Meeting Schedules, Agendas & Minutes

City of Cape May Historic Preservation Commission

Meeting Minutes

Monday, April 26, 2010

Opening: The regular meeting of the City of Cape May Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Board Chairperson Maryann Gaffney at 6:30 PM. In Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act, adequate notice of this meeting was provided.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Roll Call: Mrs. Gaffney Chairperson Present

Mr. Carroll Present

Mr. Clemans Present

Mr. Cogswell Vice Chairperson Present

Mr. Coupland Present

Vacant

Mr. Masemore Alt. 1 Absent

Mr. Fontaine Alt. 2 Present

Also Present: Edie Kopsitz, Secretary

Robert Fineberg, Esquire – Commission Solicitor

Minutes: February 22, 2010

March 15, 2010

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell for the approval of the Meeting minutes of February 22, 2010. Seconded by Mr. Clemans and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell for the approval of the Meeting minutes of March 15, 2010, 2010. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Resolutions:

DiUbaldi, 537 Bank Street, 1054/26 & 27 – Resolution #2010-09

Gilroy, 918 Kearny Avenue, 1082/2 & 3- Resolution #2010-10

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell for the approval of Resolutions #2010-09 & #2010-10. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Applications approved in Review:

Crossed, 915 Beach Avenue, 1081/20, Contributing/HD, Siding

Tiburzio, 923 Washington Street, 1094/11, Not in Survey/HD, Roof

Livingston, 1017 New Jersey, 1102/50, Contributing/HD, Siding

Capozzi, 26 Gurney Street, 1056/7, Key/HD, AC Units

Williams, 915 Washington Street, 1094/27, Contributing/HD, Shed Replacement

Fuller, 810 Dale Place, 1092/32, Not in Survey/HD, Roof

Calandrello, 223 North Street, 1031/41, Contributing/HD, Roof

Gilbert (Primo Hoagies), 605 Lafayette Street, 1060/32, Not in Survey/HD, Signage

Meyers, 1112 Washington Street, 1110/15, Contributing/HD, Window

Wilkinson, 913 Madison Avenue, 1111/13, Contributing/HD, Fence

Gulish, 1125 Washington Street, 1113/29 C-2, Not in Survey, Rear Stairs/Entry

McBride, 641 Hughes Street, 1058/22, Contributing/HD, Roof

Swain, 1207 Lafayette Street, 1061/82, Not in Survey, Porch Roof/Siding

Souder, 1158 Washington Street, 1113/18, Not in Survey/HD, Roof

Klink, 220 North Street, 1030/6, Contributing/HD, Roof

Duffy, 920 Benton Avenue, 1083/6, Contributing/HD, Decking

The Summer Cottage, 613 Columbia Avenue, 1057/21, Contributing/HD, Roof

Bailey/Ciro, 656 Washington Street, 1058/2, Key/HD, Sign (Window)

Kramer, 325 Washington Street, 1037/2, Non-Contributing/HD, Signs & Awnings

Brown, 717 Washington Street, 1079/2, Contributing/HD, Garage Roof

Goldstein, 1021 Washington Street, 1112/6, Contributing/HD, Paver color change

Schraff, 1012 Maryland Avenue, 1103/8,9 &10, Non-Contributing/HD, Fence change

Glasser, 706 Columbia Avenue, 1071/2, Contributing/HD, Roof

Spriggs, 931 Sewell Avenue, 1089/41, Contributing/HD, Repair Stairs/Decking

Tay-Mor, LLC, 1034 Lafayette Street, 1112/6,Non- Contributing/HD, Lighting

Motion made by Mr. Clemans for the approval of applications approved in review. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: Mr. Coupland on Meyers.

OLD BUSINESS:

SMITH…………………………………………………….112 QUEEN STREET

NEW EVIDENCE/RENOVATIONS – BLK 1082 LOT 11 (NON CONTRIBUTING –HD)

A letter to was faxed to the Commission’s Secretary Edie Kopsitz after office hours this evening from the applicant. Mrs. Kopsitz gave a copy of the letter to the Commission Attorney for direction. The letter stated they could not attend and delved into other issues. Mrs. Kopsitz was instructed to contact the applicant and state why they had to appear before the Full Board.

NEW BUSINESS:

CELIO…………………………………………………………………..120 DECATUR STREET

ADDITIONS/RENOVATIONS - BLK 1041 LOT 7 (CONTRIBUTING – HD)

Louis Dwyer, Esquire representing the applicants Lee and Kathleen Celio were present. Stephen Fenwick, project Architect. Mr. Dwyer’s presented the application the application at the March 22^,2010 meeting at which time it was tabled to research the Sanborn maps. He stated they researched the maps and concur the porch was part of the structure but the applicant still are requesting to move forward with the original application. Mr. Dwyer continued stating the applicants are requesting to remove a portion of the side existing porch to allow parking in the side yard that would be screened by a wooden gate and landscaped. The property contains Queen Anne and Colonial Revival features as stated on the 1993 survey. Mr. Dwyer described per the Design Standards on pages 34 & 40 definitions of porches for both Styles and debated the terminology. His applicants do not have on site parking and find this a hardship. The side yard parking would not be entirely visible from the street and contends this will blend in with the streetscape. Mr. Dwyer stated that an approval for 513 Hughes Street was granted in 2001 by the Commission by Resolution #2001-42 for removal of a portion of a porch with similarities as this application. Mr. Fenwick referred to his plans dated January 1, 2010, which included the ground floor, front elevation, left elevation, material list and streetscape photographs. Mr. Fenwick described the current porch as enclosed, he contends the porch is original with the structure but is not in balance with the structure and stated the renovation would open the front porch creating more air, light and open space and make the house symmetrical. Mr. Fenwick clarified the materials of the porch; Railings – wood to match existing, Driveway - brick & grass pavers and the Gate – wood to match existing features.

Members were in unison on the porch being retained due to the Design Standards they adhere to and cited page 7. Original elements should be retained on a Key/Contributing structure and to do so would violate the Design Standard and the significance of the Contributing structure. Members stated the side yard parking would be visible even though the applicant introduced the gate and landscaping and is not appropriate citing page 64 of the Design Standards. Members did state that the City is working on alternative to provide more parking within the City and understand the situation of the applicant. Members discussed the undersize lot and stated side yard parking would not be appropriate. They encourage the applicant to open the porch and create more light, air and open space. Members all concurred that allowing approval of this application would set precedence and were very sympathetic to applicant with regard to the lack of parking.

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell that the application be approved as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and was denied 6-0. Those in favor: None. Those opposed: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those abstaining: None.

All members voiced their reasons for their negative vote.

CONWAY……………………………………………………………..28 FIRST AVENUE

FINAL/FENCING - BLK 1017 LOT 6 (NON CONTRIBUTING – HD)

Louis Dwyer, Esquire representing the applicants William and Virginia (Ginger) Conway were present. Professional Stephen Fenwick, project Architect was present for questions. Mr. Dwyer gave a brief history on the application of the new construction stating they gave approval for an ornamental iron fence around the pool and house by Resolution #2009-50. Mr. Dwyer explained the Zoning Board is adamant on a six (6) wood fence surrounding the majority of rear of the house and a four (4) foot wood picket fence around the pool to the garage area. Plans dated July 1, 2009 with revisions dates of October 1, 2009, November 2, 2009, February 19, 2010 and April 9, 2010 by Engineering Design Associates, PA were perused by the membership with the applicant Ginger Conway clarifying the fencing questions. The picket fence would be a wooden straight lined.

Members were afforded time for questions and were positive on the application. They complemented the applicant on there structure and apologized for all the Board bouncing they have occurred. Members requested a catalog cut be submitted to the Review Committee and indicated the plans depicted a double sided six (6) foot wood fence.

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell to approve the application as submitted pending receiving a catalog cut of both fences for the Review Committee. The catalog cuts must indicate the fence is double sided. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney . Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

WATTERS…………………………………………………..1218 NEW YORK AVENUE

ADDITIONS/RENOVATIONS - BLK 1131 LOT 11 & 12 (CONTRIBUTING – HD)

Fern Watters, owner was present along with her professional Paul Bergin, General Contractor. She stated they are proposing on the rear of the property to enclose porch, using some of the existing windows for side elevation and new windows (wood Jeldwen) on the remainder, cedar shake siding to match existing, build a new deck with stairs with decking all wood and an outside shower enclosure with cedar shake interior. Plans submitted by John L. Downs, Architect dated February 25, 2010 with the Site Plan (S-1), foundation Plan (A-1), First Floor Plan (A-2), West, East and South Elevations (A4 – A6), Sections (A-7) and the General Notes.

Members were positive and complimentary of the application. Chairperson Gaffney clarified that the plans indicated Anderson Windows and the application does indicate Jeldwen, she is requesting the plans be revised to indicate the Jeldwen wood windows and the owner agreed to submit the revised plans. The plans can be submitted to the Review Committee.

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell to approve the application as submitted with the understanding that the Architect will change sheet A-1 to reflect the windows are Jeldwen Wood windows and not Andersen as indicated on the submitted Plans. Seconded by Mr. Carroll and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

TESSIER………………………………………………………….436 W. PERRY STREET

ADDITIONS/RENOVATIONS - BLK 1031 LOT 9 (CONTRIBUTING – HD)

Edmund Tessier, owner was present. The applicant is requesting to enclose his front with removable screen panels, relocated two porch post and repair the porch floorboards. The property faces the marshland and has a problem with insects limiting the family of the front porch use. The members perused drawings by the owner and a photograph of a property at 426 West Perry Street that has a similar porch.

Members were positive on the application understanding the owner’s reasons for a screened porch. Members felt the submitted design reflect a ranch style addition and debated the issue of the curved (arched) facia and brackets at length. The majority of the members requested the owner redo the design of screen frames and brackets to depict the Gothic revival architectural style. All concurred the revised drawings can be submitted to the Review Committee.

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell to approve the application as submitted subject to design of a bracket to enhance the look of screening to be submitted to the Review Committee. Seconded by Mr. Clemans and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Open to Public.

Carol Hartman of Cape May wanted to convey to the membership that she commends what they do to protect the Historical Houses in District.

Discussion: 2009 Historic Preservation Awards

Chairperson Gaffney updated the membership regarding the Awards and requested members to submit their requests. There are five (5) tiles designed by Susan Ross ready for the ceremony, which is scheduled Monday, May 24, 2010 at 6:30pm at the Regular Meeting. She also informed the members of an e-mail she received from Andrea Tingey, State of New Jersey HPC regarding PODS, she will forward to the Commission Members. Ms. Gaffney informed the membership on the Status of Surveys with regards to the City Manager understanding of the process and we will wait for Mr. MacLeod response regarding the delay. The Lighthouse Lantern structures (two) on the bridge and the Gas Lights at the Gateway into Cape May were discussed at length with the membership in agreement that a requesting a Resolution directed to City Council addressing the Commission concerns and instructed Mr. Fineberg to proceed. Mr. Carroll informed the Commission of the Design Review Committee the City has implemented. Mrs. Gaffney informed the members of her discussion with the City Manager regarding the vinyl railing systems on the promenade as previously discussed. Mr. MacLeod stated in the future they will confer with Historic Commission and wanted to know other materials acceptable, Mrs. Gaffney informed him of powder coated aluminum as mentioned by Mr. Cogswell that was used on the Capri Hotel.

Motion by Mr. Carroll to pass a Resolution that indicates we respectfully requests the City to remove the Lighthouse Lantern elements from the Gateway project and lower the Gas Lights and we indicate our willingness to serve as an advisory board to work on a regular basis to the City to conduct design review for all future projects. Seconded by Mr. Fontaine and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Closed Session: Pending Legal Matter

Motion made by Mr. Cogswell to go into closed session at 8:17pm. Seconded by Mr. Fontaine and carried 6-0. Those in favor: Mr. Carroll, Mr. Coupland, Mr. Cogswell, Mr. Clemans, Mr. Fontaine and Mrs. Gaffney. Those opposed: None. Those abstaining: None.

Members returned from closed session at 8:44pm.

Motion to adjourn made by Mr. Clemans with all in favor at 8:45 pm.

Respectfully submitted: Edie Kopsitz – Secretary