MAY 24, 2006

ATTENDANCE: Marilyn Robinson, Chairwoman; Gail Wall; Kathryn Martino; Ralph Bloom;
Carol Ann Falasca; Liz Fenton; Marija Bryant (7:15 p.m.);
Bill Krummel (7:20 p.m.); Debbie Mathies (7:50 p.m.)

STAFF: Susan Gunn-Bromley

OTHER: Richard Ventre; Paul Lenhart; Michael Nikolas

CALL TO ORDER

Chairwoman Robinson called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m.

She said that they decided to take up Item B, DEMOLITIONS, 32, 34 and 36 Ferris Avenue, first on the agenda as the gentlemen were present to speak about it.

REPORTS – SUB COMMITTEES

B. DEMOLITIONS – Carol Ann Falasca, Chairwoman

3. For review and discussion 32, 34 and 36 Ferris Ave

Ms. Falasca said the three properties appear to be in good shape. One is a 1948 ranch, one is a 1920 Victorian, and one is from 1933. Mr. Lenhart and Mr. Nikolas, the owner and developer/broker, propose a condominium development for the properties.

Ms. Bryant arrived at 7:15 p.m.

Mr. Nikolas explained that they have met with Planning and Zoning twice. They would position the buildings in such a way that would preserve more green space. The three houses would be two separate projects, with one on Glenwood Avenue, which incorporates #35 and #33. There would be a total of twelve condominium units between the three properties, #32, #34, and #36, and they will be done in phases of six units.

Mr. Krummel arrived at 7:20 p.m.

Mr. Nikolas further explained that the units would be 2 ½ stories tall, with a garage underneath, and they would have more of a community-like look and feel to them, as opposed to a typical condominium look. The units would offer either 2 or 3 bedrooms with a loft. He said that the architect is AWA Design from Stamford, CT. Mr. Lenhart said that Mr. Nikolas is the broker who bought the property. He said that his family owned the properties on Stuart Avenue, and he recently joined the family business. Mr. Nikolas said that Mr. Lenhart’s father owns #33 and #35 Glenwood, and Mr. Lenhart (Paul) owns #34 and #36. There is not a party involved that owns #32, but the partner’s name is Emad Elgedawy. Mr. Lenhart said he owns two houses on Scribner Avenue, one of which he lives in, and the other they plan to renovate. It was suggested that they add on or renovate the houses on Glenwood and Ferris, as opposed to demolishing them. Mr. Nikolas said that it would cost prohibitive from an economic standpoint to renovate them. The price point for the rent would be between $450-$500.

Chairwoman Robinson thanked both Mr. Lenhart and Mr. Nikolas for coming in, and suggested that they try to keep the houses intact.

Ms. Mathies arrived at 7:50 p.m.

ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES

A. Regular Meeting – April 26, 2006

** MR. KRUMMEL MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF APRIL 26, 2006 AS AMENDED.

The corrections to the minutes are as follows:

On page 1, under OTHER, after Eagle Scout, add “Candidate, Colt Kostowski”.

On page 1, after OTHER, add EXCUSED ABSENCE: Betty Booth

On page 1, under CALL TO ORDER, 2nd paragraph, after Eagle Scout, add “Candidate, Colt Kostowski”.

On page 3, under REPORTS: BOARDS, in the Motion, change “ARCHITECTURAL ASPECTS” to “HISTORICAL ASSETS”.

On page 3, under REPORTS: BOARDS, in the Motion, change “SUITABLE” to “UNSUITABLE”.

On page 4, 2nd paragraph, in the Motion, it should read …..”IRREPLACEABLE, ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORICAL TREASURE OF NORWALK.”

On page 4, under Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report, delete the entire first paragraph, as well as the second sentence.

On page 4, under Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report, the paragraph starting with Ms. Wall then presented, it should read “Ms. Wall then presented a draft of a proposal” ……….

On page 4, under Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report, the paragraph starting with Ms. Wall then presented, 3rd sentence, change “stemware” to “stoneware”.

On page 4, under Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report, the paragraph starting with Ms. Wall then presented, 4th sentence, it should read “If the Friends had collections they would like to enter into the exhibit, they would be welcome.”

On page 4, under Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report, the paragraph starting with Ms. Wall confirmed, change the word “flyer” to “proposal”.

On page 6, under B. Demolitions, #2, 3rd paragraph, 1st sentence, change “98 Old Saugatuck Road” to “89 Old Saugatuck Road”.

On page 6, under B. Demolitions, #2, 3rd paragraph, 2nd sentence, it should read $1,095,000.

On page 6, under B. Demolitions, #2, 3rd paragraph, 4th sentence, change “is close to purchasing the house” to “is willing to purchase the house without demolition”.

On page 6, under B. Demolitions, #2, 4th paragraph, 2nd sentence, change “A zoning” to “AA zoning”.

On page 7, 4th paragraph, 1st sentence, it should read “177 Silvermine Avenue.

On page 7, 4th paragraph, 2nd sentence, it should read “They wanted to be sure that the addition was in compliance with the proposed National Register historic district.”

On page 7, 4th paragraph, 3rd sentence, change the word “realized” to “acknowledged”.

On page 7, under F. Gift Shop Committee, change “The report is listed under the Building Committee” to “A gift shop report was submitted by Ms. Booth in absentia.”

On page 7, under H. Building Committee, 3rd paragraph, 1st sentence, change “Get their name” to “listed on the National Register of Historic Places.”

** MS. BRYANT SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

CHAIRWOMAN’S REPORT

A. Remarks

Chairwoman Robinson reported that Scan Day was a success. They received some tremendous pictures and booklets that people brought from their homes. The one item that they were the most excited about was a panoramic postcard of Norwalk. Also, Mr. Edward Leary’s widow came in that day with postcards and the original master plan of Norwalk which dated back to 1935. She said that it was through the many hours of service the volunteers donated, as well as area merchants that donated food, that the event was a success.

She said that she and Ms. Wall attended the recent Historical Society gala at the Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum as representatives of the Historical Commission, and she said it was a lovely evening.

REPORTS: BOARDS

A. Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum – Marjorie St. Aubyn, Executive Director

1. Accept Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum Report

Chairwoman Robinson said that Ms. St. Aubyn was not present and there was no report. She said she is still trying to get a meeting scheduled with Mr. Nolin and Mayor Moccia regarding the use of the Museum. Also, she would like to schedule a meeting with Mr. Passero from the Museum as well. Some discussion followed regarding the use of the Museum.

B. Friends of the Norwalk Museum – Ralph Bloom

1. Accept Friends of the Norwalk Museum Finance Report

Mr. Bloom said the workers have been at the Museum for four nights in a row to complete the brickwork, and then finish with the grout work. That portion of the project will be done by the first week of June, so it can be used. After the exhibit opens, they’ll finish the border. The tiles will then be cleaned and have a finish applied to become more porous. They have used about 2,000 nails to secure the lower floor to the upper floor, as that hadn’t been done.

Ms. Gunn-Bromley said she has a group of schoolchildren visiting the Museum on June 6, and Mr. Bloom said there shouldn’t be a problem with the floor being used then.

He said the catalog about the exhibit is going to the printer this week. The catalog will be printed in Spanish.

C. Norwalk Historical Society – Gail Wall

1. Accept Norwalk Historical Society Report

Ms. Wall provided a photo of the Smith Street property, showing the stolen car, the barn and the jail. There is a report of a vagrant living on the property. There has been a barricade put up by the DPW to prevent parking. There are reports of construction equipment being offloaded onto the property. She provided everyone with a copy of the correspondence she sent to the Mayor, the Police, and the DPW.

She said the Lease has been signed, and she thanked Ms. Gunn-Bromley for working hard on getting the funding sorted out.

Ms. Wall and Ms. Gunn-Bromley discussed having the dead trees removed. Ms. Wall will call the DPW for a bucket truck to repair the flagpole and remove the dead trees.

She mentioned that she would like to have a discussion and a possible answer regarding the potential pottery exhibit for next year that was discussed at last month’s meeting. A concern was that it was proposed for February, which might not be suitable due to weather conditions. It was decided to set up a meeting next week, where they will get a better understanding of the purpose of the exhibit.

REPORTS – SUB COMMITTEES

A. FINANCE – Liz Fenton, Chairwoman

Ms. Fenton said that $3,000 got distributed, and it was taken out of the electric fund. Ms. Gunn-Bromley added that two other payments were made, one to the Connecticut Tourism Guide for the ad, and the Hour, out of the existing operating budget. She said that Chairwoman Robinson just signed a request for $4,000 for special appropriations, to make up the total of $7,000 for the lease for Mill Hill. They also requested $9,100 for the lease and cam charges for the Norwalk Museum for June.

B. DEMOLITIONS – Carol Ann Falasca, Chairwoman

Ms. Falasca said that 15 Lenox Avenue just came in prior to the meeting. It’s a two-family, 1941 house, and she didn’t know what the replacement plan was. The zone is for one-family houses and some two-family houses.

1. For review and discussion 20 Bouton Street

Ms. Falasca said the house dates to 1939, and it is in bad shape with the roof caving in due to a fire.

2. For review and discussion 1 Maple Street

Ms. Falasca reported the information regarding this house. It is actually located at 2 Maple Street. It was recommended that they call the owners and ask them if the Commission could look at the house, and also ask them what their plans are.

3. For review and discussion 32, 34 and 36 Ferris Ave

The discussion regarding these properties took place at the beginning of the meeting.

4. For review and discussion 1 St. James Place

Ms. Falasca said that there is nothing wrong with this house, and it is not officially up for demolition. It dates to 1870 and sits on .28 of an acre.
.
5. For review and discussion 89 Old Saugatuck Road

There is nothing new to report on this property. The Commissioners discussed the information they have about the house. Chairwoman Robinson said she will call the realtor to try to get more information.

6. And any demolition application published in The Hour, or received by the Commission as of
May 24, 2006

C. NHRI COMMITTEE – Debbie Mathies, Chairwoman

Ms. Mathies said she didn’t have a report.

Ms. Gunn-Bromley said she received a call from Ms. Veronica Daskam, a descendent of the Daskam family, concerning the future of the Daskam House on East Avenue. She said it is now vacant, and she was trying to locate the owners. Ms. Wall said the new tenants will restore the house, and at this time, it doesn’t appear the house is in jeopardy.

D. FODOR FARM HISTORIC DISTRICT REPORT – Marilyn Robinson, Chairwoman

Chairwoman Robinson said the Fodor Farm Historic District has prepared an ordinance.

E. NORWALK MUSEUM – Carol Ann Falasca, Chairwoman

Ms. Falasca said she didn’t have a report.

Ms. Gunn-Bromley said that in her report, under Norwalk Museum, she has received an estimate from Plaza Realty to re-paint some common areas. She mentioned that Palace Productions is no longer in the space downstairs, and it is now for lease.

F. GIFT SHOP COMMITTEE – Betty Booth, Chairwoman

There was no report.

G. BUILDING COMMITTEE – Marija Bryant, Chairwoman

Ms. Bryant said there is a meeting Friday at 11:30 a.m. at Mill Hill to get the estimates for the trim repaired.

Ms. Gunn-Bromley said that in her report, the Smith Street apartment #2 had some emergency toilet repairs. She is awaiting the invoice. She said Common Council approved the three year lease renewals at $500.00.

H. ROGERS-RITCH-MERRITT HOUSE COMMITTEE – Bill Krummel, Chairman

Mr. Krummel said the trailers are still at Andrews Field. The proposal is to move them to 38 Richards Avenue, not 51 Richards Avenue. He said Mr. Gould and Mr. Bielitz have completed their estimate work, and the total is $1.15M for restoring the RRM house. He said that the consensus of the committee from their meeting last week was to move ahead with the project. Ms. Falasca distributed the draft of the mission statement that she prepared.

I. MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE – Debbie Mathies, Chairwoman

Ms. Mathies didn’t have a report on the Management Committee but did have an update on the Cemetery Committee. She said their cleanup workday is scheduled for Saturday, May 27 from 9-12 at the Pine Island Cemetery behind the Lockwood Mathews Mansion. She said Mr. Mocciae of the Recreation & Parks Commission has donated the money for the gravel and the sand.

OLD BUSINESS

A. Demolition Ordinance review with possible resolution addressed to the Common Council for ordinance revision including:

1. Letter to notify owners of 90 day delay if imposed by the Historical Commission
2. Amended application to provide guidance on when to contact Historical Commission

The Commissioners discussed the moratorium ordinance that they plan to write and send to the Common Council.

Ms. Bryant said that the owner of the house at 53 Newtown Avenue really doesn’t want to sell to anyone who will demolish or redevelop it. The owner doubts that anything can be built on the wetlands.

B. Homeowner’s Tax Credit Handbook

Ms. Mathies said that the work on the handbook is moving along nicely. The districts are just about finished, and the nominations have to go to the State. Chairwoman Robinson thanked her for all her hard work.

She said there will be a workshop on June 21 for the Golden Hill district.

STAFF TO THE COMMISSION REPORT – SUSAN GUNN BROMLEY –
NORWALK MUSEUM/NHC

Ms. Gunn-Bromley added a few items to her report. She said that Acme is coming tomorrow to repair the two emergency lights. She also said that she has received a preliminary request that Gov. Rell would like to give a donation to the Museum and have an event for the Norwalk Young Republicans.

1. Approve the donation of photographs of Mayor Freese taken by Michael Shaffer, age 12, at the opening of Nathan Hale Junior High School; photographs of Riverside Cemetery and a photograph of the Clifford Store fire. Offered by Michael Schaffer.

2. Approve the donation of scanning and copying onto CD discs 360 NM Photographs including the Pepperidge Farm photographs. Donation of services by Michael Schaffer.

3. Approve the donation of nine Raggedy Ann and Andy Dolls, boxed, including Limited Edition 80th and 85th Anniversary Dolls; magnetic Raggedy Ann and Andy “paper dolls” with ten outfits; 1 small tea set; 1 small red sweatshirt printed with Raggedy Ann and Andy; 1 Raggedy Ann Radio (plastic); 1 Raggedy Ann Stapler (plastic); Raggedy Ann and Andy planters and two Raggedy Ann books: The Original Adventures of Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy, Derrydale Books, New York, 1991 and Raggedy Ann Raggedy Ann and Rags Adapted from the Stories of Johnny Gruelle, Illustrated by Jan Palmer, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, New York, 2002. Offered by Marilyn Diamondstone.

** MS. BRYANT MOVED TO APPROVE THE DONATION OF PHOTOGRAPHS OF MAYOR FREESE AS MENTIONED, OF THE SCANNING AND COPYING SERVICES FOR THE PEPPERIDGE FARM PHOTOGRAPHS, AND THE DONATION OF THE ABOVE MENTIONED RAGGEDY ANN AND ANDY MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES.
** MS. FENTON SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

NEW BUSINESS – ACTIONS

ANY OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION

Mr. Bloom referred to Ms. Gunn-Bromley’s report and her request for an accounting of the Curator’s Fund from 2000 until the present. Chairwoman Robinson said she will handle this with Ms. Gunn-Bromley tomorrow, and there wouldn’t be any action taken on this tonight.

NEXT MEETING OF THE COMMISSION – WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28, 2006

ADJOURNMENT

** MR. KRUMMEL MOVED TO ADJOURN.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Carolyn Marr
Telesco Secretarial Services

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