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Page 1
CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
AGENDA
THURSDAY, February 17, 2011- 3:00 P.M.
City Hall – Conference Room
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING on December 16, 2010
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
1. Summary of Applications 2005-2008 and 2009-2010
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
1. Application for Architectural Review Certification:
a. HI-11-01 Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition – Public
Hearing and Review of an Architectural Review Certificate to allow Demolition of
the existing commercial building at 326 West Loockerman Street. The property
consists of one parcel of land zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and subject to
the H (Historic District Zone) and SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay
Zone). The property is located on the southeast corner of West Loockerman Street
and South Queen Street. The owner of record is Dover Realty I. The property
address is 326 West Loockerman Street. Tax Parce1: ED-05-077.09-01-74.00-000.
Council District 4.
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.
Page 2
CITY OF DOVER
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
DECEMBER 16, 2010
The Regular Meeting of the City of Dover Historic District Commission was held on Thursday,
December 16, 2010 at 3:00 PM with Chairman Scrafford presiding. Members present were:
Colonel Scrafford, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Salkin, Mr. Fisher, and Mr. Jackson.
Staff members present were Mrs. Melson-Williams, Mrs. Townshend, Ms. Cornwell, and Ms.
Metsch. Also present was Mr. Gregg Moore and Mr. Ken Starke.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. McDaniel moved for approval of the agenda as submitted, seconded by Mr. Salkin and the
motion was unanimously carried 5-0.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF NOVEMBER 4, 2010
Mr. Jackson moved to approve the minutes of November 4, 2010 as submitted, seconded by Mr.
Salkin and the motion was unanimously carried 5-0.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE REGULAR HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MEETING OF NOVEMBER 18, 2010
Mr. Fisher moved to approve the minutes of November 18, 2010 as submitted, seconded by Mr.
Salkin and the motion was unanimously carried 5-0.
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that as a reminder Staff has issued the scheduled meeting dates for
2011. The Commission will continue to meet on the third Thursday of the month unless there are
no applications or further business in front of the Commission.
OLD BUSINESS
Annual Meeting of Historic District Commission – Election of Chairman and Vice
Chairman
Mr. McDaniel moved that they continue with the existing officers which would be Colonel
Scrafford as Chairman and Mr. Jackson as Vice-Chairman, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the
motion was unanimously carried 5-0.
NEW BUSINESS
HI-10-11 Parking Lot on West Water Street: Renovation and Addition – Public Hearing and
Review for Recommendation to the City of Dover Planning Commission on the Architectural
Review Certificate for renovations to the existing parking lot/transit center and expansion of the
parking lot located on West Water Street. This project will reconfigure and expand the existing
parking lot of 71 spaces to a total of 152 parking spaces. The parking lot is intended to serve the Kent
County Courthouse Building. The property consists of two parcels of land zoned RGO (General
Residence and Office Zone) and C-2A (Limited Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H
(Historic District Zone) and SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). The properties are
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2010
located on the north side of West Water Street in the block between South Governors Avenue and
South State Street. The owner of record is the State of Delaware. The properties are addressed as
101 West Water Street and 439 South Governors Avenue. Tax Parcels:
ED-05-077.09-03-51.00-000 and ED-05-077.09-03-53.00-000. Council District 2.
Mr. McDaniel stated that he would recuse himself from the application as he is a property owner
within 200 feet of the application.
Representative: Mr. Gregg Moore, Becker Morgan Group; and Mr. Ken Starke, State of
Delaware, Facilities Management.
Mrs. Melson-Williams provided an overview of the application.
Mr. Jackson stated that he has been approached by one of the owners of the house located on the
corner at South Governors Avenue and he does not think that they have made themselves known
yet. He believes that there is a question of whether this house will be sold to the City of Dover.
Responding to Mr. Jackson, Mr. Moore stated that the State did not purchase that; however, at one
point had considered it. It does not look like it will be purchased. They have met with this
neighbor and this house appears to access their house through the back of their property. We
believe that we may have to provide them a one lane access road and are prepared to do that.
Mr. Moore further stated that they own a piece of property adjacent to this property that they are
not going to be paving. They will leave it green and landscape it to try and keep a continuous
parking lot. In general terms, what we are doing is providing parking for the new Courthouse
project and reclaiming what was the old DelDOT lot which was originally the City’s parking lot
and trying to stay within the same setbacks as the original plan with the same amount of grass area
along the front all the way across to give it a softer look.
Mr. Moore further stated that in total they are about 152 parking spaces and we need 126 parking
spaces to meet the amended City requirements for the Courthouse. They appeared before the
Planning Commission about 2 months ago and received a waiver to get them to the 126 needed in
the Downtown. This would be assigned parking for the Courthouse and would not be metered or
need a permit. This would be public parking that would have signs and would be designated for
the Courthouse. It would be operated by the State of Delaware so it would come out of
management by the City of Dover’s Parking Committee of the Downtown Dover Partnership.
The State would identify it in correspondence to its jurors and others that this would be the parking
lot that they would use. They will be redoing the entire street and sidewalk in brick to be
consistent with State Street and what is occurring around the Courthouse. They will be using the
same light fixtures that are used in many City parking lots as well as bike racks. Because of the
waiver we were granted, we are able to leave more open space with landscaping and are at about
thirty-seven (37) percent open space on this plan.
Mr. Moore further stated that the stormwater would be located underground. This is a Brownfield
Site and the State has put that in the Brownfield program upon its purchase. They are working
with DNREC to do stormwater underground with sand filters so that we do not infiltrate water into
the plumes below and have an environmental firm on board to help with that. The best thing that
could happen to both of these sites is to pave it over and keep it covered and keep stormwater from
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2010
going in. This will use the site in its best way.
Mr. Scrafford questioned that you indicate the accesses to remain. Are there any caveats on those
accesses as he seems to remember one of them where there was a post put in one of them to keep it
from being used that does not seem to be there anymore. Is there a curb cut on State Street?
Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mr. Moore stated that he would not say that there are not curb cuts;
however, the properties fronting State Street use the backside to access their buildings. They will
maintain the easements and the access to their lots. There are also a couple of spaces that
attorneys use that we do not object to them continuing to use.
Mr. Scrafford further stated that there was a lot of controversy over both of these in the past. One
is walk width and the other was wide enough for a car. Responding to Mr. Scrafford, Mr. Moore
stated that there is one that is wide enough for a car. There is a walkway and an easement that the
State maintains that allow folks to get on the brick sidewalk up to State Street. They will maintain
that and it will provide direct access to State Street and the Courthouse.
Mr. Moore questioned that Staff mentioned a fence of wrought iron and would like more detail.
Responding to Mr. Moore, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that she believes there is an existing fence
in that area.
Mr. Moore further stated that they were going to leave the fence unless the neighbors were really
against it. Responding to Mr. Moore, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the Staff comments note
to ensure that the northern fence is in good repair and evaluate if there are other areas where
fencing would be necessary. That is where we noted the typical appropriate fence in the Historic
District is a metal fence that is black with a maximum height of four (4) feet. There were other
concerns where fencing might be needed.
Mr. Scrafford stated that if fencing was needed, then wrought iron fencing is what would need to
be installed.
Mr. Moore stated that he wanted to be clear that since this is not a residential use, there is not a
requirement for an opaque barrier with landscaping as it would be if it were residential use.
Mr. Fisher questioned the plantings along Water Street are they shrubs of hedge type, trees, or a
combination? Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mr. Moore stated that they were proposing trees and
would not be against shrubs.
Mr. Fisher stated that it states in the Guidelines that parking lots should be screened from the street
and trees are not going to screen it so he felt a hedge might be more appropriate. Responding to
Mr. Fisher, Mr. Moore stated that they would not be against that.
Mr. Salkin stated that he felt, for security purposes, a hedge might not be a good idea because a
police car driving by would not be able to see. A certain amount of openness is helpful for
management.
Mrs. Townshend stated that she would note in conversations with Mr. Street that they have had
problems with people hanging out in the parking lot. Concealed spaces could be an issue.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2010
Mr. Salkin questioned on the western parcel on the north end on the drawing where the four (4)
cars are parked, is this State property that is not a part of the project? Responding to Mr. Salkin,
Mr. Moore stated no that was subdivided by Mr. Braun, he sold this parcel off.
Mr. Fisher stated that it looks like you have a very limited bicycle parking area and he would think
that bicycles are going to be more prominent in the future than they are now. He feels that you
should consider more spaces for bicycles. Responding to Mr. Fisher, Mr. Moore stated that they
are showing a bicycle rack and could put more in and have them sitting in the grass; they do not
have a problem with that.
Mr. Salkin questioned if there would be bike racks located at the Courthouse? Responding to Mr.
Salkin, Mr. Moore stated that he thinks that there is because when the Courthouse first came in
originally, they asked for a waiver and typically bike racks are a part of that waiver request.
Mr. Salkin further questioned if any thought was given to a central north/south sidewalk for safety
for these other people to get out of their cars and get down to Water Street through this center
island so that people are not walking the length of travel lanes to get out of the parking lot.
Responding to Mr. Salkin, Mr. Moore stated that they could do that.
Mr. Scrafford opened a public hearing and after seeing no one wishing to speak closed the public
hearing.
Mr. Jackson moved to approve for HI-10-11 Parking Lot on West Water Street: Renovation and
Addition to include Staff recommendations and the addition of the north/south sidewalk connector
to Water Street and an additional bike rack. With regards to hedges versus the planting of trees,
trees are recommended as hedges and is a public safety issue noting the point of view where
hedges are not a good thing and are a maintenance hassle. He would also recommend approval of
the Architectural Review Certificate, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the motion was unanimously
carried 5-0.
Mr. Salkin questioned with regards to brick pavers do you feel this is necessary? Responding to
Mr. Salkin, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that the applicant’s presentation indicated that they
would be looking to match what was on State Street.
Mr. Moore stated that what they are trying to do is match the real brick that runs along the edge of
the Courthouse down across the back side of Water Street that connects to State Street and then
over.
Mr. Starke stated that they have been in discussion on whether they do a mortar base or butt joint.
We have decided to do butt joint because mortar just does not last.
Mr. McDaniel resumed participation in the meeting.
ONGOING PROJECTS
Discussion of the Project to Evaluate and Update the “Design Standards and Guidelines for
the City of Dover Historic District Zone”
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2010
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that at the end of last month’s meeting she handed out a draft Table
of Contents for what would become the new version for the Design Standards and Guidelines.
We again included that in your packet and would be open to any discussion that you have
regarding the format. It is very similar to what you have now. Staff tried to add in some of the
new topic areas that were covered during discussions. This also sets apart a chapter to
specifically talk about The Green. Staff is calling it “The Green and Constitution Place Area.”
Constitution Place is basically the segment of South State Street from Loockerman Street to Water
Street figuring that the points leading into The Green were just as important as The Green area.
Mr. Fisher stated that his only question/issue of whatever we are going to call this is when you
have Design Guidelines for exterior changes and additions to existing buildings isn’t there a lot of
overlap in that regard? Could you put the exterior changes in with additions? Responding to Mr.
Fisher, Mrs. Townshend stated that she would hesitate to do that. Exterior changes would
frequently be things like facades and windows and new construction is kind of massive.
Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that exterior changes are really meant to focus on the buildings
already there and if they want to do something different to them.
Mr. Jackson stated that the difference is under #6 Design Guidelines for Exterior Changes it talks
about materials and items whereas under #7 Design Guidelines for New Construction and
Additions it allows you to talk about the quality.
Mr. Jackson asked Staff to define “setting.” You have Design Guidelines for “Site and Setting.”
Responding to Mr. Jackson, Mrs. Melson-Williams stated that this was to try to capture the space
around the building or in the case of a project such as the one you just saw when there is not a
building. It is more of a site and landscaping feature project that you would be addressing. This
is where we moved parking lots because before in discussion they were under the new construction
chapter in Chapter 4 at the very end. It is more about what is around the building.
Mr. Fisher stated that one difference between the Exterior Changes and the Additions sections is
that under Exterior Changes you have decks and in Additions there is no mention of decks.
Mr. Salkin stated that a modern deck on a historic structure typically would not be acceptable;
however, a modern deck on a modern addition might be just fine. One could be a good thing
while one could be a bad thing.
Mr. Fisher stated that we talk about decks in the Design Guidelines for Exterior Changes but we
don’t talk about it in Additions to existing buildings and maybe we should. It is curious to him as
to why it is in one place and not the other.
Mr. Fisher further stated that beyond decks rather than trying to do it here, we might want to make
sure, as we start to piece together the new Guidelines and make changes, that we do comparison
back and forth using decks as an example so that if someone wants to understand these Guidelines
they understand the difference between a modification of an existing building and an addition. You
can do a side-by-side comparison stating decks are bad here; however, might be okay in another
location.
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CITY OF DOVER HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2010
Mr. Scrafford stated that Table of Contents #5, #6 and #7 Items are all entitled Design Guidelines
and yet Mr. Jackson has annotated a difference between #6 and #7. Does the introduction need to
be adjusted? If he is just picking this up and looking at it, am I going to know what he just said?
Mr. Jackson stated that it is all about how we discuss decks. If the text discusses decks as if you
are the applicant looking for what is permitted, then they will probably find joy in reading this
section.
Mr. Salkin moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. Fisher and the motion was
unanimously carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 3:45 PM
Sincerely,
Diane Metsch
Secretary
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City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2005-2008
Date: March 10, 2009
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-05-01 Christ Episcopal Church S. State Street and Water Street Signs 2/17/05 HDC Approval with Conditions Project Complete
HI-05-02 Delaware Association of Realtors - 134 E. Water Street Hanson House demolition 7/28/05 HDC Recommends Approval with Project Complete; Certificate of Occupancy
S-05-20 Office Building and replica w/building Conditions; 9//05 Planning Commission issued; Signage not in compliance; Revised
addition approval of ArchRevCert with conditions; Signage Application HI-08-04
5/12/2006 Final Plan Approval; 7/26/07
Request for Revision of Sign - HDC
recommends denial of applicant's
proposal, PC denies Sign Revision
H-06-01 OMB/DFM DFCU: Parking Lot East Avenue & Wm. Penn Street Parking Lot Expansion 2/16/2006 HDC Recommends Approval Final Plan Approved 4/27/2007; Project
S-06-04 Expansion with Conditions; 2/21/2006 Planning complete
Commission approval of ArchRevCert with
conditions; Project Extension granted
H-06-02 Old State House Museum – Phase 25 The Green Cupola, Roof and Administrative Review; No Action Project Complete; Grand Reopening
II Renovations Accessibility Required by HDC; Building Permit #06- 12/7/2007
249
H-05-03 State Street Commons 502, 508, 512, 516-518 South 2 New Office Buildings of 3/16/2006 Recommendation of Approval Final Plan Approval 6/17/2008; Project Under
S-06-19 State Street 12,000 S.F. each & Parking with Conditions: 6/20/2006 Planning Construction
Commission approval of ArchRevCert with
conditions; 6/8/2007 PC granted one year
extension
H-06-03 Kent County Courthouse Addition 38 The Green/414 Federal Street New Building 3/16/2006 HDC Recommends Approval Final Plan Approval 6/27/2008; Project Under
S-06-20 with Conditions; 6/20/2006 Planning Construction
Commission approval of ArchRevCert with
Condition; 5/17/07 HDC Recommends
Approval of Plan Revisions with
Conditions: 5/21/07 PC granted Revised
ArchRevCert and one year Extension
H-06-04 Old State House Museum 25 The Green Handrail System & Ground 4/20/2006 HCD Approval Project Complete; Grand Reopening
Lighting 12/7/2007
H-06-05 Demolition of Buildings for Collegian 114, 126, & 128 W. Loockerman Building Demolition 6/22/2006 HDC grants Approval with 114 W. Loockerman Street demolished on
S-07-13 Complex Street Conditions requiring a Building Permit 5/3/2007; Needs Final Plan approval - Check
prior to issuance of the Demolition Print 1 comments issued 1/14/2008; No other
Permits; 3/19/2007 Planning Commission Check Print submission to date; Plan
grants approval to demolish buildings prior approval due to expire 3/31/2009
to issuance of Building Permit as part of
the review of S-07-13; 3/17/08 Planning
Commission grants One Year Extension
H-06-06 Delaware State Visitor Center: 406 Federal Street 6 Changeable Permanent 6/22/2006 HDC Approval Program of Changeable Banners in use
Banner Program Banners
H-06-07 Duplex Building owned by 133-135 S. Governors Avenue Building Demolition 11/16/2006 HDC Approval with Conditions Building Demolished; Application for
Harrington Family Ties, LLC/DDDC redevelopment HI-07-05
Page 9
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2005-2008
Date: March 10, 2009
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
H-06-08 Dangerous Building owned by 309-311 W. Loockerman St. Building Demolition 11/16/2006 HDC Approval with Conditions Building Demolished; Application for
Kingdom Business Enterprises redevelopment HI-07-05
H-06-09 Collegian Complex 114, 116, 126 & 128 W. 7 Story Mixed Use Building 12/21/2006 HDC Tabled Application; Needs Final Plan Approval - Check Print 1
S-07-13 Loockerman Street (Retail, Apartments, Parking 1/18/2007 HDC Recommends Approval comments issued 1/14/2008; No other Check
Garage with Conditions; 3/19/07 Planning Print submissions to date; Plan approval due
Commission approval of ArchRevCert with to expire 3/31/2009
Conditions and permission to demolish
buildings prior to issuance of Building
Permits; 3/17/2008 Planning Commission
grants One Year Extension
HI-07-01 Del-One Credit Union Drive-Thru East Avenue; 150 East Water Office Building including 3/15/2007 HDC Approval with Conditions: Project Complete
Expansion Street Bank with drive-thru to Final Plan approval of Administrative Site
expand drive-thru to four Plan
lanes
HI-07-02 John Bell House Restoration 43 The Green Demolition of Section C and 4/26/2007 HDC Approval with Conditions: Eligible to apply for Building Permits; Working
Reconstruction of Section C; 9/10/2007 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert on Scope of Work as result of additional
Restoration of exterior for Revised Plan with conditions building history information
finishes/ Revised Plan:
Demolition of Sections B
and C with no
reconstruction; Restore
Section A
HI-07-03 Lands of Rudolph Von Croy 100 W. North Street Demolition of Garage 7/26/2007 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Building Demolished and site stabilized Fall
Building with conditions; Demolition Permit #07- 2007; Redevelopment application HI-08-02
1483 issued
HI-07-04 Murphey School - Executive 48 Kings Highway East Demolition of Garage 8/16/2007 HDC Approval of ArchRevCert Project Under Construction
Directors House & Garage Building and Construction of with Conditions: Building Permit issued
a Building Addition to
include garage
HI-07-05 Governors Avenue Parking Lot East of South Governors Avenue 47 parking spaces including 10/18/2007 HDC Recommendation of Final Plan Approval 4/14/2008; Project
(Lands of Downtown Dover north of the Minor Street improvements to parking off Approval with Conditions; Planning Complete
Development Corp. and Dover Minor Street Commission approval of ArchRevCert with
Parking Authority) conditions
HI-07-06 Capital Plaza (Jackson Hall) 200-216 West Loockerman 6 story 87,372 S.F. mixed 10/18/2007 HDC Meeting - application Project application on hold at request of
Street (Bayard Hotel site) and use building with retail tabled for information; 11/15/2007 HDC applicant
308 South Governors Avenue space, 60 apartments, multi- Recommendation of Approval with
level parking structure Conditions; application for Planning
system for 175 parking Commission review filed 1/2008; 1/17/08
spaces Letter Request by applicant to hold
application; 1/17/2008 HDC clarification of
action taken on ArchRevCert and Waivers
Page 10
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2005-2008
Date: March 10, 2009
FILE# PLAN NAME LOCATION TYPE ACTION STATUS
HI-07-07 Franklin Hall Apartments 326 West Loockerman Street 4 story 64,001 S.F. mixed 10/18/2007 HDC Recommendation of Project application on hold at request of
use building with retail Approval with Conditions; application for applicant
space, 72 apartments, one Planning Commission review filed,
level parking garage with 66 reviewed by DAC; 1/17/08 Letter Request
parking spaces by applicant to hold application; 1/17/2008
HDC clarification of action taken on
ArchRevCert and Waivers
HI-08-01 Elm Terrace Street Marker Elm Terrace at South State Replacements of Two Brick 2/21/2008 Presentation to HDC as Project Complete
Replacement Project Street Street Markers information item
HI-08-02 Lands of Rudolph Von Croy: North 100 W. North Street 14 space Parking Lot HDC Recommendation of Approval with Final Plan Approval 9/9/2008; Project
C-08-06 Street Parking Lot (associated with Conditions; Planning Commission Complete
Loockerman Square approval 5/19/2008 of ArchRevCert with
Apartments) conditions
HI-08-03 Lands of Dan Batra (Gulf Station) 585-595 Forest Street and 111 S. Signage for Building, Gas 5/15/2008 HDC Approval with Conditions; Project Complete
West Street Canopy and Gas Pricing Sign Permit filed
HI-08-04 Delaware Association of Realtors - 134 E. Water Street Signage and Wall Feature 7/17/2008 HDC Recommendation of No Action Taken to date; Permit application
Office Building Approval with Conditions; 8/18/2008 must be filed
Planning Commission approval of
ArchRevCert with conditions
Page 11
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2009-2010
Date: January 19, 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; Site
Plan progressing through Check Print
process - Check Print 2 comments
issued 1/13/2011.
HI-09-02 Fence Permit #09-1634 at 132 West Loockerman Fence Construction along 10/6/09 Permit #09-1634 referred to HDC Fence Project Complete.
new Golden Fleece Tavern Street east property line at rear ofby 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 Documentation of Building is
Street by Neglect Demolition by Neglect and outlined required underway by consultant hired by
steps; 6/10/2010 HDC discussion on status, applicant; Redevelopment application
request return at July meeting; 7/15/2010 HI-10-08 filed.
Update on status
HI-10-01 Building at 301 South 301 South Governors Consideration of Demolition 6/10/2010 HDC Determination of Demolition pending. Building
Governors Avenue Avenue (southeast corner by Neglect Demolition by Neglect and outlined action Inspections for asbestos completed --
of North Street and S. to be taken within 90 days; 9/16/2010 requires asbestos removal.
Governors Ave.) Status Update indicates no action taken,
HDC Recommends Building Inspector
begin Dangerous Building proceedings with
recommendation of repair. City Council
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
HI-10-03 Woodburn: Solar Panels 151 Kings Highway Installation of Solar Panels 3/18/2010 HDC Approval with Conditions No Action Taken to date. Permit
on south facing gable roof of Application must be filed. Discussion
main house on potential revisions to placement.
Page 12
City of Dover Historic District Commission
Summary of Applications 2009-2010
Date: January 19, 2011
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 Project eligible to file for Building
Canopy Addition sanctuary to improve Recommendation of Approval of Permits.
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.
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. Project not started yet.
shingle recommended for front
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; Project must submit Check Prints of
S-10-30 Street and 208 South use building with 5012 S.F. 11/4/2010 HDC Recommendation of Site Plan for review and Final Plan
Governors Avenue retail space and 48 Approval with Conditions for Approval. No Action to date.
residential apartments; ArchRevCert;11/15/2010 Planning
requires demolition of Commission approval of ArchRevCert with
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 Project eligible to file for Building
Renovations elevation: moving glass with Conditions Permits.
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.
Referral Church at 25 Slaughter second floor levels of north with Conditions requiring vinyl siding to be
Street and south elevations horizontal and other trimwork and gutter
recommendations; Building Permit #10-
1672 issued 11/2/2010.
HI-10-11 Parking Lot on West Water 101 West Water Street and Renovations to existing 12/16/2010 HDC Recommendation of Application S-11-03 filed for PC
Street: Renovation and 439 South Governors parking lot and expansion of Approval of ArchRevCert with conditions; review in February 2011.
Addition Avenue lot to total of 152 parking Site Plan application filed with PC
spaces
Page 13
City of Dover
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW STAFF REPORT
Before Dover Historic District Commission
February 17, 2011
Project Name: Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition
Location: Southeast corner of West Loockerman Street and South Queen
Street
326 West Loockerman Street
Tax Parcel: ED-05-077.09-01-74.00-000
Property Owner: Dover Realty I
Present Zoning: C-2 Central Commercial Zone
H - Historic District Overlay Zone
SWPOZ – Source Water Protection Overlay Zone* (*Exempt from
Tier 3 provisions due to Downtown Redevelopment Target Area
location. Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 §29.79)
Present Use: Vacant Building (Previous commercial uses) and Parking Lot
Proposed Use: Vacant site with Parking Lot
File Number: HI-11-01
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The Historic District Commission will act on an Architectural Review Certificate to allow for
Demolition of the existing commercial building at 326 West Loockerman Street. The property
consists of one parcel of land zoned C-2 (Central Commercial Zone) and subject to the H
(Historic District Zone) and SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone). The property is
located on the southeast corner of West Loockerman Street and South Queen Street. The owner
of record is Dover Realty I. The property address is 326 West Loockerman Street. Tax Parce1:
ED-05-077.09-01-74.00-000. Council District 4.
Property Information
This building is located within a National Register Historic District, specifically the Victorian
Dover Historic District. Provided below is the building summary from the building inventory
listing found within the National Register nomination completed for the Victorian Dover Historic
District (nomination completed 1977-78).
th
K-396.54 Southeast Corner of West Loockerman and South Queen Streets – 20 century, 2 story
painted brick, business establishment, flat roof, parapet, decorative cornice.
P. O. Box 475 Dover, DE 19903
Community Excellence Through Quality Service
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HI-11-01 Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
February 17, 2011 Meeting
The property is located within H (Historic District zone) as established by the City of Dover.
A series of historic maps was reviewed by Planning Staff for preliminary information on this
block of Loockerman Street. The 1859 A.D. Byles Map of Kent County (Dover insert) shows E.
Lincoln as the owner of a significant portion of the block. The 1868 Beers Map published by
Pomeroy & Beers shows only the established street grid of Loockerman Street and Queen Street
to North Street surrounding this block; no buildings or ownership are noted on the map. By 1885,
the 1885 Bird’s Eye View of Dover shows this block on the south side of Loockerman Street
between Queen Street and New Street developed with multiple buildings. The 1887 Map of the
Town of Dover by W.R. Roe depicts the corner of the subject property and several adjoining
properties to the south as the Hazel & Pennewill Lumber Yard with a series of other buildings
(possibly residential) in the center of the block fronting Loockerman Street.
The series of Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps is also a reference source for information on the
series of buildings which occupied this property over time. The 1891-1910 Maps series show this
corner property with several lumber sheds and shingle storage areas with a small building used
as an office and a two story dwelling on the east. Then by 1929 the property is redeveloped as a
large Garage Building which is expanded by 1944. Photo documentation from the 1960s shows
this building as brick with a canopy extending west to the corner with Queen Street and the rear
portion of the building having a multiple garage doors on the west elevation facing Queen Street.
These 1960s photographs show a two story gable front residential building with a retail store on
the first floor and a one story concrete block building as a Trailways Bus Depot in the center of
the block. Additional research using other primary and secondary source documents would
provide more information on the history of the property and buildings.
Only the „garage‟ building with canopy remains on site; however, a number of the previous
window and door openings have been infilled, a pent roof was added to the east and north
elevations which are clad with metal siding, and the front parapet wall has been altered. The
building was utilized most recently as a daycare center. However, the building has been vacant
for several years (after the daycare center relocated) and deteriorating conditions have been
identified by the Code Enforcement Division.
SWPOZ (Source Water Protection Overlay Zone)
A portion of the site is located within the SWPOZ (Tier 3: Excellent Recharge Area) found in
Article 3 Section 29.7 of the Zoning Ordinance. However, this project site is within the downtown
redevelopment target area which is exempted from the SWPOZ requirements and restrictions as per
Zoning Ordinance, Article 3 §29.79.
PROPOSAL (Existing Conditions Plan and Photographs)
The applicant has supplied an Existing Conditions Plan sheet showing the existing building and
other site elements along with a series of photographs of the building and its surroundings. See
attached set. The project is described below:
1. Demolition of Building: The project involves the demolition of the existing one story
masonry (brick and block) building on the property.
2
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HI-11-01 Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
February 17, 2011 Meeting
Review of DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
The subject property is located in the Dover Historic District Zone within the Loockeman
Historic Context. The Loockerman Historic Context is described on pages 2-7 through 2-8.
Location within the Dover Historic District Zone requires proposals for specific types of
construction activities such as new construction, additions to existing buildings, exterior
renovations, and demolition of buildings to receive an Architectural Review Certificate.
As stated in the Design Standards and Guidelines for the City of Dover Historic District Zone,
an Architectural Review Certificate will be granted for the project “if it is found that the
architectural style, general design, height, bulk and setbacks, arrangement location and materials
affecting the exterior appearance are generally in harmony with neighboring structures and
complementary to the traditional architectural standards of the historic district.”
The proposal for demolition of the building must be reviewed for conformity with the design
criteria guidelines found in Chapter 4: New Construction, Additions, Demolition and Relocation.
Demolition
The Design Standards and Guidelines gives guidance to the Historic District Commission by
listing specific criteria to be evaluated when considering applications for the demolition of
buildings (or portions of buildings) in the historic district. (Chapter 4: pages 4-10 to 4-12)
These guidelines are summarized below (see Design Standards and Guidelines for the complete
text).
1. Determine the financial implications of maintaining a property versus demolition.
2. Regardless of economic issues the relative significance of the individual buildings
slated for demolition should be evaluated.
3. In development related applications the City should review the schematic plans for
the new structures to weigh the virtues of the new structure versus what exists.
4. Determine the extent of adequate recordation of a property the applicant would be
required to complete if demolition were approved.
5. Lots left vacant by demolition should be treated in a manner that is sympathetic to
the historic context.
STAFF COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are the Staff comments and recommendations for this application regarding
project activities and an Architectural Review Certificate.
1) The Design Standards and Guidelines outline specific criteria to be evaluated in considering
demolition applications (page 4-10 and 4-12). The application, as submitted, contains limited
information on the reasoning for demolition of the Building. However, more specific
information may be received at the Historic District Commission meeting from the
applicant‟s presentation and during the public hearing.
3
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HI-11-01 Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
February 17, 2011 Meeting
a) Based on exterior photographs and Code Enforcement case information, Staff notes that
approval for the demolition of the Building may be warranted due to the building‟s
deteriorating condition.
b) It is Staff‟s observation that the integrity of the original building has been extensively
compromised by the renovation activities of the mid-to-late twentieth century through the
process of building expansion and re-cladding and other changes to the building‟s
exterior. It is unclear if any of the original detailing (trimwork), wall/window pattern still
exists under the cladding. For example, the front parapet roof has been cut to mimic the
rounded roof form thus eliminating a previous heavily detailed cornice line.
2) Staff notes that some minor documentation/recordation of the existing building has occurred
in the form of a series of exterior photographs (4 photos) included in the application
submission. The Historic District Commission could require additional
documentation/recordation of the building if deemed appropriate.
3) Staff recommends the following pertaining to the demolition of the building to improve the
project‟s compliance with the recommended guidelines for consideration of demolition in the
Design Standards and Guidelines and other code provisions:
a) Submission of information/plan outlining the site stabilization of the building
footprint/pad area following demolition of the building including information on the
following:
i) Clarification if building foundation/slab and other paved, hard surface areas will
remain or be removed from the site.
ii) The location of any proposed landscaping elements such as lawn areas, shrub
plantings, tree plantings, planters, etc.
iii) The location of any proposed fencing. Staff does not recommend installation of solid
(opaque) fencing or chain link fencing on the site. If areas need to be segregated on
the site, other alternative fence styles such as ornamental metal fencing, short posts
with roping, etc. less than four feet in height may be more appropriate.
b) The estimated timeframe for demolition activities, site stabilization, and redevelopment
activities.
c) Clarification of the intended use for the eastern portion of the property currently covered
in asphalt and appearing to be utilized as parking. If parking is to continue in this area,
describe the management of the parking lot and the authorizations granted to park in the
area. Ensure appropriate traffic control measures, striping, signage, etc. exist for parking
lot layout and improve if necessary.
d) Provide information on any environmental provisions related to demolition activities such
as copies of any agency approvals/permits for regulated activities.
ADVISORY COMMENTS:
1) In the event, that major changes and revisions to the project proposal occur, contact the
Department of Planning and Inspections. These changes may require resubmittal for review
by the Historic District Commission.
2) Additional evaluation and review of this project may be necessary due to the potential for
environmental contamination due to previous uses of the property and/or the site‟s potential
participation in any environmental remediation program.
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HI-11-01 Building at 326 West Loockerman Street: Building Demolition
Architectural Review Staff Report for Historic District Commission
February 17, 2011 Meeting
3) The applicant shall be aware that a Demolition Permit is required to proceed with any
demolition activities on the property should Architectural Review Certification be granted for
the demolition proposal. The Demolition Permit application must comply with the conditions
of approval granted through the Architectural Review Certification process. A certificate of
asbestos survey and abatement must be submitted with the Demolition Permit application.
4) Any future construction activities such as redevelopment of the site for a building or parking
facility are subject to additional review processes for permitting and plan review.
5) The applicant should be aware of the potential for historic archaeological resources which
may include previous building locations, wells, privies, etc. on this property. The State
Division of Historical & Cultural Affairs can provide technical assistance when dealing with
archaeological resources including previous studies at the subject location.
Historic District Commission Action Required
The Historic District Commission shall consider the proposal and take action in regards to the
Architectural Review Certification for the demolition proposal. The action should reflect
consideration of the Design Standards and Guidelines.
5