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Minutes 12-10-12 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC RESOURCES PRESERVATION BOARD MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2012, AT 6:30 P, IN CITY HALL CHAMBERS 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BOULEVARD, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PRESENT: Roger Cope, Vice Chair Warren Adams, Historic Resource Michelle Dion Preservation Planner Paul Gionfriddo Eric Salomonsson Linda Stabile Robert Weiss Barbara Ready, Alternate (Arrived 6:48 p.m.) Harvey Rosenblum, Alternate ABSENT: Dr. Ginger Pedersen, Chair 1. Pledge of Allegiance Vice Chair Cope welcomed all to the meeting and called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. He led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 2. Agenda Approval There were no changes made to the Agenda. 3. Approval of Minutes Ms. Dion moved to approve (the minutes of October 8, 2012). Mr. Salomonsson seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 4. Communications and Announcements Warren Adams, Historic Preservation Planner, had one announcement from Chris Davenport, the County Archeologist. On February 2, 2013, there was a DuPuis Prehistory Mystery consisting of two sessions of lectures at the DuPuis Visitors Center. The lectures are about four of DuPuis major prehistoric earthworks and a swamp buggy tour of the site would take place after the lecture. The cost was $50 per person. Anyone interested in attending should contact Mr. Adams who would provide the details to them. 1 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 5. Old Business: a. Update on the progress of the Historic Preservation Program Mr. Adams reported the City was awarded the Certified Local Government (CLG) Certification on October 9, 2012 and the Annual CLG Report was submitted November 27, 2012. Now that the City was a CLG, the City could move forward with the Ad Valorem Tax Incentive Program. The Agreement was approved by the City Commission and signed by the Mayor and forwarded to the County. The next step was for the County Commission to adopt the Agreement. It was hoped this program would be in place within the near future. The City was technically awarded a small matching grant; however, there was still no word on the level of funding they would receive. Work on the Design Guidelines was ongoing. Mr. Adams attended a pre - application meeting regarding the Woman's Circle proposed new building. They had made changes to the design as requested by the Planning Department. It appeared there may be more time to relocate the building. Their initial intention was to demolish it in December. The financing for the new building was not yet in place so if members had any idea of how to save the building or who could take it, they should contact Mr. Adams. Mr. Adams was continuing to work on the Florida Master Site File Survey with the GIS Department to determine the most appropriate way to add all the surveyed sites to the GIS System. It appeared the best way to move forward was for Mr. Adams to just add the sites to the system himself. Some of the work would assist with the grant funded educational program and the interactive website. Part of the funding was allocated to produce an interactive website for the City. Hopefully Mr. Adams' work adding to the survey will help expedite the project. Mr. Adams attended the Cemetery Resource Protection Training in West Palm Beach on November 15, 2012. It was a morning lecture on recording and protecting cemeteries and the various legal aspects involved when doing so. The City of Boynton Beach was the best represented City at the lecture, with Mr. Adams, Ms. Dion, and two cemetery workers present. Mr. Adams had requested the details be passed on to the Cemetery Board and he gave credit to them and the workers. It was a fascinating day. Ms. Dion commented she enjoyed the training. The tour, held after the lecture, included a visit to the cemetery. She learned a lot about tombstones, the cleaning of them, and thought it was an amazing trip through archeology. Mr. Adams also spoke about the cleaning solution used, but cautioned tombstones should only be cleaned when it was necessary. Tombstones age which adds to their attractiveness. He believed another training session may take place which would focus more on the repair of the tombstones as opposed to the cleaning of them. 2 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 Mr. Adams recalled he mentioned at a prior meeting that he may do a walkover of some potential archeological sites within the City. He commented Boynton Beach has a number of scrub sites which were never developed and would not be developed in the future. All of the sites run along a ridge of high ground close to the shoreline of where the original river ran through Boynton Beach, so they were prime sites for potential archeology. Mr. Adams met with Mr. Davenport and conducted a walkover of the sites. The plan was to keep the sites as natural parks, but if they found any archeological remains, it would allow them to apply for funding and make the artifact a park feature. A map of the sites was viewed. Some of the sites were owned by the County. One site was Galaxy Scrub, located behind the new Galaxy School. Mr. Davenport believed there was a high potential for archeology there and it was ranked eight out of 10. Shovel test pits in a grid pattern was recommended. Excavation could potentially be done in conjunction with the school and any finds could be exhibited in the two older school buildings. It was also suggested the school could borrow collections from FAU and other organizations. Galaxy was a new school so it could be a fairly unique program to introduce if there was anything found at the site. Coco Plum, a form of food stuffs people would eat were found at this site, which signified there were individuals living there. Quantum Scrub off of Gateway was a complex site with many features that would require a lot of investigation and interpretation. Tracks, paths, mounds, construction debris and large chunks of vegetation were found which are associated with habitation and farming. The site's high elevation and its close proximity to wetlands enhanced the site. The City does not own the land, but it was Mr. Adams' understanding the City was negotiating with Quantum to obtain the land. A complete investigation could take several years. Mr. Davenport also suggested conducting a shovel test; however, Mr. Adams had to consult with the current environmentalist to learn what was occurring with the site. Plants such as Mother -in -Law's Tongue were found at this site which signified there may have been some type of farming or residential habitation at that location. FP &L Park had scrub on -site and also had a high potential for archeology. Shovel test pits should be dug. At the moment, there were plans for a sound wall as the Park was in close proximity to 1 -95 and it was recommended Mr. Adams be present when the excavation for the sound wall takes place. Girl Scout Park, which has scrub on -site, was another location with a high potential for archeology. The site was viewed as having a possible cultural landscape with the potential for burials. Some of the vegetation suggested habitation. Shovel tests should also be performed. There are very old Banyan trees situated there, normally signifying a meeting place. The site could possibly be added to the Florida Black Heritage Trail along with the Barton Cemetery. In addition to the Banyan trees, there were extremely large Pine trees, which should be protected, and a buffer zone should be put in place 3 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 around them. The County Archeologist commented he had never seen a site like this, so it was a potential and extremely valuable site for the City. Currently, there was no public access. The County and State should also be informed that this site, along with Barton Cemetery, under no circumstances should be used in times of hurricanes, for storing debris or any sort of temporary living. Mr. Davenport commented he had never seen pine trees of this size, nor had he ever seen Banyan trees as were at this site. There were a significant number of large Banyan trees at this site forming a canopy and one large Banyan at Barton Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Davenport thought it could be a site of huge significance. This Park was in the Chapel Hill area. Mr. Adams commented much thought had to be put into this site as to what potentially would go there. It was known the southern portion of the site had a building on it at some point, but the northern part where the trees were never developed. Investigation could show nothing, but conversely, it could be significant. Rolling Green Park was fenced off, densely overgrown and had difficult access was difficult. The site potentially could have archeological significance, but the recommendation was to do nothing with it until there were some plans to clear it as one cannot even see the ground. It will be marked as a potential site and left in its current condition until the City decided to do something with it. (Ms. Ready arrived of 6:48 p.m.) Another site in Quantum, located high on the ridge, was not owned by the City, but was identified as a potential archeological site. The site has been overly developed so the archeologist felt there was only a one to three, out of ten, chance of finding archeology. Just because the site was developed did not mean there was nothing there. Accordingly, this site was number two on their list of priorities. The Seacrest and Rosemary Scrub areas, owned by the County, were potential sites, but nothing appeared to be significant. As a follow -up to the site visits, Mr. Adams would walk the sites with Dr. Michele Williams, an archeological botanist with the Florida Public Archeology Network, who would review the vegetation and try to provide further interpretation into the site. Galaxy and Quantum would be the first sites to be investigated. Mr. Davenport had suggested, due to Mr. Adam's experience, that all the exploratory, excavation work and test pits could be overseen by Mr. Adams so there would be no cost to the City to handle these tasks. Mr. Davenport could also assist in obtaining students to help. Mr. Adams explained this opportunity was available to anyone who wanted to help and when he received the go -ahead to commence with the test pits, he would apprise the Board. The sites were fairly big, but the problem with test pits was one could be dug and nothing found. Another one could be dug not far from the other and something found. The sites, however, were pretty unique as Mr. Adams was not aware of any other cities having pockets of scrub land. 4 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 6. New Business The Recording Secretary administered an oath to all those intending to testify. Vice Chair Cope inquired if there were any ex parte communications and disclosures. Mr. Adams disclosed he met with the applicant in his capacity as Historic Preservation Planner as he did the designation application. Messrs. Rosenblum, Gionfriddo and Mr. Weiss disclosed they drove by the sites, but did not speak with the applicant. The members commented the property was impressive. It was evident the owner took great pride in the property. A. 229 SW 1st Avenue designation application Mr. Adams presented the request as contained in the application and confirmed the applicant completed all of the required notification requirements. The property was a circa -1922, two -story Mission -style residential building. It was a fine example of architecture constructed in Boynton Beach during the 1920's and it was one of the limited number of buildings of this style remaining in the City. Very few alterations were carried out externally. There was a small addition added to the rear of the structure. Bahama shutters were installed and windows were replaced. The porch windows were screened, a wood deck and pergola added, and a shed roof added to the side entrance which were minor alterations that did not seriously affect the character of the property. The work done could easily be reversed if desired. The interior was altered slightly on the second floor. One would have gone up the stairs and seen four rooms. There was now a wall blocking it off resulting in doors to the right and left of the stairs with the master suite curving around to the back of the building. The site was eligible for designation as it was significant for its architecture and it retained almost all of its integrity. The minor alterations were reversible and most were not visible from the right -of -way. The site was eligible for designation under Criteria C as it embodied the distinctive characteristic of a type, period or method of construction. Mr. Adams had slides of the home which he reviewed. He noted the site received an award for the landscaping as it was extremely well maintained and it met all the requirements of the Secretary of the Interior's standards. The home retained some of the original wood flooring and the staircase and featured the original fireplace and step up to the closet. Mr. Adams recommended approval and advised if approved, the first reading of the Ordinance would be heard by the City Commission on December 18th and the second reading on January 15, 2013. Sophie Amichai, 229 SW 1st Avenue, the owner thanked the Board for their assistance, especially Mr. Adams. She loves the neighborhood and hoped to improve 5 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 and continue to enhance the City of Boynton as much as possible. There were no comments from the Board. Motion Ms. Ready moved to approve the designation. Mr. Salomonsson seconded the motion that unanimously passed. B. 211 E. Ocean Avenue designation application Mr. Adams presented the request as contained on the application and confirmed the applicant completed all of the required notification requirements. The property is owned by the Community Redevelopment Agency and was a circa -1919 two -story, wood frame vernacular residential structure. It was a fine example of this style building and it was one of the oldest buildings in the City. There are a limited number of this age and style homes remaining in the City. The home was wood -frame construction with clapboard siding. Almost all of the windows in the original structure were wood -frame double hung sash with two- aver -two lighting configuration. Decorative detailing is on the exposed rafter tails and an attic vent was on each gable. The structure has wood windows and door surrounds and wood trim at the building corners. There was one internal concrete block chimney which appeared to be a later edition. Slides of the interior were viewed. The one -story, rear addition was wood -frame construction with clapboard siding. The windows were metal frame jalousie and wood frame fixed ribbon, which were in the rear of the building and could not be seen from the right -of -way. Mr. Adams suggested it gained some significance for its construction, which appeared to be done in the 1950s. If any additions were added to the back, they could be removed, but it did have significance in its own right. The addition did not affect the character of the house and it was appropriate for the existing building. The interior was finished to a very high standard. Almost every wall surface was covered with some form of wood paneling which runs vertically, horizontally or diagonally. The diagonal and vertical paneling was mainly in the public rooms on the first floor, suggesting it was a showpiece. The beading was horizontal in the bedrooms on the second floor. The entrance, hall and stairwell contained examples of diagonal, horizontal and vertical beading. Other details encompassed wood cornices in the living and dining rooms, finished wood surrounds on all doors and windows, original wood doors, decorative wood columns and original wood flooring throughout nearly the entire building. Photographs of the interior were viewed. The most significant alteration was the removal of the front porch prior to the 1980s. The porch was a character - defining feature of the property. A photo taken in 1986 showed a newer, smaller porch, but it was unknown exactly when it was removed and in the future, if desired, a new porch could be installed. 6 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 The site is associated with Oscar Magnuson and his family, who were early pioneers to the town of Boynton and who contributed to its prosperity. His home is one of the early structures remaining in the City today. Mr. Adams reviewed Mr. Magnuson's son died at age five. Distant family members were still alive in the City, and some worked for the City. Barbara Scott was helpful in providing photographs and information on the house. He was also contacted by seventh generation Magnusons. Mr. Magnuson likely constructed the home in 1918 in preparation of his marriage and lived in it for a number of years. The site is eligible for designation based on its architectural and historical significance under Criteria B and C. It was a good example of a frame vernacular structure from the pioneer days of the City. It retained much of its integrity, it has been well maintained, its interior may be unique in the City and it was associated with the life of an early pioneer. Staff recommended approval of the application and if approved, the first reading of the Ordinance before the City Commission would be on December 18, 2012, and the second reading on January 15, 2013. The application had been approved by the Community Redevelopment Agency Board. Vice Chair Cope opened the public hearing. No one coming forward, the public hearing was closed. Ms. Ready commended Mr. Adams for his work on both applications and reports. Mr. Adams commented he enjoyed compiling the reports and it was hoped in the future, applicants would help provide research. He noted future applications were forthcoming. Motion Ms. Ready moved to approve. Mike Simon, CRA Development Director, thanked Mr. Adams for his help with the application. The agency was excited about the home's history, working with Mr. Adams and commented it was a great house. As to future plans for the home, the Agency would like to see an active use. It was important the designation be approved prior to selecting any tenant for the property to keep the building and work within the guidelines of the program. The Agency has facade grants but the designation beforehand would set the tone for what could be done. He pointed out every design the CRA has for the home included replacing the porch. It was of paramount importance and any alterations would appear before the Historical Resources Preservation Board. Discussion centered on a mango tree visible in one of the slides viewed. It was noted the current tree on the property was the same tree as in the photograph. It still produced mangos. It was possible the tree had been replaced, but if so, it was in or near the original location. 7 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 Vote Mr. Salomonsson seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Mr. Adams pointed out the home was constructed on piers and not a stem wall. The Ruth Jones Cottage was constructed the same way. He noted the Cottage may receive a future designation. 7. Other Mr. Adams explained demolition applications were submitted for the following locations: 1. 2235 N. Federal Highway. This structure was built circa -1958 and was approved for demolition. The applicant submitted plans for a new large two -story structure 2. 11 Gateway Boulevard. This structure was constructed circa -1982 and was approved for demolition. 3. 114 N. Federal Highway, the Bank of America building. This building was constructed in 1971. It had interesting architectural details, but it did not meet the 50 -year old requirement and there were plans to redevelop the site. The demolition application was approved and proposals were being solicited. -- -._ - __ -•* - _ _ . -- _ -- _ _ • ___ _. -_. Additionally, the City Forester spoke with the demolition company . to ensure existing trees were saved. Mr. demolished. It appeared the Agency sure what the plans would be once g Adams was not su p pp would try encourage a some type of downtown redevelopment proposal that would fall 9 between the Marina and the developed area of Ocean Avenue. Additionally when the site is developed, there would be required landscaping plans. Mr. Adams spoke with the demolition contractor and it appeared only the building and the covered drive - through section would be demolished. Mr. Adams explained there were a few other demolition applications approved for residential structures built in the 60's; however, the homes were nothing of significance. Mr. Adams met with the Woman's Club three times. The first time was to discuss potential paint colors for the exterior woodwork. They would like to stay with the color green but use a darker shade. He spoke with Mizner experts and the State, since the property was on the National Register, and no one had any objections to using a darker shade of green. Mr. Adams also made a presentation at one of their luncheon meetings. He gave an in -depth presentation about the Preservation Program and there were many questions. He received a nice letter from them thanking the Board and the City for moving ahead with the program and it was thought they had an ally to help them preserve their building. Another meeting was to discuss potential funding opportunities 8 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 to help them with much needed repairs. Mr. Adams commented this showed the program was moving ahead. There were more individuals contacting him asking questions and designating properties. The program was making an impact. Mr. Adams also spoke of Laurie Durante's Historical Tours which takes visitors to historic sites in Delray, Boynton and various restaurants. The tour is given by the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History of which Ms. Durante is Executive Director. The tours were a good idea. She requested he meet her on a Tour of the Boynton Hills Lights to describe their history. This took place for the Palm Beach Gardens Historical Society. The Society was very interested in the lights, and they visited a number of sites in the downtown area as well as art sites. Many of the participants commented they did not realize Boynton had lights such as this and that Boynton had so much to offer. 8. Comments by members Ms. Ready inquired if the Woman's Club was interested in seeking Local Register designation. Mr. Adams responded it was something they were considering. As they are on the National Register, they are eligible to apply for grants. He explained being on the Local Register would mean they would have to receive Board approval for any exterior work, but it also meant Mr. Adams could work with them to obtain grants and ensure changes are approved, as well as the Ad Valorem Tax Incentive program. The next project would be the Boynton Hills Lights and the Barton Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Adams was deferring designation of the Children's Museum because the Old High School area would be re- platted. When a structure is designated, the site is designated. The Children's Museum was already on the National Register and was fully protected. He did not want to complicate anything that was going on. The two sites on the National Register were the Woman's Club and Schoolhouse Children's Museum. Mr. Salomonsson thanked Mr. Adams and the members, especially those on the original Ad Hoc Committee, for their efforts. He noted over the last three meetings, the program was taking off. All were wished a Happy Holiday! 9. Public comments Ms. Gerger invited the Board members and their significant others to her Open House. She was President of the Garden Club and the Historical Society and she explained both organizations were invited as well. The date and time was this December 16, 2012, from 2 to 4 p.m. She explained it took her seven days to decorate the house and little -by- little, she was making improvements. Light refreshments would be served. 9 Meeting Minutes Historic Resources Preservation Board Boynton Beach, FL December 10, 2012 Ms. Gerger's home was the first property added to the Local Register and an article about it would appear in the paper on the 13th. Now that her tenant was moving, the other side of her property would be vacant. If it was vacated in time, she could show both sides of the property. She noted the article would appear in the Palm Beach Post. 10. Announce date of next meeting — January 14, 2013 11. Adjournment Motion There being no further business to discuss, Ms. Dion moved to adjourn. The motion was properly seconded and unanimously passed. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Catherine Cherry Recording Secretary 129192 10