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| NORWALK HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES |
SEPTEMBER 25, 2002
ATTENDANCE: Carol Ann Falasca, Kathleen Morrow, Ralph Bloom, Linda Fallon,
Deborah Mathies, Glenn Iannaccone.
STAFF: Susan Gunn, Curator
OTHERS: John Cehi, Norwalk Hospital; Scott Gilroy, Friends of the Norwalk
Museums, Terri Tylo, FNM; Penny Vitalo, FNM; Catherine Reischer,
FNM; Dorothy Main, FNM; Anne Searles, FNM Walter Reischer, FNM;
Richard A. Booth, President, Norwalk Historic Society; Kevin Williams,
Boy Scouts of America, Peter Bondi. NHC appointee.
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Carol Ann Falasca. Ms. Falasca announced that Norwalk Historical Commission Chairperson Diane Rochelle would not be in attendance as she was accepting a $10,000.00 donation to the Rogers Rich Merritt House from the Norwalk Kiwanis Club. Also absent were Marjorie St. Aubyn, Executive Director, LMMM, and John Federici, who was on vacation.
Ms. Falasca began the meeting by noting that Telesco Services would no longer be taking the minutes of the NHC meetings per an edict from City Clerk Pam Stark as of September 2002 that the Board of Estimate has directed her office to reduce expenses for minute-taking for various City boards, agencies, commissions, etc. Ms. Falasca thanked Telesco Services for their assistance. Linda Hayes, Assistant to the Curator of the Norwalk Museum, assumed the minutes duty for this meeting and was acknowledged by the Commission. Taping of the meeting for the purpose of an accurate record of the proceedings was announced.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The following changes were made to the Minutes of July 25, 2002:
Replacement of Robingous to Robidoux.
Replacement of Iannacone to Iannaccone.
Addition of John Shea to attendance list.
Page 1 - It was noted that in the first paragraph of the minutes from the July 25 meeting, Ms.
Rochelle had asked if some commissioners would visit. Ms. Falasca asked that it be noted that 30 people visited.
Page 2 – 3rd paragraph add Debbie Mathies’ name after John Federici.
Page 3 – 5th paragraph – Replacement of Margaret to Marjorie.
Page 3 – 11th paragraph – Replacement of Margaret to Marjorie.
Page 3 – 11th paragraph – Replacement of spine to ribs.
Page 4 – 1st paragraph – Replacement of Marcia to Marija.
Page 4 – 1st paragraph – Addition of the words for payment following Mr. Slavitt.
** MRS. MORROW MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JULY 25, 2002 AS CORRECTED.
** MS. FALLON SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE BOARD
Mr. John Cehi of the Norwalk Hospital was recognized by the Commission. Mr. Cehi discussed the hospital’s need to demolish the Colonial Revival house located at 5 Elmcrest Terrace in order to expand the hospital’s parking facilities. Ms. Falasca stated for the record that four Commission members had visited the house and that they were overwhelmed by the beauty of the house. Mr. Bloom questioned if the hospital had checked out any other uses for the house, suggesting that it might be used as office space. Mr. Cehi remarked that the hospital’s decision to remove the house was due to zoning restrictions and setbacks, amounting to twenty feet on the neighbors’ side and fifteen feet from the back side, and that parking and turnaround space behind the house had been a continuing problem when the house had been previously used for the purpose Mr. Bloom suggested. Ms. Gunn mentioned that the parking lot could be re-striped to add more parking spaces. Mr. Cehi said that the turning area was not large enough to facilitate more cars. Ms. Gunn suggested the grassy strip could be removed to facilitate the setback. Mr. Cehi said that the hospital owns the property and that the grassy knoll (strip) could be removed as the property is now hospital-zoned. Ms. Gunn thought that at least fifteen additional spaces could be added without removing the grassy strip. Ms. Falasca asked why the hospital felt it needed to acquire additional parking and questioned whether the additional space would be used for hospital staff or outpatients. Mr. Cehi answered that with two hundred thirty-four or more patients and over 1,600 staff, the hospital felt it required more space for parking. Ms. Falasca asked if 30 spaces would facilitate easing the parking difficulties. Mrs. Booth asked if the house must be demolished to satisfy the parking requirements. Ms. Mathies wanted to know if a parking garage would eventually be put up in the area instead and indicated that she had some reservations about the future use of the space once the house was removed. Mr. Cehi replied that he did not know what the future could hold but that it would be a definite possibility. Ms. Gunn mentioned a small maintenance building on Stevens Street close to the hospital and asked if the hospital had considered the idea of demolishing the old maintenance building and building a new, more functional building behind the 5 Elmcrest Terrace property where it could be attached to the hospital and possibly save the 5 Elmcrest terrace house. Ms. Falasca asked that since this Historical Commission is the first time the hospital has looked at the situation with the 5 Elmcrest Terrace house, have other ideas and solutions been investigated in order to preserve the house. Mr. Cehi stated that the hospital feels that the house would cost more to repair than to remove. Ms. Gunn said that the house seems in very good condition, has modern fixtures and air conditioning, is structurally sound and in excellent condition on both floors, and that usually house demolitions are considered when a building is structurally unsound. Mr. Cehi replied that the house is very costly and inefficient to operate, expensive to maintain through the winter months because of heat loss. Ms. Falasca called for more discussion before taking a vote. Mr. Bloom wanted it noted that no one on the Commission is anti-hospital, and said that the building is in very good condition with central air conditioning, was custom-designed, has excellent woodwork and exceptional detail; and that it was rare for a building such as this to come up. Mr. Bloom also stated that Norwalk is changing rapidly and that this building would be an asset for the City to keep. Ms. Falasca concurred and suggested additional uses for the hospital, including a meeting place or gallery, and added that the house offers great value to Norwalk and that the concern is that the house next to it could go and then the house after that one, and that the City could lose Prospect Hill entirely. Mr. Bloom wished the hospital could reconsider and said that the State is supposed to be broke but that Stamford was redoing their City Hall, that the Westport Country Playhouse had recently received a $5 million dollar grant, and that money could possibly be found to renovate the house. Ms. Falasca agreed that there were many good ideas that should be considered.
** MR. BLOOM MOVED THAT THE COMMISSION NOT GRANT A PERMIT FOR THE HOSPITAL TO DEMOLISH THE HOUSE UNTIL THE PROPERTY GOES THROUGH THE ENTIRE PROCESS.
Mr. Bloom suggested the hospital could offer a restoration lease wherein the tenant pays for the restoration of the building. Mr. Bloom felt the hospital should seriously reconsider all options. Ms. Falasca called for any further discussion of the matter. Ms. Gunn remarked that the hospital board might reconsider the uses of the house, proposed a letter of recommendation be sent, and that the Commission elaborate and extend the letter to the hospital board.
** MRS. MORROW SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
REPORTS – HISTORICAL COMMISSION
LOCKWOOD MATHEWS MANSION
LMMM report
September 29 will be the unveiling of the 9/11 Quilt Project. The quilts, made by the
surivors’ families and the community, will be displayed on the walls of the grand rotunda for two weeks before the quilts travels around Fairfield County and Connecticut.
Hoffman Contract
Ms. Gunn reported that she received her draft of the revision of the Hoffman contract on September 25 and did not have time to review it before the meeting. Ms. Gunn mentioned that Ms. Rochelle has agreed to the terms. Ms. Gunn says the contract is going back to be signed and explained why the contract needed to be redone: the first draft of the contract had more things than they were willing to provide for the money that was allocated and contract needed to be reviewed again. Ms. Gunn stated that Hoffman will be doing the verandah work but that once the design specs are drafted the contract has to go out to bid and needs multiple bids before a decision is made. Ms. Falasca asked if the contract would be ready for the October 14 Land Use meeting. Ms. Gunn replied that it depended on how quickly Hoffman signed the contract and that they were familiar with the situation, and that her opinion was that it should not take them very long. Ms. Falasca asked if Ms. Gunn had gotten two estimates for roof repairs. Ms. Gunn answered that she had been trying to set up a meeting with Ann Toomey to go over all of this but had not been able to as yet. Ms. Gunn said that she had spoken with Ms. Toomey today and that Ms. Toomey had corrected some of the grant information but was not clear on the details at this time. Ms. Falasca stated that Ms. Gunn had been previously requested to obtain two estimates on conservatory repairs and asked if Ms. Gunn had the estimates. Ms. Gunn replied that she had spoken with someone but had not had time to follow up on the estimates.
Gate Lodge
At the September 29 Common Council meeting, the removal of the CT Coastal Tourism Center from the Gate Lodge was accepted and it was noted that the City has the first right to rent out the Gate Lodge, with the LMMM having the second right. The Historical Commission is paying the utilities for the building. Mr. Bloom inquired as to how much the utilities cost on a monthly basis. Ms. Gunn replied that she did not know offhand but has a copy of the information in her files and would present it to the Commission. Ms. Falasca hoped that a not-for-profit art group or similar organization would take over the building and that the building would not be used for City Hall offices. Ms. Falasca said that she did not feel a vote was needed at this time. Ms. Gunn noted that she did not receive a letter in June, but that either she or Ms. Rochelle could draft a letter on the Historical Commission recommendations for Gate Lodge use. Ms. Falasca suggested that Ms. St. Aubyn be a part of that meeting regarding the drafting of the letter, and that Ms. Gunn and the Commission should meet with Ms. St. Aubyn and Ms. Rochelle to discuss the matter. Ms. Falasca reiterated that no motion was needed at this time.
HISTORICAL CEMETERIES REPORT
Selleck Obelisk
Ms. Gunn was required to obtain two estimates for the repair of the obelisk; one estimate came in; the other did not. Ms. Gunn said that she had contacted someone from Bates/A&B Memorials regarding the obelisk repair and was advised that the repair needs to be done before the winter or it will have to wait until spring. Ms. Gunn, at Ms. Miller’s request, spoke to a Mr. Conte who elaborated on the repairs needed for the obelisk, which include the realignment and/or replacement of the shaft, replacement of the rusted iron rod. He also offered to pick up other obelisks and stones. Mr. Conte quoted a price that was between $900.00 and $1,000.00. He suggested that the Historical Commission could pick up the other stones and cement them to their bases. Ms. Gunn stated that Mr. Conte has done other cemetery work in the past, but not recently and not in Connecticut, and the work did not include either sandblasting or cleaning of the stones. Mr. Conte has offered to work as long as there is daylight to see by. Ms. Gunn says she would love to do the work but has no time to spare as Museum usage has increased. Ms. Falasca suggested that the public could help. Mrs. Booth asked if this had been recommended previously. Ms. Falasca agreed and said the stone has many cracks and needs to be documented before any work is done to repair it. Mr. Booth asked if he could comment and was acknowledged by the Commission. Mr. Booth mentioned that a type of plastic cement could be used to preserve the stone. Ms. Gunn questioned if the Commission wanted her to discuss the repairs further with Mr. Slavitt. The Commission felt that it is more important to get the work done as soon as possible. Ms. Gunn stated that there was at least $4,000.00 left to complete the repairs with, and recommended that other stones ought to be picked up and righted. Ms. Falasca inquired if the other stones needed to be cemented. Ms. Falasca then passed around a report regarding the obelisk
repairs. The Commission determined that no motion was needed at this time.
BROOKSIDE CEMETERY report
Kevin Williams reported the following:
The Brookside Cemetery path was raked, the grounds weeded and the wall repaired. The Cemetery was visited over a period of two days, August 24 and August 31, 2002, by more than 25 Boy Scout volunteers who accumulated a total of 200 hours labor. The Norwalk DPW assisted with tree limb removal and Bartlett Tree Company donated wood chips. Mrs. Morrow reported that there was very heavy attendance at the Brookside Cemetery Tour held on September 22, 2002, and suggested a thank-you letter be written to Mr. Williams for his efforts. Ms. Gunn requested a written report of the cleanup efforts for the Museum file. Mr. Bloom questioned if the Boy Scouts could continue to maintain the cemetery throughout the year. Mr. Williams replied that now that the bulk of the work had been completed the cemetery would be much easier to maintain.
** MRS. MORROW MOVED THAT SUSAN GUNN SEND A THANK YOU LETTER TO MR. WILLIAMS AND HIS VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR CLEAN-UP EFFORTS.
** DEBBIE MATHIES SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
ROGERS RICH MERRITT HOUSE Report
Mr. Iannaccone reported that the lock on the trailer had been forcibly broken off and needed to be replaced. Ms. Gunn asked Mr. Iannaccone to provide her with the invoice for a new lock and she would look into reimbursing him. Mrs. Booth asked if anything had been disturbed inside the trailer. Mr. Iannaccone said that nothing looked disturbed, but that there seemed to be some empty bottles inside the trailer. Ms. Falasca stated that the Town Council has accepted the RRM house for the Mill Hill complex in the meeting on September 24, 2002 and that they are asking for bids for the reconstruction at Mill Hill.
MILL HILL BUILDINGS
Mr. Booth distributed his report discussed the completion of the termite extermination and repair, the removal of the oil tank, the installation of a new gas pipe and reconnection, and lawn re-seeding.
Norwalk Historical Society report
This report was distributed to the members for their reading.
Oil to gas conversion of Town House
Ms. Gunn requested Mr. Booth to speak to the Commission at length regarding hot water for the two bathrooms since school children use the building extensively in the spring and there is a question of sanitation. Ms. Gunn asked if the hot water heater is the City’s responsibility or included as part of Mill Hill expenses. Ms. Falasca stated that Alan Lo has been notified. Further discussion was tabled for the next meeting of the Commission.
Smith Street apartment lease rentals
Mayor Knopp was authorized to execute the amendment to the City lease for both tenants to extend the lease from February 1,2002 to January 31, 2003 with all remaining terms of the agreement to remain unchanged, meaning that the rent will stay at $400/mo. through January 31, 2003 when it will then increase to $450/mo. Fifty dollars of the rent money could return to the Commission for the renovation costs if the Commission’s request for this money is passed by the Board of Estimate & Taxation. Ms. Gunn reported that the BET okayed the request for work to be done at Smith Street and that Ann Toomey gave permission today for Ms. Gunn to go ahead and order the lights that the Commission reviewed in June. The BET did ask for Mike Sgobbo of Grubb & Ellis to get another quote on the kitchenette unit and installation costs. Mr. Sgobbo will obtain estimates on the installation of appliances. Ms. Gunn stated that if the Commission approves, she will go ahead and order the light fixtures and other repairs that need to be made, including the threshold saddle and exterior stairs as the threshold saddle is rotted and poses a danger. $415.00 is added to fix stairs and saddle which Ms. Rochelle and the BET approved. Ms. Gunn met with Ms. Rochelle during the second week of August 2002 to discuss bathroom leaks and basement ceiling repairs. The ceiling of the jail was not as damaged as originally thought, and the leaks should have been fixed by replacement of the sink and toilet. The water inspector feels that there is no existing problem.
** MRS. MORROW MOVED TO PROCEED WITH THRESHOLD
SADDLE, GUTTER, STAIRS AND BULKHEAD REPAIRS.
** MR. IANNACCONE SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ms. Falasca mentioned that Ms. Rochelle gave permission for Ms. Gunn to purchase some valves, which did not appear on the agenda. Ms. Gunn has not made the purchase yet, but will do so at the earliest opportunity, and have them installed The valves should cost approximately ten dollars apiece. The valve replacement will stop water from going back into the City’s water supply when the water main is flushed.
Hotplate removal and stove replacement
Mrs. Booth stated that the Historic Society wants to remove the hotplate currently used and replace it with a stove, which generated a discussion regarding the use of the stove and related fire safety issues by Mr. Iannaccone. Mrs. Booth explained that the stove would be used for food preparation during events taking place at the Mill Hill complex, and for heating coffee. She said that the hotplate was not working well and that Ms. Rochelle declared that the Commission did not need to become involved in the decision. Mr. Iannaccone was concerned about vapors and fire code compliance. Mr. Booth and Mrs. Booth agreed to comply with the fire code. Ms. Falasca asked Mr. Iannaccone if he would be comfortable with Mill Hill investigating further options. Ms. Gunn requested plans for the removal of the hotplate and replacement with the stove and asked if this was considered a collection item. Mr. Bloom replied that it was not. Mr. Booth said that an interior decorator will coordinate the replacement and asked for the Commission’s blessing.
Reenactment of the Burning of Norwalk
Mr. Booth continued his report with mention of the formation of a committee to commemorate the 225th Anniversary of the Burning of Norwalk in 2004 and noted that the City has not yet been notified as the committee is not ready yet.
Brookside Cemetery Tour
Mr. Booth discussed the part played by the Norwalk Historical Society in the Commission’s Brookside Cemetery Tour which was headed by NHS Vice President Lynn Friedman and thanked the participants who included Dana Laird, cemetery cleanup; Anne Carbone, reenactor; and Sharon Soltes, research.
Conclusion
Mr. Booth reminded the Commission of the Antiques Appraisal Day scheduled for September 29 from noon to 5:00 p.m. He also reminded the Commission that 2003 will be the year for the Mill Hill Cemetery project.
NORWALK MUSEUM REPORT
Ms. Gunn reminded the Commission that she will be leaving on September 28, 2002 and returning to work on October 16, 2002. Ms. Falasca stated that she had a letter from Ms. Rochelle requesting a list of names of the people who have keys and Sonitrol clearance for the Museum. Ms. Gunn said that she didn’t understand why the Commission needed this list. Ms. Falasca replied that Ms. Rochelle had asked twice for the information. Ms. Gunn replied that Ms. Rochelle’s requests were in the form of memos and that she and Ms. Rochelle had not personally discussed the matter. Ms. Falasca said that it seemed to her that if Ms. Rochelle asked for the information, she should have been given it and asked Mr. Bloom to elaborate as to why the Commission wanted the information. Mr. Bloom replied that in the case of emergencies, there needs to be a known list of people who would be called. Ms. Gunn reiterated that the City has the list. Mr. Bloom replied that when it came to the Museum, the Commission was the City and that if something goes wrong the Commission needs to know. Ms. Gunn replied that Sonitrol has the information. Mr. Bloom stated that Sonitrol had security clearance information and that if an emergency arose it would be more than just that, that if a pipe were to break Sonitrol would not handle that. Mr. Iannaccone stated that the police and fire departments should also have the contact information. Ms. Gunn stated that the police and fire department do have the information and asked again why the Commission needed this information. Ms. Falasca replied that the woman from Telesco reported that the building was left open in August and that Ms. Rochelle was called by Sonitrol, as was Ms. Falasca because Sonitrol reported that "no one else could be found." Ms. Gunn replied that the Museum areas were not left open and that the system worked beautifully: Sonitrol was called, they went through the caller list and because Ms. Gunn was not home, Sonitrol continued through the list until someone was located and could come to the Museum to check out the problem. Ms. Falasca replied that she had been called, that Ms. Rochelle was called, and that it was a problem locating someone. Ms. Gunn replied that from the time Sonitrol made its first call to the time that someone came to the Museum only twenty minutes had elapsed. Ms. Fallon wanted to know why obtaining the list was a problem. Ms. Gunn replied that she is a City employee, she is responsible to the City and that she has given the City the information and that she has already spoken with the Corporation Counsel and that she is awaiting their response. Mrs. Booth mentioned that if there is a problem at Mill Hill, there is a list of people that are called, beginning with members of the Historical Society first and that if someone is not home, the list is gone down until someone is located. Ms. Falasca again stated that she wanted to know why the list was such a secret and called for a recommendation that the Commission vote that Ms. Gunn give the Commission the list of contacts.
** MS. FALLON MOVED TO VOTE THAT THE COMISSION BE GIVEN THE LIST OF NAMES OF MUSEUM STAFF WHO HAVE SONITROL CLEARANCE.
** SECONDED BY MRS. MORROW.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ms. Falasca stated that Mr. Bloom had keys to the Museum. Mr. Bloom replied that he had "a" key and stated that he could not get into any of the storage rooms and requested he be given a set of keys to all areas of the Museum. Ms. Gunn replied that he had a key that gave him access to the conference room, Merchants Court and the gift shop. Mr. Bloom stated that the respons-ibility of the collections rests with the Historic Commission and said that the Commission is the City of Norwalk and is specified in the lease. Mr. Bloom stated that this is the Commission’s responsibility, that they are sworn in and take an oath and that is why they are responsible. Ms. Gunn reminded the Commission that at the August meeting a memo was passed around from Mayor Knopp, who had spoken with Katherine Lassberg, and Ms. Lassberg confirmed that the City is the tenant at the Museum and not the Historical Commission. Mr. Bloom replied that the Commission is the governing agent for the City of Norwalk and is specified in the lease. Ms. Gunn replied again that she had spoken with the Corporation Counsel on this matter. Mr. Bloom replied that she was not going to be the only one to discuss this with City government and that it is the Commission’s responsibility to oversee the Museum. Ms. Falasca questioned who would run the Museum in Ms. Gunn’s absence. Ms. Gunn replied that her two Assistants, Ms. Soltes and Ms. Hayes, will be in charge while she is away. Ms. Falasca asked if the policy was that two people must be in the Museum in order for the Museum to be open. Ms. Gunn agreed that this was true, although it was not necessary that two paid people be in the Museum, volunteers were acceptable. Ms. Falasca suggested that any member of the Commission visit the Museum while Ms. Gunn is away and called for a motion that Mr. Bloom do this. Ms. Gunn stated that the Commission was also welcome to visit the Museum when she was not away as well. Mr. Bloom reiterated that the responsibility of the Museum rests with the Commission, that the Commission are the ones that are sworn into office and that if something goes wrong, the Common Council will come after the Commission and not part time people. Ms. Gunn replied that this is not what she was told when she was hired and that she has not received anything from the City that changes her role with the City or with the Historic Commission from the new mayor. Mr. Bloom replied that Ms. Gunn is leaving the country and is turning the Museum over to two part time employees. Ms. Gunn replied that she has left the Museum before and that no problem has ever arisen that could not be handled and that she doesn’t expect that any problems will happen while she is away. Ms. Gunn replied that she feels she is not leaving the Museum without emergency care and felt that both Ms. Soltes and Ms. Hayes are responsible employees who have a relationship with the building’s tenants and management. Mr. Bloom replied that part time people who are employees are going to be faced with making a decision that is not theirs to make and that in case of an emergency they don’t have a right to make a decision, it doesn’t work that way. Ms. Falasca asked if Mr. Bloom needed anything else. Mr. Bloom remarked that he did not have a set of keys to the storage areas of the Museum, that that was where the pipes are and if anything was bound to happen, that’s where it would happen. Mr. Bloom said that there is nothing wrong with the Commission having a set of keys to the Museum, that the jurisdiction is the Commission’s, that it says so in the Ordinance which also states that Ms. Gunn takes direction from the Commission, therefore the Commission wants a list to know who has keys and that the Commission wants their addresses. Ms. Gunn stated that she understood the Commission’s concern and point of view but that she had been advised differently. Mr. Bloom demanded to know by whom. Ms. Gunn replied that she had been advised by quite a few people. Mr. Bloom again demanded to know by whom and told Ms. Gunn not to give him any of this generality business. Ms. Gunn replied that she did not think we need to go through this now. Mr. Bloom replied that they did since the Commission is talking about jurisdiction and that they have an Ordinance. Ms. Gunn stated that the Ordinance can be interpreted in different ways and that there is absolutely no question that this whole dilemma does need to be decided so that everyone can be on the same page. Ms. Falasca replied that until then, the Commission is still the boss. Ms. Gunn replied that she is a City employee and has been told by various City employees that she is responsible to the City and that she is staff to the Historical Commission. Ms. Falasca stated that until the Commission is told directly by the City, the Commission will continue to operate as it has been operating. Ms. Gunn stated that the way she would like this to run was for Mr. Bloom to work with her assistants and that her assistants have access to the keys, that they are the people who have access to the Sonitrol codes, that they are on the list to be called in case of emergency. Mr. Bloom stated that he will make an appointment to speak with the Mayor on this matter. Mr. Bloom reiterated that because the Commissioners have taken an oath and were sworn in by the Mayor, they have direct responsibility. Mr. Bloom stated that the Commissioners are not employees, that they are appointed by the City Council should have a set of keys and that they are in control. Ms. Gunn replied that Mr. Bloom and the Commission may be correct in their assumption that they control the Museum, but according to the people that she has spoken to, they are not correct, that the Commission has oversight but not direct control or responsibility. Ms. Falasca stated again that until they have something in writing, this is the way it was going to be. Mrs. Booth replied that until Ms. Gunn could name the people who have advised her, the Commission ought to proceed as they have been. Ms. Gunn replied that she is going ahead with the steps that she has taken and is awaiting the responses, one of which is from the Law Department. Ms. Gunn stated that Ms. Rochelle has also approached the Law Department for a determination. Mr. Bloom stated that Ms. Rochelle, as chair of the Commission, has the right to go to the Law Department. Ms. Gunn replied that she was not saying Ms. Rochelle didn’t have that right and that they have been working together on this situation. Ms. Falasca stated that it was unfortunate that Ms. Gunn and the Commission seemed to be working at cross purposes and asked that her comment that the Museum and the Commission are working at cross purposes be entered into the minutes. The comment is so entered. Ms. Falasca asked to move onto the next item on the agenda, terminating the discussion.
Recommendations of Museum Committee
The following recommendations were made:
The Committee concluded: Over the past two years the Gift Shop according to the Connecticut Dept. of Revenue Services has been operating illegally as it does not have a Federal ID number or State ID number. It does not collect or report sales tax. It does not conform to general accounting principals. Therefore the committee agreed to recommend the following: 1. The present retail operation should cease and desist immediately until a legal retail operation can be established. 2. The Friends of the Norwalk Museum should be reestablished as the operators of the retail shop because of their legal tax status, their adherence to general accounting principals and their registration with the CT Dept. of Revenue Services and the CT Dept. of Consumer Protection. The committee determined that the Friends should return as operators of the retail store because of their 28-year track record of raising funds to benefit all of the City’s museums and historical projects. The committee recognizes that for the past two years the museums have lost the potential of $50,000 revenue from retail sales due to the Friends’ absence. 3. The committee recognizes that the best location for a retail operation would be the original retail shop site at the front of the building that offers the possibility of a stand-alone operation independent of Museum hours, accessibility to the public, and the availability of storage space within the shop. Common museum practice is to locate retail space at the front entrance. The front location affords the possibility of operating more hours of the week; it will help with Museum security, and will create more traffic for the Museum, operating independently of the Museum security system while remaining secure itself. 4. The committee recommends that the Norwalk Historical Commission shall receive a copy of the retail shop’s annual report and copies of any reports filed with the State of CT. The committee makes the above recommendations as the result of the following: The Friends of the Norwalk Museums have been the foundation of the museum as per the following attachment; the stand-alone retail operation will relieve the Curator and staff of the additional burden of business administration; a retail shop run by the Friends of the Norwalk Museums will relieve the City of Norwalk of all legal and financial responsibilities and permit the City’s museums to reap the benefits. This retail operation will adhere to guidelines established by the American Association of Museum Guidelines as per attached correspondence. The retail shop will carry merchandise related to Norwalk, its history and museums, as well as other inventory. Ms. Falasca stated that attached to this report was a list that the Friends of the Norwalk Museums have done for the City and the Norwalk Museum over the last 28 years. A vote on whether to continue operation of the Gift Shop could not be taken as the issue has been presented to the City’s Law Department. Ms. Gunn inquired as to whether the suggestions offered by the Museum staff at the meeting had been considered by the committee. Ms. Falasca answered that they had not. Ms. Gunn remarked that by asking the Museum to reopen the Tag Sale Shop in what is now the office space, the FNM are asking the Museum to give up one quarter of Museum space, which translates into one quarter of the space owned by the City. Ms. Falasca and Mr. Bloom both said they didn’t understand the question. Ms. Falasca suggested that the Commission read the package. Mr. Bondi asked for recognition by the Commission and offered his father’s provision of a space at Cranbury Park in the Gallagher Estate which included use of the barn, electricity and water as well as a room in which to hold tag sales year round. Ms. Falasca did not recognize Mr. Bondi and would not let Mr. Bondi speak, saying that it would create a problem with questions and answers and take up too much time. Mr. Bondi replied that the committee had asked his father to provide this information in the first place. Ms. Fallon requested a motion that the Gift Shop be closed as it was in violation, and she felt she had a choice between resigning from the Commission in protest or to continue to be in violation unless operation of the Shop ceased. Ms. Fallon also stated that her house would be liable if there was any violation regarding the continued operation of the Gift Shop.
** MS. FALLON MOVED THAT THE GIFT SHOP BE CLOSED UNTIL THE MATTER IS DECIDED.
** MR. BLOOM SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Norwalk Historic Resources Inventory (NHRI)
93 East Avenue
In response to last month’s question about the broken window at 93 East Avenue, Mr. Iannaccone stated that the window has been repaired and the glass replaced.
195 East Avenue
Ms. Falasca wanted to know why this demolition request came to the attention of the Commission when they have no jurisdiction over the situation and have held the owner’s repairs up for over two months. Ms. Gunn replied that the owner had been referred to her by Code Enforcement and the Planning & Zoning Department. Ms. Gunn also stated that she had spoken to Ms. Rochelle about it and Ms. Rochelle said that this house needed to be reviewed and to call the Commission. Ms. Falasca replied that this should not be on the Commission’s list and wanted to know if Ms. Gunn had asked Code Enforcement to refer these types of things to Ms. Gunn. Ms. Gunn stated that she had not made any such request and that her opinion was that because of the Hurricane Restaurant situation she feels that Code Enforcement is being more careful with their referrals.
142 Main Street (Barter Shop)
It was noted by Ms. Falasca that only one of the three buildings in question is on the NHRI list, the other two have to be resubmitted for a demolition permit. Ms. Gunn asked if the Commission wanted to have the owners come back to speak before the Commission. No vote was taken at this time.
Demolition Report
339 Rowayton Avenue
135 Highland Avenue
Ms. Gunn mentioned that there is a grant through the Connecticut Preservation Circuit Rider Program could perhaps help with updating the NHRI.
REPORTS - COMMITTEES
LMMM Restoration Committee
The LMMM Restoration Committee did not meet.
Mathews Park Tenants
Mathews Park Tenants did meet (refer to Gate Lodge, page 4)
Ms. Falasca stated that the Police Department was still a year to one and a half years away from their projected move. Ms. Falasca stated that another proposal for park signage is moving very slowly and is barely alive. She showed the Commission a tentative design that has been approved but there will still be a $40,000.00 sign in addition to this proposal.
OLD BUSINESS
Carriage House repairs
Ms. Gunn said that she has given Ms. Rochelle all the quotes she had received. If the City has the money, they are responsible for the repairs; if they do not, the Connecticut Printmakers (formerly CT Graphic Arts) will be responsible. The roof has been put on with staples. The entire roof needs to be replaced, including the belvedere roof. Ms. Gunn remarked that Ms. Rochelle stated to her that, given the City budget, this should be put into the Historical Commission budget and a special appropriation should not be requested at this time.
Summer Kitchen
Ms. Gunn requested that the summer kitchen be covered with a tarp, as well as the part of the carriage house currently leaking. Ms. Falasca stated that there is still a possible $12,000.00 in the capital budget and called for a motion to request Ms. Gunn to obtain quotes on repair estimates.
** MR. IANNACCONE MOVED THAT MS. GUNN OBTAIN REPAIR QUOTES.
** MRS. MORROW SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Iannaccone asked for the status on the Gardener’s Cottage. Ms. Falasca replied that they had run out of money.
NEW BUSINESS
Resignation of Edna Miller
Mr. Iannaccone called for a motion for the Commission to accept Ms. Miller’s resignation and to request Ms. Gunn to draft a letter to Mayor Knopp accepting said resignation.
** MR. IANNACCONE MOVED TO ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF MS. MILLER AND TO REQUEST MS. GUNN TO DRAFT A LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE TO SEND TO MAYOR KNOPP.
** MS. FALLON SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Light for Museum flagpole
Mr. Iannaccone requested that a light be purchased and that it be installed on the outside of the Norwalk Museum to shine on the flagpole at night, in order to keep the flag flying at all times morning and evening.
** Mr. IANNACCONE MOVED TO PURCHASE A LIGHT FIXTURE FOR THE NORWALK MUSEUM FLAGPOLE.
** MS. FALLON SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
OTHER BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE COMMISSION
There was no other new business.
** MR. IANNACCONE MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING.
** MRS. BOOTH SECONDED.
** MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda J. Hayes
Assistant to the Curator, Norwalk Museum Historical Commission
September 25, 2002
