The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Historic District Commission
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www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Historic District Commission |
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Disclaimer: While we have attempted to reproduce them accurately, the electronic documents you see here are not the official public documents. Official copies may be obtained on paper from theTown Clerk . Also note that minutes of recent meetings are often not yet approved by the Commission, and are subject to correction.
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April 21 •March 17 •February 11 •January 14 •Previous years: 2007 • 2006 • 2005 • 2004 • 2003 • 2002
Posted: May 1, 2008 April 21, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Chute, Mr. Smith, Mr. Talbot
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ms. Gilchrist
ALTERNATES PRESENT: Mrs. Boyer, Mrs. Rives
ALTERNATES ABSENT: Mrs. Mills
STAFF PRESENT: Mrs. Shade
OTHERS PRESENT: Ms. Peters, Mr. DiBenedetto, Mr. Krivicky, Mrs. Crumrine
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Laffont /128 Calhoun Street /Tennis court
Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing at 7:35PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Dominique and Frederic Laffont, 128 Calhoun Street, to install a clay tennis court. He read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 4/13/08. Mr. Smith seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Boyer for Ms. Gilchrist. Ms. Andrea Peters from Tittmann Design & Consulting represented the applicants.
The members looked at the site plan, tennis court plans and photos which were submitted with the application. Ms. Peters said she did not think the tennis court would be visible from the road. Mr. Talbot asked if any lighting was planned for the tennis court. No.
Mrs. Boyer, Mr. Chute, Mrs. Rives and Mr. Smith each said they had been to the site, and from the road could not see the stakes which had been placed at each corner of the proposed court.
Mr. Talbot said he thought the tennis court would be masked by the house that's already there, but he would like to go have a look for himself and recommended they continue the Public Hearing.
Mrs. Boyer said she would also like to wait until Mr. Talbot has an opportunity to check out the tennis court. All agreed. Mr. Talbot further noted that if the commission does approve the tennis court, he would like to stipulate in the C of A that the court have no lighting.
Mr. Smith asked if there were any additional questions or comments. There were none. There was no one else present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/7/08 by Dominique and Frederic Laffont, 128 Calhoun Street, to install a clay tennis court surrounded by a fence constructed of 10ft tall cedar posts and black vinyl chain link fencing. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 5-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 7:45PM.
DiBenedetto /214 Calhoun Street /Revise barn location
Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing at 7:46PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Anthony and Eileen DiBenedetto, 214 Calhoun Street, to revise the location of the utility barn. He read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 4/13/08. Mr. Smith seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Boyer for Ms. Gilchrist. Mr. DiBenedetto was present.
Mr. DiBenedetto set up a large site plan for the discussion and submitted an identical smaller one for the record(marked rec'd 4/21/08). He stated that due to wetlands on the property he would like to move the barn from the location that was previously approved by the Commission on 11/13/07.
Mr. Talbot: Does the barn have a different shape?
Mr. DiBenedetto: No, it is just reoriented - the barn is the same.
Mr. Talbot: So, it is a mirror image?
Mr. DiBenedetto: Yes.
Mr. Talbot: So we are just talking about siting - not the barn itself?
Mr. DiBenedetto: Yes.
The members asked Mr. DiBenedetto if he intended to use the same access road off Calhoun Street as discussed in the previous application. He replied that the access road is the same and drew a line on the site plan showing the access road to the new location. He said this change in location for the utility barn eliminates any Inland-Wetlands problems for them.
Mr. Smith asked if there were any additional questions or comments. There were none. There was no one else present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/7/08 by Anthony and Eileen DiBenedetto, 214 Calhoun Street, to revise the location of the utility barn, previously approved on 11/13/07. By Mrs. Boyer, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 5-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 8:00PM.
Mostajo - Schein /2 Wykeham Road /Stone wall
Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing at 8:03PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Maria Mostajo and Mark Schein, 2 Wykeham Road, to build a stone wall. He read the legal notice which appeared in voices on 4/13/08. Mr. Smith seated the members, Alternate Rives and Alternate Boyer for Ms. Gilchrist. Mr. Allen Krivicky, their Contractor, represented the applicants.
The members discussed the site plan submitted with the application and a photo brought by Mr. Krivicky(marked rec'd 4/21/08). He apologized for the photo not being very clear due to his broken printer. Mr. Krivicky stated the stone wall will be made from stone on the property. It will not be a 'perfect' wall, and will be less than three feet tall. It is to be a continuation of an existing stone wall. Mr. Smith said, for the record, the Commission needs a clear description of what the wall will look like.
Mrs. Rives said she drove by the property and could not see the stakes in the ground. Mr. Smith said he could not see them either.
Mr. Talbot asked the status of the spa. Mr. Krivicky said they are just removing rock now. The spa will not be visible from a public way. Mr. Talbot asked the other members if they remember approving a split rail fence for 2 Wykeham Road. Mr. Krivicky noted that fence is on a neighbor's property.
Mr. Smith asked if there were any additional questions or comments. He stated that a stipulation should be made in the approval that a final photo is needed for the file. There was no one else present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/8/08 by Maria Mostajo and Mark Schein, 2 Wykeham Road, to build a stone wall. By Mrs. Boyer, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 5-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 8:11PM.
Washington Club /92 Green Hill Road /Sign on building
Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing at 8:12PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by the Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to install the original sign back on the building. He read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 4/13/08. Mr. Smith seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Boyer for Ms. Gilchrist. No one was present for the Washington Club.
Mr. Smith read an e-mail from Ann M. Burton, member and letters from Peter Arturi, Club President, George M. Auchincloss, member and Susan Payne, member. All were in favor of this application. These letters are in the applicant file and a copy filed with these minutes.
Mrs. Rives said she would like to know when the sign was on the building, how long it was there and why it was taken down. She said it does not fit. Mrs. Boyer noted it was not there in the fifties. Mr. Talbot said it could have been mounted temporarily. He thinks it is important to find out the provenance of the sign. He added billboards could be put on the panels at either side of the doors.
Mrs. Boyer said she has a problem because the sign is so big. The Gunnery signs are not so large. She said she likes Mr. Talbot's thought regarding the provenance of this sign. Mr. Chute agreed - we don't like the sign, but we should know if it has historical significance. Mrs. Rives said she does not think the sign is appropriate.
Mr. Smith asked if there were any additional questions or comments. There were none. No one else was present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 3/25/08 by The Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road to install the original wooden sign back on the building. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 5-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 8:20PM.
REGULAR MEETING
Mr. Smith called the meeting to order at 8:23PM and seated the members, Alternate Rives and Alternate Boyer for Ms. Gilchrist.
Laffont /128 Calhoun Street /Tennis court
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/7/08 by Dominique and Frederic Laffont, 128 Calhoun Street, to install a clay tennis court surrounded by a fence constructed of 10ft tall cedar posts and black vinyl chain link fencing. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 5-0.
DiBenedetto /214 Calhoun Street /Revise barn location
The members briefly discussed lighting. Mr. DiBenedetto said there will be no change in lighting. The doorway lights will point light downward and only be on when necessary. Due to the new location of the utility barn, Mr. Talbot recommended a stipulation be made in the C of A stating that any change in lighting much be approved by the commission.
MOTION: To approve the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/7/08 by Anthony and Eileen DiBenedetto, 214 Calhoun Street, to revise the location of the utility barn, previously approved on 11/13/07, with the stipulation that any changes in lighting must be applied for due to the revised location. This work is to be completed by April 21, 2009; or else this approval shall be void. By Mrs. Rives, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 5-0.
Mostajo - Schein /2 Wykeham Road /Stone wall
MOTION: To approve the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 4/8/08 by Maria Mostajo and Mark Schein, 2 Wykeham Road, to build a stone wall as shown on the site plan submitted with the application and photo received 4/21/08, with the stipulation that a detailed photograph showing the design of the wall be submitted. This work is to be completed by April 21, 2009; or else this approval shall be void. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 5-0.
Washington Club /92 Green Hill Road /Sign on building
Mrs. Crumrine was present to discuss the application with the commission.
Mr. Talbot asked Mrs. Crumrine if she could get more information on the historical provenance of the sign. The general feeling is it appears to be large. Could you find more history on this sign? Who made it, is there some historical significance? The problem is the members feel it is slightly oversized and not entirely appropriate.
Mr. Smith commented that the arc of the letters on the sign gets covered up by the arc of the eve. Mrs. Boyer said she does not ever remember the sign being on the building. She also stated there is a 1908 photo of the Club Hall in the museum and the sign is not on the building.
Mrs. Crumrine stated she wants to work with the commission and asked them what they would like to see there.
As a temporary sign for certain events, Mr. Talbot said this sign would be fine. Mrs. Crumrine replied they need a permanent sign. Mr. Talbot said from his perspective, it is important to know historically how the sign came about. This is a very important building in Washington. Mrs. Crumrine assured him that this is taken very seriously. She suggested they could hire someone to make a sign such as the signs on the Washington Supply with individual letters, and the old sign could be hung inside the building.
Mr. Smith said if he were presented with a history of the old sign he might feel more comfortable. This sign is inconsistent with other buildings on the Green. Another possibility - look at signs on other buildings. Mr. Talbot agreed. Rossiter did a number of buildings with signage in New York, etc. A sign needs to be thoughtfully done to be appropriate with the building.
Mrs. Boyer suggested using the billboards on either side of the doors; one could say "Club Hall", the other could be used for temporary signs such as weddings. Mr. Talbot agreed. He also said individual letters were a possibility, but should be done by a signage expert who could show how letters would be placed on the building. Mrs. Crumrine said she would get a group together to meet with a sign expert. Mrs. Boyer suggested the sign should be as small as possible and yet be seen from the road.
The members agreed this discussion should be continued until the next regular meeting.
MOTION: To continue the discussion, until the next regular meeting, on the application for Certificate of Appropriateness for The Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to install the original sign back on the building. By Mrs. Boyer, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 5-0.
Consideration of the Minutes
MOTION: To approve the 3/17/08 minutes as written. By Mrs. Rives, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 3-0-2. Mrs. Boyer and Mr. Talbot abstained; not at March meeting.
Other Business
Zoning in Historic Districts: The members discussed Zoning enforcement in the historic districts. Mrs. Boyer stated that any teeth HDC has comes from Zoning. The members would like to have the support of other commissions. Also, cultivate support of residents within the districts and make sure realtors inform their clients that they are buying property within one of the districts. The members emphasized that they would be very interested in attending meetings with the First Selectman and other commissions.
The members welcomed Mr. J. Allen Kerr who had sat in on the Public Hearings and Regular Meeting. Mr. Kerr told the members about his background as an attorney and his experience representing various Historic Commissions in the State. The members thanked him for his interest in joining HDC.
MOTION: To adjourn the meeting. By Mr. Smith.
Mr. Smith adjourned the meeting at 9:45PM.
FILED SUBJECT TO APPROVAL
Respectively Submitted,
Martha T. Shade, Clerk
Posted: March 29, 2008 March 17, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Chute, Mr. Smith
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ms. Gilchrist, Mr. Talbot
ALTERNATES PRESENT: Mrs. Mills, Mrs. Rives
ALTERNATES ABSENT: Mrs. Boyer
STAFF PRESENT: Mrs. Shade
OTHERS PRESENT: Mrs. Crumrine, Miss Alana Crumrine, Miss Kristine Averill
PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Washington Club, Inc.(Cont'd) /92 Green Hill Road /Install sign on building
Mr. Smith reconvened the Public Hearing at 7:35PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 1/8/08 by the Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to place a sign on the building. He seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Mills for Ms. Gilchrist. Mrs. Crumrine represented the Washington Club.
Mrs. Crumrine and her daughter Alana showed the members the old original Club Hall sign they found that used to hang over the front entrance. She said they are in negotiations to purchase the sign from an antiques dealer. Mr. Smith asked Mrs. Crumrine if everyone else connected with the Club was in agreement with her about the sign. She said she did not know, but thought they would be thrilled and asked the members what they thought. Mrs. Mills said she thinks it is a perfect solution. Mrs. Rives stated she thought the old sign was not appropriate. A smaller sign would be better. Mrs. Crumrine said she would like to place this sign back over the door where it used to hang. Mr. Smith asked Mrs. Rives if she considered the sign to be a change of character for the building. She replied yes - the Club members know where the building is located. Mrs. Crumrine said many of The Gunnery buildings have signs to identify them.
Mr. Chute asked if the Club had to ask HDC for permission since this was the original sign. Mr. Smith said the sign requires HDC approval since it has been off the building for so long.
Mrs. Rives asked if the Club is planning a new commercial enterprise since it has been advertising. Mrs. Crumrine said the Club has been advertising for the past 20 years.
Mr. Smith asked the members if there were any additional questions. There were none. There was no one else present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by The Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to place a sign on the building. By Mr. Chute, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 4-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 7:50PM.
This Public Hearing was recorded on tape. The tape is on file in the Land Use Office, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(Cont'd) /132 Calhoun Street /Construct new house, detached guest-pool house, pool, fieldstone wall
Mr. Smith reconvened the Public Hearing at 7:55PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 1/25/08, by Pinnacle Peak, Inc, to construct a new house, detached guest-pool house, pool and fieldstone wall at 132 Calhoun Street. He seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Mills for Ms. Gilchrist.
Mr. Smith read a letter from Attorney James R. Healey, of Secor, Cassidy & McPartland, P.C., dated 3/6/08, advising the Commission that he and his client, Pinnacle Peak, Inc, were withdrawing their application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. A copy of this letter is filed with these minutes and the original is in the applicant file.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Pinnacle Peak, Inc., to construct a new house, detached guest-pool house, pool and fieldstone wall at 132 Calhoun Street. By Mrs. Rives, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 4-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 8:00PM.
This Public Hearing was recorded on tape. The tape is on file in the Land Use Office, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Estate of Jean P. Averill /250 Calhoun Street /Build wood shed
Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing at 8:03PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Samuel and Susan Averill on behalf of the Estate of Jean P. Averill, 250 Calhoun Street, to build a wood shed. He read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 3/9/08. Mr. Smith seated the members, Alternate Rives and seated Alternate Mills for Ms. Gilchrist. Mr. and Mrs. Averill were out of town and sent a letter authorizing their daughter, Kristine Averill, to represent them.
The commissioners looked at the drawing which had been submitted with the application along with a photo taken from Calhoun Street. Miss Averill told the members that the furnace is already installed and now they need a shed where the wood can be stored. The shed is partially erected and sits near the furnace, 225ft away from Calhoun Street. Mrs. Rives said it seems alright to her. The members agreed. Mr. Chute said it adds to the farm scene.
Mr. Smith asked if there were any additional questions or comments. There were none. There was no one else present to speak for or against this application.
MOTION: To close the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by the Estate of Jean P. Averill, 250 Calhoun Street, to build a wood shed. By Mrs. Rives, seconded by Mrs. Mills and passed 4-0.
Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 8:10PM.
This Public Hearing was recorded on tape. The tape is on file in the Land Use Office, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut.
REGULAR MEETING
Mr. Smith called the meeting to order at 8:12PM and seated the members, Alternate Rives and Alternate Mills for Ms. Gilchrist.
Washington Club, Inc.(cont'd) /92 Green Hill Road /Install sign on building.
Mr. Smith asked the members if they would like to have additional discussion on this application.
Mrs. Rives stated she did not like the sign and would not like to see it go up again. Just because it is old, does not mean it is nice. Other signs are more discreet.
Mr. Chute said it is history and, in his opinion, the commission is supposed to be preserving history. He also thought Mrs. Crumrine should check with the Club Board for their approval.
Mrs. Mills commented that the signs on the Green are all different. A sign on a building would not draw so much attention. She suggested Mrs. Crumrine should bring in a picture showing the sign in place so the members would have a better idea of how it will look.
Mr. Smith said a picture would be good, or the commission could actually go look at the sign on the building. He stated the Commission would like, 1) to see what the sign will look like, and 2) it is important to affirm that this sign is the preference of all the Washington Club members. It was decided to deny this application without prejudice until all necessary information is received.
MOTION: To deny without prejudice the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 1/8/08, by The Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to place a sign on the building because adequate information was not presented as to how the sign would appear on the building. By Mr. Chute, seconded by Mrs. Rives and passed 4-0.
Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(cont'd) /132 Calhoun Street /Construct new house, detached guest-pool house, pool, fieldstone wall
Application has been withdrawn.
Estate of Jean P. Averill /250 Calhoun Street /Build wood shed.
MOTION: To approve the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 2/19/08, by the estate of Jean P. Averill, 250 Calhoun Street, to build a wood shed as described in the application and located near the wood boiler as shown in the drawing submitted with the application. This work is to be completed by March 17, 2009; or else this approval shall be void. By Mr. Chute, seconded by Mrs. Mills and passed 4-0.
Consideration of the Minutes
MOTION: To approve the 2/11/08 minutes as written. By Mrs. Rives, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 4-0.
The Selectmen's office gave the members two names of residents who may be interested in serving on the Commission. After a brief discussion, it was decided it would be advantageous to have an attorney on the Commission but would invite both attend a future meeting.
The members discussed the budget and determined that it would not need to be adjusted for the next fiscal year.
MOTION: To adjourn the meeting. By Mrs. Rives.
Mr. Smith adjourned the meeting at 8:45PM.
FILED SUBJECT TO APPROVAL
Respectfully Submitted,
Martha T. Shade, Clerk
Posted: February 22, 2008 February 11, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Chute, Ms. Gilchrist, Mr. Smith, Mr. Talbot
ALTERNATES PRESENT: Mrs. Rives
ALTERNATES ABSENT: Mrs. Mills, Mrs. Boyer
STAFF PRESENT: Mrs. Shade
OTHERS PRESENT: Mrs. Crumrine, Mr. S. Nettleton, Mr. T. Nettleton, Mr. J. Franzen, Residents of Calhoun-Ives District
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Washington Club, Inc. /92 Green Hill Road /Install sign on building
Ms. Gilchrist opened the Public Hearing at 7:36PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted 1/8/08 by the Washington Club, 92 Green Hill Road, to place a sign on the building as shown in the photograph submitted with the application. She read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 2/3/08. Ms. Gilchrist seated the members and Alternate Rives. Mrs. April Crumrine was present to represent the Washington Club.
Mrs. Crumrine explained to the Commission that the Washington Club building has no identification and is difficult for people to find. Mr. Chute, who lives on the Green, said a lot of people have stopped to ask him for directions. Mrs. Crumrine said people also ask at the library. She noted that all other structures on the Green are identified with signs.
Mrs. Crumrine said she would like to see simple, thin black wrought-iron letters attached to the fascia. Ms. Gilchrist asked the height of the fascia. Mrs. Crumrine replied the fascia is 11 1/2 inches. The letters will fit in between the moldings. The style of the letters will be "Arial".
Mr. Talbot asked Mrs. Crumrine if she had considered installing a side placard. She said her preference is for the letters. They are more elegant. Mr. Talbot asked how the letters would be mounted over the slight curve. He suggested consulting with a sign company to figure the best way. He also suggested looking into how signage has been applied historically. Mr. Talbot added he has no problem with the concept if it can be done. It would be useful to have something showing the commission how the letters will be mounted.
Ms. Gilchrist asked Mrs. Crumrine if she would prefer to have the letters painted on. If not, can you bring in a sample letter to show the members.
Mr. Smith asked if the curve of the fascia will change the way the lettering will look. Mrs. Crumrine stated she did not know. Mr. Smith said until that problem is solved the commission does not have sufficient information to make a decision.
Ms. Gilchrist read a note stating Mrs. Wodtke had called to say they did not have any objection to the signage. She asked if anyone else present had any comments for or against the application. There were none.
The members agreed to continue this Public Hearing until the next scheduled meeting.
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by the Washington Club, Inc., 92 Green Hill Road, to install a sign on the building. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mr. Smith and passed 5-0.
Ms. Gilchrist continued the Public Hearing at 7:52PM.
This Public Hearing was recorded on tape. The tape is on file in the Land Use Office, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(Nettleton) /132 Calhoun Street /construct new house, detached guest-pool house, pool, fieldstone wall.
Ms. Gilchrist opened the Public Hearing at 7:55PM to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Pinnacle Peak, Inc., to construct a new house, detached guest-pool house, pool and fieldstone wall at 132 Calhoun Street. She read the legal notice which appeared in Voices on 2/3/08. Ms. Gilchrist seated the members and Alternate Rives. Mr. Tom Nettleton and Mr. Shaun Nettleton were present with their architect, Mr. Jack Franzen. Several residents of the Calhoun-Ives District were also in attendance.
Mr. Franzen presented the plans to the Commission. He stated the area around 132 Calhoun Street was open landscape in the district. Mr. Franzen said there were no clear architectural themes in the district and the buildings were separated by space and topography. He added most of the buildings in the area represented 19th or 20th century architecture. Mr. Franzen said the gambrel colonial revival house, which they are proposing to build, evolves from styles in the 1600's. He added, they have made several changes since the informal discussion last month. They did not change the gambrel style roof, but the house has been shortened by four feet. The driveway is more informal. They are planning to develop only 1 1/4 acres out of the 6.6acre parcel. Most of the land will remain open and permanently undeveloped.
The main house will have a full length covered porch. There will be a pool house and pool, the stone wall will screen the pool equipment. The house will have a wood shingle roof, painted clapboard siding. Foundation and chimney will be natural fieldstone (mortar will be recessed into stone) Lighting will be patina copper. There will be no flood lights or elaborate landscape lights. The guest/pool house will be weathered barn board. A simple picket fence will connect the main house to guest/pool house. Mr. Franzen asked the Commissioners if they had any questions. Mr. Talbot asked if there were any photos showing the views from the public way. There were none. Mr. Talbot said his recommendation would be to continue the Public Hearing so that a story pole could be put up in order to show the height of the primary ridges and eaves so the members could get a sense of proportion of this building relative to the rural character of the street; how it will relate to the barn next door, the house across the street, the house on the corner. What you are building needs to be looked at within the context of this entire district, and this appears quite suburban. This drawing does not seem significantly different from the previous drawing.
Mr. Franzen said the house would be set back 128ft from the road. Mr. Talbot noted that all four sides of the house will be visible from the public way. He reiterated the fact that, according to Dept of Interior Guidelines, the Commission cannot take pine trees or shrubs into consideration.
Mr. Talbot said that programmatically, the Commission cannot tell people they can't have what they want, but they can say to them - you can make it smaller. He added; what he thought the members were politely trying to say last time was - this needs to be smaller. Mr. Franzen replied he did not think the Commission could tell them to make it smaller; just make it appear smaller. Mr. Smith pointed out that the Commission could simply turn it down. Mr. Talbot said the role of the Commission is to try and assist in guiding the maintenance of the character of this rural historic district; which is eroding very quickly into a suburban street.
Some of the residents of Calhoun-Ives District commented on this application:
Mrs. Shapiro said she understands the process the applicants are going through. It was quite a process. They worked on it for two years. She understands the Commission's comments. It is a question of scale and mass to present a house that does not overwhelm the street.
Mr. Markert commented that if they thought they were designing this house according to the Guidelines, they should go back and read them again.
Mrs. Canning said she tried unsuccessfully to buy this particular lot from Mr. Beck. She added, this is a very vulnerable piece of land on Calhoun Street. Mrs. Canning said there is a strong consciousness among neighbors about protecting what can still be protected. This is probably the last nugget of land that is vulnerable.
There was some discussion regarding the land behind this proposed house at 132 Calhoun Street and concerns that a house may, in the future, be built there. Mr. Talbot explained that a 50ft frontage is required to get back to the property, and space required to install a septic. In addition, this subject is not before the Commission tonight. Ms. Gilchrist said this is a good conversation; but not for this time.
Ms. Gilchrist read from a statement she had written:
One thing that makes these 3 districts special and unique, each one unto itself, is that there is a particular balance between buildings and the spaces around them, and how each structure inhabits its space and its landscape and the district as a whole. In none of the three historic districts - and I believe it was suggested at the December meeting that you take a look at them - does one building stand out and call particular attention to itself. An exception might be the churches on the Green - but they're in sort of a special category.
The neighborhood south of the Green with all the Rossiter houses is essentially suburban - in an early 20th century suburban way. The houses are neighborly in relation to each other, and build all around the same time with the view toward it all being a residential community for people of similar tastes and means. This was okay, because here the area got developed with a single vision of a neighborhood of stylish, Gilded-Age second homes.
The Calhoun Ives District was not of course developed with a single vision at all - it evolved without controls but within the context and needs of an outlying, rural, agricultural community. The buildings belonged to people of lesser means and simple, rural lifestyles, so the houses are simple and utilitarian - they don't have lots of style or individual presence or call attention to themselves architecturally. They live lightly in their surrounds, somehow. Even though affluent people predominate there now, the Calhoun Ives District still pretty well reflects its utilitarian, farming heritage, because property owners there have chosen (or been advised) to maintain those qualities. The Calhoun Ives District is really not so much about its houses and architecture. It's more about its open spaces and views across farmland and valleys and wooded hillsides in the distance. So, when we consider appropriateness, we are looking for construction that is as simple, scaled down, and as visually quiet as possible. Presumably you buy property here and want to live here because of the way it is, not because of the way it could be. Even though it exists in other parts of town, architecture of the Gilded Age simply doesn't belong here.
The size and siting of this house would seem to require a great deal of regarding of the field.
It would block one of the most treasured views in the town - looking across pristine open landscape to Hidden Valley and the Pinnacle.
Main block of the house is over 7,000 SF.
Garage adds over 1300 more, and the Guest/Pool House another 1500.
Total comes to almost 10,000 SF.
I appreciate your good faith effort to design a place that tries to fit in with Washington's architecture, but because of the character of the District and the Commission's responsibility to try to protect that character, I have to say that the house as proposed is inappropriate in concept, and scale and style. It seems massive compared to existing houses in the District. Few - perhaps one, has as large a living room, 5 good-sized bedrooms, 5 full baths, and so much living space for guests. Or a 3-car garage. The concept of this kind of house is completely incompatible with the character of the Calhoun Ives Historic District.
What I'd like to see on this site is a considerably smaller, simpler, less conspicuous house that takes its design cues generally from the other older houses in the District. The new house going next door and below - LaFont, so far is okay because it is simple. Its rooflines and proportions and overall concept relate to the existing architecture in the district. It's a big house, but they have the advantage of being far away from the public way, so the overall presence of the house is diminished. What we'd like to see is something simpler, more informal, and on this site, something that defers to its site and to the precious and magnificent views beyond it.
The members agreed with Ms. Gilchrist that they would like to see a building that defers to its surroundings and defers to other buildings in the district.
Mr. Markert stated this building is not appropriate. The Mills and Connolly residences were built before the Historic District was formed.
Mrs. Shapiro said it is not appropriate. It is too fancy. Mr. Shapiro added, they are handicapped because the lot is so visible. He asked if the house could be moved back on the lot.
Mrs. Canning asked why they chose this property. The view.
Mr. Franzen said the buildings may not relate to each other, but they do relate to the road.
Ms. Gilchrist brought the discussion to a close. She read an e-mail from Mrs. Canning and a letter from Mr. and Mrs. Greenfield. Both were opposed to this application. These letters are in the applicant file and a copy filed with these minutes.
Ms. Gilchrist asked the members if they wanted to continue this Hearing. Mr. Tom Nettleton stated that from the sound of the comments this evening, they are totally on the wrong track. He said his preference is to withdraw his application and he will send a letter to that effect.
The Commission decided to continue the Public Hearing until the March 17th meeting and will receive Mr. Nettleton's letter of withdrawal at that time.
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(Shaun & Tom Nettleton), to construct a new house, detached guest-pool house, pool and fieldstone wall at 132 Calhoun Street. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mr. Smith and passed 5-0.
Ms. Gilchrist continued the Public Hearing at 9:10PM.
This Public Hearing was recorded on tape. The tape is on file in the Land Use Office, Bryan Memorial Town Hall, Washington Depot, Connecticut.
REGULAR MEETING
Ms. Gilchrist called the meeting to order at 9:12PM and seated the members and Alternate Rives.
Washington Club, Inc. /92 Green Hill Road /Install sign on building.
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by the Washington Club, Inc., 92 Green Hill Road, to install a sign on the building. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mr. Smith and passed 5-0.
Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(Nettleton) /132 Calhoun Street /Construct new house, detached guest-pool house, pool, fieldstone wall.
MOTION: To continue the Public Hearing to consider the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness submitted by Pinnacle Peak, Inc.(Shaun & Tom Nettleton), to construct a new house, detached guest-pool house, pool and fieldstone wall at 132 Calhoun Street. By Mr. Talbot, seconded by Mr. Smith and passed 5-0.
Consideration of the Minutes
MOTION: To approve the 1/14/08 minutes as written. By Mr. Smith, seconded by Mr. Chute and passed 4-0-1.
Mr. Talbot abstaining.
Mr. Talbot abstained because he was not at the January meeting.
Mr. Talbot said the First Selectman had a couple of names for the members to discuss regarding filling the vacant seat on the Commission.
Ms. Gilchrist read a letter from Chris Charles, Open Space Equity, informing them that Mrs. Canning's field as well as two fields on the Stuart Farm are now permanently protected and will never be built upon.
MOTION: To adjourn the meeting. By Mr. Talbot.
Ms. Gilchrist adjourned the meeting at 9:25PM.
FILED SUBJECT TO APPROVAL
Respectfully Submitted,
Martha T. Shade, Clerk
Posted: January 26, 2008 January 14, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mr. Chute, Ms. Gilchrist, Mr. Smith
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. Talbot
ALTERNATES PRESENT: Mrs. Boyer, Mrs. Rives
ALTERNATES ABSENT: Mrs. Mills
STAFF PRESENT: Mrs. Shade
REGULAR MEETING
Ms. Gilchrist called the meeting to order at 7:35PM. She seated the members and seated Alternate Boyer for Mr. Talbot.
Consideration of the Minutes
MOTION: To approve the 12/17/07 minutes as written. By Mr. Chute, seconded by Mrs. Boyer and passed 4-0.
OTHER BUSINESS
Canning /119 Calhoun Street /Approve wording for easement.
Mr. Smith re-wrote the resolution previously submitted by Open Space Equity. He did not use the word "resolution" in his statement. Mr. Chute agreed - the Commission does not need to be writing resolutions. It should suffice to have the statement recorded in the minutes. All agreed. Mr. Smith suggested they make a motion to that effect.
MOTION: To include in the minutes, a statement confirming the views of the Commission regarding the Canning easement. By Mrs. Boyer, seconded by Mr. Smith and passed 4-0.
The statement reads as follows:
The Washington Historic District Commission recognizes that the permanent preservation of open space in the Calhoun-Ives Historic District is a crucial part of carrying out its mission: preserving that District's open, rural character. The location and qualities of the undeveloped open field at 119 Calhoun Street make its permanent preservation as an open space in the Calhoun-Ives District a very valuable contribution to the preservation of the open, rural appearance of the District. The Commission also hopes that this act of preservation will inspire others to actively contribute to maintaining the District's character.
Election of Officers for 2008.
The commissioners listed names of several residents as possible new members. They will be contacted, and if they are interested in serving on the Commission, their names will be given to the Selectmen.
At this point, the members were not prepared to elect new officers. Ms. Gilchrist agreed to serve as acting Chairman until vacant positions on the Commission are filled.
MOTION: To approve Ms. Gilchrist as acting Chairman until: A) a new member is appointed, and B) until it is determined who will become the new Chair and Vice Chair. By Mr. Smith, seconded by Mrs. Boyer and passed 4-0.
MOTION: To adjourn the meeting. By Ms. Gilchrist.
Ms. Gilchrist adjourned the meeting at 8:30PM.
FILED SUBJECT TO APPROVAL
Respectfully Submitted,
Martha T. Shade, Clerk
Meetings in 2007