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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
AGENDA
THURSDAY, October 20, 2011- 3:00 P.M.
City Hall – Conference Room
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING on August 18, 2011
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
1. Summary of Applications 2009-2011
2. Summary of Architectural Review Certifications for 2011
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
1. Discussion of Role of Historic District Commission
ONGOING PROJECTS
1. Discussion of the Project to Evaluate and Update the “Design Standards and Guidelines
for the City of Dover Historic District Zone”
ADJOURN
THE AGENDA ITEMS MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED IN SEQUENCE. THIS AGENDA IS SUBJECT TO
CHANGE TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OR THE DELETION OF ITEMS, INCLUDING EXECUTIVE SESSION.
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CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
AUGUST 18, 2011
The Regular Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday,
August 18, 2011 at 3:00 PM with Chairman Scrafford presiding. Members present were Col.
Scrafford, Mr. Jackson (Arriving at 3:06 PM), Mr. McDaniel, and Mr. Fisher. Mr. Salkin was
absent.
Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Ms. Cornwell, and Ms. Metsch. Also present
were Henry Mast and Mr. Mike Henry.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. McDaniel moved for approval of the agenda as submitted, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the
motion was unanimously carried 3-0 with Mr. Fisher and Mr. Jackson absent.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF JULY 21, 2011
Mr. Fisher moved to approve the minutes of the Regular Historic District Commission meeting of
July 21, 2011, seconded by McDaniel and the motion was unanimously carried 4-0 with Mr. Salkin
absent.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there are no specific items for communications and reports for
this packet.
OLD BUSINESS
HI-10-08 Bayard Plaza on West Loockerman Street - Update on the selected/required exterior
finish materials for the Bayard Plaza project. Previously, the Architectural Review Certification for
the project was issued upon recommendation of the Historic District Commission on October 21,
2010 and November 4, 2010 and upon action by the Planning Commission November 15, 2010. The
project consists of the construction of a five story 54,998 S.F. mixed use building to include
5,012S.F. of retail space on the first floor, 48 residential apartments, and the associated Site
improvements. The project involves demolition of the two existing buildings on the project site
including the building known as the Bayard Hotel which the Commission declared on January 21,
2010 as being Demolished by Neglect. The project area consists of one parcel of land totaling
27,675.62 S.F.± of land zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H (Historic
District Zone). The property is located on the southwest corner of West Loockerman Street and
South Governors Avenue. The owner of record is the Capital Plaza, LLC. The property addresses
are 200-216 West Loockerman Street and 208 South Governors Avenue. Tax Parcel:
ED-05-077.09-01-86.00-000. Council District 4.
Representative: Mr. Henry Mast, Property Owner.
Ms. Melson-Williams stated that as part of the overall project review, there have been some design
revisions to what is the exterior finish material proposed for the building. If you recall, in
October/November of last year you went through the process of reviewing the proposal for
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2011
construction of this multi-story mixed use building. A recommendation was then forwarded to
the Planning Commission who then granted the Architectural Review Certification. Since that
time, they have worked to finalize the Site Plan and make application for a Building Permit.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that as part of the review of the Building Permit there has, as
a result, been some changes to the exterior finish materials for the building based on the type of
construction proposed for the new building. Type III construction dictates certain compliance
needs for combustible versus non-combustible exterior finishes in relation to how close the
building is to property lines.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that as a result, what previously had been identified as vinyl
siding for the upper floors of the building on all four (4) sides of the building has been revised to a
fiber cement siding. The trademark name for that is Hardie-plank and they will also be using
some of this for the trim work.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that Staff provided a Staff Report and a series of comments
and as a form of background, provided previously what was the Recommendation Report on the
original project and the series of meeting minutes from both your two meetings on the project and
the Planning Commission meeting as way of reference. Included in the packet were two elevation
sheets that were submitted as part of the revisions to the Building Permit application. If you
follow the architectural drawings, the things changing are clouded in a bubble diagram a fiber
cement siding for a number of areas on all four sides of the building.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated with regards to presentation materials, Staff has provided
what was presented to you back in November and for revisions then what the applicant has brought
to Staff in the way of an example for what he is proposing. There are some proposed changes to
that graphic from what was in your packet as a change to the fiber cement siding. The current
Bayard Hotel is in the process of being demolished.
Mr. Mast stated that it is a slow process because it was determined that a lot of the long beams in
the building have a lot of value to certain antique collectors. The entire top floor, at this point, is
being taken down by hand because there are continuous beams in there that are twenty-eight feet
long, three inches wide, and twelve inches deep made out of a local cypress wood. The wood is
being purchased at a high price and being shipped to a warehouse in Philadelphia by a broker who
will then sell it.
Mr. Mast further stated that what they need to do is to change all the vinyl to a Hardie-plank type
product from top to bottom. There will be no vinyl siding on this building at all. What he would
like to do (using a demonstration board) is for the parts of the building that stick out is us a brick
brown color for the sections that are set back he demonstrated again what color he would like to
use (a yellow, creamy color) which was a different color. In the very corner which will face
Loockerman Street and South Governors Avenue, is again the use of a dark brown color where it
sets back a little bit and then the balcony area is a different color. He feels that this would give it
a very rustic look. This is not Hardie-plank; it is called “Nichiha Board” which is a cement
composite. It is the same as Hardie-plank; however, if you notice, the wood grain on it is not on
Hardie-plank. This project looks like wood which is something Hardie-plank does not
necessarily show as much detail.
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Mr. Scrafford questioned if these were sheets and would it look just like siding? Responding to
Mr. Scrafford, Mr. Mast stated that it would look like an old style lap siding.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that for the changes there are the color choices where there are a
couple of things happening. All vinyl is going to the fiber cement product. The other revision is
for areas that are Dryvit on the corner are changing to this siding product as well. With the
changes, they are also removing the shutters that flanked some of the windows on the building and
going with a heavier trim around the window openings.
Mr. Mast stated that they are proposing to box the windows out with a six inch piece of wood that
would be painted white with a decorative trim up top with the rest being regular siding.
Mr. McDaniel stated that he likes this material as it is obviously better than vinyl; however, he is
sorry to see the Dryvit and shutters go. He understands why because it breaks up a big building.
Responding to Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Mast stated that this is why we are offsetting the building.
Mr. Scrafford questioned if there was not enough Dryvit areas to justify doing it? Responding to
Mr. Scrafford, Mr. Mast stated that it is not just that, part of it is a personal preference.
Mr. Jackson stated that with a building of this type which is a commercial building, his sense is you
go with a commercial product. The Hardie-board is more or less a residential type of product
because the lap siding is a residential feature and the wood grain is also a residential feature.
Mr. Mast stated that you see a lot of Hardie-board plank on commercial buildings.
Mr. McDaniel stated that he does like the way he has proposed to put it up because it will break up
the building and it will not be one big piece of red and tan wall.
Mr. McDaniel moved to approve HI-10-08 Bayard Plaza located on West Loockerman Street for
the change from vinyl to fiber cement board and the change from Dryvit to fiber cement board and
the removal of the shutters to trim that will box the window, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the
motion was carried 3-1 with Mr. Jackson opposed and Mr. Salkin absent.
Mr. Jackson questioned if the cement board could be purchased without the grain in it and is it
cheaper? Responding to Mr. Jackson, Mr. Mast stated that yes you could and it is cheaper;
however, he does not like it because if you take a smooth board like this product and put it on a big
building like this without anything it is going to look like vinyl siding.
NEW BUSINESS
HI-11-04 Acme Site Redevelopment Master Plan: Architectural Review Certification -
Review of Waiver Request for Recommendation to the City of Dover Planning Commission as
associated with the Architectural Review Certificate for Site Development Master Plan for the
redevelopment of the property at 120 South Governors Avenue (commonly referred to as the
Acme Site). The waiver request is for a reduction of the required side yard setback. This project is
to include a retail/apartment building and a second apartment building along with the demolition
of the existing mid-to-late twentieth century commercial building. The project also includes the
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associated parking, streetscape improvements, landscaping, and stormwater management
facilities. The project area consists of one parcel of land totaling 1.7653 acres ± of land zoned C-2
(Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H (Historic District Zone). The property site spans
the block between South Governors Avenue and South New Street located north of but not
adjacent to West Loockerman Street. The owner of record is the Downtown Dover Partnership.
The property address is 120 South Governors Avenue. Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-01-44.00-000.
Previously, the Historic District Commission took action on a recommendation on the
Architectural Review Certificate for this project at the July 21, 2011 meeting. Upon review of the
Site Development Master Plan, it was determined that a waiver request would need to be
considered for the side yard setback.
Mr. McDaniel recused himself from this application because he is technically an owner of the
property as he is a member of the Downtown Dover Partnership Board and was advised to not
hear the application; therefore, he left the meeting.
Representative: Mr. Mike Henry, Becker Morgan Group, Inc.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that you saw this application at your meeting last month in July and
your recommendation went onto the Planning Commission for the Architectural Review
Certificate. Earlier this week, the Planning Commission granted conditional approval to that
Architectural Review Certificate; however, in preparing for the Planning Commission appearance
of the application, Staff discovered that Building #1 which is the building on South Governors
Avenue needed to seek a waiver of the side yard setback requirement. The information that you
had in the previous graphics was not detailed enough to actually confirm what that setback was.
Once we had that information, it appears that the building is seeking to be seven (7) feet from the
property line. Code requirement in the Zoning Ordinance is either a setback of zero and built
right on the property line or it is setback ten (10) feet. The Zoning Ordinance gives the Historic
District Commission the ability to consider bulk standard waivers and a side yard setback is a bulk
standard waiver. In the situation where the architecture of the building can fit into the character of
the district, it would allow for you to go ahead and waive some of these considerations.
Mr. Henry stated that they need some space on the end of the building because they have a storm
drain pipe that has to get through to South Governors Avenue as it is our only outlet for
stormwater. Additionally, we have an emergency egress door off of the stair tower located on the
south end of the building and would need a space for a walkway through there.
There were no questions raised by any Commission members at this time.
Mr. Fisher moved to approve HI-11-04 Acme Site Redevelopment Master Plan: Architectural
Review Certification for the variances waiver of the setback to seven (7) feet, seconded by Mr.
Jackson and the motion was unanimously carried 4-0 with Mr. Salkin absent.
CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT (CLG) PROGRAM
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that Mr. Salkin had inquired where we were at with this item and its
status. This is a goal in the Historic Preservation Plan that is part of the Comprehensive Plan to
seek this status for the City. There is an application process that we have to go through that the
State Historic Preservation Office is involved in and ultimately the National Park Service. In
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION AUGUST 18, 2011
receiving that designation there are some things that you are specifically required to do as part of a
CLG in getting that designation. One relates to having legislation in place that deals with the
protection of historic properties. You have to establish and maintain a Historic District
Commission. You have to maintain a system of identifying historic properties. You have to
provide for public participation in the Preservation Program and if there is other activities you can
enter into other agreements that could be delegated to the CLG agency through the State Historic
Preservation Office.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that this is something that Staff will probably pursue at some
point. This involves making sure that we have everyone’s resumes and would have to go through
a process with City Council specifically in order to make the application.
Mr. Fisher questioned what we would gain by doing this? Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mrs.
Melson-Williams stated that by getting this designation there are specifically Federal Historic
Preservation Fund monies that the State of Delaware receives each year. A certain percentage of
that funding has to then be sub-granted to Certified Local Governments. There are several that
are already Certified Local Governments in the State including New Castle County, the City of
Wilmington, and four or five others of them (she is not sure if they are still all current). It could
potentially mean some funding with some increased responsibilities to ensure that you are still
doing preservation activities.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that there would be some annual reporting mechanisms. You would
have to weigh in on the National Register nominations that would be within the City of Dover if
any were proposed. We have not had one in a number of years. You could ask to utilize some of
your funding for increased training or education opportunities.
Mr. Scrafford stated that it was a thought at one point of being able to promote for the Historic
District Commission’s purpose with having flyers or fold-ups that could be handed out and that
money may be able to be used to do that.
Mr. Scrafford further stated that he thought that we had met all the requirements to become a
Certified Local Government? Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that
they had looked into it before; however, it was about the same time when we did not have a full
complement on the Commission. This is one of the things that they look at is membership of the
Commission and that you have folks who meet certain qualification categories that would be
appropriate for the Commissions.
Adoption of Ordinance #2011-14 with PC Amendment #1: Zoning Text Amendment
(MI-11-06) Updates to Zoning Ordinance, Article 10; Article 10 §3. Historic District
Commission and Architectural Review
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this is the Article 10 update. Article 10 of the Zoning
Ordinance is where you find all the process and procedures for the different types of applications
appearing in front of the Historic District Commission and the Planning Commission.
Specifically, in the blue handouts provided is Article 10, Section 3 which pertains to the Historic
District Commission and this is what was adopted. These are the rules of how applications work
with you and she will go over what was adopted.
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Mr. Scrafford questioned if we are allowed to do anything to this Ordinance through our By-laws?
Can we make it more restrictive than it is? Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mrs. Melson-Williams
stated that this is Code for the City. To make changes to this Code it would have to go through a
text amendment process that would have to go through the Planning Commission and City Council
to change any of the language that is in it. Your By-laws are structured to talk about how you run
your meetings. By-laws do not get into how you review specific applications.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that Section 3.1 is how the Commission is established, what your
purpose is, and how you are organized with no real changes in this section. Section 3.2 is where
we talk about the Architectural Review Certification. In this section, it very clearly defines the
roles of the Planner, the Historic District Commission, and the Planning Commission based on the
type of application that is being made for work in the Historic District. It talks about the City
Planner approval. That approval happens as part of the Building Permit application. This is for
minor things such as fences, signs, or to replace a door or a window. It gives the City Planner the
authority to do that; however, also gives us the authority if we have a question to refer it to you to
make a decision.
Mr. Scrafford stated that we have indicated to the Planner that things done on The Green will come
before the Commission. We do not have that authority because it is not in here where the Planner
has to do that. Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that it is not
specifically in this Section and she feel that this would come more in the Design Standards and
Guidelines document that we are working on for you.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that part of our concern is that this could happen for other
specific areas of the district or of a district at any point in time. It’s about not having to go back
and change Code every single time. We have not lost this.
Mr. Scrafford stated that if another Planner is hired and that Planner decides that they are going to
operate under this rule that would take this away from us.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that in Section 3.23 it talks about the certification that
happens by this Commission meaning it comes to you and you are the final decision maker. That
includes smaller projects, residential projects, and non-residential projects that are less than 3,000
square feet. These types of projects are administrative review on the Site Plan side. Once you
hit the 3,000 square foot threshold for a new building or addition, it is required to go to the
Planning Commission under other regulations. In that case, you then become a recommending
body to the Planning Commission.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that in Section 3.24 it talks about the Planning Commission
and when they issue an Architectural Review Certification. These would be very big projects
such as the Acme project and The Bayard project. The size of the project itself means that it has
to go to the Planning Commission because of that. If it just happens to be in the Historic District,
you do the initial review for the Architectural Review Certification and make recommendations to
the Planning Commission.
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Mr. Scrafford questioned if the Planning Commission is required to have our input before they
make a decision? Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that yes; they are
obligated to have a review by this Commission before they can act.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that in Section 3.25 it goes into the review standards where
you are judging it against and where it refers to the Design Standards and Guidelines document
that is adopted and then the Secretary of Interior Standards. It also makes note here that there are
certain things that are not subject to this review specifically interior of buildings and things that are
not visible from the public way. A public way, meaning the public street, so a lot of times there
will be something that is located on the back side of the building and does not require this type of
review.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that Section 3.26 is where we have done a lot of work to get
everything in order with how things actually happen with applications that are coming before this
Commission or before you and the Planning Commission. All of the applications start with a
pre-application meeting and that is where the applicant sits down with the Planning Staff and goes
over the submission requirements, the type of drawings they need to submit, key Code issues,
process issues, what they have to turn in and when, and what they are expected to do as an
applicant. This also makes reference to the fee for filing an application and then talks about the
Public Hearing process. This is where there are significant changes to the Public Notice
requirements for applications. Basically, an application now has three (3) forms of public notice
that happens. One is mailing to property owners within 200 feet of the subject application, the
next is a legal ad posted in the local newspaper, and the third is physical posting of the property.
You will start to see bright yellow signs. An example of this posting was circulated among the
members. Yellow is the standard color for all of the physical postings and what she passed out is
the example template for the wording that would be on the yellow sign for applications that are
appearing in front of the Historic District Commission. Staff has developed policy guidance in
how this physical posting happen with minimum size requirements, instructions on where it is
placed on the property, and how it is placed.
Mr. Scrafford questioned who would be required to provide the sign? Responding to Mr.
Scrafford, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the applicant would be required. Staff provides
them with what the sign needs to say and then they have to have the sign prepared and installed.
All of these public notice requirements: the mailing, the ad, and the physical posting of the
property have to occur fifteen (15) days prior to your meeting.
Mr. McDaniel questioned if the fifteen (15) days was a change? Responding to Mr. McDaniel,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that it is a change as previously it was ten (10) days prior to. We
had heard some complaints about not getting notice within a timely fashion so it was moved to
fifteen (15) and also makes it consistent across most types of applications.
Mr. Fisher stated that when they say they are going to do it, who goes out to see if they did it?
Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that they have to submit proof of a date
stamped photograph of the posting and the Planning Staff will also be checking so that we can
confirm that yes, they did it.
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Mr. Fisher further questioned that if they do not meet this requirement, then you do not have a
hearing? Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that that this was correct
because they would not have met their public notice requirement.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that this section then goes into information that is to be on the
application itself. Staff has documented that there is a City Planner Report which is the Staff
Review Report that is prepared for you on all of the applications. This is in the Code that it is
something that Staff has to do on all applications and then there is information on the time for you
to take action. As part of this, under Item H, there is the expiration of an Architectural Review
Certification and what that timeframe is as before it was a little grey.
Mr. Fisher stated that he would have to revert back to the recent application for the Governors
House with regards to the solar panels when it did not meet the deadline. Technically, we waived
that deadline. He sees nothing in here that gives anyone the authority to waive anything. We
must rigidly stick to the thirty (30) day requirement he would assume, is this correct? Responding
to Mr. Fisher, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that for extensions of approval the timeframe of your
approval has not changed. It is still basically, they have one year from the time you authorize
action if you are the final authorization.
Mr. Fisher stated that if an application is a day past the expiration date they would be done, is this
correct? Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that technically according to
this document yes.
Mrs. Melson-Williams further stated that this Section then goes onto how you amend the Historic
District which would be if you wanted to create a new Historic District in another section of town
or on an individual property somewhere or expand the district. It goes through what that process
is. Demolition by Neglect is also mentioned in this section. There is some language about the
responsibility of the City Planner and notifying you when this is starting to happen so that we catch
things earlier.
Mr. Fisher asked if the notification to adjoining property owners used to be 100 feet. Responding
to Mr. Fisher, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that it is 200 feet and that did not change. There was
some discussion regarding increasing that at one point; however, it was ultimately passed with the
200 foot distance.
Mr. Scrafford stated that the only concern that he had was is that we are more or less at the mercy
of the Planner as to whether or not we get to review items that occur on The Green.
Mr. McDaniel stated that we also talked about what is minor and what is not and signage review
such as the sign for Ron Poliquin. Responding to Mr. McDaniel, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated
that this was a permit that was filed under a Sign Permit that is typically where Staff
administratively reviews the submission. In that case, we were not comfortable with what they
were proposing and felt that it would be best to bring it to you because it was an unusual situation.
Mr. Scrafford stated that it is the feeling of the Commission that whatever occurs on The Green
which is in the Historic District should come before this Commission. (Note: All other
commission members present agreed with him.) This is the purpose of the Commission and is the
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most sensitive area in the City. He feels that they need a little more attention paid to everything
that goes on The Green. We are not looking for that kind of control over the Planner for other
areas, just The Green. We had the agreement of this Planner and this Commission but may not
have the agreement of the next Planner. If the Planner simply wants to operate under the
Ordinance rightfully they could. If City Council feels the same way, then we need to adjust the
language to cover that section.
Mr. Jackson stated that we have mentioned this enough times and pointed it out as a sticking point
that we feel that something should be done.
Mr. McDaniel stated that we are talking about The Green and the fact that it is still an area that has
not been compromised.
Mr. Jackson stated that people come to Dover to walk around The Green and look at things. He
has had visitors to The Green that have mentioned the concrete brick because on the other side of
The Green on the east side it is real brick.
ON-GOING PROJECTS
Discussion of the Project to Evaluate and Update the “Design Standards and Guidelines for
the City of Dover Historic District Zone”
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that Staff did not have anything regarding this subject at this time.
Other Items
Mr. McDaniel questioned if they had input on Mr. Mast’s colors? Responding to Mr. McDaniel,
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that your Design Standards and Guidelines do not get into
prescribing color. They talk about paint and different colors that were used in different eras of
time; however, it does not say that you have a hammer on fluorescent or whatever the case may be.
Mr. Scrafford stated that his concern regarding Mr. Mast’s project is that it is a tall building to be
clapboard. Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mr. Jackson stated that from a philosophical point of
view, commercial buildings need to be built with commercial products and that leaves it open as to
what that means.
Mr. McDaniel moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the motion was
unanimously carried 4-0 with Mr. Salkin absent.
Meeting adjourned at 3:56 PM
Sincerely,
Diane Metsch
Secretary
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2009-2010
Updated as of October 3, 2011
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-09-01 Dover 'Anchor' Public 35 Loockerman Plaza: 2 story 46,000 S.F. library 6/17/2009 HDC Recommendation of Final Plan Approval for Bid Pack A
S-10-06 Library Adjacent to 15 East building with site Approval with Conditions for ArchRevCert; (Access Road to Innovation Way)
Loockerman Plaza improvements 3/15/2010 PC Approval of Site Plan and 8/27/2010; Bid Pack A under
ArchRevCert with Conditions construction December 2010 and
completed May 2011 (Building Permit
#11-444). Final Site Plan approval
3/18/2011. Ground Breaking
Ceremony held 4/5/2011. Building
Permit #10-1904 issued 4/26/2011.
Construction underway; as of
10/1/2011 most structural steel is in
place.
HI-09-02 Fence Permit #09-1634 at 132 West Loockerman Fence Construction along10/6/09 Permit #09-1634 referred to HDC Fence Project Complete.
new Golden Fleece Tavern Street east property line at rear of
by City Planner for Architectural Review
building Certification; 10/15/2009 HDC Approval of
ArchRevCert; Other building renovation
activities covered under Permits #09-1420
for Exterior Finishes of East Elevation and
#09-1388 Rear Patio. Permit #09-1634
issued 1/25/2010.
HI-09-03 Mitten & Winters Offices 117-119 West Loockerman Front façade renovations: 11/19/2009 HDC Approval with Conditions Permit #09-2056 issued for Front
Street removal of buff brick and of ArchRevCert; Window Replacement Façade Renovations. Project
replacement of brick; pent ARC approval under Permit #09-1800 Complete.
roof; soffit; doors; window issued 10/27/09; Other building renovation
replacement activities covered under Permits #09-1592
issued 10/8/09 for Interior Renovation -CO
issued and #09-1801 issued 10/27/09 for
Rear Elevation.
HI-09-04 Bayard Hotel 200-216 West Loockerman Consideration of Demolition 1/21/2010 HDC Determination of Redevelopment application HI-10-08
Street by Neglect Demolition by Neglect and outlined required filed. Building Documentation
steps; 6/10/2010 HDC discussion on status, package of plans, elevations, photos
request return at July meeting; 7/15/2010 received March 2011.
Update on status
HI-10-01 Building at 301 South 301 South Governors Consideration of Demolition 6/10/2010 HDC Determination of Building Inspections for asbestos
Governors Avenue Avenue (southeast corner by Neglect Demolition by Neglect and outlined action completed -- requires asbestos
of North Street and S. to be taken within 90 days; 9/16/2010 removal. Building Demolished by
Governors Ave.) Status Update indicates no action taken, order of City Council as a Dangerous
HDC Recommends Building Inspector Building. Demo Permit #11-143
begin Dangerous Building proceedings with issued 2/07/2011. Demolition
recommendation of repair. City Council complete.
declared it a Dangerous Building on
10/25/2010.
HI-10-02 Law Enforcement Officers South side of Legislative Memorial of brick plaza, Information Item presented to HDC on Project Complete.
Memorial Mall and north of William inscribed wall and bronze 2/18/2010; Building Permit #10-245 issued.
Penn Street statue
Página 12
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2009-2010
Updated as of October 3, 2011
HI-10-03 Woodburn: Solar Panels 151 Kings Highway Installation of Solar Panels 3/18/2010 HDC Approval with Conditions. Building Permit #11-960 approved
on south facing gable roof of 3/17/2011 HDC granted extension of 8/8/2011. ArchRevCert completed by
main house approval and heard presentation on revised Staff.
project concept and change in location to
roof of addition.
HI-10-04 Wesley United Methodist 209 South State Street Addition of elevator tower 4/15/2010 Inadequate Public Notice; Final Plan Approval 1/14/2011.
Church: Elevator and and canopy on south side of 5/20/2010 HDC Review and Building Permit #11-113 issued
Canopy Addition sanctuary to improve Recommendation of Approval of 4/29/2011. Construction underway.
accessibility; construct ArchRevCert with Conditions
vehicular exit only onto S.
State Street
HI-10-05 Duncan Plaza 600 Forest Street 4 story 31,710 S.F. office 6/10/2010 HDC Review, action to approve Project must submit Check Prints of
S-10-17 (Intersection of building with coffeeshop setbacks, direct applicant to address Staff Site Plan for review and Final Plan
Loockerman, Kirkwood, Recommendations and reappear for review Approval. No Action to date.
and Slaughter Streets) of revisions; 7/15/2010 Revised
Architecture presented to HDC, HDC
Recommendation of Approval of
ArchRevCert with Conditions; 9/20/2010
Planning Commission approval of Site Plan
and ArchRevCert with conditions.
9/19/2011 PC granted one year extension.
HI-10-06 Delaware Public Archives: 121 Duke of York Street Placement of six 8/19/2010 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert First set of Banners installed January
Banner Program changeable banners using with conditions; Sign Permit #10-1912 2011 (total of 5 banners)
frame attachment system issued 1/7/2011.
HI-10-07 Building Permit #10-1263 408 South State Street Replacement of Metal Roof 8/19/2010 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Building Permit #10-1263 issued on
Referral with Conditions on the type of roof: wood 11/15/2010. Wood shingle roof
shingle recommended for front installed; Project complete.
HI-10-08 Bayard Plaza 200-216 West Loockerman 5 story 54,998 S.F. mixed 10/21/2010 and 11/4/2010 HDC Review; Demo Permit #11-579 issued
S-10-30 Street and 208 South use building with 5012 S.F. 11/4/2010 HDC Recommendation of 5/12/2011 and demolition now
Governors Avenue retail space and 48 Approval with Conditions for complete. Final Plan approval granted
residential apartments; ArchRevCert;11/15/2010 Planning 8/3/2011. Building Permit #11-656
requires demolition of Commission approval of ArchRevCert with issued.
existing buildings on Conditions; also BOA Application V-10-15
property for parking setback and Active Rec Area
reduction
HI-10-09 Biggs Museum: Façade 406 Federal Street Renovations to east 11/18/2010 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Building Permit #11-636 reviewed for
Renovations elevation: moving glass with Conditions Phase 1-Interior Renovations only.
curtain wall system and
renovations to connector
element
HI-10-10 Building Permit #10-1672 New Jerusalem Baptist Siding Replacement on 10/21/2010 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Project complete. Siding, new
Referral Church at 25 Slaughter second floor levels of north with Conditions requiring vinyl siding to be gutters/downspouts installed, and
Street and south elevations horizontal and other trimwork and gutter some painting completed.
recommendations; Building Permit #10-
1672 issued 11/2/2010.
Página 13
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2009-2010
Updated as of October 3, 2011
HI-10-11 Parking Lot on West Water 101 West Water Street and Renovations to existing 12/16/2010 HDC Recommendation of Final Plan approval 5/24/2011.
S-11-03 Street: Renovation and 439 South Governors parking lot and expansion of Approval of ArchRevCert with conditions; Building Permits #11-768 issued
Addition Avenue lot to total of 152 parking Planning Commission approval of 6/21/2011 and #11-812 issued
spaces ArchRevCert with conditions. 6/27/2011. Construction almost
complete.
Página 14
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2011
Updated as of October 3, 2011
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-11-01 Building at 326 West 326 West Loockerman Demolition of Commercial 2/17/2011 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert No Action Taken to date. Demolition
Loockerman Street: Building Street Building with conditions for Demolition Permit Application must be filed.
Demolition
HI-11-02 Building at 43 East Division 43 East Division Street Consideration of Demolition 3/17/2011 HDC Determination of Demolition Demolition Permit issued #11-948 on
Street by Neglect by Neglect and outlined actions to be taken. 7/26/2011. House demolished late
HDC Recommends Building Inspector seek July-August 2011. Chain-link fence
restoration or repair prior to beginning remains around foundation hole.
Dangerous Building proceedings. City
Council declared it a Dangerous Building on
6/13/2011.
HI-11-03 Sign Permit #11-414 48 The Green Placement of a third 4/21/2011 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Sign Permit issued and sign installed.
Referral projecting sign on the front with Conditions on the location of the third
façade of building sign and its format
HI-11-04 Acme Site Redevelopment 120 South Governors 4 story retail/apartment 7/21/2011 HDC Recommendation of Project must submit Check Prints of
Master Plan (Lands of Avenue building and four story Approval of ArchRev Cert with conditions. Site Plan (Administrative Site Plans)
Downtown Dover apartment building; Application S-11-11 reviewed by PC and for review and Final Plan approval. No
Partnership) demolition of existing granted Approval of Approval of action to date.
commercial building ArchRevCert on 8/15/2011. 8/18/2011 HDC
Recommended approval of Sideyard
setback waiver request. 9/19/2011 PC
accepted action on waiver.
Página 15
Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Updated as of 10-3-2011
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
1/7/2011 10-912 121 Duke of York St, Sign Permit - Banner program Approval per HI-10-06 Delaware Set of Banners are in place
Delaware Public Archives Public Archives Changeable Banner
program
2/7/2011 11-055 410-414 Federal Street, Building Permit - Installation of Staff Approval Solar Panels installed
New Kent County Solar Panels, roof mounted
Courthouse
2/7/2011 11-143 301 South Governors Demo Permit - demolition of Approval per HI-10-01 Demolition by Building Demolished
Avenue building Neglect determination by HDC and
declared Dangerous Building by City
Council
3/16/2011 11-296 27 West Loockerman Street Sign Permit - Hunter House Staff Approval Signs Installed
restaurant
3/15/2011 11-300 313 West Loockerman St Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval
3/21/2011 11-324 140 West Loockerman St Roof Permit Not reviewed by Planning Staff. Later review of permit showed
Issued by Admin Staff. no specific detailed info on roof
project. Building does have a
flat roof that is not visible from
the public way.
4/26/2011 10-01904 35 Loockerman Plaza Building Permit - Library Approval per HI-09-01 Dover Public Construction underway.
Library
4/29/2011 11-113 209 South State Street, Building Permit - Elevator & Approval per HI-10-04 Wesley Construction underway.
Wesley UM Church Canopy Addition Church: Elevator & Canopy Addition
4/12/2011 11-413 424 South State Street Sign Permit - Computers Fixed Staff Approval Sign Installed
Today
4/11/2011 11-437 140 West Loockerman St Admin Permit - new retail Staff Approval New tenant occupying building.
tenant
4/12/2011 11-440 48 The Green Sign Permit Staff Approval Sign Installed
4/14/2011 11-460 209 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Temporary Sign installed and
Wesley UM Church now removed.
Página 16
Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Updated as of 10-3-2011
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
4/21/2011 11-491 146 South State Street Sign Permit - The News Journal Staff Approval Signs to be installed.
5/24/2011 11-306 209 West Loockerman St Building Permit - Repairs to Staff Approval Permit Issued
Block Foundation Wall
5/11/2011 11-444 35 Loockerman Plaza Building Permit - Access Drive Approval per HI-09-01 Dover Public Access Drive is complete.
for Library Library
5/10/2011 11-558 410 Federal Street, Kent Sign Permit Staff Approval Sign Installed
County Courthouse
5/16/2011 11-563 22 The Green Building Permit - Replace Staff Approval Permit Issued
porch column due to accident
damage
5/12/2011 11-567 501 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Temporary Sign installed and
Christ Church (VBS/Welcome Banners) removed.
5/12/2011 11-579 200 West Loockerman St, Demolition Permit Approval per HI-09-04 and HI-10-08 Demolition complete.
Bayard Hotel property and due to safety concerns
5/13/2011 11-612 136 West Loockerman St Sign Permit - Beehive Beauty Staff Approval Signs Installed
Shop
5/24/2011 11-644 54 South State Street, Window Permit - replace two Staff Approval with conditions on the Permit issued
Presbyterian Church sets of windows format of new windows
5/25/2011 11-659 30 Loockerman Plaza, Temporary Sign Permit (VBS Staff Approval Temporary Sign installed and
Wesley Education Building Banner) removed.
6/21/2011 11-636 406 Federal Street, Biggs Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval, phase of project Permit Issued
Museum Renovations associated with HI-10-09
6/6/2011 11-723 54 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit (VBS Staff Approval Temporary Sign installed and
Presbyterian Church Banner) removed.
6/21/2011 11-768 101 West Water Street Building Permit - Parking Lot Approval per HI-10-11 Construction almost complete.
6/27/2011 11-812 101 West Water Street Building Permit - Fence Approval per HI-10-11 Fence installation complete.
7/6/2011 11-813 516 West Loockerman St - Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval Construction complete.
Old Train Station Renovations for HVAC
7/7/2011 11-874 406 Federal Street, Biggs Temporary Sign Permit (Film Staff Approval Temporary Signs installed and
Museum Series) removed.
Página 17
Summary of Permit Applications with Architectural Review Certification
Updated as of 10-3-2011
DATE PERMIT # LOCATION TYPE ACTION ON ARCHITECTURAL NOTES
REVIEW CERTIFICATE
7/27/2011 11-923 139 South State Street - Sign Permit Staff Approval Signage installed in late August.
M&T Bank (Wilmington
Trust)
7/27/2011 11-924 29 Kings Highway - M&T Sign Permit Staff Approval Signage installed in late August.
Bank (Wilimington Trust)
7/26/2011 11-948 43 East Division Street Demolition Permit Staff Approval per HI-11-02 House demolished late July-
Demolition by Neglect August 2011
8/10/2011 11-656 200 West Loockerman St, Building Permit Staff Approval per HI-10-08 Bayard Demolition complete and
Bayard Hotel property Plaza construction beginning.
8/19/2011 11-925 38 The Green, Old Kent Building Permit (Phase 3 Staff Approval per HI-06-03 Interior Renovations underway
County Courthouse Renovations) and exterior repairs/painting
proposed.
8/15/2011 11-960 151 Kings Highway SW, Building Permit - Solar Panels Staff Approval with reference to HI- Installation underway.
Woodburn 10-03
9/14/2011 11-414 48 The Green Sign Permit Staff Approval per HI-11-03. Signage installed.
9/1/2011 11-1029 144 Kings Highway SW, Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval Permit Issued
Governors Club Building Renovations
9/22/2011 11-1203 420 South State Street Building Permit - Porch Staff Approval Construction started
Addition on Side/Rear
9/21/2011 11-1216 3 Loockerman Plaza Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Permit Issued
9/26/2011 11-1084 115 West Loockerman Building Permit - Façade Staff Approval Permit Issued
Street Repairs
9/29/2011 11-1197 316 South Governors Building Permit - Interior Staff Approval Permit Issued
Avenue, Old Brick Church Renovations, Brick Walkway
Improvements for ADA
accessibility
9/29/2011 11-1261 505 South State Street, Temporary Sign Permit Staff Approval Temporary Sign installed and to
Christ Church be removed.
Página 18
MEMORANDUM
Department of Planning & Community Development
P.O. Box 475
Dover, Delaware 19903
Phone: 302.736.7196 Fax: 302.736.4217
Date: October 4, 2011
To: Legislative, Finance & Administration Committee
From: Ann Marie Townshend, AICP
RE: Discussion Regarding Historic District Commission
In considering the elimination and consolidation of boards and commissions within the City of Dover, the role of
the Historic District Commission is now a matter of discussion. In order for the Legislative, Finance and
Administration Committee and City Council to determine the future of the Historic District Commission, an
understanding of the history and role of the Historic District and the Historic District Commission is necessary.
The Historic District Zone was adopted as part of the Zoning Ordinance in 1961, and the Architectural Review
Certificate process involved the Planning Commission. In July 1993, the City created the Historic District
Commission and the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone. The
Historic District Zone was expanded in 1997 to include an area along West Loockerman Street.
By its composition, the Historic District Commission includes members with both professional expertise and
financial stake (residential and business) in the City’s Historic District Zone. According to Appendix B – Zoning,
Article 10 – Planning Commission, Section 3 – Historic District Commission:
3.12 Appointment. The commission shall consist of five members nominated by
the mayor and approved by the city council, who are residents of the City of
Dover and who have demonstrated special interest, experience, or knowledge in
history, architecture, or historic preservation. Two of the members, to the extent
available, shall be professional members representing the professions of
architecture, history, archaeology, planning, historic preservation or related
disciplines. At least two members shall be residents of the district, and at least
one shall represent the business within the district.
If the Historic District Commission were eliminated, presumably the review of Architectural Review Certification
would revert to the Planning Commission, with some approvals administrative under the City Planner. The
Planning Commission, by the City’s Charter, has a composition that represents geography, not professional
background or specifically a background in history or architecture. The Planning Commission is made up of two
members from each City Council district and one member at-large.
One reason that the City is reviewing the role of the various boards and commissions is that as resources become
more limited, the need to improve efficiency and most appropriately allocate scarce staff resources becomes
Página 19
MEMO 2
increasingly important. Additionally, there has periodically been criticism by some in the community that the
review by the Historic District Commission adds an additional step in the process of land development. This extra
step is seen by some as something that slows economic growth and adds less predictability and expediency to the
land development process.
While the review role of the Historic District Commission does create a step in the process of development and
redevelopment within the Historic District Zone, this additional step helps to protect the historical integrity of
valuable resources such as The Green and Constitution Place (State Street between Loockerman and Water
Streets). Preservation of these areas and their character is a benefit to the local economy, as heritage tourism brings
visitors to the downtown area. Ensuring that the character of the City’s historic resources is protected should be
part of the decision on how to proceed with the Historic District Commission.
By virtue of its composition, the Historic District Commission is better qualified to make recommendations with
regards to preservation of historic architecture and new construction that complements the character of the Historic
District Zone than the Planning Commission, who by its composition is not required to have a background in
history or architecture.
If it is the desire of the Legislative, Finance and Administration Committee and ultimately City Council to
eliminate the Historic District Commission, a number of amendments to the City of Dover Code of Ordinances will
be required. The Planning Office recommends that if this is the decision of City Council, the code amendments
include an amendment to Dover Code, Chapter 82 – Planning Commission, to ensure that the Planning
Commission includes members with the background necessary to ensure that the City’s valuable historic resources
are protected.
A more detailed history and summary of the Historic District Commission’s role, including application volume,
code references, current membership, and a map of the Historic District Zone are attached.
Página 20
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Historic District
Historic District Zone (H) established 1961.
As part of the adoption of the Zoning Ordinance for the City of Dover on November 27,
1961, the Historic District Zone (H) was included. The purpose and use regulations were
described in Article III Section 3.10 and the boundaries of the Historic District were
depicted on the Zoning Map. An Architectural Review Certificate was required for a
demolition, erection, reconstruction, alternation, restoration or exterior repairs on
properties within the Historic District. For a Building Permit to be issued, the project was
required to have an Architectural Review Certificate. Article X Section 10.3 described
the Architectural Review Certification process which involved Planning Commission
review.
o By April 21, 1975 a review fee $10 was in place for ARC. Also a renumbering of
code sections had occurred; now Article 3 Section 21 and Article 10 Section 3.
o July 12, 1982: The review fee was increased to $50 for ARC.
o March 24, 1986: Text Amendment was adopted changing the purpose statement,
the use regulations, and the considerations for issuance of Architectural Review
Certifications. The Code was amended to allow for waivers of the building height,
bulk and setbacks as part of Architectural Review Certification. This was part of a
series of updates throughout the Zoning Ordinance.
Historic District Commission created on July 26, 1993.
Adoption of the Ordinance establishing the Historic District Commission to assist the
Planning Commission with Architectural Review Certificates. Text amendments to
Article 3 Section 21 and Article 10 Section 3 create the Commission and outline the
purpose and review responsibilities of the Historic District Commission.
o A series of work sessions and public hearings with the Planning Commission
developed the ordinances and associated Design Standards and Guidelines
document. (MI-93-09)
o The Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone
were developed by John Milner Associates, Inc. (a consultant hired in 1992) with
funding from a grant from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the
Interior. City Planning Staff, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Friends of
Old Dover, Main Street Dover, and other interested parties participated in the
development of the document. The Design Standards and Guidelines provide
guidance for the review process of Architectural Review Certification for
construction projects in the Historic District.
Architectural Review Certification review, depending on the type and scale of project,
may be completed by the City Planner, Historic District Commission, or Planning
Commission with Recommendations from the Historic District Commission. Certain
types of ARC review require a fee of $250. More detailed information on the review
process including public hearing requirements is made part of the procedures.
The Review Procedures for the expansion of and the creation of new Historic Districts
are established in the Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3.3. Also procedures for
Background Information on Historic District Commission 9.30.2011 Page 1
Página 21
Demolition by Neglect determination are established in the Zoning Ordinance, Article 10
Section 3.4
Historic District Zone (H) expanded in 1997.
The boundaries of the Historic District Zone were expanded to include properties along
West Loockerman Street. The original boundaries of the Historic District established in
1961 are generally described as extending from just north of Division Street south to
South Street inclusive of the properties fronting on South State Street and The Green then
east to the St. Jones River. The expansion of the Historic District was approved through a
public hearing process with the Historic District Commission, Planning Commission, and
City Council. The additional area of the expansion included properties fronting on West
Loockerman Street to the railroad corridor and areas of South Governors Avenue, South
Bradford Street, North Street, and Bank Lane in the vicinity. The areas of expansion
included many commercial and residential properties listed in the National Register of
Historic Places as part of the Victorian Dover Historic District. (MI-97-19)
Update of Architectural Review Procedures adopted on August 8, 2011.
The Architectural Review Certification procedures were recently updated and clarified as
part of an overall update to the application procedures for the Planning Commission as
described in Article 10 of the Zoning Ordinance. (Ordinance #2011-14 with PC
Amendment #11, MI-11-06). The amendments included measures to clarify and
streamline certain review processes and also expanded the public notification
requirements.
o For the Architectural Review Certification process, it clarified the types of
projects eligible for review by the City Planner (as part of a Building Permit
process), projects requiring review by the Historic District Commission, and
projects requiring recommendations from the Historic District Commission with
review by the Planning Commission. It also clarifies the appeal process and
approval expiration timeframes.
o Public notification consists of a mailed notice to property owners within 200 feet
of subject site, a legal advertisement of the hearing in newspaper, and physical
posting of the property.
History of Establishment
Historic District Commission was established in 1993 and Design Standards and Guidelines for
the City of Dover Historic District Zone adopted. The Historic District Commission consists of
five (5) members appointed by the mayor and approved by City Council. There are specific
professional, residency, and interest qualifications for the members. (Article 10 Section 3). The
following code excerpt gives the purpose of the Historic District Commission:
Article 10 Section 3.1 Historic district commission established.
3.11 Creation and purpose. There shall be a historic district commission for the purpose
of assisting the planning commission and city planner in reviewing applications for
architectural review certifications as specified in subsection 3.2; and for making
recommendations for designation of historic district zones; and for establishing
guidelines for the preservation and conservation of historic district zones; and for
advising other officials and departments in the City of Dover in matters concerning
Background Information on Historic District Commission 9.30.2011 Page 2
Página 22
historic preservation; and for reviewing all proposed National Register nominations in the
City of Dover; and for acting as a liaison on behalf of the City of Dover to individuals and
organizations concerned with historic preservation; and for carrying out programs of
historic preservation education in the City of Dover.
The Historic District Commission:
Members must meet specific professional, residency and interest qualifications.
Member terms are for three years.
Members do not receive compensation.
Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 3:00pm in the City Hall
Conference Room or Council Chambers.
Required to meet at least quarterly in public session. Meeting Minutes are required.
Planning Office is the support staff to the Historic District Commission.
Appointments
The current membership of the Historic District Commission is listed below:
C. Terry Jackson, Resident (7/2014), Vice-Chairman
George M. Fisher, IV, Professional (7/2014)
Charles A. Salkin, Resident (7/2013)
Richard Scrafford, Professional (7/2013), Chairman
Joseph McDaniel, Business Rep. (7/2014)
Dover Code of Ordinances References
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 Section 21. Historic district (H)
Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance, Article 10 Section 3. Historic district commission and
architectural review
Dover Code of Ordinances, Chapter 102 Taxation, Article V. Tax Credits for Historic Properties
Historic Preservation Planning
Historic Preservation Planning is part of a comprehensive approach to land use planning. Recent
Comprehensive Plans for the City of Dover have included specific chapters devoted to Historic
Preservation. Title 22, Chapter 7 Section 702 of Delaware Code requires municipalities (over
2,000 in population) to include planning for the protection of historic and cultural resources in
their comprehensive plans. In the current plan, the 2008 Comprehensive Plan this information is
presented in Chapter 6 - Historic Preservation and associated Map 6-1. The 2008 Comprehensive
Plan includes sets forth goals and a series of recommendations for each goal. The Historic
Preservation Goals are as follows:
Goal 1: Preserve and Protect Historic Resources
Historic Goal 2: Provide and Promote Incentives for Preservation Activities
Preservation Goal 3: Increase Public Information on Historic Resources
Goal 4: Collaborate with Diverse Groups and Governments
2008 Comprehensive Plan, excerpt from Table 1-1: Plan Chapter Goals
Background Information on Historic District Commission 9.30.2011 Page 3
Página 23
Summary of Application Activities
The following chart lists the number of applications for Architectural Review Certification heard
by the Historic District Commission. Since 1994 a total of 102 applications have been considered
by the Historic District Commission (Commission established in 1993).
Year Applications Year Applications Year Applications
1994 4 2000 7 2010 11
1995 3 2001 9 2011 4 ytd.
1996 2 2002 6
1997 4 2003 11
1998 5 2004 7
1999 3 2005 2
2006 9
2007 7
2008 4
2009 4
The following chart provides information on the Permits with Architectural Review
Certifications (ARC) issued for construction activities within the Historic District. Information
for the last three calendar years (2009-2011 year to date) is provided from the Building Permits
and Sign Permits issued by the Department. Depending on the type of construction activity, the
ARC Review for each project may be eligible for Staff Review, Historic District Commission
Review, or Historic District Commission Recommendation with Planning Commission Review.
For applications involving Historic District Commission or Planning Commission review such
ARC review may have occurred in prior years during the development plan review process
which occurs prior to actual permit submission. Also some projects require multiple Building
Permits for their construction activities.
2009 2010 2011*
Building Permits – 23 20 11
ARC Review by Staff
Building Permits – 2 4 4
ARC Review by HDC
Building Permits – 0 0 8
ARC Review by
HDC/PC
Sign Permits – ARC 16 18 16
Review by Staff
Sign Permits – ARC 1 0 2
Review by HDC
TOTALS 43 42 41
*2011 Information reported through September 30, 2011.
Background Information on Historic District Commission 9.30.2011 Page 4
Página 24
Historic Preservation Activities & Recognition
City of Dover Tax Credit Program for Historic Properties
National Register of Historic Places: Dover Green Historic District, Victorian Dover
Historic District, Little Creek Hundred Rural Historic District, and 12 individually listed
properties in Dover
2008 Preserve America Community designation
2009 Great Places in America: Public Spaces – The Green, Dover
First State Heritage Park at Dover
Downtown Dover Partnership (a recognized Main Street program)
State Scenic Byway: Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway (designated corridor
travels through Dover)
Attachments:
Code Excerpts from Zoning Ordinance
Zoning Map of Historic District
2008 Comprehensive Plan, Plan Goals: Historic Preservation
Background Information on Historic District Commission 9.30.2011 Page 5
Página 25
Excerpts of Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the Historic District and
Historic District Commission:
Article 3 – District Regulations
Section 21. – Historic district (H).
21.1 Purpose. The purpose of this historic district regulation is to preserve and enhance that
unique character and value of the old portion of Dover as an area of special charm and interest. It
is particularly intended that the regulations prevent, in the historic district, any change of
conditions that would be deemed to be a disfigurement or degradation of the present unique
visual and architectural qualities of the district.
21.2 [Use and bulk requirements.] In the historic district, use[s] and bulk shall be governed by
those provisions of this ordinance related to the zone designation of each property, except those
aspects of building height, bulk and setback that are subject to architectural review as set forth in
article 10, section 3 of this ordinance.
21.3 [Architectural review certificate.] An architectural review certificate shall be required for the
demolition, construction, reconstruction, alteration or restoration of any new or existing structure
or where general exterior repairs are made within the historic district, as provided in article 10,
section 3 of this ordinance.
21.4 [Amendments, supplements and repeals.] The city council shall not take any action to
amend, supplement, or repeal the historic district in accordance with article 10, section 5
amendments, without a report by the historic district commission in accordance with article 10,
section 3.3, unless this historic district commission fails to render such a report within 75 days
after its regularly scheduled meeting following referral by the city council.
21.5 [Signs.] Signs shall meet the regulations found in article 5, section 4, supplementary sign
regulations.
(Ord. of 3-24-1986; Ord. of 7-26-1993; Ord. of 2-12-2001)
Article 10 – Planning Commission
Section 3. Historic district commission and architectural review.
3.1 Historic district commission established.
3.11 Creation and purpose. There shall be a historic district commission for the purpose of
assisting the planning commission and city planner in reviewing applications for architectural
review certifications as specified in subsection 3.2; and for making recommendations for
designation of historic district zones; and for establishing guidelines for the preservation and
conservation of historic district zones; and for advising other officials and departments in the
City of Dover in matters concerning historic preservation; and for reviewing all proposed
National Register nominations in the City of Dover; and for acting as a liaison on behalf of the
City of Dover to individuals and organizations concerned with historic preservation; and for
carrying out programs of historic preservation education in the City of Dover.
3.12 Appointment. The commission shall consist of five members nominated by the mayor
and approved by the city council, who are residents of the City of Dover and who have
demonstrated special interest, experience, or knowledge in history, architecture, or historic
preservation. Two of the members, to the extent available, shall be professional members
representing the professions of architecture, history, archaeology, planning, historic
preservation or related disciplines. At least two members shall be residents of the district, and
at least one shall represent the business within the district.
Historic District Excerpts of Appendix B: Zoning Ordinance Page 1 of 6
Página 26
3.13 Term. The members of the commission shall serve for three-year staggered terms.
Vacancies shall be filled within 60 days in accordance with subsection 3.12 of this section.
3.14 Organization. The commission shall meet at least four times per year in a place that is
advertised in advance and open to the public and shall keep minutes of its meetings that are
available to the public. All review decisions shall be made in public. The commission shall
establish bylaws for its general procedure, which shall include a section addressing conflicts
of interest. The commission shall produce an annual report of its activity that is kept on file for
public review with the city planning office.
3.2 Architectural review certification.
3.21 Effect of architectural review certificate. No building permit or certificate of occupancy
may be issued for any structure in the historic district until an architectural review certificate is
issued as required under article 3, section 21, subsection 21.3 for the historic district.
3.22 Architectural review certification by the city planner.
(A) An architectural review certificate for specific classes of building permits, including
fences, signs, siding, window and door replacement, roofing, the addition or
replacement of decorative features, minor demolition, residential additions, and other
construction of a minor nature, may be issued by the city planner, after a review and
determination that the proposed construction is in general accordance with the
standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
(B) The city planner may refer any permit application for demolition or construction in the
historic district for consultation with commission.
(C) All decisions of the city planner pursuant to this subsection shall be documented on
the building permit. When the city planner grants a conditional approval under this
section, all conditions of approval shall be set forth in writing on the building permit. In
the event of a denial, the reasons for such denial shall be documented in a written
notice of decision which shall identify all elements of the application found to be
contrary to the provisions or intent of this section.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the city planner to the historic district
commission and such appeal shall be considered as an architectural review
certification application to the historic district commission and shall meet all of the
requirements set forth in subsection 3.23.
3.23 Architectural review certification by the historic district commission
(A) The historic district commission shall issue architectural review certificates for the
construction or demolition of single-family and two-family homes, and nonresidential
structures or additions involving a gross floor area of 3,000 square feet or less, after
review of the proposed construction and after a determination that the construction is
in general accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25 below.
(B) All applications to the historic district commission for architectural review certification
shall be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the historic district commission pursuant to this subsection shall be
formalized in a written notice of decision. When the commission grants a conditional
approval under this subsection, all conditions of approval shall be set forth in writing
in the notice of decision. In the event of a denial, the notice of decision shall state the
reasons for denial and shall identify all elements of the application found to be
contrary to the provisions or intent of this subsection.
(D) An applicant may appeal the decision of the historic district commission to the
planning commission, and such appeal shall be considered as an architectural review
certification application to the planning commission and shall meet all of the
requirements set forth in subsection 3.24 and subsection 3.26.
3.24 Architectural review certification by the planning commission.
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(A) The planning commission shall issue architectural review certificates referred or
appealed to it, upon review of the recommendations of the historic district
commission and upon a determination that the proposed construction is in
accordance with the standards set forth in subsection 3.25.
(B) All applications to the planning commission for architectural review certification shall
be subject to the procedures set forth in subsection 3.26.
(C) All decisions of the planning commission pursuant to this subsection shall be
formalized in a written notice of decision. When the planning commission grants a
conditional approval under this subsection, all conditions of approval shall be set
forth in writing in the notice of decision. In the event of a denial, the notice of decision
shall state the reasons for denial and shall identify all elements of the application
found to be contrary to the provisions or intent of this subsection.
3.25 Architectural review standards.
(A) An architectural review certificate may be issued if it is found that the architectural
style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement, location and materials
and structures affecting the exterior appearance are generally in harmony with
neighboring structures and complementary to the traditional architectural standards
of the historic district as set forth in the historic district design guidelines and
standards adopted by the planning commission and as set forth in the United States
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
(B) The city planner, historic district commission or planning commission shall not
consider normal maintenance and repair (see definitions, article 12), interior
arrangement, or building features not subject to public view.
3.26 Procedures for an architectural review by the historic district commission and/or
planning commission.
(A) Architectural preapplication meeting. Prior to action on any application for an
architectural review certificate, the applicant shall meet in person with the city planner
or his delegated representative. The purpose of such conference shall be to discuss
the proposed construction or other action requiring the certificate in order to
determine what information is useful in the determination of conformity with the
provisions and intent of the historic district regulation as expressed in this ordinance.
(B) Application and fee. The application to the historic district commission for an
architectural review certificate and related information shall be submitted to the city
planner at least 30 days prior to the historic district commission meeting at which
review is requested and shall be accompanied by a fee as provided for in Appendix
F--Fees and Fines.
(C) Public hearing. Prior to the review and action on an architectural review certification,
the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing subject to the following
public notification procedures:
(1) The applicant shall advertise the public hearing newspaper of general circulation
at least 15 days prior thereto.
(2) The applicant shall notify, by mail, all property owners within 200 feet of the
extreme limits of the subject property as their names appear on the municipal tax
record at least 15 days prior thereto.
(3) The applicant shall post a notice outlining the date, time, place, and nature of the
hearing in a conspicuous location on the property. Such notice shall be designed
in accordance with standards set forth by the planning commission.
(4) The applicant shall provide the planning office with a copy of the notice,
verification of newspaper publication, a date-stamped photo of the property
posting, and post office mail receipts indicating date of mailing for all letters on or
before the meeting date.
(5) Said notices shall state the date, time, and place of the hearings before the
historic district commission, a brief description of the project and shall state that a
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copy of the application and plan is on file with the planning office for public
review.
(6) If the planning commission is reviewing a project in accordance with other
sections of this article, then the public hearing notice on those applications must
also give notice of architectural review certification.
(D) Application information. The applicant shall provide such information and documents
listed below which will satisfactorily illustrate the proposed action as indicated in the
architectural preapplication meeting required in subsection 3.26(A):
(1) All plan elements required in subsection 2.5.
(2) Plans and specifications indicating existing and proposed development, including
structures, architectural elevation drawings, trees and any other landscaping,
existing and proposed, including the general design, location and orientation of
structures in relation to curb line, right-of-way line and neighboring buildings,
colors, and materials to be used on exterior surfaces, detailed plans for any
signs, photographs of the existing site and neighboring buildings, and such other
information as will enable the historic district commission or planning commission
to determine conformity with the ordinance.
(E) City planner report. For each application to the planning commission the city planner
shall issue a report to the planning commission including comments from other
agencies detailing how the application conforms to the requirements of the zoning
ordinance and other provision of city and state codes. This report shall not be
deemed to represent a comprehensive list of all city and state code requirements.
The city planner shall transmit copies of the proposed site development plan and the
city planner’s report at least seven days prior to the date of the meeting at which
approval of the site development plan is to be requested.
(F) Historic district commission action. The historic district commission shall act to review
and render a recommendation to approve any such application within 45 days of
transmittal to the commission or within such additional time as may be consented to
by the applicant. The recommendation of the historic district commission shall be
forwarded to the planning commission and acted upon by the planning commission in
conjunction with action on the associated site development plan. If a site
development plan application is not filed in accordance with the provisions of
subsection 2.4 of this article within one year of recommendation, the
recommendation shall expire. The historic district commission may grant a one-year
extension of its recommendation upon written request by the applicant. Such request
shall be made in writing to the planning office at least thirty days prior to the
expiration of the historic district commission’s recommendation.
(G) Substantial Amendments. Substantial amendments to an application or an
architectural review certificate shall be acted upon in the same manner as the original
plan.
(H) Expiration of architectural review certification issued by the historic district
commission.
(1) Architectural review certification approval shall expire on the last day of the 12th
month after the date of approval if construction of the work authorized or use
permitted has not started or unless an extension of time is applied for by the
applicant and granted by the historic district commission. Approval shall also
expire if the construction of work authorized has stopped for a period of one year
unless an extension of time is applied for and granted by the historic district
commission.
(2) Request for extension of approval shall be made no later than 30 days prior to
the final approval expiration date. Upon receipt of such request, the matter shall
be considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the historic district
commission.
(3) In considering a request for an extension of approval, the historic district
commission shall consider, but not be limited to, the following:
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(a) Whether the project has been delayed for reasons beyond the control of the
applicant, excluding economic or financial reasons.
(b) Whether the applicant has made substantial progress toward obtaining final
approvals.
(c) Whether there have been any significant changes in the surrounding
neighborhood.
(d) Whether there has been any related amendments to the zoning map or text,
or the comprehensive plan, or if any waivers or variances have been granted.
(4) Requests for extensions shall be submitted in writing to the planning office.
(5) Under no circumstances shall the historic district commission grant extensions
beyond 24 months from the date of first approval.
3.3 Historic district amendments.
3.31 Historic district commission review required. Any motion or petition to amend,
supplement, or repeal a historic district by the city council in accordance with section 5,
amendments, shall require a report by the historic district commission as set forth in article 3,
subsection 21.4.
3.32 Review criteria for placing individual structures in a historic district. The historic district
commission may recommend that an individual structure or property be placed in an existing
contiguous historic district or be placed in a historic district specifically created for the
property or structure upon considering the following criteria and factors:
(A) Significant value as part of the historical, cultural, artistic, social, ethnic or other
heritage of the nation, state or community;
(B) Association with an important person or event in national, state, or local history.
(C) Representative of the distinguishing characteristics of an architectural type inherently
valuable for the study of a period, style, craftsmanship, method of construction or use
of indigenous material;
(D) Notable work of a master builder, designer, architect, or artist whose individual
genius has influenced an era;
(E) The desire of the owner to have the property designated;
(F) Increased potential of economic or community development.
3.33 Review criteria for amendments or creation of new historic districts. The historic district
commission may recommend amendments to an existing historic district, recommend repeal
of an existing historic district or recommend the creation of a new historic district upon
considering the following criteria:
(A) Any criteria listed in subsection 3.32.
(B) Distinctive character or homogeneity of architectural design or dates of construction
throughout the area.
(C) Identifiable by clear and distinctive boundaries.
(D) Repetition of distinguishing architectural or land use characteristics throughout the
area.
3.34 Public hearing required. For all proposed amendments to the boundary of the historic
district, the historic district commission shall hold a public hearing subject to the following
public notification procedures:
(A) The planning office shall advertise the public hearing in a newspaper of general
circulation at least 15 days prior thereto.
(B) The planning office shall notify, by mail, all directly affected property owners and all
property owners within 200 feet of the extreme limits of the properties proposed for
addition to or removal from the district as their names appear on the municipal tax
record at least 15 days prior thereto.
3.4 Demolition by neglect.
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3.41 Responsibility of property owners. Property owners of properties within the historic
districts shall not allow their buildings to be demolished by neglect (see definitions, article 12)
by failing to provide ordinary maintenance or repair.
3.42 Responsibility of the historic district commission. The historic district commission shall
monitor the condition of historic properties and existing buildings in the historic district to
determine if they are being demolished by neglect by failing to provide ordinary maintenance
and repair (see definitions, article 12). In the event that the commission determines a
demolition by neglect is occurring, it shall carry out the following:
(A) Determine and set forth steps required to remedy the situations or defects.
(B) Direct the city planner to inform the property owners of its findings, determination,
and recommended remedies.
(C) In the event that the property owners fail to commence work within the reasonable
time allotted by the commission, the commission may direct the building inspector to
begin proceedings under chapter 22, buildings, and building regulations, article XI,
dangerous buildings, of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Dover to bring about
the repair or demolition of the building.
3.43 Responsibility of the city planner. The city planner shall notify the historic district
commission of buildings within the historic district that have been referred to him by the
building inspector that meet the definition of dangerous buildings under the provisions of
chapter 22 buildings and building regulations, article XI dangerous buildings, of the Code of
Ordinances for the City of Dover. In such cases the commission shall determine if the
building is being demolished by neglect. Before referring a property to the commission for
consideration as demolition by neglect, the city planner shall give written notice to the owner,
occupant, mortgagee, lessee, agent, and all other persons having an interest in said building,
as shown by the records of the recorder of deeds of the county, to appear before historic
district commission at the time, date and location specified.
(Ordinance as adopted 8-8-2011)
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Part II – Plan Goals: Historic Preservation
Goal 1: Preserve and Protect Historic Resources
Preserve and provide better protection for historic resources including individual properties
and historic districts in order to maintain community character and the plan for integration of
these places into everyday use.
Recommendation 1: Identification and Designation of the Dover Historic District Zone
Identify areas and study properties/areas for potential future local Historic District
designation as individual structures in a Historic District or the creation of new Historic
Districts. The local Historic District designation criterion is established in the Zoning
Ordinance.
• Evaluate properties of interest and concentrated areas of historic resources for local
Historic District designation
• Evaluate for local Historic District designation those areas currently listed in and/or
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places
• Evaluate proposed annexation areas for historic resources to address needs for
preservation and protection
Recommendation 2: Stewardship of Historic Resources
Encourage stewardship activities by public and private owners of historic resources to
ensure the long-term care, protection, preservation, and continued existence of historic
resources.
• Encourage appropriate stewardship of historic resources in City building projects and
infrastructure improvements located within designated historic districts or projects
impacting historic properties.
• Develop strategies within disaster response plans for the consideration of historic
resources.
Recommendation 3: Evaluation of Design Standards and Guidelines
• Evaluate and update the “Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover
Historic District Zone.” This document was originally developed and adopted in
1992.
• Evaluate and consider the standards and guidelines in regards to the levels of
protection for The Green and the Loockerman Street historic contexts.
Recommendation 4: Architectural Review Certification Process
Evaluate the existing regulatory process and procedure for Architectural Review
Certification for properties located within the designated local Historic District Zone (H)
including the process for review and approval of waivers and requests for demolition.
Recommendation 5: Impact of Development Activity on Historic Resources
Explore other strategies, activities, and incentive programs to assist in the preservation
and protection of historic resources in order to balance the needs of preservation and
revitalization. These activities may involve regulatory measures such as ordinance or
2008 Dover Comprehensive Plan February 9, 2009
Chapter 6: Historic Preservation Page 62
Página 33
code amendments, flexible building codes for rehabilitation, form based zoning codes,
etc.
• Develop and/or improve incentives and ordinances that encourage the use of historic
structures
• Focus planning initiatives on Downtown Dover to strengthen Loockerman Street and
the adjoining areas while maintaining the balance of preservation and development
activity
Recommendation 6: Support of Historic Resources
There are a variety of approaches that can support and recognize historic resources.
• Support consideration of historic resources in development activities from infill
projects to land annexation.
• Continue to identify, assist, and review the nominations of eligible properties to the
National Register of Historic Places.
• Explore opportunities to conduct and/or update the Delaware Cultural Resource
Survey for properties located within City limits.
• Ensure the diversity of the community as reflected in the City’s history, architecture,
and demographics are reflected in the preservation efforts
• Recommend completion of a Self-Assessment for the Historic District Commission to
identify other strategic planning needs.
Goal 2: Provide and Promote Incentives for Preservation Activities
Provide and promote incentives for public and private preservation activities and the
protection of residential and non-residential historic properties including incentives to
encourage continual use, on-going maintenance of such properties, and appropriate in-fill
project design.
Recommendation 7: Tax Credit Program for Historic Properties
Evaluate and improve the process for the City’s Tax Credit Program for Historic
Properties.
Recommendation 8: Increase Participation in Resource-Bearing Programs
Increase participation in resource-bearing programs (Certified Local Government
Program and the Scenic & Historic Highways Program).
• Continue process to complete application to achieve Certified Local Government
(CLG) status in the National Park Service’s Certified Local Government program.
• Identify corridors for evaluation and consideration for designation in Delaware’s
Scenic & Historic Highways Program and support initiatives by other groups working
to achieve such designation.
Goal 3: Increase Public Information on Historic Resources
Increase and promote dissemination of information on preservation activities, the value and
significance of historic resources, and historic and cultural heritage tourism opportunities to
the general public and elected/appointed officials.
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Chapter 6: Historic Preservation Page 63
Página 34
Recommendation 9: Public Outreach Education
Initiate educational programs on historic and cultural resources for the general public and
elected/appointed officials.
• Develop and/or update written and digital materials (brochures, process guides, web-
based postings, GIS mapping, etc.) on such topics as the local Historic District Zone,
historic resources, the Historic District Commission, the Architectural Review
Certification process, and the City’s Tax Credit Program for Historic Properties.
• Conduct workshop training with for the Historic District Commission and Planning
Commission on preservation topics and the Architectural Review Certification
process.
• Identify and implement methods of on-going communication with historic property
owners and interested groups.
Goal 4: Collaborate with Diverse Groups and Governments
Partner and collaborate with special interest groups, within municipal government, and state
and federal government agencies regarding preservation activities, cultural activities and
heritage tourism.
Recommendation 10: Assistance and Support of Interest Groups
• Continue to coordinate with and assist government agencies/ officials and
preservation interest groups. Examples of these groups and agencies include the City
Council, Planning Commission, Downtown Dover Partnership, Preservation
Delaware, the Division of Historical & Cultural Affairs (State Historic Preservation
Office), and the First State Heritage Park at Dover.
• Build relationships with the historic preservation programs at Delaware State
University, Wesley College, and the University of Delaware
2008 Dover Comprehensive Plan February 9, 2009
Chapter 6: Historic Preservation Page 64