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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHeritage - 2011-11-01HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES The Heritage Kitchener Committee met this date, commencing at 4:05 p. m. Present: Mr. K. Kirby -Chair Councillors F. Etherington, and Y. Fernandes, Ms. E. Young, and Messrs. J. Ariens, S. Thomson and G. Zeilstra. Staff: G. Murphy, Director of Engineering B. Korah, Manager, Development Engineering L. Bensason, Coordinator of Cultural Heritage Resources M. Drake, Heritage Planner M. Parris, Landscape Architect C. Goodeve, Committee Administrator CSD-11-150 -HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2011-V-025 - 1021 DOON VILLAGE ROAD - PROPOSED DEMOLITION OF 2 SHEDS AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A BARN The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-11-150, dated October 19, 2011, recommending approval of Heritage Permit Application 2011-V-025, proposing the demolition of two sheds and the construction of a barn at 1021 Doon Village Road. Ms. M. Drake reviewed the report. Ms. Margaret Lang, agent for the applicant, attended in support of the staff recommendation. In response to questions, she confirmed that functioning cupolas have been incorporated into the design of the proposed barn. She advised that at 2-stories, the proposed barn would be higher than the existing farmhouse; however, the visual impact of this height difference is diminished due to the setback of the barn from the farmhouse. On motion by Mr. J. Ariens - itwas resolved: "That pursuant to Section 42 of the Ontario Heritage Act, Heritage Permit Application HPA 2011-V-025 be approved, to permit the demolition of two existing sheds and the construction of a new barn at the property municipally addressed as 1021 Doon Village Road, in accordance with the plans submitted with the application, subject to the following condition: That the final building permit drawings be submitted and approved by Heritage Planning staff prior to the issuance of a building permit." DRAFT GUIDELINES FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SOLAR PANELS ON DESIGNATED HERITAGE PROPERTIES The Committee was in receipt of draft Guidelines for the Installation of Solar Panels on Designated Heritage Properties, dated October 27, 2011. Ms. M. Drake presented the draft Guidelines, advising that their purpose is to provide a consistent, fair and transparent process for the consideration of proposals to install solar panels on cultural heritage resources. She requested the members to provide comments/suggestions for potential inclusion in the final version of the Guidelines. In response to questions, Ms. Drake advised that in certain instances the installation of solar panels on a front fapade may be permitted, providing the design is sympathetic to the building's heritage attributes; such as, matching the shape and diameter of a roofline as well as colour of existing shingles. She stated that in instances where the panels do not match these features, preference would be given to avoiding the building's visible fapade(s). She noted that some property's heritage attributes may not lend themselves to the installation of solar panels. Mr. J. Ariens commented that the term "public realm" should be defined in the Guidelines. He suggested that installation on a front fapade should not necessarily be prohibited provided the design of the solar panels complies with the other factors set out in the Guidelines. He added HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES NOVEMBER 1.2011 - 38 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. DRAFT GUIDELINES FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SOLAR PANELS ON DESIGNATED HERITAGE PROPERTIES ICONT'D) that a ranking system should be developed for those factors to assist in determining the appropriateness of a proposed design. Mr. G. Zeilstra questioned how heritage property owners would be notified of the new guidelines. Ms. Drake advised that consideration had yet to be given to notification, noting there are several communication tools that could be utilized; such as, the City's Twitter and Facebook accounts as well as including a notice in the annual mail-out to heritage property owners. Several members expressed support for the proposed Guidelines and Ms. Drake advised that staff intend to bring a revised version forward to the December 6, 2011 Heritage Kitchener Committee meeting. 3. CSD-11-147 -HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2011-V-021 - 103 ST. CLAIRE AVENUE - PROPOSED INSTALLATION OF SOLAR PANELS Mr. K. Kirby advised that he may have a perceived conflict of interest with respect to this item, as 103 St. Clair Avenue was his childhood home. He requested that, in accordance with Section 3 of the Advisory Committee Member's Code of Conduct, attached as Appendix `A' to Council Policy I-70 (Code of Conduct for Members of Council, Local Boards and Advisory Committees), the Committee make a determination as to whether he is in a conflict position pursuant to the provisions of Section 2 of the Code. Mr. C. Goodeve advised that Section 3 of the Advisory Committee Member's Code of Conduct indicates that if a member is perceived or known to have a conflict of interest, it may be brought forward for the Committee's consideration. He added that when such a matter has been brought forward, the Committee, through a majority vote, would determine if the member is in a conflict position. He clarified that where the number of members who, by reason of conflict, are incapable of participating in a meeting such that the remaining members no longer constitute a quorum; then the remaining members shall be deemed to constitute a quorum provided there are not less than two members present. On motion by Mr. G. Zeilstra - itwas resolved: "That Mr. K. Kirby was not in a conflict position with respect to Heritage Kitchener's consideration of Heritage Permit Application HPA 2011-V-018 (103 St. Clair Avenue) and would be permitted to take part in all discussion and voting regarding that matter." The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-11-147, dated October 27, 2011, recommending refusal of Heritage Permit Application HPA 2011-V-021, proposing the installation of solar panels at 103 St. Clair Avenue, which is located within the St. Mary's Heritage Conservation District (HCD). Ms. M. Drake reviewed the report, advising that the current proposal to install solar panels on the east (front), south (side) and west (rear) rooflines of the subject property has been evaluated against the guidelines and policies of the St. Mary's HCD Plan as well as the draft guidelines for the installation of solar panels on cultural heritage resources. She stated that the design and location of the proposed solar panels on the front and side rooflines would be conspicuous and would alter the appearance; and therefore, does not comply with the draft Guidelines. She indicated that the hip roof is identified as a heritage attribute in the St. Mary's HCD Plan and the solar panel installation does not match its shape; and therefore, does not respect the exterior form of the building. Accordingly, Heritage Planning staff are recommending refusal of the proposed installation of solar panels on the front and side rooflines of 103 St. Clair Avenue. She further advised that staff understand the importance of both heritage conservation and energy conservation and believe that care must be taken to ensure that one is not achieved at the expense of the other. She stated that, although it has been recommended that HPA 2011-V-021 be refused, the owner was encouraged to consider other opportunities, including: HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES NOVEMBER 1.2011 - 39 - CITY OF KITCHENER 3. CSD-11-147 -HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2011-V-021 - 103 ST. CLAIRE AVENUE - PROPOSED INSTALLATION OF SOLAR PANELS (CONT'D) • the proposed installation of solar panels on the rear roofline of the house; • the proposed installation of solar panels on the roof of accessory buildings in the rear yard; • the proposed installation of solar panels on the ground in the rear yard; and/or, • the proposed installation of solar panels on the front and side rooflines that are consistent with the draft guidelines for the installation of solar panels on cultural heritage resources, such as matching the colour, shape and proportion of the roof, or installing flush to the roof. Ms. Drake indicated that with respect to colour, shape and proportion, new products, such as solar shingles, can be installed to match the colour, shape and proportion of the roof. Ms. Beverley Allan, Applicant and Mr. Stuart Watt, Agent for the Applicant attended in opposition to the staff recommendation. Mr. Watt indicated that the alternative products displayed by staff are not currently available in Ontario. He advised that 103 St. Clair Avenue currently has grey shingles; however, solar panels only come in black. He added that while the intent is to align with the draft Solar Panel Guidelines as much as possible, the Applicant is unwilling to incur a major financial burden by replacing a functional roof. Ms. Allan commented that it is not financially feasible for her to replace a roof she had installed less than 12 years ago, just to match the appearance of the solar panels. She added that she was happy when her home was included as part of the St. Mary's HCD; however, she is pursuing this initiative to help off-set the increase in hydro rates. She advised that the Ontario Power Authority microFlT Program will only provide funding for products that can be purchased in Ontario; and, solar panels that are shaped to fit the dimensions of her roof are not available in Ontario. Mr. Kirby expressed concerns regarding visibility of the solar panels on the front fapade, and questioned if consideration had been given to installing the panels on a ground mount in the rear yard. Mr. Watt advised that using a ground mount instead of the front and side fapades would mean a reduction in the overall number of solar panels. He explained that due to the rules established as part of the microFlT Program, the return on investment for any system smaller than what has been proposed would not be capable of covering the cost of installing the system. Mr. J. Ariens inquired if triangular panels could be used to match the roofline, thereby negating the need to replace the shingles. Mr. Watt indicated that while it might be feasible to make a false triangular panel, it may not be possible to completely match the left side roofline. On motion by Ms. E. Young - itwas resolved: "That pursuant to Section 42 of the Ontario Heritage Act, Heritage Permit Application HPA 2011-V-021 to permit the installation of solar panels at the property municipally addressed as 103 St. Clair Avenue, be refused as submitted." 4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) SOUTH SECTION OF THE STRASBURG ROAD EXTENSION (NORTH OF STAUFFER DRIVE TO NEW DUNDEE ROAD) The Committee was in receipt of excerpts from the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the South Section of the Strasburg Road Extension from North of Stauffer Drive to New Dundee Road, dated June 1, 2011. In addition, the Committee was in receipt this date of correspondence from Mr. Chris Pidgeon, GSP Group, dated October 28, 2011 and correspondence from Ms. Monika Ruttkowski, dated October 31, 2011, speaking to the impact that the proposed alignment of the Strasburg Road Extension would have on 500 Stauffer Drive; which was identified in the EA as a cultural heritage resource. Ms. Lindsay Popert, Archeological Services Inc. and Messrs. Ian Upjohn, SNC-Lavalin Inc. and B. Korah presented the EA. Mr. Korah advised that this is an opportunity for Heritage Kitchener to provide comments and feedback, which will be considered as the EA process moves HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES NOVEMBER 1.2011 - 40 - CITY OF KITCHENER 4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) SOUTH SECTION OF THE STRASBURG ROAD EXTENSION (NORTH OF STAUFFER DRIVE TO NEW DUNDEE ROAD) (CONT'D) forward. He added that the purpose of the proposed Strasburg Road Extension is to provide for approved development and future growth in Doon South and other areas in southwest Kitchener, including traffic and municipal services. In addition, this is intended to relieve future demand on Homer Watson Boulevard, Huron Road and Fischer Hallman Road. He pointed out that one of the project objectives is to minimize impacts to natural heritage features and other important environmental resources. Mr. Upjohn indicated that they are currently in Phase 3 of the EA process, and consideration is being given to alternative design concepts for the preferred solution. He reviewed of the proposed alignment, which was selected based on a number of natural environment, socio-environmental, cultural environmental, transportation and financial considerations. Ms. Popert provided an overview of the identified heritage resources, advising that field reviews were undertaken in July and August 2011 to confirm the location and condition of the previously identified cultural heritage resources. She noted that these field reviews were also utilized to identify cultural heritage resources that were not included in federal, provincial, or municipal databases. She stated that although Alignment E4 Modified was the third best choice from a cultural heritage perspective, it represents the most balanced choice over the range of all evaluation criteria. She outlined the following as the measures being recommended to mitigate the impact of the Strasburg Road Extension on the identified cultural heritage resources: • Maximize setbacks between identified cultural heritage resources and proposed road alignment. • Develop a vegetative screening/ buffering plan to minimize impacts on the setting of the two farmsteads and roadscapes and to ensure the long-term viability of the residential heritage resources. • Undertake a conservation strategy to ensure that suitable measures are taken to minimize negative impacts to the property/buildings during construction activities and to develop an appropriate landscaping plan. • Document the overall agricultural landscape of the study area (roadscapes/ fields/topography) in advance of alteration and submit to the local municipality and appropriate archive. Ms. Monika Ruttkowski, Ms. Allison Jackson as well as Messrs. Chris Pidgeon, GSP Group and Vaughan Bender RBJ Schlegel Holdings Inc. were in attendance to request the Committee's assistance in undertaking an additional Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) on 500 Stauffer Drive. Ms. Jackson reviewed the correspondence circulated this date from Ms. Ruttkowski, which provides an overview of the property's history and the renovations undertaken by the owner to enable the property to serve as a functioning farm as well as a bed and breakfast. She suggested that as a means to help preserve the property, it could be listed on the Municipal Heritage Register or designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Mr. Pidgeon advised that the proposed alignment would bisect the subject property in close proximity to a heritage dwelling and could make the farm operation unviable. He stated that on behalf of Ms. Ruttkowski, Heritage Kitchener is requested to form asub-committee to assist in the preparation of terms of reference for the proposed HIA to assist in informing the outcome of the Strasburg Road EA. Mr. K. Kirby advised that it is not within the Committee's jurisdiction to form asub-committee to assist a private landowner in developing an HIA for their property. In response to questions, Mr. L. Bensason advised that an evaluation of 500 Stauffer Drive was conducted in 2005 and at that time, it was indicated that no action should be taken to designate the property under the Ontario Heritage Act. He added that in 2005, the property evaluators suggested that too many alterations had been made to the original farmhouse to warrant it being considered for designation. He suggested that in light of the information presented by Ms. Popert identifying the property as a cultural heritage resource, a further examination could be conducted to determine its potential for designation. He noted that even if the property was designated this would not impact the Strasburg Road EA. He stated that if designated the key question would be does the proposed alignment meet the necessary HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES NOVEMBER 1.2011 - 41 - CITY OF KITCHENER 4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) SOUTH SECTION OF THE STRASBURG ROAD EXTENSION (NORTH OF STAUFFER DRIVE TO NEW DUNDEE ROAD) (CONT'D) cultural heritage objectives. He added that based on what has been presented the proposed alignment does seem to afford an appropriate level of conservation to ensure that the heritage resource are maintained. Mr. Pidgeon asked to be provided copies of the information compiled by Archeological Services Inc., which could be used to develop a statement of significance; thereby potentially expediting the designation process. Mr. Bensason stated that Archeological Services Inc. would need to consent to the release of the information they collected. He cautioned that the research conducted by those Heritage Consultants was done with a focus on developing the HIA and may not have the same level of detail that would be needed in order to identify all of the property's heritage attributes. He added that if the Committee was of the opinion that 500 Stauffer Drive merited consideration on the Municipal Heritage Register, then it could potentially be included as part of the next round of property evaluations. 5. FCS-11-197 -APPOINTMENT OF A NEW MEMBER TO HERITAGE KITCHENER The Committee considered Finance and Corporate Services Department report FCS-11-197, dated October 14, 2011 regarding the appointment of a new member to Heritage Kitchener to fill one of the architect sector-specific positions, as outlined in the Committee's Terms of Reference. Mr. C. Goodeve reviewed the report. It was noted that any recommendation arising from the Committee regarding this matter would be considered at the November 14, 2011 Special Council meeting. On motion by Councillor Y. Fernandes - itwas resolved: "That Graham Wolff, be appointed to Heritage Kitchener filling one of the architect sector-specific positions for a term expiring November 30, 2012." HIBNER PARK SIGN The Committee was in receipt of concept drawings for the Hibner Park Sign, dated October 19, 2011, designed to fit into the existing iron frame in Hibner Park, which is located in the Civic Centre Heritage Conservation District (HCD). Mr. L. Bensason reviewed the proposed park sign. Ms. Donna Kehul, neighbourhood representative, was in attendance and suggested that the proposed design should include the term "Conservation" as well as the City's crest. Questions were raised regarding the use of the City crest and Ms. M. Drake advised that unlike the City's other Heritage Conservation Districts, at present the Civic Centre HCD does not have a logo. Mr. Bensason suggested that a discussion could take place at a future meeting to identify a specific symbol that captures the nature of the Civic Centre area. Mr. K. Kirby commented that it may be premature to consider the design for the Hibner Park Heritage Sign, suggesting that the Park sign should incorporate the HCD's logo. 2011 MIKE WAGNER HERITAGE AWARD NOMINATION - 4336 KING STREET EAST (BOREALIS GRILLE & BAR) The Committee was in receipt of correspondence from Mr. L. Bensason, dated October 26, 2011 as well as a 2011 Mike Wagner Heritage Award Nomination for 4336 King Street East (Borealis Grille & Bar), dated May 6, 2011. Mr. L. Bensason advised that the owner of 4336 King Street East had submitted a nomination for a Mike Wagner Heritage Award and a City of Kitchener Urban Design Award in one package addressed to Urban Design staff. He added that unfortunately, the Mike Wagner HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES 2011 MIKE WAGNER HERITAGE AWARD NOMINATION - 4336 KING STREET EAST (BOREALIS GRILLE & BAR) ICONT'D) Heritage Award nomination was miss-filed in the Urban Design Award files and never made its way to Heritage Planning Staff. He noted that this situation only came to light last week when the Owner/Representative enquired with staff; who have since retrieved the original submission and apologized for the error. He indicated to the Owner/Applicant that as the 2011 Mike Wagner Heritage Awards have already been celebrated, the nomination could be considered when the Awards are presented again in 2013. However, the Owner/Applicant advised that deferring consideration of the nomination to 2013 was unacceptable; and, has requested that special consideration be made to consider the nomination now, even though the Awards have already been presented. Mr. Bensason stated that given the Owner/Applicant's preference and the unique circumstances, it was agreed to process the nomination even though the 2011 awards have already been presented. He further advised that Heritage Planning Staff are of the opinion that the nomination is worthy of consideration for an Award. He added that, should Committee and City Council resolve that the nomination of the Borealis Grille and Bar should receive a Mike Wagner Heritage Award, it would be presented at a future Heritage Kitchener Committee meeting. On motion by Mr. J. Ariens - itwas resolved: "That a 2011 Mike Wagner Heritage Award be approved to 4336 King Street East (Borealis Grille and Bar), given the work undertaken to restore and adaptively reuse a 19th century school house into a casual fine dining venue." 4-30 KING STREET EAST -AMERICAN BLOCK STRUCTURAL CONDITION UPDATE - NOTICE OF INTENT TO DEMOLISH 26 KING STREET EAST The Committee was in receipt this date of a draft recommendation concerning the notices of intention to demolish 24 and 26 King Street East. Mr. L. Bensason advised that, as discussed at the September and October 2011 Heritage Kitchener meetings, the owners of 24 and 26 King Street East have submitted notices of intention to demolish those buildings, as a result of structural damage caused by a fire in March 2011. He stated that given the costs involved and the fact that whatever is constructed in the future would not be original to the site, staff recommended that designation not be pursued at this time. He indicated that the proposed recommendation is intended to formalize this position. On motion by Councillor Y. Fernandes - itwas resolved: "That in accordance with Section 27.(3) of the Ontario Heritage Act, no action be taken to designate 24 or 26 King Street East in response to the written notices provided by the owners regarding their intentions to demolish those buildings, as a result of structural damage caused by a fire in March 2011." ADJOURNMENT On motion, this meeting adjourned at 6:36 p. m. Colin Goodeve Committee Administrator