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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHeritage Kitchener - 2005-04-05 HERITAGE KITCHENER MINUTES APRIL 5. 2005 CITY OF KITCHENER The Heritage Kitchener Committee met this date, commencing at 4:05 p.m. Present: Councillor M. Galloway - Chair Ms. J. Armstrong, Ms. D. Kuehl, Ms. L. Harris, Ms. A. Moore and Messrs. K. Kirby, J. Countryman, G. Yeates, J. Law, M. Stranz and Z. Janecki Ms. S. Adams, Director of Strategic Community & Corporate Planning Mr. L. Bensason, Heritage Planner Mr. D. Schmitt, Urban Forest Technologist Mr. C. Goodeve, Committee Administrator Staff: Prior to commencement Councillor M. Galloway circulated copies of correspondence sent to the Premier of Ontario supporting the proposed amendments to Bill 60 and the response received from the Government House Leader. 1. DTs-05-041 - HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-IV-001 - 437 PIONEER TOWER ROAD - PROPOSED AL TERATION~ DEMOLITION~ ADDITION & NEW CONSTRUCTION Mr. Z. Janecki disclosed a pecuniary interest and abstained from all discussion and voting concerning this matter as he is employed by the current owner of the subject property. The Committee was in receipt of Development and Technical Services Department report DTS- 05-041, dated March 7, 2005 concerning Heritage Permit Application HPA 2005-IV-001, which proposes to amend the design of the restorations to the farmhouse previously approved in 2003 under HPA 2003-IV-022. Mr. L. Bensason advised that staff is recommending approval of the HPA so longs as the conditions outlined in the staff report are satisfied. Mr. Bensason advised that most of the work that will be done is subject to the HPA approved in 2003 and what is being asked for is an amendment to that permit. Mr. Bensason displayed photographs of a metal windmill, advising that as an addendum item, the applicant is requesting it be included as part of the HPA. In response to questions, Mr. L. Bensason advised that at the previous Heritage Kitchener meeting when concerns were raised regarding the installation of plexi/safety glass on the deck surrounding the rear addition. He stated that staff did not include that item as a condition because the use of that material will not infringe upon the original farmhouse. Members voiced concerns that the use of the plexi/safety glass may be seen from the front of the farmhouse, and as such, indirectly infringe upon it. Mr. Bensason advised that due to significant grade changes the metal windmill should not be visible from the street. John and Victoria Ariens, owners, advised that the plexi/safety glass will not be visible from the front of the house and is screened at the rear of the property by trees on the lower floodplain. He added that the style of the windmill and the accessory structure (a chicken coop) are in keeping with the heritage characteristics of the property. He advised that he had no objection to meeting the requirements of conditions a, b, and d, and in regard to condition c, they have not decided on colours yet, but will come back before the Committee when they do. Mr. Ariens advised that with regard to condition e, the security light is small in design and will be attached to the rear of the farmhouse; and relative to condition f, they have no intention of replacing the eavestrough and downspouts on the drive shed with wood, vinyl or steel but rather hope to use the same glavenized material to match what is currently there. With regard to condition g, Mr. Ariens advised that they propose to build a new 9' (I) x 9' (w) x 8' (h) chicken coop having a farm shed style roof of clad cedar shakes and board and baton exterior walls. He stated that a site plan submitted with the application shows that the building is proposed to be located 3 metres from the westerly lot line and is to be surrounded by an enclosure to serve as a pen. Regarding condition h, he advised that they are proposing to: remove all dead and diseased trees; add new topsoil and hydro seeding with grass seed mixture; remove the Manitoba Maples south of the pond; and do some minor re-grading of topography around the pond area. In response to questions, John and Victoria Ariens advised that for the chicken coop pen enclosure they are proposing to use cedar posts and farm wire in its construction. Mr. Ariens HERITAGE KITCHENER APRIL 5. 2005 1. DTs-05-041 - HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-IV-001 - 437 PIONEER TOWER ROAD - PROPOSED ALTERATION, DEMOLITION, ADDITION & NEW CONSTRUCTION (CONT'D) - 11 - CITY OF KITCHENER added that the material used in the replacement of the roof of the drive shed and the porch will be in keeping with what already exists and will correspond with the Georgian Mennonite style. He stated that the windmill will be 12 feet in height and be in keeping with the design displayed by Mr. Bensason. Mr. L. Bensason advised that he has no concerns with the security light being affixed to the rear of the farmhouse so long as it is not visible from the street. Members voiced concerns regarding the design and use of the plexi/safety glass and requested that the applicant submit drawings outlining its proposed use. Further, concerns were raised regarding the colours to be used for the brick chimney and the Committee requested the applicant provide that information upon completion of their colour selection process. On motion by Mr. K. Kirby - it was resolved: "That pursuant to Section 33 of the Ontario Heritage Act, Heritage Permit Application HPA 2005-IV-001 (437 Pioneer Tower Road) be approved, to permit the work as shown on the plans and described in the specifications submitted with the application dated February 7, 2005 and attached as Appendix lA' to Development and Technical Services Department report DTS-05-041 , subject to the following conditions: a) That the design of the proposed two small windows on the rear (south) elevation of the farmhouse be revised so that the bottom rail meets the side rail at a right angle, thus creating a six-light window of similar design and dimension as the attic windows located on the farmhouse; and, b) That the design of the sidelights on the front (north) elevation of the farmhouse be revised so that the glazing does not extend all the way to the floor, but rather rests on a wood panelled base of appropriate height, to be reviewed and approved by the City's Heritage Planner; and, c) That the applicant provide City staff and Heritage Kitchener with a better understanding of the colours proposed to be used for both the wood siding to be installed on the farmhouse; the EIFS to be used on the farmhouse addition; submit detailed drawings of the proposed use of plexi/safety glass on the deck surrounding the rear addition; and the colours to be used for the brick on the chimney; and, d) That the fieldstone and masonry repair/repointing proposed to be undertaken on the drive shed meet the Ministry of Culture's Master Specifications for the Cleaning and Repointing of Historic Masonry; and, e) That additional detail regarding the design, location and installation of new security lighting on the south elevation of the drive shed be provided and be deemed appropriate by staff and the Heritage Kitchener Committee; and, f) That additional detail regarding the design and material to be used in the installation of eavestrough and downspouts on the drive shed be provided and be deemed appropriate by staff and the Heritage Kitchener Committee; and, g) That additional information be provided to identify the location of the proposed accessory structure relative to the south elevation of the drive shed; and with regard to the proposed design and configuration of the pen enclosure including its length, height and method of construction (material); and, h) That additional information be provided to enable staff to gain a better understanding of how the proposed grading could impact the viability of existing trees, shrubs and other natural landscape features which may contribute to the CHL significance of the property; and that information regarding the extent to which the applicant proposes to remove existing trees be referred to the City's arbourist for HERITAGE KITCHENER APRIL 5. 2005 1. DTs-05-041 - HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-IV-001 - 437 PIONEER TOWER ROAD - PROPOSED ALTERATION, DEMOLITION, ADDITION & NEW CONSTRUCTION (CONT'D) -12- CITY OF KITCHENER review and comment; and further, That as an addendum to HPA 2005-IV-001 , the windmill proposed to be located south of the pond be approved at a height of no more than 12 feet and be designed in accordance with the image presented to Heritage Kitchener at its meeting of April 5, 2005. " 2. HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-IV-002 120 DUKE STREET WEST RENOVATION OF ST. JEROME'S COLLEGE The Committee was in receipt of Heritage Permit Application HPA 2005-IV-002, dated March 10, 2005, concerning the alteration of 120 Duke Street West (former St. Jerome's College/High School), which is associated with Wilfrid Laurier University's (WLU) re-use of the building to house the Facility of Social Work Graduate School. Mr. L. Bensason advised that given the significance of the property in question and the scope of the application an overview of the project will be presented by the architect this date and at the May meeting of Heritage Kitchener staff will submit a report and recommendations for the Committee's consideration. Mr. Angelo Cianfrone, Cianfrone Architect Inc., outlined various aspects of the Heritage Permit Application, advising that this project is being scheduled for completion by the Fall 2006, with the necessary scope of work for the building being: . structurally reinforce the existing floor beams and columns; . provide new life safety systems; . provide a new sprinkler system; . provide new electrical and communication wiring; . provide new heating, ventilating, and plumbing systems and due to space constraints the mechanical systems for these items will be placed on the north side of the roof, with a portion of the equipment being visible from that street elevation; and, . provide barrier free access (to do this the new principle entrance on the north side of the building will be upgraded). Mr. A. Cianfrone reviewed the conditions of the existing windows and advised that of the 3 options being considered Option 3, replacing the windows with new units that are generally in keeping with the original units, is the preferred option. He informed that they plan on replacing the existing windows with extruding PVC exterior grade frames and sashes, which have a low initial capital and long term maintenance costs. Further, the windows will have low Ie' argon filled double glazing, which is energy efficient. He advised that the proportions and divisions of the windows would closely resemble those of the existing. He then displayed pictures of other building projects where this type of window and materials were used. Mr. Cianfrone advised that the 2 existing main entrance doors on the south elevation are solid wood panels with top lights and he is proposing to reconstruct the front entrance doors to match the existing design. He stated that the framework on the interior elevation of the entrance doors will be retained and outlined the areas that will require replacement and repairs relative to the existing roof. He advised that generally the masonry work is in good condition; however, there are some areas that will require repair and repointing. Mr. Cianrone stated the application at this time does not envision any signage applied to the building, but rather identification will be by a ground sign located along the Duke Street boulevard. He added that the date stone, from the former 1909 neighbouring building destroyed by a fire, will be set into a decorative masonry wall fronting College Street. Mr. Cianfrone advised that the existing cross on the peek of the building is not consecrated and would likely be removed as the University purports to be non-denominational. He added the local diocese has agreed to receive and care for the cross. Mr. Cianfrone then displayed architect design drawings of the proposed changes and advised that the existing fire escape on the west elevation will be removed. HERITAGE KITCHENER APRIL 5. 2005 -13- CITY OF KITCHENER 2. HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-IV-002 120 DUKE STREET WEST RENOVATION OF ST. JEROME'S COLLEGE (CONT'D) In response to questions, Mr. A. Cianfrone advised that the fire escape is old and that the building has an adequate number of exits without it. He stated that the edifice material that will be used on this project allows more flexibility in matching the existing brick. Mr. J. Armstrong advised that she would like to see demolition drawings of the parts of the building proposed to be removed. Further, she requested greater details and samplings of the proposed roof screening, windows and flashing. Mr. L. Bensason advised that this is a landmark building, which is very rare and ideally he would like to see a traditional approach to the replacement of the windows. He requested that the PVC units be in keeping with the original style. Mr. Bensason added that the proposed removal of the cross is a delicate issue because this was the centre of Catholic education in this area and it represents what the building meant to the community. Mr. Bensason stated that he is aware that the University is non-denominational; however, the cross is a representation of the importance of this building. Mr. A. Cianfrone advised that WLU promotes itself as non- denominational and suggested representatives from WLU be invited to comment on the removal of the cross at the May meeting. Mr. R. Vanderspek, WLU, added that the University is aware that the issue surrounding the cross is a contentious one; however, he pointed out that the Faculty of Social Work incorporates persons from numerous denominations and cultural backgrounds. 3. HEALTHY COMMUNITIES WORKING GROUP - REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEERS Ms. S. Adams requested volunteers for the Healthy Communities Plan Working Group, advising that Ms. D. Kuehl had previously volunteered to be an interim-member on the Working Group until a permanent Heritage Kitchener member is appointed. Ms. Adams stated that heritage is a significant component of a healthy community and it is important that the Working Group have a member from Heritage Kitchener. She advised that the Working Group is scheduled to hold one, two hour meetings a month; however, it may hold more if deemed necessary. She added that is it the Working Group's goal to present the Healthy Communities Plan to Council in February 2006. Ms. J. Armstrong requested that Ms. S. Adams provide her with additional information regarding the Healthy Communities Plan as she may consider volunteering for the Working Group. 4. REQUEST FOR APPOINTMENT TO HERITAGE KITCHENER The Committee was in receipt of an Application for Appointment to Heritage Kitchener, dated February 21 , 2005 filed by Ms. Elizabeth M. Gallaher. Staff advised that even though the deadline for Committee appointments was November 2004, Heritage Kitchener is currently two members under its maximum limit and is permitted to make mid-term appointments. Staff added that if appointed, Ms. Gallaher would be a full voting member of the Committee with all the rights and privileges this entails. On motion by Ms. A. Moore - it was resolved: "That Ms. Elizabeth M. Gallaher be appointed to the Heritage Kitchener Committee for a term to expire on November 30, 2006." HERITAGE KITCHENER APRIL 5. 2005 -14- CITY OF KITCHENER 5. TREE PROTECTION & MANAGEMENT PLAN - sPADINA AVENUE & WINDSOR CRESCENT The Committee was in receipt this date of Development and Technical Services Department report DTS-05-040, dated March 21, 2005 concerning the impact of roadway construction and subsequent tree removal in the Spadina Avenue and Windor Crescent area. Mr. D. Schmitt advised that as a result of the proposed reconstruction of Spadina Avenue, Windsor Crescent and Ruby Street, some trees in the St. Mary's Heritage Conservation District will have to be removed. He advised that a tree inventory and assessment has identified that a majority of the trees on the boulevards at Spadina Avenue and Windsor Crescent have reached their life expectancy and are in significant decline. He added that the planned reconstruction has the potential to increase the rate of decline. He stated that while tree protection and conservation are top priorities during a construction project, it is also recognized that not all trees should be saved, particularly those that: 1) have reached their life expectancy; 2) are in a state of decline; and, 3) have serious structural problems that present a safety and liability issue for the City. Mr. Schmitt advised that of the 82 trees in the subject area 830/0 are Siberian Elms, which are short-lived trees and are now prohibited as a type of tree the City will plant. He stated that compared to other species Siberian Elms are considered high hazard trees and only 1 % of them in this area are in good condition. He advised that the inventory identified a number of the trees that should be removed due to safey issues and even without the construction project it is expected that within the next 5-10 years most of these trees will have to be removed. He noted that depending on soil conditions, the City is planning to replace the Siberian Elms with Red Maples and Red Oak trees. Mr. Schmitt reviewed the removal/maintenance schedule, outlined in the staff report, and advised that the Community Services Department has suggested delaying the tree removal to ensure there is adequate public discussion, and an opportunity to assess the full impact of the construction activities. In this regard, a second public meeting is scheduled for April 13, 2005. Concerns were raised regarding the proposed removal of trees and the impact removal will have on the historic streetscape. Mr. Schmitt advised that the City does not remove healthy trees, noting that the subject trees have reached their maturity and now present safety and liability issues which supercede other concerns. He stated that a direct mailing was conducted to all of the households in the subject areas and only 10 people attended the first public meeting. Mr. Schmitt advised that the City is examining means by which the Red Maple and Red Oaks may grow faster. He added that spaded trees were considered but they cost approximately $1,500. per tree; take longer to set in; and require a 5 year watering commitment. Mr. M. Stranz suggested that the City should rope off the purposed tree removal area and post signs, which may increase the attendance at the next public meeting. Councillor M. Galloway requested that this item be deferred and referred to the next Heritage Kitchener meeting so that an update can be provided as to the results of the public meeting. Ms. J. Armstrong suggested that the next agenda package include relevant sections from the St. Mary's Heritage Conservation District Designation and a copy of the tree plan map. 6. HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-V-003 79 JOSEPH STREET KOR GALLERY The Committee was in receipt this date of Heritage Permit Application HPA 2005-V-003, dated April 5, 2005 concerning the installation of wooden wall signs at the KOR Gallery (79 Joseph Street) . Mr. L. Bensason advised that the Community Services Department has put forward the HPA with three design options for the signs and is requesting that Heritage Kitchener recommend an appropriate design that is in keeping with the standards of the Victoria Park Heritage Conservation District. Mr. Bensason recommended Option #3 (2 panelled white signs) and HERITAGE KITCHENER APRIL 5. 2005 -15- CITY OF KITCHENER 6. HERITAGE PERMIT APPLICATION HPA 2005-V-003 79 JOSEPH STREET KOR GALLERY (CONT'D) suggested the height of the signs be in line with the tops of the windows; and the signs be affixed to the mortar joints of the building and not to the brick. The Committee then entered into discussion regarding the appropriateness of the designs, expressing dissatisfaction with all of the options. Some members suggested that instead of the proposed designs, the lettering of the signs be incorporated into the side of the building. The Committee directed staff to inform the Community Services Department that none of the options presented correspond with the standards of the Victoria Park Heritage Conservation District and that this matter is being deferred and referred to the May 3, 2005 meeting of Heritage Kitchener at which time alternative design options can be presented. Ms. A. Moore advised that she has a contact on the KOR Board of Directors and volunteered to meet with that person to express the Committee's opinion of the proposed designs and work with her contact to develop a design that would be appropriate for the Heritage Conservation District. 7. 691 HIDDEN VALLEY ROAD - REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEERS Mr. L. Bensason advised that he was approached by the owners of 691 Hidden Valley Road, who have indicated their intent to demolish the house on that property but keep the existing barn in tact. Mr. Bensason stated that because this property is on the Heritage Inventory and is being proposed for demolition, examination of the property is necessary to determine if it warrants designation. He requested volunteers to view the site with him and advised that he will send an invitation to members to participate in a site visit. 8. HERITAGE INVENTORY REVIEW - UPDATE Mr. L. Bensason advised that Council has identified rural areas of the City as a priority for the Heritage Inventory Review and a meeting of the sub-committee will be scheduled for later this month. 9. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m. Colin Goodeve Committee Administrator