JULY 26, 2006

ATTENDANCE: Marilyn Robinson, Chair; Ralph Bloom; Betty Booth;
Carol Ann Falasca; John Kurtzman; Kathryn Martino; Deborah Mathies; Liz Fenton (7:10 p.m.); Marija Bryant (7:11 p.m.);
Gail Wall (7:20 p.m.); William Krummel (8:09 p.m.)

STAFF: Susan Gunn – Bromley, Curator; Marjorie St Aubyn, Executive Director, Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum

GUESTS: Michael Bromley; Todd Bryant

Ms. Robinson called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.

ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES - June 28, 2006

The following corrections were made to the minutes:

Correct spelling of Asadorian, Weigand, Fodor and Rogers Rich throughout.

Page 1 – under STAFF, replace absent with excused.

Page 2 – fourth paragraph – third sentence replace state statute with national register guidelines.
Seventh paragraph – first sentence should read that the building had a bit of vandalism.

Ms. Fenton arrived at 7:10 p.m.

Ms. Bryant arrived at 7:11 p.m.

Ms. Wall arrived at 7:20 p.m.

** MS. BRYANT MOVED TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES AS CORRECTED
** MS. FENTON SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

CHAIRWOMAN’S REPORT

FODER FARM HISTORIC DISTRICT REPORT

Ms. Robinson welcomed Mr. Bryant, the Chairman of the Fodor Farm Historical District Study Committee, and asked him to provide the Commission with an update on the Fodor Farm property.

Mr. Bryant updated the Commissioners and said that the Committee is close to completing the report of historical significance.

** MS. FALASCA MOVED THAT THE HISTORICAL COMMISSION SUPPORTS THE FODOR FARM HISTORICAL DISTRICT STUDY COMMITTEE
** MR. KURTZMAN SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Mr. Bryant discussed the issue between Parks and Recreation and the Committee. He said that Parks and Recreation are not in favor of creating an historical district at Fodor Farm.

Ms. Robinson will send a letter to the Mayor, Common Council in support of creating a Fodor Farm Historic District.

CURATOR – RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MAYOR, THE COMMISSION AND THE CURATOR

Ms. Robinson explained that there have been discussions trying to determine the relationships between the Mayor and the Curator. When the Personnel Director, left the City a few weeks ago, Ms. Robinson was informed that the Mayor would take over the role she had been filling in relation to the Curator.

Ms. Robinson said that since that time, she is no longer informed about the Curator’s working schedule. She said that she asked the Mayor a number of times to explain if he is having the Curator report to him rather than to the Commission, however, she has not received a response.

The Curator explained that the Mayor told her that she would report to him and work for the Historical Commission. She said that she checked in with Ms. Robinson and Ms. LeTourneau daily and the Mayor told her not to do that.

The Curator said that she recently received an e-mail from Peter Nolin, City Counsel. In it he wrote that his decision after he and the Mayor reviewed the issue was that in terms of her vacation, it would have been a courtesy to let the Commission know earlier that she was going on vacation.

Ms. Robinson said that Ms. LeTourneau never made a decision about the Curator’s vacation time without input from her on behalf of the Commission, until just recently.

The Curator said that in terms of her hours, the agreement is that she is supposed to work 37 ½ hours a week as in the agreement with the union for the City.

Ms. Robinson addressed the concerns of the Commission regarding the pottery shards.

Ms. Wall asked the Curator why she feels she must not follow her job description. The Curator replied that she has been told that she is a City employee and she is to do what the Mayor tells her to do.

The Curator said that she presented the shards to the Commission and they accepted that donation. Ms. Robinson said that she had no idea the collection was so large. The Curator said that the shards come from the Norwalk site and are proving to be very interesting. She said that not all of the shards will go into the collection; she needs to go through the shards to decide which ones are important.

Ms. Wall said that she was extremely concerned about the environmental issues associated with handling the shards. She added that she feels that the Health Department overlooked the situation. Since there is no provenance, they do not know where the shards originated from. Ms. Wall said that this is a very serious situation and that she does not want anyone handling these materials.

Mr. Krummel arrived at 8:09 p.m.

The Commissioners held a lengthy discussion about the shards.

** MS. WALL MOVED THAT THE NORWALK HISTORICAL COMMISSION WILL NOT ACCEPT THE DONATION OF POTTERY SHARDS UNTIL AN ACCURATE PROVENANCE, VALUE AND HEALTH ISSUES IS RECEIVED
** MS. FALASCA SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

** MS. WALL MOVED TO REQUEST THE CREATION OF A FORM FOR PRESENTATION TO THE COMMISSION FOR ALL POTENTIAL DONATIONS OR ACQUISITIONS THAT WILL GO INTO GREAT DETAIL DESCRIBING THE DONATION
** MS. FALASCA SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

REPORTS: BOARDS

LOCKWOOD MATHEWS MANSION MUSEUM – ACCEPT LOCKWOOD MATHEWS MANSION MUSEUM REPORT INCLUDING FINDINGS ON WOODWORK RESTORATION OF BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE NORTH DOOR, SERVANT’S STAIR AND THE CONSERVATORY

Ms. St. Aubyn reported that they can not go through the winter without the work being done. The Curator explained that they are past the City deadline to request funding. Ms. St. Aubyn explained that until a few weeks ago, they did not know how much the door repairs would cost.

Ms. Wall asked if the Lockwood Mathews Mansion has a preservation plan for the building. Ms. St. Aubyn said that they do not but are going to create a plan.

Mr. Bloom said that they need a revised proposal that more accurately reflect the scope of work being proposed.

Mr. Krummel pointed out that the Mansion is touted as a prime tourist spot, and yet it needs extensive repairs. He told Ms. St. Aubyn that she needs to give top priority to maintenance.

Ms. Wall asked about the benefits received from the recent filming that took place at the Mansion. Ms. St. Aubyn said that she would have to look at the exact amount that was received, but she said that it did help with the heating costs.

Ms. Wall asked about the Stepford Wives film. Ms. St. Aubyn said that they received $75,000. Ms. Wall asked why this Commission does not review the contract. Ms. St. Aubyn said that they worked with the State regarding what the film makers could or could not do. She added that in September the Governor will be recognizing the Mansion as a major film location in the state of Connecticut.

Ms. Wall said that the film contracts should be reviewed by the Corporation Counsel and this Commission. She said that they are not being rewarded financially as they should be. Ms. St. Aubyn said that each contract is reviewed individually and every company that has come in has left the Mansion in better shape than when they arrived.

It was suggested that a general policy be created for rental of historic buildings for events or films shoots.

FRIENDS OF THE NORWALK MUSEUMS – ACCEPT FRIENDS OF THE NORWALK MUSEUM FINANCE REPORT

Mr. Bloom reported that the shop is nearly finished and the wares will be on the shelf this week. He will be attending the gift fair in New York in early August to look for new products for the shop.

The electrical issue has been addressed

NORWALK HISTORICAL SOCIETY – ACCEPT NORWALK HISTORICAL SOCIETY REPORT

Ms. Wall read her written report. She said that the July 4th bell ringing ceremony was well attended.

There was a segment from the play the “Burning of Norwalk”. However, there were some complaints about the heat, so they are going to look at a mobile air conditioning unit for the Town House.

Ms. Wall reported that she has been unsuccessful in getting an exterminator for the termites, but she will keep trying.

The Curator said that she sent a letter to the tenant at the Jail reminding them that they do not have use of the first floor for storage and that they have until August 14th to remove their items.

STAFF TO THE COMMISSION REPORT

Ms. Robinson asked the Curator if there was anything critical in her report that needed to be discussed tonight. She said that she would like to table her report because she has not had time to review the report.

The Curator distributed a handout regarding a website proposal from Michael Schaffer. She said that he has offered to design a website for the Norwalk Museum that would be linked with the City’s website. He wants to highlight the 1963 Brien McMahon football team on the website.

Ms. Wall questioned why they would need two websites. The Curator said that his idea is that they would eventually be able to add t this site. Ms. Wall said that she had no problem with the context, but it should be on the City website. The Curator said that she will forward his proposal to the Commissioners.

The Curator reported that Elizabeth Youngerman sent out an ADA form for all public facilities. She will fill that out. She said that Plaza Realty was not concerned about items in the way and that it would not interfere with their painting.

DONATIONS OFFERED TO THE NORWALK MUSEUM

Ms. Robinson said that she wanted to postpone all donations.

The Curator asked about the Dorlon’s plate.

APPROVE THE DONATION OF A LARGE REDWARE DRAP MOLDED DISH, PIECED TOGETHER WITH MISSING AREA FABRICATED TO COMPLETE THE DISH. SLIP DECORATION READS “MONEY WANTED”. THIS IS ONE OF FOUR KNOWN “MONEY WANTED” DISHES. THERE OF THE FOUR WERE FOUND AS SHARDS IN BROOKLYN AND NEW YORK. THIS DISH WAS FOUND IN BROOKLYN. - postponed

AN EXTREMELY RARE GRAY STONEWARE OVOID SHAPED CROCK WITH EXTENSIVE COBALT BLUE PAINTED AND SLIP DECORATION, IMPRESSED “SMITH & DAY NORWALK” WITH WOODEN LID. PURCHASED. - postponed

MEDIUM SIZE PRESERVE JAR, 5 ¾ DIA., 7” H., EXCAVATED AT THE SOUTHERN END OF THE SMITH STREET POTTERY SITE. UNMARKED. postponed

LARGE PRESERVE JAR, 7 1/8” DIA., 10 3/8” h., ACQUIRED FROM A MILFORD, CT ESTATE. UNMARKED. postponed

A 2 GALLON CROCK MARKED “SMITH & DAY MANUFACTURERS, NORWALK CON.” PIECED TOGETHER, COMPLETE. FOUND AT 217 E 10TH STREET, MANHATTAN IN OCT. 2004 postponed

A SMALL OVOID JUG RED EARTHENWARE MAGNESIUM DECORATED, ATTRIBUTED TO NORWALK, PARTIALLY RESTORED. OFFERED BY MR. WILLIAM ASADORIAN postponed

** MS. BRYANT MOVED TO APPROVE THE DONATION OF A DORLAN’S LOBSTER TRANSFER PRINTED SHENANGO CHINA, NEW CASTLE, PA., DINNER PLATE, 10 5/8 INCHES IN DIAMETER. OFFERED BY SUSAN AND MICHAEL BROMLEY
** MS. MATHIES SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

Ms. Robinson thanked Ms. Gunn-Bromley and Mr. Bromley for their donation.

REPORTS - SUB-COMMITTEES

FINANCE

There was no report this evening.

STAFF TO THE COMMISSION REPORT - continued

Ms. Booth asked about the wedding on November 25th. The Curator said that it would begin at 5:00 p.m. and she would be on site during the event. She said that she was concerned about the date, because it is the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Mr. Bloom said that the exhibit comes down on the 19th.

Ms. Wall asked if there will be dancing. The Curator said that she would ask. Ms. Booth expressed concern about setting a precedent by allowing the room to be used by someone other than a civic group.

Ms. Robinson said that she had no problem with this type of event. Ms. Wall said that these are tight quarters and is concerned about damages. The Curator suggested drawing up criteria for the use of the space. Mr. Bloom added that the Law Department needs to review the contract.

DEMOLITIONS

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 5 EAST WALL STREET, GARAGE 21 DDD 8-14-06

Mr. Bloom explained that this is a 19th century barn that was converted into a garage. Ms. Wall said that Raymond Funeral home wants to demolish the garage because they need the space.

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 9 POND STREET, 21 DDD 7-26-06

This is a small Cape Cod with no historical significance.

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 40 FERRIS AVE, 21 DDD 7-26-06

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 35 GLENWOOD AVENUE, 21 DDD 7-26-06

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 12 POINT ROAD, STAY OF DEMOLITION IMPOSED 7-5-06

This is an 1885 Victorian. The applicant was invited to attend tonight’s meeting, but did not show up.

6 MAPLE STREET

This is a home that burned.

110 ROWAYTON AVENUE

This is the Fairfield County Bank building that was built in 1953. Mr. Kurtzman pointed out that there used to be a gas station at that site.

FOR DISCUSSION 89 OLD SAUGATUCK ROAD

Ms. Falasca explained that due to family issues the buyer can’t meet the closing on August 28th.

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 43, 43 ½ LOWE STREET – NO PERMIT FILED WAITING HC REVIEW

FOR REVIEW AND DISCUSSION 93 EAST AVENUE

Ms. Falasca said that this issue is tied up in court. It was suggested to try and get community support to save the building. Ms. Wall said that this building was a prime example of demolition by neglect. Ms. Falasca said that this could be such a beautiful historic inn.

** MS. BRYANT MOVED THAT THE NORWALK HISTORICAL COMMISSION WILL DEFEND AND SUPPORT THE CARE AND PRESERVATION OF 93 EAST AVENUE
** MS. FENTON SECONDED
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY

NHRI COMMITTEE

Ms. Mathies distributed the completed handbooks.

NORWALK MUSEUM – GIFT SHOP AND OFFICE CARPETING

Thee was no report this evening.

GIFT SHOP COMMITTEE – NORWALK MUSEUM GIFT SHOP PROGRESS REPORT

There was no report this evening.

BUILDING COMMITTEE

Ms. Bryant said that Mr. Bloom already discussed the electrical circuit issue. She will meet with the electrician.

NORWALK MUSEUM ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS

This item was discussed earlier.

ROGERS-RITCH-MERRITT HOUSE COMMITTEE

There was no report

MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

There was no report.

OLD BUSINESS

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

Ms. Bryant said that there was no new information.

Mr. Krummel said that 1 Maple Street is another example of demolition by neglect.

VILLAGE DISTRICT – TRASH BINS

Ms. Bryant suggested that the Historical Commission write to the DPW stating that they are opposed to the trash containers. The proposed trash bins are unsightly. Ms. Robinson will send a letter to Hal Alvord the Director of Public Works.

WALL STREET – PROPOSED WALL STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT

Ms. Bryant said that this item is moving forward.

NEW BUSINESS – ACTIONS

ANY OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION

NEXT MEETING OF THE COMMISSION – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2006

The Commission agreed to hold their next meeting on August 23rd.

ADJOURNMENT

There was no further business and the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 11:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Rosemarie Lombardi
Telesco Secretarial Services

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