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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHeritage Kitchener - 1997-06-06H E RI TAG E\1997 -06 -06 HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES (LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES) JUNE 6, 1997 CITY OF KITCHENER Heritage Kitchener (L.A.C.A.C.) met this date, under the Chairmanship of Councillor M. Wagner, commencing at 12:05 p.m. with the following members present: Ms. P. Costigan, Ms. J. Haalboom, Ms. E. Heinrichs, Ms. C. Martindale, Ms. P. Wagner, Ms. E. Lord, Mr. M. Badran, Mr. E. Bow, Mr. P. Bufe, Mr. R. Coo, Mr. E. Lucy and Mr. D. Pullen. Councillors T. Galloway and B. Vrbanovic were in attendance for part of the meeting. CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS Mr. L. Bensason advised of a tour taking place in Markham on Tuesday, June 10, 1997, to which other Municipalities have been invited. The tour will be of their Heritage Estates, which is a subdivision to which heritage buildings can be relocated. He advised that he would be attending, along with Ms. P. Wagner and Ms. J. Haalboom and that there is room for one more. Ms. E. Lord advised that she also wished to attend. Councillor M. Wagner advised that the submission by Mr. P. Britton called "Advances in Adaptive Reuse and Heritage Preservation - A Case Study of Kaufman Footwear" which was presented to the Ontario Professional Planners Institute, as won an award. Councillor M. Wagner then spoke of the success of the news conference concerning the major housing development proposed for the downtown core, which had taken place prior to this meeting. It was noted that this is a joint project between the Benton Street Baptist Church and St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Councillor Wagner advised that the proponents of this project are thankful for the way Heritage Kitchener has responded and are looking for input from this Committee along the way. Mr. D. Pullen noted that they have decided to preserve the heritage buildings on either end of the project. Ms. J. Haalboom advised that there will be an open house on Wednesday June 11, 1997, concerning proposals for the realignment of Doon Village Road. She noted that there are four alternatives being put forward and she asked the Committee members to consider what the impact of each of the alternatives would be and what would be involved. It was noted that the annual meeting of the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation will be held on Tuesday June 10, 1997, at 7:30 p.m., at the Doon Heritage Crossroads. Councillor M. Wagner advised that a new award, the Sally Thorsen Award, in her memory, for planners, will be announced at the annual meeting. Ms. J. Haalboom suggested that there be a press release in this regard. Councillor M. Wagner introduced Mr. Garth Grimes, an archaeologist, who was seated in the audience. He advised that Mr. Grimes is interested in finding out more about the Committee and maybe interested in joining. MINUTES Mr. P. Bufe mentioned that, in the Minutes of the last meeting, it was noted that Councillor Wagner thanked Ms. S. Campbell for sending letters, one of which was to go to Ms. B. Buchanan asking her to reconsider her resignation from this Committee; however, Ms. Buchanan never received the letter. Ms. P. Costigan explained that the letter was sent and when it was determined that it was not received, another was sent and Ms. Buchanan now has the letter. On motion by Mr. E. Bow it was resolved: "That the minutes of the regular meeting of Heritage Kitchener, of May 2, 1997, as mailed to the members, be accepted." HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 - 28 - CITY OF KITCHENER 3. HERITAGE TREES Mr. T. Clancy was in attendance to discuss with the Committee the matter of heritage trees. He advised that Horticultural staff are now looking for heritage trees. He spoke of two Ash trees, one by the Huron Natural Area and one in Victoria Park. There followed a discussion on how to determine the characteristics of heritage trees. Mr. Clancy then displayed an aerial photograph of the area of the Huron Natural Area and advised that in close proximity, there is a majestic Elm tree, which he guessed that was between 80 and 100 years old and has a span of approximately 100 feet. Mr. Clancy then questioned what kind of criteria would be required to have a tree named. He advised that staff would like to have the tree named to bring some prominence to it. A discussion followed on Dutch Elm disease. Mr. Clancy pointed out that this tree has survived the disease on its own and it may be genetic. The Committee then questioned if there is a Heritage name in that area that would be appropriate. Mr. Clancy then explained the data base developed and maintained by Parks & Recreation staff and that the information requested would be available in the database. Ms. E. Lord then questioned whether the proximity of the road would be detrimental to the tree. Mr. Clancy advised that Elm trees are quite tolerant to urban pollution; they are tolerant trees and they grow quickly. Councillor B. Vrbanovic entered the meeting at this time. Several members of the Committee then took the opportunity to question Mr. Clancy about tree replacement on boulevards in older areas of the City and Victoria Park and the fact that they are not the same species which were originally planted. Mr. Clancy advised that the choice of replacement tree is made on a case by case basis. Ms. Wagner pointed out that in 1991, L.A.C.A.C. prepared a list of streets that should be on an inventory so that staff would be aware of the importance of these streetscapes. The Committee is trying to preserve these trees because they create the streetscape. Mr. Clancy responded that staff have that computerized inventory of street trees. He stated that attitudes in this regard have come along way. Councillor M. Wagner questioned the Committee regarding their interest in naming the Elm tree and working to preserve streetscapes. He stated that members would need to review these matters and report back at the next meeting. 4. WALPER HOTEL SIGNAGE Mr. L. Bensason reported on a meeting between himself, Councillor Wagner and Ms. D. Strong, Manager of the Walper Hotel. He also advised that, although invited, Mr. Atwall, owner of Reggies, did not attend. Mr. L. Bensason displayed a slide of the main floor, King Street elevation of the property. Mr. Bensason stated that four of the blackboard signs are for the Pony Club and two are for Reggies. Mr. L. Bensason then advised that, at the meeting, they requested that the blackboard signs facing King Street be removed. He advised that his and Councillor Wagner's proposal is that two of the Reggies blackboard signs be removed and one of the Walper Pub blackboard signs be relocated. Councillor Wagner stated that this is a minimal solution. Councillor Wagner also stated that he asked Ms. Strong to review her lease and the lease states that the tenant must have her approval for all signs, as well as all municipal approval. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned whether Ms. Strong is in support of removing the blackboard signs and was advised that she is in support. 4. WALPER HOTEL SIGNAGE - cont'd HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 - 29 - CITY OF KITCHENER The Committee questioned whether removing the signs will cause damage to the brickwork and/or mortar and Mr. Bensason responded that the necessary repairs will be a requirement of removing the signs. Councillor T. Galloway stated that the owner of Reggies has been cooperative on some occasions and at other times not. He questioned whether the Committee should start with a minimum or maximum solution. He suggested that a strategy should be considered. A discussion then followed concerning the window signs and Mr. Bensason advised that the signs, on the inside of the window facing out, are not regulated under the Sign By-law. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned whether the signs could remain on the understanding that they will be removed when the tenant vacates. Mr. L. Bensason stated that Ms. Strong is supportive of this solution and is looking to Heritage Kitchener for this direction. Mr. D. Pullen suggested approaching Reggies and saying that this signage is offensive and seeing what the owner will do. He suggested recommending that the signs be removed and giving the owner the option of coming back and talking to this Committee. On motion by Mr. D. Pullen it was resolved: "Being that the property known municipally as 1 King Street West (Walper Hotel) is a property designated under Part IV of the ONTARIO HERITAGE ACT, and Being that the Property has been altered in a manner which, in the opinion of Heritage Kitchener, affects the reasons for designation, by erecting signage on the main floor elevation, without complying with Section 33 of the ONTARIO HERITAGE ACT, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Chair of Heritage Kitchener and the Heritage Planner be directed to request that the owner of the Walper Hotel and the owner of Reggies remove 2 of Reggies blackboard signs, facing King Street and relocate 1 of the Walper Pub's blackboard signs, facing King Street; and further That the owner be required to properly repair any damage to the brickwork and/or mortar, once the signs have been removed, in consultation with the Heritage Planner." 5. SONNECK HOUSE - 108 QUEEN STREET NORTH Mr. L. Bensason showed slides of the property known as Sonneck House, 108 Queen Street North. He advised that Mayor Christy became involved with this property approximately 2 years ago, in trying to have the owner stop the deterioration of the property. At that time, the owners still intended to develop a seniors home on the property. Mr. Bensason advised that recently a Property Standards Officer has inspected the property and issued an Order to Comply. Mr. Bensason stated that he recently met on site with the owner and the Property Standards Officer and the owner has agreed to bring the house up to a minimum standard. Mr. Bensason then listed those things to be done by the owner to bring the house up to a minimum standard according to the Order to Comply. The owners will be starting the work within the next few months and will be meeting with him within the next few weeks to review the methods for repair. 5. SONNECK HOUSE - 108 QUEEN STREET NORTH - cont'd HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 - 30 - CITY OF KITCHENER Mr. Bensason advised the Committee that he had an opportunity to look inside the building and it is in quite a good condition, although some of the interior woodwork has been removed. On motion by Mr. P. Bufe it was resolved: "That Heritage Kitchener approve the repairs to Sonneck House, 108 Queen Street North, as required in the Order to Comply issued under the Property Standards By-law; subject to the Heritage Planner receiving and approving the details of the repairs." 6. ALTERATIONS - 103 QUEEN STREET SOUTH Mr. L. Bensason displayed slides of the property municipally known as 103 Queen Street South, which is located within the Victoria Park Area Heritage Conservation District. He advised that there had been an accident there two weeks ago, and someone fell from the balcony. He advised that the Building Code requires balcony railings to be 42 inches high and the Chief Building Official will require something to be done to rectify this situation. Councillor M. Wagner gave an example from Cambridge where the balcony railing had remained at its original height and an iron bar had been installed at the required height. The possibility of closing off the door to the balcony, as was done on Park Street, may also be a solution. Mr. Bensason stated that the solution has to be approved by the Chief Building Official. Mr. Bensason advised the Committee that, according to the District Plan, a formal alteration application is not required. They are required to deal with the Heritage Planner. He advised that he would report back to the Committee if there is any problem. Mr. Bensason also advised that there is a fire escape at the back of the building which will have to be removed. If something very objectionable is proposed, he will bring the matter back to this Committee. On motion by Mr. Bufe if was resolved: "That Heritage Kitchener would support the replacement of the balcony at 103 Queen Street South in its original form, along with an iron bar at the height acceptable to the Chief Building Official. 7. ALTERATION - 20 RICHMOND AVENUE Mr. L. Bensason put the Committee on notice that the owner of the property at 20 Richmond Avenue, which is located within the Victoria Park Area Heritage Conservation District, will be coming forward to the Committee with an Alteration Application to construct a rear addition. It is possible that the alteration application will be submitted in time for the July meeting. 8. SCENIC ROAD SIGNAGE Ms. J. Haalboom brought to the attention of the Committee members an area on Tilt Drive which, because of the drop in grade, has been used as a dumping area for garbage. She questioned what could be done about signage to help deter the dumping. She suggested a sign saying "Scenic Road - No Dumping" and perhaps the posting of a fine. Mr. T. Clancy suggested expanding the signage to include entrance signs to the District. He suggested that this Committee could refer the matter to the Public Works Department. 8. SCENIC ROAD SIGNAGE - cont'd On motion by Mr. J. Haalboom it was resolved: HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 -31 - CITY OF KITCHENER 10. "That the matter of signage for scenic roads, no dumping signs and general signage for the Upper Doon Heritage Conservation District be referred to the Public Works Department for concept plans and a report to Heritage Kitchener." Ms. J. Haalboom spoke of trees along the roadway and Councillor Wagner suggested that Ms. Haalboom discuss the matter with staff, on behalf of the district and report back to Heritage Kitchener. 1998 - C.H.O. CONFERENCE Ms. J. Haalboom advised the Committee that the dates for the 1998 C.H.O. Conference will be May 29 - 31, 1998 and the site for the conference with be Kitchener City Hall. The theme of the conference will be "What the Use?". Ms. Haalboom advised that they are looking for a keynote speaker for the Friday night and a guest speaker for the banquet. Saturday will be workshops and there will be a round-up on Sunday. There will also be a call for papers. Ms. Haalboom then thanked Mr. L. Bensason and Ms. S. Barber for their help. Ms. Haalboom advised that the Conference Committee is now putting together a promotional package to take to the 1997 Conference in Midland, to promote the 1998 Conference. Councillor M. Wagner advised that he, Ms. Wagner and Ms. Haalboom will be attending the 1997 Conference in Midland and there is sufficient money in the Conference account for one more Committee member to attend. Mr. E. Heinrichs advised that she would like to attend the Conference. UPDATES Mr. L. Bensason advised that the O.M.B. gave approval, at their hearing of May 16, 1997, to the designation of the Victoria Park Area as a Heritage Conservation District. He advised that he attended the hearing along with Councillor M. Wagner, Ms. D. Arnold and Mr. D. Pullen. He complimented Ms. Arnold on her preparation for and presentation at the hearing. Ms. L. Heinrichs reported on ALPOLROD advising that there are a lot of land registry documents which are not even inventoried. She advised that they are looking for volunteers to help inventory those documents. Councillor T. Galloway left the meeting at this time. Mr. D. Pullen gave an update with respect to two catalogues the Committee wishes to publish. He advised that there have only been preliminary discussion on the subject to date. He advised that the first catalogue would be of designated properties and there would be one page per designated property. The second catalogue would contain topics of interests to owners of older homes. The catalogue format, in a binder, would make them easy to update. The binders could be updated at the end of each year; however, the initial cost would be large. The buildings would need to be photographed in a standard way and it would be important to photograph the significant features. This catalogue of designated properties would make an excellent presentation gift to owners of designated properties. Councillor M. Wagner advised that Mr. D. Pullen will coordinate the preparation of the two catalogues but will require a lot of help. Ms. P. Wagner advised that a group called "Our Common Future" gave a grant to Cambridge for publications but no one knows about that group. 10. UPDATES - cont'd Councillor B. Vrbanovic left the meeting at this time. HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 - 32 - CITY OF KITCHENER 11. 12. 13. 14. Mr. R. Coo advised that two displays are being designed at this time, one for the 1997 C.H.O. Conference and one to be a permanent display. He advised that he is looking for ideas and would be glad to have suggestions from the members. Ms. P. Wagner suggested that "Whats the Use?" being the theme for the 1998 C.H.O. Conference. Mr. L. Bensason reminded the Committee that a year ago, he advised this Committee that the property at 90 Heins Avenue would be have to be demolished for the trunk sanitary sewer. He advised that he is on the mailing list for minutes and he will keep this Committee up-to-date. Mr. Bensason then referred to two notices which were circulated to the members. The first notice is a letter from Mr. W. Fitzgerald concerning the millrace. He advised that the intention is to create an interpretive centre, including the millrace. He advised that sometime ago the Committee approved a $350.00 payment for the report, although the money was not spent at that time. He asked that the Committee approved the same expenditure this year. He advised that the work will start within the next month. On motion by Mr. E. Bow it was resolved: "That Heritage Kitchener contribute $350.00 to assist with the excavation of the millrace in Doon." Mr. E. Lucy was appointed as Committee liaison for this project. DESIGNATION SUB-COMMITTEE REPORT Ms. P. Costigan distributed the report of the Designation Sub-Committee and reviewed each of the properties in the report. Mr. P. Bufe advised that 239 - 241 Frederick Street is now under new ownership and questioned whether it could now be plaqued. VICTORIA PARK AREA Mr. D. Pullen questioned, now that the Victoria Park Heritage Conservation District has been approved, what requirements there are for the Parks and Recreation Department to obtain approval for works to be done in the park. He advised that he was also concerned about the Department's attitude towards the replacement of street trees. Mr. L. Bensason advised that, according to the plans, City of Kitchener departments must obtain approval, just like any other property owner. He advised that he will be suggesting to City departments that they make a presentation to Heritage Kitchener at the beginning of each year of those works they wish to do in the upcoming year. He advised that, with regard to natural features, they are guideline items and no formal approval is required. RECORDING PACKAGES The recording packages were distributed by Mr. L. Bensason and he requested that they be returned by the September meeting. EVALUATION SESSION Councillor M. Wagner advised that he thought there were too many properties being added to the inventory. He suggested that the Committee must take the house as it stands and if has been significantly altered, perhaps it should not be on the inventory. Ms. J. Haalboom suggested that it is the context which provided the history of the Community. It defines the historical setting. 14. EVALUATION SESSION - cont'd A discussion then took place concerning the recording packages and whether every house on the street should be recorded or just the best example of that style. HERITAGE KITCHENER JUNE 6, 1997 - 33 - CITY OF KITCHENER 15. Councillor M. Wagner suggested recording the best example of that style on the street and listing the house numbers of all other samples of the same style. The Committee then reviewed slides of the properties listed on the agenda. It was agreed, by voting on each property, that the following properties be listed on the Heritage Inventory: 79 Ahrens Street West 83 Ahrens Street West 87 Ahrens Street West 95 College Street 98 College Street 110 College Street 116 College Street 118 College Street 120 College Street 119 Victoria Street North 110 Water Street North 127 - 129 Water Street North 64 - 66 Weber Street West 106 Yonge Street 118 Yonge Street 124 Yonge Street 136 Yonge Street It was agreed that the following properties, currently on the inventory, remain on the inventory: 104 College Street 78 Weber Street West 132 Yonge Street The Committee requested that additional research be done on 108-110 Weber Street West. Ms. P. Wagner advised that the Region has two houses for sale, one at 43 Cedar Street North and the other at 195 Duke Street East. ADJOURNMENT On motion the meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m. Dianne H. Gilchrist Committee Secretary