Holyoke Historical Commission

City Hall Annex

Minutes for April 2, 2014

Attendees

Commissioners: Olivia Mausel, James Sheehan, Duncan Mackiewicz, Vitek Kruta

Associate Members: Chris Gauthier, Jean Jonker, Dan Fitzgerald

Public: Representatives from HAP: Greg Farmer, Melphy Antuna,

Peter Serafino

Chairperson Mausel called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. and began with suspending

the regular agenda so that representatives from HAP could update the Commission on the Library Commons project. The representatives explained that the plans are still fluid and that the property located at 1035 Dwight Street will be tacked on to the Library Commons project for financial purposes. For the Library Commons area, there will be two distinct projects - one with 55 units and the other with 19 units - mixed income levels. The plan includes taking down the back left portion of the Chestnut Street building because it is not salvageable. They are going to build an office space with laundry facilities that would be the entry way to 117 Essex Street and 193 Chestnut Street would house elevator access, thus making the buildings handicap accessible. The building on Essex Street would be rehabbed to 9 apartments and 210 Elm Street, which already has an elevator shaft, would be loft style. Currently the plans include an open-space with amenities for residents and parking in the large vacant lot.

The building located on the corner of Dwight Street and Clinton will be brought up to code with sprinklers, etc. The current plan includes relocating the residents during the renovation.

Mr. Greg Farmer stated that they need support for tax credits and need to be on the National Register. He has been in contact with Mass Preservation who stated that the area needs to be larger to be placed on the register. He stated and showed a map that indicated a proposed historic district that went from Chestnut Street down Essex to Pine Street. He indicated that the Dwight Street area would be nominated differently. HAP's goal is to apply for state and federal historic tax credits. Chairperson Mausel suggested that they might want to piggy back on Dwight Street because of Victorian Homes and Caspar Ranger. Mr. Farmer stated that they did not pull the Masonic into their current proposal for a Library Commons historic district.

The representatives then reported on the existing conditions of 193 Chestnut Street stating that the fronts are in fairly good condition, but the rear right hand wing has some masonry in really bad shape, and they want to take one leg down. As for 117 Essex Street, they stated that the facade is beautiful and want to bring it back to its original state. They then stated that 210 Elm Street is a solid building with some masonry problems. The new building would be fairly modern but respective of the surrounding buildings. They plan on using a rhythm of vertical elements. The current site plan brings people along side 203 Chestnut Street to access the building and the elevator. The existing porches would become private porches. 117 Essex Street will make for a very nice 2 and 1 bedroom units. The 210 Elm Street basement comes above grade so it could be property manager space. There will be parking for 58 cars for 55 units.

Commissioner Sheehan asked if there would be an area fenced off. They said that it could be fenced off and that the Skinner's granite fence is still there and could be incorporated. Commissioner Kruta asked about the need for rezoning. They replied that they would ask for a reduction of parking spaces. Commissioner Kruta then asked about the home that was destroyed by fire. They stated that it will no longer be part of the project and that they are aware of issues with activities that are taking place in the area of Appleton and Essex.

Chairperson Mausel asked if they had a name for 210 Elm Street, and they said that it would be called Library Commons. She recommended Skinner. Commissioner Sheehan asked how long it would be for the shovel to be in the ground. They stated that it would take a couple of years because historic tax credits take time. Commissioner Sheehan asked if they owned any of the properties. They stated that they have agreements because they need the historic tax credits.

With no further discussion, Chairperson Mausel returned to the regular business agenda. Commissioner Mackiewicz made a motion to accept the minutes from the March meeting which was seconded by Commissioner Sheehan. The Commission accepted the minutes unanimously.

Chairperson Mausel began with a discussion about updating the bylaws. She read the suggested bylaw changes which included new language regarding alternate members being able to vote. Commissioner Sheehan expressed concerns about the electing associates and having them vote on issues. Chairperson Mausel stated that it will be sent to legal for review.

Chairperson Mausel then reminded the Commissioners to complete the Ethics on-line training. Commissioner Kruta stated that he wants to send a letter of disclosure but didn't know to whom to send it. Chairperson Mausel stated that he should send it to legal.

Associate Commissioner Gauthier presented the prototype of the postcard that will be sent out for the Preservation Month event.

Chairperson Mausel informed the Commission that the Caspar Ranger and library tables can be stored by the Commission. A brief discussion was held, and it was agreed that further discussion needs to take place about displaying them. Hopefully they could be ready for the Preservation Award ceremony in May.

Chairperson Mausel then moved on to the topic of the City Hall Chambers. She stated that Councilor Dave Bartley wants to know what has happened to pictures that were taken because he is interested in the restoration of the Chambers. Commissioner Kruta stated that he has them but that they need to be identified. Commissioner Kruta also inquired if there was an RFP that was issued. There was no response.

Associate Commissioner Fitzgerald informed the Commission that Passport Holyoke wants to increase its festivities to a 3-day event Columbus Day Weekend which could possibly include a tour of city hall and the congregational church. He stated that he is on the committee for the historic aspect. Sara Krohn suggested a walking tour, and Chairperson Mausel stated that a city hall tour in costume would be good. Associate Commissioner Jonker stated that she would volunteer to lead the tour.

Chairperson Mausel informed the Commissioners that a group is meeting about the archives in city hall. She then stated that 540 Homestead Avenue might be interested in a historic plaque. She stated that she would donate the funds for it. Commissioner Sheehan said that he would email her the phone number.

After a brief discussion, it was agreed that the Commission does not need to attend the Library monthly meetings.

Associate Commissioner inquired about the possibility of saving some of the facade of the Essex House to maintain the continuity of architecture in the downtown area. Commissioner Kruta stated that it is too dangerous.

Chairperson Mausel informed the Commissioners that she and Associate Jonker went into the Farr Alpaca building and took some photos and a few momentos for historical purposes/display. She also mentioned that she had learned about a lone confederate veteran who is buried in Holyoke.

Associate Fitzgerald provided a brief summary of the Olmstead presentation he had attended particularly focusing on the Springdale and Dingle Parks.

With no further business to be discussed, Commissioner Mackiewicz made a motion to adjourn with Commissioner Sheehan seconding. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:37 P.M.

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