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1976 Historical Commission minutesHistorical Commission Meeting January 5, 1976 4:00 pm Agenda Conference Room Planning Department Call to Order Reading of Minutes of December 15, 1975 meeting Reports Communi cations Old Business. 1. Bridge Street - Pomeroy Terrace National Register District. The research and writing of the second NR proposal i s nearly completed; the commission should set a date for a public meeting to discuss the National Register with residents of the area. 2. State Historic Districts. Work session on Chapter 40C. The commission should also set a date for a meeting with the city councillors to review Chapter 40C. 3. Other. New Business. 1. Intern project. An intern from Umass will be working for the commission this semester. Possible projects should be dis- cussed. 2. Other. Notes on Historical Commission Meeting, January 5, 197 � , As a quorum were not" resent, an informal meeting of the Historical Commission was held on January 5, 1976. Commissioners Murphy, Searing, and Tomlinson and associate Cox were present. Items discussed included: the National Register proposal for the Bridge Street area; state historic district legislation, lighting for Main Street, and possible projects for a Umass intern. National Register: It was agreed that a slide presentation would be the most effective means of presenting the proposed district to the public and that the possibility of holding the public meeting at one of the churches in the area should be investigated. State Historic Districts: Copies of Chapter 40C were distributed for the commissioners to review. Lighting: Mazie Cox presented 5 light fixtures which the lighting consultants and Center Consultants are considering. The commission will be asked to make a formal recommend4tion at a later date. Umass intern: Among the projects proposed for the spring internship were: development of a National Register area, possibly that in Florence; investigation of sources of funding for restoration work and re -use studies; investigation of facade easement programs in other communities; planning and co- ordination of 1976 National Historic Preservation Week activities. It was agreed to discuss this and make a decision at the January 19, 1975 meeting. In other business, the Treasurer reported that $374.45 remain in the budget. Carol Dubie reported that a grant application for publication of a Downtown Design Booklet had been submitted to the National Endowment for the Arts. Historical Commission Meeting January 19, 1976 4 :00 p. m. Conference Room Planning Department Agenda Call to Order Reading of Minutes of December 15, 1975 meeting and notes on January 5, 1976 meeting Reports Communi cations Old Business. 1. National Register: Bridge Street - Pomeroy Terrace Area. 2. Grants Clinic. 3. Alumnae Gym. New Business. 1. Growth Commission. Mayor Cramer has asked that the Historical Commission select one or two members to represent the City's historical body on a new Growth Policies Commission. 2. Masonic Block. Wright Associates, consultants for Roger Kirwood, have applied for a solar energy system grant and would like a letter from the Commission verifying that the Masonic Block is a typical 19th century commercial structure. 3. Other. January 19, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held on January 19, 197to at 4 :00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. All members were present with the exception of Mr. Gordon Murphy. Miss Carol Dubie gave the informal minutes of the meeting of January 5, 1975 at which there was not a quorum. The treasurer's report was identical to the past meeting and so was not given. Communicat A. Silk Mill in Leeds will have an open house on Sunday, Jianuary 25, 1976 from 2:00 - 4:00 and invited - the Historic Commission to attend. B. Copy of the Preservation News was received C. Workshops on February 21 -28 were announced by the National Trust D. Workshops on February 8 -11 in Alexandria, Virginia were announced from the Department of the Interior. Ol Busin X. National Register - Miss Carol Dubie reported requested that a name be given to the Pomeroy - Bridge St. Historic District. Miss 1 ,�'al►�� -�, �dw►�t�Se�S i suggrested an appropriate name would be the Damon -Pratt Historic District and Dr. C. Keith Wilbur seconded the motion. This motion passed unamiously. St. Johnls Cantius Church offered their building for giving a presentation concerning this area. B. Grants Clinic - Miss Carol Dubie announced that the Grants Clinic was held. on January 15. C. St. Mary's Church - is at present doing renovation and would like to discuss what should be done and the possibility of appylyhng for fuhds. D. Historic Grants - Approval due on April 9 but this does not go through the Commission but application is to be sent to the Mass- achusetts Historical Commission and after funds are received and allocated the Northampton Historical Commission will decide who will be funded. It would appear that the more projects the more money will be obtained, if Northampton is made into a Historic District. Applications should be available at Memorial Hall and notice of it should be sent to the N Da ily q,mq shire Gazette. E. Aluma - ae Gym - Miss Helen Searing and Miss Louise Jones stated that the architects have been given permission to make working drawings for the library and this would involve the demolition of the Gym. New Busi A. Historic property - that is considered important by the Commission should be listed with the Building Inspector, Planning Department, Conservation Commission and within the Historical Commission so that these structures will not be tampered with. .B. Mayor David Cramer recommended a Growth Commission to determine an orderly growth for the city and requested that we nominate one or two Commissioners to serve on this commission. It was recommended that Mr. Gordon Murphy serve on this Commission. C. Masonic Block - Miss Carol Dubie reported that a Solar Energy Grant had been applied for and that there was an excellent chance of lbtaining it. Mr. Roger Kir wood requested that the Historic Commission send a letter stating that this building was a typical 19th century building and after a motion by Miss Juliette Tomlinson and a. second by Dr. Wilbur it was accepted unamiously that a letter be sent. D. Dr. Wilbur stated that he and the Commission were pleased to hear of the marriage of Miss Helen Searing. E. Intern project - A new intern from the University of Massachusetts Miss Lautie Komaromi will work on the Florence Area Historic District. (2) January 19 1976 F. A Community Grant Program dealing with the area of Northampton for future grants has been introduced to the Historical Commission. These grants are for the purpose of assisting the community In funding central business sidewalks, storm sewers, and housing developments. Suggestions are being sought to ascertain appropriate programs for funds which could utilize such a grant such as designing booklets on renovation in historic districts or dither type projects. The next meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission will be held on Monday, February 2, 1976 at 4:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Dr; C. Keith Wilbur made a motion which was seconded by Miss Helen Searing that we adjourn at 4:45p.m. The motion passed unamiously. Respectful y submitted, J/�� N Wi fred Spencer, Jr. Se retary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COIVtMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Meeting February 2, 1976 4 :00 pm Conference Room Planning Department Agenda Call to Order. Reading of the Minutes. Reports. Communi cations. Old Business. 1. Damon -Pratt Historic District. 2. Alumnae Gym. 3. Other. New Business. 1. Storm Sewer Construction, 2. Other. February 2, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historic Commission was held on February 2, 1976 at 4:15 p.m. in Memorial Hall. All members were present with the exception of Miss Juliette Tomlinson and Mr. Gordon Murphy. The secretary&'s report for December 19,1975 and January 19, 1976 were accepted as read. No treasurer's report was given due to the absence of Miss Juliette Tomlinson. COMMITTEE 1. Inventory - Miss Carol Dubie reported that twenty more inventory reports were forwarded to the Massachusetts Historical Commission and a copy of these reports was sent to the Building Inspector. C OMMUNICATIONS 1. The newspaper from the Massachusetts Historical Commission, Volume 2, No. 1 for January 1976 was received. 2. Letter from the Massachusetts Historical Commission that informed this Commission that applications will be available in late February on grants and that local historical commissions, would determine how funds are to be used from these grants. 3. Letter from the City Solicitor stating that we now have an assistant city solicitor who will be available to answer questions on any problems that are in need of solving. 4. Notification. from the National Trust for Historic Preservation that they will be giving a Historic Preservation Writing Award. 5. Dr. C. Keith Wilbur introduced our new interns, Laurie Komaromi from the University of Massachusetts and Ann Terhune from Smith College. OLD BUSINESS 1. Damon -Pratt Historical District An open meeting concerning this district and a presentation for this area should be held in the immediate future at St. John's Ca:ntius Church. 2. Alumni Gym - Miss Helen Searing stated that there was nothing new to report and because students are just now returning from vacation they have not been active in their protest against destruction of this structure. 3. Community Development Grants - Miss Carol Dubie gave a list of all projects under consideration for these grants and stated that a meeting would be held. on February 3 to see which of them would be funded. N EW BUSINESS 1. Storm Sewer Project - This project will begin in the spring from Leeds down Riverside Drive, behind Smith College, out to Pleasant St. and eventuall end up in the Connecticut River. Miss Dubie reported that she had sent a list of properties inventoried, however at present, it does not appear there is a major threat to any historic buildings. 2. Post Office - The USPS is seeking information on the historical significance of the Post Office on Pleasant Street as they are going to be selling it and wanted to know if there was any hindrance. The Commission felt that the painting should be some how maintained and provisions be made for it. The next meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission_ will be held on Monday, March 1 , 1976 at 4:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Miss Helen Searing made a motion which was seconded by Mr. Wilfred D. Spencer, Jr. that we adjourn at 5:30 p.m. The motion passed unamiously. Res �ec ,iv V omit ed, Wil red D. Spencer, Jr. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSI ®N MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Meeting March 1, 1976 4:00 p.m. Conference Room Planning Department Agenda Call to Order Reading of the Minutes of February 2, 1976 meeting Reports Communications Old Business. 1. Downtown Historic .District 2. TOPICS - lighting fixtures, sidewalks, 3. Damon -Pratt Historic District New Business 1. Summit House, Mount Holyoke. Gordon Murphy 2. Albert's Block, Main Street. Recent renovation. 3. Ferry House, 179 South Street. Owner seeking assistance. All commission must nick up a copy of the new 012en Meeting, Law at the City Clerk's office and sign for it. March 1, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held on Monday, March 1, 1976 at 4:15 p.m. in Memorial Hall. All members were present with the exception of Mr. Thomas Grahowski and Dr. C. Keith Wilbur. The secretary's report was accepted as read. There was no treasurer's report due to Miss Juliette Tomlinson whose reappointment to this Commission was not made. C OMM UNI CATIONS: 1. A ^ letter was sent to the Massachusetts Bicentennial Commission concerning various sites in the immediate area concerned with the Underground Railroad. 2. Received from the Bay State Historical League their Bulletin, Vol. 2, No. 2 for February, 1976. 3. Notification was received fr1m Smithsonian Institution Workshops which will commence in March and run through the rest of 1976. 4. Letter from Argonaut Publishing Company stating that they would be willing to give assistance to the preparation of any manuscript. 5. Bulleting from the National Trust for Historic Preservation informing this Commission of a maintenance workshop that will be held in Pacific Grove, California from May 23 -28. 6. Bulletin describing the Historical .Administration to be held in Williamsburg, Virginia from June 13 to July 9, 1976. 7. Letter from the Massachusetts Historical Commission informing this Commission of preservation workshops which will be held in Westfield on June 12, 1976. 8. Preservation News for February, 1976 was received. OLD BUSINESS 1. National Historic Preservation Week - Miss .Ann Terhune reported on the proposed program for Northampton from May 9 -15 to celebrate the National Historic Preservation Week. 2. Alumni Gym - Miss Helen Searing and Miss Carol Dubie reported on the status of Alumni Gym and the efforts being made to save this structure. It was stated that the Committee to Preserve Alumni Gym met with the Smith College Trustees on February 27 and the earlier decision of demolition still stands, however, there is a possibility that the structure might be moved. Miss Carol Dubie reported that an effort was being made by the Massachusetts Historical Commission to x)ut this structure on the National Register in an attempt to save the Alumni Gym by showing the importance of this building. 3. TOPICS - The Welshach lighting fixture has been chosen in a Victorian style, however, the style of the pole is still under investigation. The phone booths in front of Memorial Hall are to be relocated throughout Northampton and a different type of booth is to be used. 4. Damon -Pratt Historical District - The proposal for the creation of a National Historic District will be submitted next week and because of new regulations it is suggested that notification be sent to each person in. the district, the paper should be notified, and an open meeting held in the District. 4. Sheehan's Cafe - Mrs. Georgia Flahive attended the meeting of the Historical Commission for the purpose of expressing her views concern- ing the eviction of the owners of Sheehan's Cafe. She requested that a letter be sent to determine if anything could be done so that a compromise might be made between the owners of Sheehan's Cafe and the owner of the building. (2) March 1, 1976 The next meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission will be held on Monday, March 15, 1976 at 4:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. . Gordon Murphy made a motion which was seconded by Miss Helen Searing that we adjourn at 6:05 p.m. This motion passed unamiously. Respectfully submitted, l Wi fred D. S P encer, Jr. Secretary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL ' March 15, 1976 Meeting 4 :00 p.m. Conference Room Planning Department Agenda _ Call to Order Reading of the Minutes of March 1, 1976 meeting Reports Interns Growth Policy Commission Treasurer Communi cations Old Business 1. Damon- Pratt Historic .District 2. Summit House, Mount Holyoke. Gordon Murphy 3. Ferry House, 179 South Street. Owner seeking assistance. 4. Historic District Study Committee 5. Other New Business 1. Round House, City Property Committee Commissioners are reminded to pick up and si n for their copy o6 e pen Meetrng Law March 15, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held on Monday, March 15, 1976 at 4:06 p.m. in Memorial Hall. All members were present for this meeting. The secretary's report was accepted as read. There was no treasurer's report given, due to the need of this Commission to appoint someone as treasurer because of the vacancy recently created. Miss Ann Barnham, the new intern for the Commission, was introduced. COMMIT REPORTS 1. Florence Historic District - Miss Laurie Komaromi reported on a potential list of historic sites in the Florence area. 2. National Preservation Week - Miss Ann Terhune reported that the program for the celebration of National Preservation Week was almost complete. The various planned activities will include a program sponsored by the Northampton Historical Society, a walking tour of Northampton on May 8, 9, and 15, and a presentation of awards with Mayor Cramer in attendance, for those who have restored their structures in a. way beneficial to the historic character of Northampton. The Downtown Business Association will meet on May 5 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss their part in this program. A poster contest involving students in the Northampton School System has been granted approval by Mr. John Buteau and the principals of the various schools involved will be contacted in the near future. COM MUNICATIONS : 1. The Massachusetts Historical Commission has voted to accept Alumni Gym as being eligible for entry on the National Trust and is forwarding this application to the National Park Service. 2. The National Trust has informed this Commission that various programs are available on tape concerning preservation, and that these are available at a nominal cost. 3. The U.S. Department of the Interior has forwarded a letter concerning the Roger Kirwood's Masonic Building as a possible entry as a national landmarks site, however, they cited some problems in the classification of this site. 4. Chesterrrood in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, has sent a brochure on the National Trust Youth Awards for 1976. 5. Preservation Design Group in Albany N.Y. have forwarded a pamphlet entitled A Primer of Historic Preservation Servic 6. Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities has forwarded an application for membership to this Commission. OLD BUSINESS 1. The Damon -Pratt proposal has not quite been completed as reported by Miss Carol Dubie, however, it should be submitted in the immediate future. 2. Ferry House on 179 South Street is being investigated by Miss Ann Terhune and Miss Carol Dubie as the owners desire financial assistance to restore this site but have no funds to accomplish this restoration. (2) March 15, 1976 NEW BUSINESS 1. Round House - a discussion was held concerning the future of this structure and Miss Helen Searing stated that the city should lease it, not sell it as the City would lose control of it. Further study is needed on this project. 2. TOPICS lighting - Mr. Larry Lintner informed the Commission and the Northampton Redevelopment ;Authority Steering Committee on the proposed lighting for downstown Northampton. Miss Helen Searing made a motion which was seconded by Dr.'C. Keith Wilbur to use the custom made lightpole to support the Welsbach light, which has the top of the li,;ht in aluminum and painted the same color as the pole. This motion passed unanimously. Dr. C. Keith Wilbur made a motion o7hich was seconded th Mr. Gordon Murphy that the Welsbach light and the custom pole be used both in the downtown and also in Pulaski Park. This motion passed unanimously. A motion was made by Ms. Mazie Cox and seconded by Mr. Brinkley Thorne that a Simes light fixutre be used in the lower parking area. This motion did not pass as there were three in favor and three opposed in the Historid Commission. Those registering disapproval were Mr. Thomas Grahowski. Mr. Gordon Murphy, and Mr. Wilfred D. Spencer. A suggestion was made by Mr. Larry Lintner to place an arch in the back corner of Pulaski Park which would help to illuminate the back of the Park. Mr. Brinkley Thorne made a motion which was seconded by Dr. C. Keith Wilbur to investigate the concept of the arch. This motion passed unanimously. The next meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission will be held on Monday, .;April 5, 1976 in Memorial Hall. Miss Helen Searing made a motion which was seconded by Mr. Wilfred D. Spencer that we adjourn at 6:15 p.m. This motion passed unanimously. Respectfully submitted, W, Wi fred D Spenc r, Jr. Se retary `J NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Meeting April 5, 1976 4; 00 p.m. Conference Room Planning Department Agenda Call to Order Reading of the Minutes of the March 1, and March 15, 1976 meetings Reports Interns Inventory Treasurer's Growth Policy Commission Communications Old Business 1. Damon -Pratt Historic District-National Register. 2. State Historic District Study Committee. Materials relating to Chapter 40C, the Historic Districts Act, have been distributed to the Councillors. The Commission should discuss what membership would be desireable for an historic district study committee. (What representation in addition to that required under the act would be appropriate -- Planning Board, Conservation Commission, etc.?) 3. Other New Business 1. Northampton -New Haven Canal. 2. Other. Notes on April 5, 1976 meeting No quorum. Several items were informally discussed. Carol Dubie reported $112.59 in the budget; 34 inventory forms have been submitted to Boston since the last meeting. 1. Commissioners reviewed the Damon -Pratt National Register proposal. 2. Gordon Murphy and Emily Clausing volunteered to visit and eitaluate properties nominated for the Preservation Award of Merit. 3. the condition of the old Canal bed was discussed. Chuck Dauchy from the Conservation Commission agreed to investigate possible violations of the Wetlands Act by Lane construction Company.which owns the adjacent property. It was agreed to approach the property committee about obtaining control of the Canal site. NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL August 16, 1976 Meeting Notice 4:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers Agenda Call to order Minutes Reports- Inventory Lists for Realtors Communications - NFA Design Booklet Application turned down Mass. Historical Commission on Sam Hill District Former Umass Intern Dawes House Old Business - Coolidge House Historic District Study Committee 1 New Business -` Petty cash supply in office ! V NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL. COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL Meeting April 26, 1976 4 :00 p.m. Old Council Chambers City Hall Agenda Call to Order Notes on April 5, 1976 meeting Reports Interns Inventory Growth Policy Uommi scion Communications Old Business 1. Preservation Meek. Award of Merit. 2. Election of officers. The group needs to elect a treasurer so that I can teach him or her the ropes before the end of June. 3. Other. New Business 1. Demonstration of new brick cleaning method by Ed Simoneau. 2. Tour of McCallum' s building. Please pick up your copy of the new OPEN MEETING LAW in the City Clerk' s 0 ffice if you haven' t already done so. April 26, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held on Monday, April 26, 1976 in the Old Council Chambers of the Northampton City Hall. All members were present with the exception of Miss Helen Searing. The secretafy's report for March 15, 1976 was accepted as read, however, due to the lack of a quorum on April 5, 1976 there were no official minutes. There w - as no treasurer's report at this meeting. C OMMITTEE REPORTS 1. Historic Preservation Week - Miss Ann Terhune reported. that Channels 40 and 22 will in some way cover the events of Historic Preservation Week in Northampton. The poster contest was received well and entries will submitted in the near futre. On May 9 Miss Carol Dubie will conduct a. tour of the Damon - Pratt Historic Distric Area followed on May 15 by a slide presentation at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and followed by a tour of the McCallums Building. 2. Historical Inventory - Miss Carol Dubie reported that thirty -one more sites in Downtown Northampton, Leeds, and Florence will be submitted by our Commission to the Massachusetts Historical Commission. At present it appears that Florence historical inventories are complete. 3 ;. Growth Policy Board - Mr. Gordon Murphy reported that the wishes of the Board at present, feels that Northampton should stay as it presently is and not encourage further housing developments. COMMUNICATI 1. Bay State Hist League B ulle tin , Volume 2, No. 3. 2. P reservation News for April, 19'76 3. Northampton Historical Society invitation for a program dealing with preservation in Northampton on May 12, 1976 at the First Church of Christ. OLD rUSINESS: 1. Historic Preservation Award will be presented to the owners of the following properties during Preservation Week: A. Rogers Hall at Clark School B. Academy of Music C. Country Comfort on Main St. Northampton D. 2 Pomeroy Terrace ( Used to be Ahearn Funeral Home) E. Dwellin on Phillips Place F. Mill in Leeds G. Parsons House on Bridge St. H. Deyette Home on South St. I. City Hall. 2. Coal bins - A letter is to be sent to the City Council in alt attempt to save the coal bins under the side walks on Main St. when the new side walk construction takes place. Two of these coal bins may be found in front of Country Comfort and Harlows Luggage. NEW B USINESS: 1 Historic Arch for Pulaski Park - Discussion concerning the potential large brass cupola donated by the Historical Society for an arch in the rear of Pulaski Park ensued and is to be investigated in the future 2. Tour of the Northampton Canal will be held on Wednesday, May 28 at 4:00 p.m. Next meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission will be held on May 5, 1976 at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Dr. Wilbur made a motion seconded by Xr. Thomas Grahowski to adjourn. at 5:30 p.m. This motion passed unamiously. Respectf� ly submitted, May 10, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of the Northampton City Hall at 4:10 p.m. All members were present with the exception of Mr. Gordon Murphy and Mr. Thomas Grahowski. The secretary's report was accepted as read. Communications 1. An invitation was received from the Northampton Historical Society to attend a program on May 12 at the First Church of Christ dealing with the subject of preservation; 2. A 1etter from the Northampton Daily Hampshire Gazette requesting articles for their Bicentennial Edition which is to be issued in June; 3. The Massachusetts Historical Commission has invited this Commission to a reception in Boston on May 13 during preservation week; 4. A letter was received from the Massachusetts Historical Commission stating that !Alumnae Gym has been accepted for the National Register. 5. A publication was received from the Greater Hartford Convention and Visitors Bureau; 6. Massachusetts Historical Commission forwarded a Massachusetts Historic Publication dealing with sites which had been inventoried as of 1974; Committees 1. Inventory -- Miss Carol Dubie reported that the Pomeroy Terrace Historic Inventory has been forwarded to Boston and that work is progressing on the Florence Historic District and the South Street area. Old Business 1. The Little Brick School -- It was decided that a letter should be sent to Annunciation Church to request their reconsideration of their propos5l to demolish the Little Brick School. A resolution was unanimously accepted for this purpose. It was further decided that a petition should be initiated in an effort to gather feeling by the community on this issue; 2. Preservation Week -- Posters which had been submitted for Historic preservation Week will receive certificates of appreciation from the Northampton Historical Commission. Those that will receive this certificate include Michael Lachape, Michael Boucher and Adam Wishnow, Deborah .Duseau, Carrie Collins and Adam Wishnow. It was further agreed that 29 Phillips Place will not receive an historic preservation award this year; 3. Commissioner -- At the next meeting of the Historical Commission a potential seventh commissioner should be discussed. New Business 1. Smith College -- A letter is to be sent to Smith College Trustees concerning the alarm felt by the Historical Commission on the potential demolition of the homes on 14 Henshaw Ave and Dawes House. It is felt by the Commission that a meeting would 2 May 10, 1976 be useful for the future. The next meeting will be held on May 24, of the Northampton City for June 14, 1976. A motion was made Miss Helen Searing that passed unanimously. )f the Northampton Historical Commission 1976 at 4 p.m. in the Conference Room Hall. Another meeting will be scheduled by Dr. C. Keith Wilbur and seconded by we adjourn at 5:20 p.m. This motion Respectfullr submitted, J4i fred D. Spencer Secretary June 14, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on June 14, 1976. The meeting was opened by Helen Searing at 4s13 PM. All members were present except for Thomas Grohowski. Minutes of the May 10 meeting were read and accepted. REPORTS 1, Helen Searing showed a recent N.Y. Times clipping about an abandonned school in Queens, N.Y. now used as an arts complex. Miss Searing commented that such a project would not be unrealistic for the Northampton area, especially in light of the eventual availibility of the old jail for a new use. 2. Carol Dubie reported that final Elm Street area inventory forms are about to be submitted; structures 6n the streets off Elm Sto are being inventoried in a general fashion. Northampton realtors are each being given a list of inventoried structures plus notation of their respective significance. Wilfred Spencer suggested that each individual home owner be furnished a copy of his house's inventory sheet; Carol Dubie noted that the cost of such publication would be prohibitive. Wilfred Spencer suggested a newspaper announcement of homes for which there is an inventory, and Gordon Murphy suggested a small fee for pro- curing the inventory, perhaps $1.00 to cover a printing cost. 3. Carol Dubie reported that the downtown area is officially on the National Register. COMMUNICATIONS 1. Memorandum from Planning Department re 2 public meetings. 2. Ballot from Bay State Historical League annual elections. It was unanymously agreed that secretary Hwy Clausing should mark the ballot as indicated. 3. Preservationti° News, 4. Historic Preservation. 5 The Preservation Presse, 6. Notification of conference at Salem State College, October 29 -30 1976, 7. Letter from Massachusetts Historical Commission stating that the Damon -Pratt District and the Calvin Coolidge House, 19 -21 Massasoit St., are eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. OLD BUSINESS 1, Little Brick School, Florence. Wilfred Spencer reported that at the Parish meeting he attended he was able to present to the appropriate people a petition with over 400 names protesting demolition of the school. As a result of the meeting the fate of the convent is unchanged, but the school may be saved. A Catholic fraternal organization is considering the school as a meeting place, and Wilfred Spencer felt that "things look relatively good" for the school. There will be a meeting at Annunciation Hall on Sunday, June 27 at 7 PM for a final decision on the school's future. 2. McCallum's Dr. Ce Keith Wilbur reported that Floyd Andrus has told him that in designing a "new" front for McCallum's, the four clusters of windows on the upper floors must remain. Downstairs windows can be faced, but they, too, must terrain. Dr. Wilbur drew up some possible designs for the treatment of the fronts 3. Helen Searing commented on the renovations in roggress on Pleasant St., particularly adjacent to Sheehan's. She feels, as dows June 14, 1976 p.2 the rest of the Commission, that it would be valuable for the Commission to know about such work before it startsp and that we should perhaps offer our services as an advisory board as a way to become directly involved with renovation planning. The position of the Historical Commission should be as middleman between downtown merchantsbw and City Council. The Design Review Board would be the logical body to serve the Historical Commission in this way; Gordon Murphy and Dr. Wilbur will see about forming an appropriate group of people for this board,•to get plans for it re- activated. 4. The Historical Commission still needs a treasurer. It also needs one additional commissioner, and a downtown merchant would be the best choice. Helen Searing will advise Mayor Cramer that either Sam Goldman or Gordon Clark would'be most suitable appointments to the Com- mission. NEW BUSINESS ° 1. Carol Dubie will suggest to John Gare that signs be placed at each end of Main St., marking the bounds of the Historical District. Carol will check on the possibiiity that such signs are now available to an Historic District. Dr. Wilbur noted that the lamp post signs designating points of interest on the walking tour should be made soon. 2. Carol Dubie reported on a call from the State Bicentennial Commission about their wish to use a site in Florence in a publication about the Underground Railroad. The three most likely sites from which to choose Ares the Ross Farm,. Meadow St.; the Hall -Judd House, Park and West Center Sts.; and the Hill House, Maple St. A letter will be sent to the State Commission describing each structure and its documentation. 3i It was suggested that the Florence area Historic District be named the Samuel Hill Historic District. 4. The topic of uses for the old jail building was deferred for a future meeting. 5: Discussion of a memorandum from the Planning'Department brought forth the possibility that the °Industrial Park might free the old Railway Station from its present industrial use, were that industry able to move to the Park. In a related matter, Dr. Wilbur favors the Historical Commission's vigorously supporting the use of the old Post Office building for the new Registry of Motor Vehicles., Helen Searing will write a letter to the Office of State Planning emphasizing the Historical Commission's support of reuse of vacant downtown buildings, particularly citing the use of the did Post Office for the new Registry. 6b All the Commission members expressed deep gratitute and high praise to Carol Dubie for a job superlatively done in her service to the Commission. We will certainly miss her and her work in the future, and wish her success in her plans for graduate school. It was agreed that the Commission would meet monthly during the summer if there were business enough to warrant it. The meeting was adjourned at 5 :42. Respectfylly submitted, Emmy C. Clausing - Secretaty , CITY OF NORTHAMPTON PLANNING DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO:Walter'.J. Murphy, Marketing Director, Northampton Industrial Authority FROMyork Phillips, Planning Director SUBJECT:F`ocus .of Effort, Re: Marketing of ,.Northampton Industrial Park DATE: May 25, 1976 FILE: H031 I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the City and to the Redevelopment Authority's marketing effort. Al- though I have not been asked, I would like to give some ideas regarding the marketing of the Industrial Park. Basically, I feel those New England companies which are in- terested in locating new facilities in this region, along with those which Pyre interested in relocating into our region from the outside, will find out about the City from our ads in the trade journals. To the extent this market can be tapped, so much the better. I feel, however, that the City has been missing the boat on the local market. To some extent this has been a result of a lack of good proposals. While I agree that heavy retail uses (such as auto dealerships) should be precluded, I feel considerably more emphasis ought to be given to encouraging certain local firms to relocate into the Park. Many firms in town (and in nearby towns) are housed in buildings which are too small and too inefficient to allow the companies to operate most efficiently and thereby com- pete effectively with others. In many situations it would be in the City's interest, as well as that of the company itself, to help the firm relocate. This is particularly true with companies lo- cated in structures along the Mill River or in one of the many small non - conforming buildings scattered throughout the City. In such cases the City's investment in the Park might be justifiably written off against the benefits of removing incompatible indus- trial uses from residential areas, reducing demand on older parts of the water and sewer system, consolidating uses which require greater levels of police and fire protection, and reducing traffic (especially truck traffic) along narrower streets. Removing in- dustrial uses from these older buildings in some cases would allow them to be removed and the land to be used for open space uses or new structures. In other cases the buildings might be recycled for residential use, such as the Leeds Village Apartments, or other appropriate uses. Because the City, rather than a private organization, made the investment in the Industrial Park, and because the costs were underwritten in 'part by the State, I feel there is more flexibility available for the City to use the Park as a tool to implement its policies regarding its own development and redevelopment. Toward this end, the City might well make additional concessions to pro- spective tenants, such as: swapping Industrial Park land for ex- isting land and buildings which can be reused (not necessarily at as profitable a use, as I mentioned above) or resold by the City; providing the funds for spec buildings in the Park (possibly even owning these and making a slight profit on them) so that smaller firms might be able to locate in modern facilities; and using out- side funding sources (such as the Community Development Block Grant Program) to assist marginal firms in relocation, rehabilitation, or other efforts which would increase employment. I feel there is considerably more to be said on this subject, and would like to discuss it with you and others further. YLP /ckf cc: Mayor David W. Cramer City Council Planning Board Historical Commission Conservation Commission Northampton Redevelopment Industrial Park Marketing Authority Advisory Committee - 2 - 19 7(e / i' Lz G 1 TO: FR OM: CITY OF NORTHAMPTON PLANNING DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM City Council, Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Historical commission York Phillips, Planning Director Public Hearings SUBJECT: June 1, 1976 DATE: A100 FILE: For your information. public hearings will be held during June on the following topics which may be of interest to you: (1) Housing Assistance Plan (part of the Community Development Block Grant application) - two hearings, the first on June 2, 1976, 7:30 PM, in tl:e Hearing Room, City Hall; the second on June 21, 1976, 7:30 PM, in the Council Chambers. (2) Local Growth Policy Committee draft questionnair6 response - (the first of two - second not yet scheduled) June 8, 1976, 7:30 PM, in the Council Chambers. cc: Mayor David Cramer Notes from meeting at Annunciation Hall, Florence, June 27 1976 BRICK SCHOOL The Brick School will not be razed, according to chairman of the Parish Steering Committee of Our Lady of the Annunciation Church Edward Hennessey. Although the Springfield Diocese is unwilling to sell the building to the Knights of Columbus, the building is to be leased on a lopg -term basis. A local chapter of the K of C will invest in the maintainence of the building at its acquisition, and is very happy to have its own headquarters, as it has not had one in years. The K of C is now preparing a legal document re the take -over of the building. The school building will be available for use by Annunciation Parish* This seems the perfect solution on three fronts: 1. The Parish will have a Catholic fraternal organization on parish property. 2. The Historical Commission is pleased. 3. The Parish is no longer burdened with the expense of upkeep of the building* The exterior of the building will not be changed. The K of C is p - repared to spend in the neighborhood of $5000.00 for interior restoration, such as bathroom facilities and other alterations to suit:° needs, and a new roof* The decision to lease the buklding passed unanymously among the members of the Steering Committee. CONVENT There is no reason, says Mr* Hennessey, to retain this property* The building has b )een seen by the Diocese building inspector and various tradesmen who have looked at plumbing and wiring* All agree that it is in great disrepair* Fr. Lucey feels sure it "would probably be condemned" by any official building inspector* August 16, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, August 16. Absent were Thomas Grohowski and Wilfred Spencer. The meeting was opened at 4 :15. Minutes of the June 14 meeting were read and accepted. Helen Searing introduced Mr. Robert Drinkwater, an archaeologist, who presented a description of his findings at the site of the old Gas Company property behind City Hall. His services are required by ;by the City of Northampton for an archaeological clearance before federal money can be used in constructing the city's new sewer line, now routed through what remains below - ground of an old gas holding tank. Before the time of the Gas Company's ownership the land was the site of some prized home lots of early Northampton settlers; Mr. Drinkwater's interest lies with the land's use by the Gas Company, however, and he feels that the site may meet requirements of the National Register of Historic Places. It was agreed that he should suggest that the new sewer line be re- routed. The Historical Commission agreed that any action beyond backing a re- routing of the sewer line if that is in fact possible would be unreasonable as there is little hope that the old container site could be preserved and protedted from its slated use as a parking lot. REPORTS 1. Gordon Murphy has notified city realtors of the availibility of house inventories. COMMUNICATIONS 1. Helen Searing reported that the Historical Commission's request to the Committee for Public Education and Awareness of the National Endowment for the Arts for aid for the design booklet has been turned down. 2. Helen Searing mentioned a letter from a U Mass intern who expressed dissatisfaction with the editing of one of her communications with the State Historical Commission. No action was taken on the letter. 3. The Historical Commission has received a letter from Charles Henderson at Smith College about the proposed destruction of Dawes House. Mr, Henderson offered to meet during the summer, but Helen Searing feels that the faculty members involved would not be available then, and that by this fall a decision will have already been made, 4. A letter has been received from the Massachusetts Historical Commission advising the Northampton Historical Commission to recom- mend the Calvin Coolidge House on Massasoit Street for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places, This recommendation has been made, j NEW BUSINESS 1, Helen Searing introduced Carol Menke who is writing a paper for a Master's Degree from U Mass , and her project is A Preservation Page 2 August 16, 1976 Plan for Northampton, studying the past, present, and future work of the Historical Commission, looking at building codes, zoning, possible additional buildings for Historical inventory, and giving an overview of the directions the work of the Historical Commission might take. 2. The Historical Commission has received permission from the City Council to form an Historic District Study Committee; the purpose of which would be to study the question of, after the establishment of an Historic district on the national level, whether it is then desirable to work toward establishment of a state Historical District, or to protect the established district by implementation of appropriate city ordinances. The Historical Commission will meet on Monday, August 23 to compile a list of possible members to submit to Mayor Cramer. Membership ,should logically include architects and others knowledgeable in historic preservation. 3. The Massachusetts Historical Commission has re -named and re -drawn the boundaries of the proposed Damon -Pratt Historic District* renaming it the Pomeroy Terrace Historic District. Helen Searing will write to request clarification of the Commission's reasons for these changes. G. A letter has been received from the Architectural Heritage Foundation explaining the work of the Architectural Conservation Trust (ACT) in obtaining funding for the re- cycling of city government buildings of historic value. Helen Searing is preparing a letter to Councilman Patenaude including the names of some buildings which would be appropriate for re-use. These are: the jail, the West Farms School, the armory, the fire station, the round house, the school building at St. Mary's Cemetary, and the house at the corner of Elm and Franklin Sts. 5. Helen Searing will again notify Mayor Cramer about the need for an additional Commissioner. The meeting was adjourned at 6 :06 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Emmy C. Clausing, Secretary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL. COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL MEETING NOTICE September 13, 1976 4:00 Pivi City Hall Council Chambers Call to order Minutes Reports Communications AGENDA Old Business Pine Rest Nursing Home (see below) Historic District Study Committee PomerW Terrace Historic District Florence Historic District New Commissioner New Business Architectural Heritage Foundation The Planning Board has recommended that the Pine Rest Nursing Home be granted a variance to build a scaled -down version of its original proposal This would necessitate the demolition of two historic houses. I have drafted the following letter to be sent to the Zoning Board and would like your advice and approval before sending it. Please bring this notice with your additions and corrections to the meeting. The Historical Commission is vigorously opposed to the proposal to grant variances to the Pine Resting Nusing Home. The plan involves the demolition of two buildings of significant historical character. The prominent position of these buildings on Elm Street means that they play a vital role in maintaining the architectural quality and scale of that street and to destroy them would be a further step in the deterioration of this fine residential neighborhood. The Commission believes that it would be possible for the buildings to be renovated and successfully rented as apartments, thus i.ncurro ing no great loss to the present owner, the Pine .Kest Nursing Home. September 13, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, Sept. 13, 1976. Absent was Thomas Grohowski. The meeting was opened at 4:07. Minutes of the August 16 meeting were read and accepted. Helen Searing in�toduced Ann Gilkerson, a Smith College student who will be doing inventories of Smith College buildings. REPORTS 1. Historic District Study Committee meeting, August 23. As a result of names collected at that meeting, the following individuals are definitely interested in membership: Sam Goldman, downtown businessman and property owner; Peter Rowe, professor of government, Smith College; Rev. John Gregory Tweed, Edwards Church; and Edward Jendry, architect, A.I.X. Possible members include Robert Curran, Abe Allen, Ray Kochin, and Bill Menke. 2. Architectural Heritage Foundation. Carol Menke reported that she had found names of several city school buildings which will be vacant in the near future, as further targets for re -use under the Architectural Conservation Trust (ACT) of the Architectural Heritabe Foundation. ACT has requested information on these and other buildings, the compiling of which will be assigned to the Commissioners. OLD BUSINESS 1. Pine Rest. The Planning Board has xaclmd voted against Mr. Brown °s request for variances; the decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals is still due. Although the ZBA will probably grant the permission requested, Helen Searing will procede in sending a letter of protest to that board. Dr. Wilbur emphasized the importance of opposing the demolition of the Elm Sto properties for both the sake of saving these particular buildings and for educating the public about the intent of the Historical Commission to become involved in all such questions of destruction. Helen Searing will initiate a Daily Hampshire Gazette article on the proposals of Mr. Brown, for publication before the ZBA meeting on September 28, and Dr. Wilbur suggested oral presentation of opposition at the ZBA meeting. The Historical Commission will meet on Monday, Sept. 20 to tie together these efforts of protest. 2. Damon -Pratt / Pomeroy Terrace Historic District. The Massachusetts Historical Commission is firm on its restructuring. 3. Florence Historic District. The Massachusetts Historical Commission has found the Florence proposal too extensive, and it should center itself around Annunciation Church. Pruning the proposal must be done by our Commissioners, and Gordon Murphy and Bill Spencer will start this work. 4. New Commissioner. Mayor Cramer has not yet acted on appointing a new commissioner. Helen Searing will suggest Maizie Cox for appointment. As there is no limit on the number of Associate Commissioners we may have, Sept. 13, 1976 page 2 James Lunny of the Cedar Chest and the owners of Country Comfort are possibilities for Associates. NEW BUSINESS 1. Architectural Heritage Foundation, Helen Searing has sent a letter to Councilman Patenaude with a' list of sites appropriate for ACT funds. She has not recei0ed a ' response. 2. Bill Spencer inquired about obtaining a compilation of Alice Manning's DHG articles on the history of Florence. The meeting was adjourned at 5:40. Respectfully submitted, Emmy C Clausing Secretary - NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEMORIAL HALL 240 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 CITY HALL NOTICE OF MEETING September 20, 1976 Call to Order Minutes Reports Communications Old Business New Business 4:00 PM AGENDA City Hall Council Chambers Pine Rest Nursing Home (Urgent) Community Block Grant September 20, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, September 20, 1976. Absent were Thomas Grohowski, Bill Spencer, and Gordon Murphy. The meeting was opened at 4100. Minutes of the September 13 meeting were read and accepted. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 1. New Commissioners. Helen Searing has furnished Mayor Cramer the names of Maizie Cox and James bunny as new Commissioners. The resignation of Thomas Grohowski is imminent. Dr. Wilbur will continue to serve. Bill Spencer will be asked if he intends to do so. 2. Associate Commissioners. Eleanor Lincoln will be helping with inventories and Emmy Clausing will instruct her in how these are done. John Pinto, an instructor in City Planning at Smith College, is to become an Associate Commissioner also, with the possibility that he might replace Chairman Helen Searing during her sabbatical leave of absence. Bill and Eva Trager of Country Comfort will be contacted by Helen Searing about serving. 3. Massachusetts Historical Commission Communication. A letter, has been received from the Massachusetts Historical Commission stating that the Calvin Coolidge House, 19 -21 Massasoit St., and the Pomeroy Terrace Historic District are eligible for appointment to the National Register of Historic Places. 4. Supplement to Survey Manual. An archaeological supplement to the Massachusetts Historical Commission Historic Properties Survey Manual has been received and filed in that manual in the Historical Commission files. OLD BUSINESS 1. Pine Rest. Following the Planning Board's denial of a special permit to the Pine Rest property, Helen Searing has furnished the Daily Hampshire Gazette with information for the projected Gazette article, stressing the importance of the two buildings slated for demolition to the architectural heritage of the Elm Street community. Dr. Wilbur reported that the state regulations which Pine Rest claims to be trying to meet with its proposed reconstruction apply only to old buildings being used to house occupants in Class 3 or above. The newer part of the Pine Rest home meets these regulations, but is being used to house Class 4 occupants. It would seem that the present facilities could satisfy all state regulations were the Class 4 occupants moved to the older part-.of the building and the Class 3's to occupy the newer section. It also appears that the present occupants of Pine Rest rarely leave the vicinity of the home. September 20, 1976 Page 2 OLD BUSINESS, con't. 29 Architectural Conservation Trust Questionaires were distributed to the Commissioners for the Jail, West Farms School, and the Armory. Information regarding ACT funding will be sent to both parties interested in refurbishing the Armory. 3. City Property Committee. The Commissioners read the letter which Helen Searing proposes to send to the City Property Committee regarding the desire of the Historical Commis- sion to become involved in the future of buildings now owned by the city. In the event that these buildings were to receive ACT funding, the Historical Commission would very appropriately seek to co- ordinate the activities of public and private parties involved. 4. Alumnae Gym. The Smith College Board of Trustees is to meet the weekend of Sept. 25 -26. Any change in plans for the destruction of Alumnae Gym is not known at this time. NEW BUSINESS 1. Community Block Grants. Carol Menke has studied this rather unwieldy topic, and reports that Patrich Kenney will be in contact with Helen Searing for input into the projected 10 -year guidelines for use of Block Grants. The role of the His- torical Commission would be to request specific projects: for example, if TOPICS is defeated, the Historical Commission wants the sidewalks and lamp posts from it to be completed. In addition to the projected guidelines, there will be public hearings on the Grants. Community Bloch -Grants can be used to match other grants; further information on how Community Block Grants can be used is available from the Massachusetts Historical Com- mission. Any project initiated through CBG's will be subject to an environmental review. Patrick Kenney will address the Northampton Historical Commission at a future date. 2. Annunciation Parish Center. " Helen Searing will write a letter to the Parish in care of Fr. Lucey to congratulate the parish for retaining the Little Brick School in their plans for the Center. � c 3. Bay State Historical League. $10.00 dues for the year '^ °••e bee p* - � � � � h� �c��el �� r4 4. Treasurer* v v Perhaps a new Commissioner can assume the duties of treasurer. 5. The Gas Building. The round house will be used by the Jaycee °s as a haunted house for Hallowe'en. 69 Vernon Street School. Riverside Industries° Sheltered Workshop is investigating use of the building. They are presently housed in Haydenvi.11e. Th- °r A./A NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 NOTICE OF MEETING October 4, 1976 4300 P.M. City Hall, Room 18 AGENDA Call to Order Minutes Reports Communications Old Business o Pine Rest Nursing Home o Armory o Pomeroy Terrace Historic District New Business o Placing inventoried materials into Historic Districts October 4, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, October 4, 19760 Absent was Gordon Murphy. New Commissioner James Lunny was introduced. The meeting was opened at 4:10. Minutes of the September 20 meeting were read and amended to read that the annual dues for the Bay State Historical League will be paid. Bill Spencer will continue to serve as a Commissioner. REPORTS 1. A letter of appreciation has been sent to Fr. Lucey of Annunciation Parish for the Parish's saving of the Little Brick School. 2. Helen Searing will meet with the Planning Department on the subject of Community Block Grants on Friday, October 8. Use of the 1976 funds will focus on enforcing State Sanitary add Housing Codes in targeted city areas under a Neighborhood Preservation Plan. The Historical Commission should make sure.that historic districts are included in these targeted areas. OLD BUSINESS 1. Pine Rest. The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting attracted many neighbors opposed to the Pine Rest plans. Although a decision was not announced at the time of the meeting, there is little evidence that the requested variances would be granted by action of the State Supreme Court, even if granted locally. The two Elm Street buildings are on the Historical Commission's Destruction List, and the Commission should be notified if a destruction permit is applied for. 2e Armory. The City Property Committee met on September 27. A problem involved in the future of the Armory, should Bob LaSalle and Carlo Valone succeed in buying the Armory, is how to guarantee the preservation of the building should the owners be unable to raise the money to renovate the interior as they wish, and be forced to sell it. The prospective buyers do not want a deed restriction to give the city first chance to buy it back if it goes on the market. The question of the fate of the present Good Thyme Deli building arose: would it be razed for parking area? Counciiwan- ;Patenaude has not yet responded to the commissions letter about buildings eligible for ACT funding. 3. Pomeroy terrace historic-&-i-strict. Helen Searing has written to the Massachusetts Historical Commission requesting a reason for their omitting the residence at 57 Bridge Street from the re -drawn district. The Commission now feels that there is need for more communication with the Boston Commission on this district. 4. Florence Historical articles. Emmy Clausing willinquire at the Gazette office about the availibility of Alice Manning's articles on the history of Florence. October 4, 1976 Page 2 NEW BUSINESS 1. Organization of Historic Districts In preparation for establishing the Elm Street Historic District, the following streets are being reviewed for finding houses suitable for inventorys Harrison, Forbes, and Vernon Streets Helen Searing. Washington and Maynard Streets: Keith Wilbur. Kensington Street and Dryads Green: Emmy Clausing. The meeting was adjourned at 4s559 Respectfully submitted, Emmy C. Clausing, Seery NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 NOTICE OF MEETING October 18, 1976 4 : 00 PM City Hall, Rm. 11 Agenda Call to Order Minutes Reports Communications Old Business o Armory, including memo from York Phillips. New Business o List of eligible activities for Community Development Grants. October 18, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, October 180 Absent was Gordon Murphy. The meeting was opened at 4 :00, Ann Gilkerson, plus Associate Commissioners Eleanor Lincoln and John Pinto were present and introduced. Minutes of the October 4 meeting were read and accepted. REPORTS 1. Damon -Pratt /Pomeroy Terrace Historic District. There has been no response from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to Helen Searing °s inquiry about the 57 Bridge Street omission from the re -drawn district. 29 Alumnae Gym. At a meeting of the Smith College Board of Trustees on Saturda , October 16, a proposal was presented by consulting architect H rr� "Weese to preserve Alumnae Gym , integrating it into the proposed library extension. The decision on the fate of the gym has been deferred until November 7, 3. Florence (Samuel Hill) Historic District. The proposal which former U. Mass intern Laurie Komaromi has had in her possession has "been returned to Helen Searing. It was given to Bill Spencer to help him and Gordon Murphy review the pro- posed district for the purposes of reducing it. OLD BUSINESS 1. The Armory At a meeting on Sept 27 the City Property Committee met in execu- tive session and deferred its recommendation to the City Council on the disposition of the Armory until the Council meeting on October 70 It is thought that the City Property Committee will decide to recommend sale to Carlo Valone and Bob LaSalle; the final decision is now slated for the City Council meeting on October 21. In conjunction with this issue, Helen Searing has written a letter to Mayor Cramer, the City Council, and the Planning Dept* about the disposal of city property in general, and of the Armory in particular. The Historical Commission recommends that the city retain some control over the renovation and preservation of city - owned buildings, and that when leasing or selling such buildings that the lease or deed of sale stipulate a review by the Historical Commission of any proposed alterations. The structures should similarly be protected from demolition. In the case of the Armory, the low sale price ($40,000) probably less than the value of the lot were it empty and developed for commercial use, suggests that the deed of sale be written so as to ensure the continued existence of the building. The letter also states that the Commission is neutral on October 18, 1976 Page 2 the proposed re -use of the buklding, and that its main concern is that the buklding remain standing. 2. Pine Rest. The final decision by the Zoning Board of Appeals was scheduled for Monday, October 18. As of the writing of these minutes, Pine Rest has lost its bid for variances from the ZBA, as a unanimous vote of the 3 members could not be obtained, 3. Community Block Grants: Community Development. There will be a public meeting on Tuesday, October 19 about the allocation of Northampton's share of funds. The Historical Commission will present its proposals at a later date. Carol Menke has prepared a proposal for future needs of Community Development under the Block Grants. The current plan for use of Community Development money is for interior, non - visual rehabilitation of targeted areas. At present guidelines for the allocation of Northampton funds are still being established, but it is likely that all the '76 money will be allocated when the guidelines are settled. The Historical Commission should, therefore, focus on recommendations for use of next year's funds, and it is hoped that emphasis on exterior rehabilitation might make possible the reconsideration of buildings excluded from the original Damon -Pratt Historic District. The following dilemma became apparent: Since the Community De- velopment target areas inevitably co- incide at least in part with historic districts, does the Historical Commission restrict its efforts within these boundaries, or does the Historical Commission try to dictate the boundaries within which it wants the Community Development funds to operate? Jeffrey Spear, who will administer the Community Development funds, should address the Historical Commission soon. Helen Searing will give Carol Menke's proposal to York Phillips, emphasizing that historic districts should fall within the targeted areas. The formal business meeting was adjourned at 4 :50, at which time began a work session on establishing the Elm Street Historic District. It was suggested that all, College academic of dormitory structures be included in a single, separate historic district. When re- presentatives from the MassachusettsrHistorical Commission come to discuss the Damon - Pratt /Pomeroy Terrace District, they could be told of our plans to create a separate district for the college. From the preliminary review of streets adjacent to Elm Street, it would seem that the only extention from Elm Street to the south would be a small inroad on Washington Street. Eleanor Lincoln will start to inventory structures on Elm Street. The way to handle the Round Hill area is as yet undecided. Respectfully submitted, �,,� vc�c- 1—,C• C�� G2 -cT� Emmy C. Secletary y A regular meeting of the I'�ortha_mpton Historical Commlission i.ras held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, October 18. Absent was Gordon Murphy. The meeting was opened at 4:00, Ann Gilker_son, plus Associate Caa::ini ssioners Eleanor Lincoln and John Pinto z,!ez,e present Lnd introduced. Minutes of the October 4 meeting were read and accepted. REPORTS 1. Damon- Pratt/ Pomeroy Terrace Historic District. There has been no response from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to Helen Seari.ng's inquiry about the 57 Bridge Street omission from the re-drawn district. 2. Alumnae Gym. At a meeting of the .Smith College Board of Trustees on Saturday, October 16, a proposal was presented by consulting architect Henry Weese to preserve Alumnae Gym , integrating it into the proposed library extention. The decision on the fate of the gym has been deferred until 1\'bvember 7. 3. Florence (Samuel Fill) Historic District. The proposal which former U. Mass intern Laurie Komaromi has had in her possession has'been returned to Helen Searing. it was given to Bill Spencer to help him and Gordon Murphy re the pro- posed district for the purposes of reducing it. OLD BUSINESS 1. The Armory At a meeting on Sept 27 the City Property Commyttee met in execu- tive session and deferred its recoamendation to the City Council on the disposition of the Armory until the Council meeting on October 7. It is thought that the City Property Corwrait will decide to reconLmend sale to Carlo Valone and Bob LaSalle; the final decision is now slated for the City Council-maeeting on October 21. In conjunction with this issue, Helen Searing l:as written a letter to Mayor Cranar, the City Council, and the Fla. Dept. about the disposal of city property in genera?, and of the Armory in particular. The Historical Commission re4orimiends that the city retain sorae control over the renovation and preservation of city - ow buildings, and that when leasing or selling such buildings that the lease or deed of sale stipulate a review by the Historical Commaission of any proposed alterations. The st cuctures should s=_milarly be protected f'r�o?i demoli -lion. In the case of the �_nsx� °`y, the low sale price ($4:0,000) probably less than the value of the lot were it empty and developed for cane, ciai Else, ssu Bests that the deed of sale be —itten so as to ens:Ire the coatinu ed existence of the bu?.1_diii! Thl e I etl ex a I s o 5ta,tes tI a3_t til e C C7 P -. ra xSsi0n i s ne-- L= tra1 o ? 2 3 8, T976 2 ,-�te prop sc ed re - -use of the b iklding, and that its main concern is that the bulflding r'e�, standing. 2. Pine Rest. The final decision by the zoning Board of Appeals was scheduled for tionday, October ''.S. As of the ;:ri_ti.r?g of these minutes, Pine Pest leas lost its bid for 'variances fora the ZBA, as a unanit:;ous vote of the 3 members could not be obtained, 3. Community Block Grantst Community Development. There will be a public meeting on Tuesday, October 19 about the allocation of Northampton's share of funds, The Historical Com :-nission will present its proposals at a later date. Carol Menke has prepared a proposal for future needs of Community Development under the Block Grants. The current plan for use of Commiunit~y Develop-?ent money is for interior, non-visual rehabilitation of targeted areas. At present guidelines for the allocation of Northampton funds are still being established, but it is likely that all the 1 76 honey will be allocated when the guidelines are settled. The Historical Commission should, therefore, focus on recommendations for use of ?text year ° s funds, and it is 'roped that emphasis on e4terior rehabilitation -might make possible the re consideration of buildings excluded From the original Damon- -Pratt Historic District. The following dilemma. beca -me apparent: Since the Community De® %eloprnent target areas inevitably co-incide at least in part with historic districts, does the Historical Commission restrict its efforts within these boundaries, or does the Historical Commission try to dictate the boundaries within - �-Y?nicl3 it ,zants the Go=-unity Develop rant funds to operate? Jeffrey Spear', who rill adrin seer Life Comm,.�* Develop.r:ent funds, should adc'_ the l�istcrical Commission soon. Helen Searing will give Carol Merike"s proposal to Fork Phillips, emphasizing that historic districts should fall within the targeted aY' e' 5. The xariTtal business meeting was adjourned at LtSO, at crhich tine began a work session on establishing the Elm. Street Historic District. , it was sugg ested that an Smith College academe ct dorm.itary structures be included in a single, separate historic district. When re presentat from the Massachusetts Histori Commi ssion come to discuss the DaL?onwiratt /Pcme:'oy Terrace District, they could be told of our plans to create a separate district for the college. From the preli-minary review of streets adjacent to Elm Street, it would seem that the only extension from I;.lra Street to the south *iaould be a small inroad on T<<ashi ngton Street. Flea:: or Lincoln will start to inventory structu-res on 131-m Street. 11le way to handle the Round Hill area is as yet undecided. Respectfully submi.tted, ariray C. Clausing, Secretary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 NOTICE OF MEETING November 1, 1976 4 :00 PM City Hall, Rm. 18 AGENDA Call to Order Minutes Reports Communications Old Business o Community Block Grant o Boundary update of the Smith /Elm /Round Hill area. o Pomeroy Terrace o .Armory New Business o Budget preparation o Annual Report o Housing Data System. Monday, November 1, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, November 1, 1976. Absent were Gordon Murphy, Bill Spencer, and William Lunny. New Commissioner Maizie Cox was introduced. REPORTS Helen Searing reported that Joseph Orfant of the Massachusetts Historical Commission will be in Northampton on Thursday, November 18 to review the Damon - Pratt /Pomeroy Terrace Historic District with all available commissioners. OLD BUSINESS 1. Community Block Grants. No one showed up for the public meeting required for the Block Grants. Following the departure of Patrick Kenney, the whole Community Block Grant proposal will be re- written. Carol Menke has learned from Pat Kenney that it is agreeable to those in hha -gge"';f the Historical Commission reviews the mapped -out target areas, and that there is no assurance that the sidewalks scheduled under the TOPICS program will be allocated if the TOPICS proposal is defeated in November. There is question about just who is responsible for the CBG proposal- -York Phillips, Roy Wasdyke, or Jeffrey Spear. In addition, the buLlding codes that are to be e4breed under the 1976 grant are applicable only to buildings constructed after 1968; the only code that does apply to buildings in which the Historical Commission might be interested is the sanitary code. The Historical Commission has thus far only been asked for general guidelines for future needs of Northampton. In the midst of such lack of structure in the program, it is hoped that the Commission might find acceptance for its own priorities for Community Development; this very lack of structure, however, makes knowing to whom to propose a desireable program difficult. York Phillips will address the Historical Commission at its next meeting, November 15. 2. Boundary Update of the Elm St. /Smith /Round Hill area. This subject was deferred for a work meeting. 3. Pomeroy Terrace. The Commission must try to persuade Mr. Or6nt that the new district boundaries are too severe. 4. The Armory. At the City Council meeting on October 21 the Armory was sold to Carlo Valone and Robert LaSalle. Only Councilmen Ames and McNulty voted in favor of any deed restriction; Attorney Saul Gliserman vehemently dismissed the concept of such a restriction as a prohibiting factor in obtaining bank loan support. November 1, 1976 Page 2. NEW BUSINESS 1. Budget Preparation. The Commission was allotted $530 for fiscal year 1 76; there remains about $362 in the treasury. The Commission is asked to work on preparation of the new budgetary needs of the Commission on three fronts: A. Ordinary Maintainence (fixed costs, such as postake). Be Application and justification dor a funded position. C. Other than Ordinary Maintainence (OOM)s Projects especially for a given year, for example: 1. Distribution of xeroxed inventories to Forbes Library. 2. Rehabilitation Library to be housed at the Planning Dept. 3. Start on the regulation of the Downtown Historic District. A project appropriate to this project would be the publication of an informational booklet as an educational tool for the public, possibly inOluding old and present photos of buildings. Such a project would require funding for a person to prepare the booklet. It is thought best to look locally first for funding, rather than to try for a grant. 4. Developement of a slide file. The deadline for budget applications under the new plan is December 15, 1976. 29 Carol Menke has found that the Historical Commission mail is often delayed by coming to her via York Phillips. A memo to York is in order, stating that the Commission mail should come directly to Carol, with the understanding that York will be informed by periodic reports about the nature of our correspondence. 3. Maizie Cox was named Treasurer by acclaimation. 4. Annual Report. This is a desirable project for public relations purposes, and for spreading information about the works of the Historical Commission. 5. Housing Data System. The future computerization of data on housing structures in Northampton can serve the Historical Commission in a limited way. While the current print -out only indicated an historic site, it ii; possible that the historical otr importance of a building could be indicated, according to how a building•simportance is designated on its inventory sheet. Of help to the Commission: in future inventories is that the construction date is on the data card. It was noted that the completed Rogers Hall at the Clark School and the renovations at first Church are excellent. First Church may be an appropriate candidate for a design award in the spring. The meeting was adjourned at 5:40. Respectfully submitted, nmy Clausine Secretary November 15, 1976 A regular meetign of the Northampton Historical Commission was held in the Conference Room of City Hall on Monday, November 15, 1976. Absent were William Lunny, Maizie Cox, and Keith Wilbur. The meeting was opened at 4 :05. Community Block Grants: York Phillips Mr. Phillips emphasized the slow speed at which implementation of the Block Grants is moving, and that the Commission has good time in which to prepare its input. The Commission would best be concerned with promoting community betterment through inproved exteriors of buildings, and, above all, with the way in which programs are implemented toward a goal of preserving the character of a neighborhood. The Commission should prepare a statement of objectives and policies toward these concerns. A draft of the Rehabilitation Project will be available to the Commission when it is completed. The target areas were determined by statistics relating to population and facilities per dwelling structure. As a result, three areas were designated: an extensive area in downtown Northampton, a few blocks in downtown Florence, and a small enclave on the north side of Elm Street. The fourth area, a place of obvious visible need, around Pleasant and Market Streets, grew out of the urban renewal study. CBG activities involve in the neighborhood of $300,000 per year for each of ten years. The Historical Commission might use CBG funds for work of its own which falls under eligible Community Development activities, for example, the purchase of the Railroad Station for repair and re- use as a community center or for office space for community service organizations. REPORTS 1. Alumnae Gym The Board of Trustees has voted not to raze the building and has instructed the Cambridge Seven to re -draw its plans to incor- porAte the gym. The decision of the Trustees rests on the assumption that a workable plan can be made. Helen Searing will write to the Trustees on behalf of the Commission to express our approval 4f their decision. 2. Meeting with Joseph Orfant, November 18. Mr. Orfant will meet with Commissioners at 2 PM to discuss guidelines for the Elm Street and Smith College Historic Districts. He reported that he had several times attempted to prevent the Massachusetts Historical Commission from cutting the size of the Damon -Pratt /Pomeroy Terrace District, but was unsuccessful. He notes, however, that buffer zones adjacent to an historic district are significant. 3. Forest Park Historic District, Springfield. Helen Searing has testified in a land -mark case concerning an attempt to re -side a house in the historic district, thus removing the original shingling. In a related issue, the State Mental Health Association shingle - style houses on Pomeroy Terrace are now being sided with aluminum. Helen Searing will write a letter of dissatisfaction to the appropriate parties. November 15, 1976 Page 2 4. Florence (Samuel Hill) Historic District. Gordon Murphy has made some changes in the present district. Middle Street has been omitted, as have some structures of dubious qualification. On the other hand, Ross' Farm and Lilly Library are not now included, and they may be included in a separate, appended packet. It was noted that the Commissioners never received the proposed district; it was solely the work of Carol Dubie. 5. Building Inspection. Gordon Murphy initiated a discussion about the frequency with which landlords lucratively lease large buildings for state funded half -way houses, and then perform little or no maintenance on them. He noted that the intent of the Historical Commission to save older buildings may in some caves lead to their being left standing and then exploited for income at the expense of their upkeep. Inspections are known to be lax, and it might be appropriate for the Commission to write a letter to building inspectors about making obligatory inspections more rigid. A lack of these inspections is clearly in violation of state law. It was suggested that Cecil Clark speak to the Commission about inspections in general. More rigid inspections and resulting maintainence expenses would make older buildings less appealing as sources of easy money. The Old Wright Home is now in the process of being purchased by the State. 6.Daniel's Building. Keith Wilbur has suggested that we furnish information to Mr. Ralph Levy, owner of the Daniel's Building,about funding for rehabilitation of his building. It is rumored that he may remove the top two stories from the building. This again points up the urgency of creation of the Historic District Stu43r Committee for dealing with such matters. The meeting was adjourned at 5:10. Respectfully submitted, Emmy C. Clausing Secretary NORTHAMPTON HISTORICAL COMMISSION CITY HALL NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS 01060 The next meetin of the Historical Commission will be held on Monday, December 6, at pm, in the former City Council Chambers in City Hall. / AGENDA Call to order Minutes Reports , Meeting with Joe Orfant (will Commission members please be prepared to report on their discussions with Mr. Orfant ?) Old business Cecil Clark and the owners of Daniel's Clothing Store have been invited to the meeting.- New business Fitzwilly's renovation Globe .Theatre renovations Budget Preparation The following new items -are suggested for our budget. Please go .over the items and suggested figures.and be prepared to-discuss. 1. Xeroxing and distribution of a Historical District Fact Sheet to owners of buildings listed on the National Register, - giving them facts about their building and about tax incentives, grants, facade easements, etc. in relation to historic preservation. # )00 2. Purchase of books on rehabilitation and historic preservation to build up a library.4 150 .3. Xeroxing of inventory forms for distribution to local libraries, the Historical Society, and the Lower Pioneer Valley Regional Planning Commission. #,ZOp 4. Development of a slide file and visual presentation materials on the historic resources of' Northampton. 100 5. Publication of an informational - .booklet on the Downtown Historic District., listing future goals, a description of the district, and information on rehabilitation and restoration. Soo December 6, 1976 A regular meeting of the Northampton Historical Commission was held on Monday, December 6, 1976 in the Conference Room of City Hall. Absent was James Lunny. Minutes for the November 15 meeting were read and accepted. REPORTS 1. Joseph Orfant. A letter has been received from Joseph Orfant of the Massachusetts Historical Commission following his visit to Northampton on November 18. His conclusions are as follows: 1. The Clarke School constitutes a district; all historical buildings connected with the school should be in'bluded, as well as community properties related to the school when reasonably possible. The Smith College district maybe combined with the Clarke School. 2. The Elm Street district should consist of that street alone, and should end at the high school. 3. Florence does not lend itself to a single district. The Hill Institute and the Samuel Hill House should constitute one nomination, and Temperance Hall should also be an individual nomination. In addition the Congregational Church and the group of Italianate houses on Park Street make a compact cohesive district. 4. The Greek Revival house at 57 Bridge Street is included in the Massachusetts Historical Commission's version of the Pomeroy Terrace district. Eleanor Lincoln reported Mr. Orfant's interest in areas of Bay State. 2. The National Register of Historic Places has sent a packet of certificates of recognition for buildings in the Downtown Historic District. These will be distributed to property owners along with information on matching funds and the building inventory. NEW BUSINESS 1. New meeting times. Future Historical Commission meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month. The next meeting will be Monday, January 10. 2, Fitzwilly's Renovations. Those commissioners who have seen the new front of the Fitzwilly's expansion are dissatisfied with it. It might be improved with paint. It is regrettable that the informational services of the Historical Com- mission are still unknown and unsought by the public. 3. Globe Theater. This appears to be a most successful renovation, warranting a letter of commendation. December 6, 1976 page 2 OLD BUSINESS 1. Daniel's Building. Ralph Levy, owner of the Daniel's Building, has not responded to Helen Searing's letter, nor did he appear at this meeting. 2. Building inspections. Building Inspector Cecil Clark spoke to the Commissioners about inspections in general. At the present time the Office of the Building Inspector has no connection with the Historical Commission, but Mr. Clark sees a place for interaction. The Commission should furnish the inspectors with a Building Department map on which all buildings and plots which we want protected from inappropriate renovations or demolition are color -coded for easy reference. Mr. Clark feels that people generally are interested in the history of their buildings, and would like to be furnished historical information, which could be available for coded buildings. Mr. Clark made the point that it is impossible to deny anyone a demolition permit. Inspection 0 buildings used as half -way houses are regular, and general maintainence is the responsibility of the owner. Mr. Clark rarely finds actual health hazards -- "poor house - keeping" is not reportable to the Department of Health. Regarding the Daniel's building, Mr. Clark knows nothing about plans to raze the top floors. As it is rated as 100% destroyed, new construction in the building must conform to the state building code applicable to the slated use of the building. Mr. Clark favors the regulation of the downtown historica4r district by the use of local ordinances, rather than the formation of a state historic&+ district. 3. Budget. The commissioners reviewed information on past spending patterns and projected totals for Fiscal Year 1977. Estimates were made for appro- priations for the coming year. In addition there are a number of proposed projects, requiring appropriations of $2,050.00. The meeting was adjourned at 5 :35 . Respectfully submitted, Emmy C. Clausing, Secretary