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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLACAC - 1993-06-11LACAC\1993-06-11 LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES JUNE 11, 1993 The Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee met this date, commencing at 12:05 p.m., under the Chairmanship of Alderman M. Wagner with the following members present: Mr. V. Tarbutt, Mr. E. Bow, Ms. B. Buchanan, Mr. P. Bufe, Ms. S. Burke, Ms. E. Esenbergs, Mr. R. Fuller, Ms. J. Kramer, Mrs. G. Stoner and Mrs. P. Wagner. Alderman T. Galloway, Ms. J. Chivers-Wilson, Mr. D. Parrish and Ms. M. Welsh were in attendance for part of the meeting. Others present: Messrs. T.B. Stanley, G. Kett, T. Clancy, L. Bensason, K. Curtis, G. Sosnoski and Ms. N. Lichty. 1. COMMUNICATIONS Alderman Wagner referred to a recent opening ceremony for the offices of North American Life located in the Walper Terrace Hotel. He displayed a picture plaque which the company intends to present to individual L.A.C.A.C. members. Alderman Wagner informed the Committee of plans to redevelop the former Bauer Industries complex on the block bounded by St. Leger Street, Victoria Street, Margaret Avenue and Breithaupt Street. He stated that following meetings with the developer and the Adaptive Re-Use Committee a decision has been made to retain some of the buildings and incorporate these into the new development. In response to a question from Mr. Bufe, Alderman Wagner clarified that the two storey structure fronting on St. Leger Street will have to be demolished in order to insure the viability of the project. Alderman Wagner informed the Committee of the impact on City budgets, including the Council (L.A.C.A.C.) budget, as a result of recent cutbacks by the Province. 2. MINUTES Mrs. Wagner asked that Page 25 (Item #7) of the May 7, 1993 minutes regarding the Kaufman Footwear building be amended to indicate that "it was determined that there was no possibility of preserving the smokestack in its entirety and the top 30 feet would have to be removed". On a motion by Mr. E. Bow - It was resolved: "That the minutes of the regular meeting of the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee of May 7, 1993 as mailed to members and amended this date, be adopted." 3. MUNICIPAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST ACT Committee members were circulated this date with a copy of the Act. Alderman Wagner asked that they read it and note any questions for consideration at the beginning of the July meeting. 4. ALTERATION REQUEST - PROTESTANT MAUSOLEUM (WOODLAND CEMETERY) The Committee was in receipt of a report and recommendation from Mr. G. Kett dated May 27, 1993 concerning a proposed addition to the existing mausoleum. Mr. Kett outlined the context of the decision to proceed with the further construction of crypts and niches and referred to both the proposed addition and future expansion plans. He noted that the proposed addition would be constructed at a cost of approximately $200,000.00 but would yield revenues of approximately $500,000.00. Mr. L. Bortolin appeared on behalf of J.C. Milne Construction Limited, and using plan, elevation and perspective drawings described the proposed addition and the subsequent phases. It was noted that the project would include additions to the main facade on both sides of the entrance. He advised that test patches for the mortar joints would be prepared to insure proper matching. LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES - ~8- JUNE ll, 1993 4. ALTERATION REQUEST - PROTESTANT MAUSOLEUM (WOODLAND CEMETERY) (cont.) Ms. Kramer questioned whether a detached building had been considered and Mr. Kett replied in the affirmative, noting however that an attached structure makes the best use of available space and frees up land for the sale of traditional burial plots. Mrs. Wagner questioned whether an addition could be constructed at the rear of the building and Mr. Bortolin replied that this is planned for a subsequent phase, however, constructing at the front the building at this time insures exposure to promote sales. In response to a question from Ms. Burke, Mr. Bortolin clarified that all phases of the project cannot be constructed at the rear of the building. Ms. J. Chivers-Wilson entered the meeting at this time. Ms. Welsh inquired whether it was possible to construct the crypts below grade and Mr. Bortolin indicated this could be done, however, underpinning of the existing building would be required. Mr. Bufe expressed the opinion that the proposed addition detracts from the existing building. Ms. Burke voiced her concern that the addition would significantly alter the main facade and indicated her preference for a location at the rear of the building including the construction of some crypts below grade. Mr. Parrish suggested that if there is construction at the rear of the building, it should replicate the type and level of design detail on the existing structure. On a motion by Ms. S. Burke - It was resolved: "That no action be taken at this time on the request of the owner's representative for permission to construct an addition to the Protestant Mausoleum (Woodland Cemetery), pending further investigation of design alternatives involving the side and rear elevations and the possible use of a free standing structure." It was generally agreed that a sub-committee comprised of Ms. E. Esenbergs, Ms. J. Chivers- Wilson and Mr. D. Parrish would be responsible for reviewing any revised design proposals for the Protestant Mausoleum prior to further consideration by the Committee proper. Alderman Wagner asked the Committee for its comment on the name of the new cemetery on Westmount Road. A number of alternatives were discussed including Strawberry Farm, Strawberry Hill, Huron, Williamsburg and Trillium Woods. On a motion by Mr. P. Bufe - It was resolved: "That on heritage and historic grounds, the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee endorses the name "Williamsburg Cemetery" for the new facility to be constructed along Westmount Road East, and further, That this recommendation be forwarded to the Community Services Committee for consideration." 5. ALTERATION REQUEST- 31 WILFONG DRIVE The Committee was in receipt of a request from Ms. J. Wilfong to alter the property at 31 Wilfong Drive by cladding the exterior in vinyl siding and replacing the existing windows. They were also in receipt of extracts from the Upper Doon Heritage Conservation District Plan which identify the property in question as a class B building having contextual significance. Ms. Wilfong displayed a greytone siding sample and circulated photographs of damage to the present stucco building fabric. 5. ALTERATION REQUEST - 31 WILFONG DRIVE (cont.) LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES - 29 - JUNE 11, 1993 A brief discussion took place concerning the request and the current state of the building. Mrs. Wagner asked whether the applicant had considered re-stuccoing and Ms. Wilfong replied in the negative indicating that vinyl is easier to maintain and is more cost effective. Ms. Wilfong also advised that the present windows are in a poor state of repair. It was generally agreed that a sub-committee comprised of Mr. V. Tarbutt, Mrs. P. Wagner and Ms. S. Burke would visit the site and speak with representatives of the Society for the Preservation of Upper Doon. Mrs. Wagner also suggested that a Building Inspector be asked to give an opinion on the present condition of the stucco. 6. REQUEST TO DESIGNATE - 56 DUKE STREET WEST (ST. MARY'S CHURCH) The Committee was in receipt of a letter from Ms. Ann Joos requesting that they consider designating the above property. Ms. Joos was in attendance this date and expressed her concern over the possible loss of building fabric as a result of planned renovations to the sanctuary. She asked that on the basis of the building's architectural merit it be considered for designation. Mr. Bufe indicated that he was informed extensive restoration of the high alter area is required. Mr. T.B. Stanley confirmed that the Church has been in the process of restoring the building for the past ten years and that funds collected by the Catholic Women's League are intended to assist with the restoration. Mr. Fuller added that he was informed the Church intends to restore the building to its original condition. Mrs. Wagner observed that Ms. Joos may require assurance from Church officials in this regard and Ms. Joos replied that to date they have been unwilling to meet with her. Mr. Bufe suggested that an appropriate Church officials be contacted to obtain additional information and their comments on designation. On a motion by Mr. P. Bufe - It was resolved: "That L.A.C.A.C. contact the owner of the property at 56 Duke Street West (St. Mary's Church) to inform them of the details of designation under the Ontario Heritaqe Act and solicit their comments." Alderman Wagner indicated that this item would be discussed further at the July 9, 1993 meeting. AIR CONDITIONER INSTALLATION - 25 JOSEPH STREET (FORMER VICTORIA PUBLIC SCHOOL) Ms. N. Lichty was in attendance on behalf of Kitchener Housing Inc. (KHI) relative to their previous request for clarification on the impact of exterior mounted air conditioning units relative to the designating by-law. In this regard, the Committee was in receipt of the Reasons for Designation. Ms. Lichty referred to the policy of KHI regarding installation and circulated copies of an air conditioner agreement. She pointed out that it appears air conditioning is necessary to insure a reasonable level of comfort given the design and layout of the building, and if installed KHI will insure this is only on a temporary or seasonal basis. Mr. Parrish suggested that the project architect prepare a proposal for consideration by L.A.C.A.C. which would address such items as the possibility of the units projecting into the building, their colour, grill type and positioning. Mr. Parrish put forward a motion requesting that KHI obtain an architect's proposal for further consideration by L.A.C.A.C. AIR CONDITIONER INSTALLATION - 25 JOSEPH STREET (FORMER VICTORIA PUBLIC SCHOOL) (cont.) Ms. Lichty asked whether the courtyard elevations would be affected and Mr. Sosnoski clarified that the intent of the by-law is to designate the exterior elevations save and except those forming LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES the boundaries of the interior courtyard. - 30- JUNE ll, 1993 Mr. Parrish amended his previous motion to indicate that approval would be given in principle to the request subject to an architect's proposal or specification being approved by L.A.C.A.C. The Committee then voted on the motion as amended. On a motion by Mr. D. Parrish - It was resolved: "That Council approve in principle the request of Kitchener Housing Incorporated to install, where applicable, window air conditioners on the exterior elevations (excluding the courtyard) of the designated property known municipally as 25 Joseph Street West (former Victoria Public School), subject to an architect's proposal outlining the details of design, installation, positioning and any other related items being submitted to L.A.C.A.C. for consideration and approval." It was generally agreed that a sub-committee comprised of Mr. D. Parrish, Ms. J. Chivers-Wilson and Ms. B. Buchanan would investigate further and report to the Committee proper at the July 9, 1993 meeting. Ms. Lichty was asked to forward the architect's proposal to Mr. Sosnoski who would insure its circulation to the sub-committee members. Ms. Lichty asked whether the same direction would apply to the Shantz Terrace development, a portion of which is also designated under the Ontario Heritaqe Act. Ms. Burke expressed the opinion that this was an entirely different issue and Alderman Wagner asked the sub-committee to also make a recommendation in this regard. 8. PAINT SCHEME - 25 JOSEPH STREET (FORMER VICTORIA PUBLIC SCHOOL) Ms. S. Burke gave a verbal report on the colours to be used in repainting the masonry and trim. She noted that these have been identified for the architect and that the sash colour applied to a sample window on the courtyard elevation had been checked. She noted that she had also reviewed the hardware proposed for the main door and put the Committee on notice that the owner feels it is necessary to replace these doors. Mrs. Wagner advised of an historical contest to be staged in conjunction with the opening ceremonies at 25 Joseph Street. She indicated that L.A.C.A.C. had been asked to field a team in this regard and Alderman Wagner suggested that any interested Committee members contact him. 9. WILLIAMSBURG TOWN CENTRE DEVELOPMENT Committee members were circulated this date with a letter from Mr. Ron Schlegel dated May 11, 1993 outlining the developers position on the preservation of various heritage features. These include the cobblestone wall presently located in the barnyard, the weigh scales, the house and barn as well as the farmhouse pump and gatepost. The letter further requests the Committee's consideration and endorsement of these in its meeting minutes. Mrs. Wagner advised the Committee that the proposed development would be considered by the Planning and Economic Development Committee on June 14, 1993 and that L.A.C.A.C. would be asked to comment at the site plan approval stage. WILLIAMSBURG TOWN CENTRE DEVELOPMENT (cont.) The Committee considered the features outlined in Mr. Schlegel's letter. As regards the cobblestone wall and its proposed relocation, Mr. Fuller suggested that the present location has historic significance and Ms. Burke added that the wall would lose its integrity as an historical artifact if it were dismantled and relocated. She suggested that if part of the wall is left in place, it should be accompanied by an explanatory plaque. Mr. Stanley pointed out that with respect to the current drawings for the Westmount Road LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES - 31 - JUNE 11, 1993 realignment it would appear that the weigh scale would have to be moved as it is located in the road right-of-way. Alderman Wagner pointed out that the scale was not originally in this location. Mr. Parrish acknowledged that the context of the heritage features is important, but questioned the essential value of these. He indicated that if the value is minor the Committee should not interfere with the proposed project, but allow the developer to remove these and proceed as he sees fit. He expressed concern that by approving relocation or rebuilding the Committee may be indirectly endorsing this option as regards other development projects. It was generally agreed that the house has no heritage significance based on the limited amount of original building fabric remaining; that the existing weigh scale should be retained in its present location; and that the cobblestone wall should be retained and if possible a portion incorporating the cap inscribed "1903" should be left in its present location. Ms. Burke questioned whether the Committee should recommend designation of the weigh scale and Mrs. Wagner suggested they await Mr. Schlegel's response to the discussion this date. 10. 133 GRABER PLACE (HARVEY J. GRABER TRANSFORMER STATION) The Committee was in receipt of a report and recommendation from the sub-committee dated May 31, 1993. Council had previously deferred consideration of the Conservation Review Board report pending L.A.C.A.C.'s comments on the recommendations therein. The sub-committee was charged with comparing the original Notice of Intention to the Review Board recommendations and suggesting an appropriate response. Mr. Sosnoski reminded the Committee that the Legal Department has advised that at present there is no registerable legal description. As a result though Council may enact a designating by-law, it cannot be registered on title. He stated that in speaking to Engineering staff it was indicated that preparation of a reference plan for the site would likely cost between $1,000.00 and $1,500.00 and require a Committee member to advise as to an appropriate property boundary. Mr. Sosnoski further advised that following consideration of the Conservation Review Board report Council is obliged to either enact a designating by-law or withdraw its previous Notice of Intention. Alderman Wagner reminded the Committee that the owner has given the City two years to find an alternative use, failing this they will demolish the building. On a motion by Mrs. G. Stoner - It was resolved: "That in response to the Conservation Review Board report dated August 21, 1992 Council proceed to enact and register a designating by-law for the property known municipally as 133 Graber Place (Harvey J. Graber Transformer Station) in accordance with the previously published Notice of Intention and with the revised reasons for designation being those outlined in the report of the L.A.C.A.C. sub-committee dated May 31, 1993, and, 10. 11. 133 GRABER PLACE (HARVEY J. GRABER TRANSFORMER STATION) (cont.) That the above be conditional upon Council approving the use on a one time basis of a portion of the approved 1993 Council (L.A.C.A.C.) budget to cover the approximate $1,500.00 cost of Engineering Division staff preparing a reference plan or other registerable legal description in accordance with the direction of L.A.C.A.C. or its designated representative as to the size and configuration of an appropriate parcel of land, and further, That pursuant to Section 38 of the Ontario Heritaqe Act, Council authorize a member of L.A.C.A.C. and the appropriate Engineering staff or their designated representative to enter onto the above property for the purpose of completing a property survey." SCENIC ROAD POLICIES - MUNICIPAL PLAN Mr. T.B. Stanley gave a presentation on the proposed scenic roads policy and the related criteria. LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES - 32 - JUNE 11, 1993 He stressed the scenic and heritage context and reviewed the policy in detail, which he indicated incorporates all elements of the R. Suffling policy save and except any reference to "view sheds". Mrs. Wagner suggested that some manner of control is required to prevent the obstruction of significant views or vistas by future buildings and developments. Mr. Stanley replied that these can be controlled through height by-laws or policies in the corresponding corridor community plan. Ms. Chivers-Wilson questioned whether there is a formal policy linking a community plan and a scenic road policy and Mr. Stanley replied that this could be addressed. Ms. Buchanan asked what would prevent the City from arbitrarily widening a road in accordance with its newly acquired right-of-way. Mr. Stanley replied that Council could not legally undertake the work without amending its own Official Plan. Ms. Burke suggested that additional clauses could be added to address communication corridors which would include waterways, hydro lines, trails and other related items. Mr. Stanley replied that he would prefer to add this as a separate section. He also referred to other scenic roads which could be added including Pinnacle Drive from Homer Watson Blvd. to just before the New Dundee Road. He also indicated that he could not support the definition of Ottawa Street South as a scenic road on the basis of recent development. Ms. Burke added that it would seem appropriate for L.A.C.A.C. to identify heritage roads which would be subject to the policy. Alderman Wagner thanked Planning staff for their efforts in this area and praised the policy as a significant milestone in preservation. 12. CONFERENCE REPORT - ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVANCY OF ONTARIO 13. 14. It was generally agreed that consideration of the report of Mr. E. Bow would be further deferred to the July 9, 1993 meeting. 410 KING STREET WEST (KAUFMAN FOOTWEAR) It was generally agreed to defer consideration of a suggestion by Ms. S. Burke that the Committee assess the heritage value of the entire industrial complex to the July 9, 1993 meeting. This item was previously considered at the April 2, 1993 meeting and referred to the meeting of this date pending a report. DESIGNATION REQUEST - 67-69 AHRENS/132 YOUNG STREET Ms. Buchanan notified the Committee that she was withdrawing her previous request to designate the above properties and no further action was taken by L.A.C.A.C. 15. 16. 17. DESIGNATION CEREMONY - HARRY CLASS POOL It was generally agreed that the above property is significant enough to merit a ceremony. Alderman Wagner indicated that he and Mr. Bensason would raise the issue with Mr. F.S. Graham. DEMOLITION REQUEST - 24-26 CHAPEL STREET Alderman Wagner advised that he is strongly opposed to the request to demolish both from a heritage and planning standpoint, noting that this would have a negative impact on the streetscape. Mr. Bufe asked whether the same comments would apply to houses on Lancaster Street and Mr. Bensason clarified that 146, 150, 160 Lancaster Street are also affected. Alderman Wagner noted that he would relay his comments at the upcoming Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting. OTHER BUSINESS - DOON SOUTH BRIGADOON STUDY Mr. Tarbutt displayed a plan shown at the public house concerning changes to the 401 interchange. He referred to a number of scenic roads as well as a proposed and alternate route. 18. HIRING OF SUMMER STUDENT LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES - 33- JUNE ll, 1993 Alderman Wagner asked for a motion to approve the hiring of a summer student in principle with details of the project to be arranged by L.A.C.A.C. representatives and staff and to be ratified at the July meeting. On a motion by Mr. V. Tarbutt - It was resolved: "That approval be given in principle to hire a summer student to conduct heritage research using funds in the approved 1993 Council (L.A.C.A.C.) budget, with the nature and content of the project to be determined by a sub- committee comprised of Mr. V. Tarbutt, Mrs. P. Wagner and Mr. L. Bensason." 19. SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS Ms. Burke circulated a report from the Strategic Plan Sub-committee entitled Statement of Purpose and a discussion paper entitled Developing a Strategic Plan for L.A.C.A.C. She then reviewed the report in detail stressing that it is a draft document. She asked members to prioritize the point form items listed in the discussion paper and be prepared to discuss these at the July meeting. A brief discussion took place as to the development of criteria to be considered when recommending the designation of properties. 20. NEXT MEETING The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Local Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee will be held on Friday, July 9, 1993. 21. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 5:00 p.m. G. Sosnoski Manager of Corporate Records/Assistant City Clerk