee Member Jan Holmlund said that she would like to explain the motion.
She said that her first thought was to list it as a Class 5 as more was learned
about the structure and about what was happening along Hwy. 111, which is very
limited information. Ms. Holmlund indicated that she became concerned that the
Committee did not have the kind of information that might create an irreversible
decision since this is the only structure of its kind left on Hwy. 111, which offers a
glimpse of history into the City that is not available elsewhere on Hwy. 111. Ms.
Holmlund's concern is that the destruction and the results of destruction are
irreversible and social policy should err on the side of refraining from such activity.
Committee Member Jim West said that as a talking point on Palm Desert Lodge,
74527 Highway 111. "It is moved that the property located at 74527 Highway 111
does meet the requirements for historic site as defined in Section 29.05.020 in
City Ordinance No. 401. Specifically this site reflects a particular period in local
history. This would be that of lodging as a tourist destination in the newly formed
area of Palm Desert. This site also represents a distinctive type of construction.
This would be that of the vernacular roadside architecture of the motor motel. It is
further moved that this site be designated as a Class 5 as defined by Section
29.05.125 in City Ordinance No. 401. In presenting this recommendation to City
Council this Committee suggests that a complete professional photographic
documentation be made of this property with both exterior and interior views
represented. This should be added to measured site drawings and maintained in
a City archive. It is also recommended that in the event that the owner should
ever decide to cease the operation of this facility that every reasonable effort is
made for adaptive reuse of this property and/or select features (such as the neon
street sign, light fixtures)." Mr. West indicated that this is a slightly different
proposal and understands that it is not on the floor because a motion has been
submitted and seconded, but is entering it for discussion.
Vote: Chair Kent Routh asked for a vote on the motion to designate as a Class 6.
Motion #1 failed with 5 NO votes and 2 YES votes.
Motion #2: Committee Member Jim West presented the following motion.
"It is moved that the property located at 74527 Highway 111 does meet the
requirements for historic site as defined in Section 29.05.020 in City Ordinance
No. 401. Specifically this site reflects a particular period in local history. This
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would be that of lodging as a tourist destination in the newly formed area of Palm
Desert. This site also represents a distinctive type of construction. This would be
that of the vernacular roadside architecture of the motor motel. It is further moved
that this site be designated as a Class 5 as defined by Section 29.05.125 in City
Ordinance No. 401. In presenting this recommendation to City Council this
Committee suggests that a complete professional photographic documentation be
made of this property with both exterior and interior views represented. This
should be added to measured site drawings and maintained in a City archive. It is
also recommended that in the event that the owner should ever decide to cease
the operation of this facility that every reasonable effort is made for adaptive reuse
of this property and/or select features (such as the neon street sign, light fixtures)."
Vote: Committee Member Kim Housken seconded the motion. Motion #2
received a unanimous vote 7-0 in favor.
Discussion:
Committee Member Jan Holmlund said that she would like to amend the motion.
She felt it would be very helpful if this item went to the scenic design group of the
City for scenic preservation overlay review. To make sure when and where
possible this particular property is treated with environmental respect. At the
present time there are grass and trees there, which are very beneficial to the
entire look of Highway 111, and she would second the importance of the
photographic file, etc but would like to add to that to amend the motion that this go
to the scenic preservation overlay ordinance and that the Commission that
overlooks that for preservation of scenic vistas, setbacks, landscaping, building
height, and signs. Ms. Holmlund indicated as part of the package that would be
forwarded to City Council, she would also like information attached from that
Commission to give some guidance for that property for future use.
Committee Member Jim West asked if Ms. Holmlund was submitting this as a
separate motion? Ms. Holmlund indicated that she wanted it as an addendum.
Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building and Safety, pointed out that there is a
process already in place in the City should there be any other use of the property,
new buildings, and/or new construction.
Motion #3: Committee Member Jan Holmlund moved "that the recommendation
that this Committee makes to the City Council carry comments from the Scenic
Preservation Commission vis-a-vis the preservation of scenic vistas, setbacks,
landscaping, building heights, signs, and the mitigation of its excessive noise
impacts along with our recommendation."
Discussion:
John Criste of Terra Nova Planning, representing the owner, commented that the
City General Plan provides for a process for the review of any proposed change in
land use. The City General Plan has a community design element that the
Architectural Review Committee, Planning Commission, and the City Council are
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
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to take into consideration when they review any kind of change including
setbacks, landscaping, aesthetic issues, and others come into play.
Committee Member Jan Holmlund said that under Section 29.05.020 Definitions.
A and B, Historic District: "Any area of the City of Palm Desert containing a
number of structures, natural features or sites having historic architectural,
archaeological, cultural or aesthetic significance and designated as an historic
district under the provisions of this chapter." And an Historic Site: An historic site
is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including not limited to
archways; an archeological excavation or object that is unique or significant
because of its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect
and:...". Ms. Holmlund indicated that the Committee does have an interest and an
obligation to look at the environment that is being changed, and it is important that
the City Council recognize that with this recommendation to Class 5 that the
Committee is not considering adaptive reuse. The Committee is considering
destruction of the site, and the City Council needs to know that includes not only
the structures on the site but the environment of the site. Ms. Holmlund indicated
that she would like to have a page attached that says that someone who looks at
the scenic environment of the City has looked at this property and is allowed to
make their comments on it.
Tom Slovak, Attorney representing the owner, commented that the new motion on
the floor would place restrictions on the property that would prevent the owner
from going forward and demolishing the property and using it as it was hoped. Mr.
Slovak indicated that since the last meeting another sale was lost. The property is
unmarketable, and he felt the amendment would keep it unmarketable. Mr. Slovak
pointed out that the City has a detailed process in place to address future use of
the property and asked that this item go forward without the amendment.
Joan Swanson, resident on Deep Canyon for 30 years, indicated she would like
the environmental and noise impact issues addressed because Deep Canyon in
South Palm Desert already experiences heavy traffic and noise. She indicated
that any future use of the property should be compatible with the neighborhood.
Committee Member Kim Housken suggested that wording be added recognizing
that the property is located within the scenic preservation overlay.
Committee Member Jan Holmlund indicated that would be fine but wanted it to be
certain that City Council received that information in a way that is really obvious to
them and that the environment of that site is being changed should a certificate of
demolition be given.
Committee Member Jim West commented that in the motion that passed the
wording interior and exterior documentation could include the entire site of what
was would include the environment, and could include videotaping.
Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building and Safety, pointed out that when a new
project goes through the City, noise and traffic studies are conducted. However, if
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the Historic Preservation Committee wants to recommend to City Council
additional items that is their prerogative.
Vote: Motion #3 failed 6 NO votes and 1 YES vote. Committee Member Bonnie
Bowie indicated she voted NO because the additional motion was redundant. The
City already has processes in place.
B. Joint Venture with Palm Desert Historical Society and Historic
Preservation Committee regarding recognition for historic remodeling.
Chair Kent Routh said that he received information from the City of Sonoma.
He indicated that what is being proposed is some sort of recognition for
persons or entities that have gone into remodeling or restoration that is in
keeping with the Committee's view on historic preservation. The purpose is to
create public interest.
Committee Member Jim West noted for the record that annually the
organization PS Modcom awards exactly that kind of award to both residential
and commercial structures, so they basically recognize business owners who
maintain properties and residences. One of the awards presented last year
was in Palm Desert, which was the addition to the church on Highway 74. Mr.
West suggested that the Committee talk to them about the nomination
process.
Chair Kent Routh suggested that publicity could be done on the City of Palm
Desert web site, newsletter, and local newspapers. Committee Member Gale
Broeker asked if the City of Ventura model could be looked at as well as any
other California models. Chair Kent Routh asked that this item be placed on
the March agenda. Committee Member Kim Housken suggested that City staff
could assimilate programs from other cities. Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of
Building and Safety, said yes.
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
A. CHAIR REPORT — Kent Routh
1. Chair Kent Routh said that he had hoped that they could discuss adoption
of the Mills Act to the City Council but it was not included on this agenda.
Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building and Safety, indicated that he plans
to put this item on a future City Council agenda. Committee Member Jan
Holmlund said that the Historic Preservation Committee need to be on
record as voting positively that this be presented to City Council. This
item will be placed on the March agenda.
2. Chair Kent Routh complimented Committee Members Jim West and Kim
Housken for their participation and influence in the film shown at the Palm
Springs Museum, Desert Utopia. Committee Member Kim Housken said
that the film might be shown again in a month because it was sold out.
Committee Member Jim West indicated that there was discussion that the
film might be expanded and a possible multi -part presentation on PBS.
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
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Committee Member Jan Holmlund said she spoke with the film Director
and asked if it could be shown down valley, and he indicated he thought it
would be possible.
3. Hal Rover, President Historical Society, said that on behalf of the
Historical Society they are thrilled with all of the work that has been done
by the Committee and wanted to commend each member.
B. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Member Jim West discussed the City's tour book that is going
to be published, which will include public art pieces and a sampling of
architecture in the City of Palm Desert. Richard Twedt, Public Arts
Manager, asked Mr. West to mention that that process is firming up, and
Mr. West is reviewing a map of the architecture sites.
2. Ordinance Subcommittee "Draft of Ordinance Interest List" -- Committee
Member Jan Holmlund asked the Committee if there were any additions or
changes to the draft list. Committee Member Kim Housken said that the
list was very inclusive. She indicated that at this time the Committee is
advisory and she wondered if there were plans to change that. Ms.
Holmlund indicated it is a recommendation that the Committee needs to
make if they want it changed, and a point that should be added when it
goes out to the consultant.
C. INDIVIDUAL COMMITTEE MEMBER REPORTS
1. Committee Bob Pitchford discussed old photographs of the early years of
the City. They were circulated for the Committee members to view.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
A. Report on Request for Consultant — Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building
and Safety, indicated that a couple of the consultants that are being
considered are on the City's new consultant list. He said that he has
contacted them and the next step would be determining a time for them to
begin. Chair Kent Routh asked that this item be placed on the March agenda
for update.
B. College of the Desert Campus Changes — Committee Member Kim
Housken provided a visual presentation of the C.O.D. proposed new buildings
and buildings that are going to be demolished. Ms. Housken indicated that
they are going to eliminate two of the original buildings; one is the
Registration Building and the other is an outer building, originally a technology
building. She said that she wrote a response to the EIR with four comments
one being the Velma Dawson house not being identified on the 1981 list, and
received a comment back. The EIR is being changed to read: The Historical
Society of Palm Desert identifies the Velma Dawson house constructed in
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1948 and previously known as the Odell Ranch House as a historical site and
the 1981 Riverside County Historical Commission identifies the house as a
recorded historical site. Ms. Housken said that her letter was written as a
concerned citizen, and she is looking for direction on how to proceed. The
architects for the Registration Building, Building #5 (formerly student center)
was Frey and Chambers. The architect for the smaller outer building, which
was originally the technology building, was Wexler and Harrison. Committee
Member Jim West indicated that there are original plans of the campus that
are maintained in the Building and Maintenance Department of C.O.D. and
suggested that the City of Palm Desert should have copies of the plans as a
resource. Chair Kent Routh asked Committee Member Kim Housken to be
the official representative of the Historic Preservation Committee at the next
C.O.D. meeting on March 21, 2006, and that this item appears again on the
Committee's March agenda.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Committee Member Jan Holmlund provided a copy of a dated list titled
Helginq Hands, which lists organizations as resources for historic
preservation to each Committee Member.
B. Committee Member Jim West said that an item that came up at their
workshop was that when realtors sell a property they are referring to them as
historic, and one in particular on Hedgehog referred to Walter White and how
important the building was. He indicated this means that the Committee is
getting the knowledge out to the right people and he felt that is a positive sign.
C. Committee Member Kim Housken commented that when the Committee
receives letters from people concerned about things going on with the
Committee and begin referring to the designation of historic properties as a
taking of property, she found it offensive. For the record, she did research and
historically the courts have sided with historic preservation, and they do not
consider it a taking of property.
D. There was discussion and the Committee decided to hold monthly workshop
meetings the third Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m. and asked that Staff
find a meeting room they can use on a monthly basis. The next workshop
meeting will be Friday, March 17, 2006.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
None
X. CONFIRM NEXT MEETING DATE AND ADJOURN
The Historic Preservation Committee's next meeting is Monday, March 27, 2006,
10:00 a.m., Administrative Conference Room.
Chair Kent Routh adjourned the meeting at 11:35 a.m.
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