HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994 Historic Preservation Minutes
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City of Seward, Alaska
May 11, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 1
CALL TO ORDER
The May 11, 1994, regular meeting of the Seward Historic Preservation Commission was
called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Presiding Officer Doug Capra.
OPENING CEREMONY
Wiley led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Doug Capra, presiding, and
Walter Corrigan, It.
Jeanne Galvano
Shannon Skibeness
Virginia Darling
Dan Seavey
Michael Wiley
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Kerry Martin, Community Planning Director
Patricia Jones, Deputy City Clerk
SPECIAL ITEM:S
Swearing in of Commissioners. Deputy City Clerk Jones administered the oath of office
to those commissioners present: Doug Capra, Walter Corrigan Jr., Virginia Darling, Jeanne
Galvano, Dan Seavey, Shannon Skibeness and Michael Wiley.
Election of Chairman.
Capra opened the floor for nominations for Chairman.
Skibeness nominated Doug Capra for Chairman.
MOTION (Wiley/Corrigan)
Close nominations and cast a unanimous
ballot for Doug Capra as Chairman.
Motion Passed.
Unanimous consent
Election of Vice Chairman.
Capra opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chairman.
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City of Seward, AlashJ
May 11,1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 2
Wiley nominated Seavey for Vice Chairman. Seavey nominated Wiley. Galvano
nominated Skibeness. Nominations were closed.
Ballots were distributed and the results were read aloud by Jones with Skibeness receiving
five votes, Seavey receiving two votes and Wiley receiving zero votes.
MOTION (Corrigan/Seavey)
Elect Skiheness as Vice Chairman.
Motion Passed.
Unanimous consent
CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC
HEARING None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION (Wiley/Corrigan)
Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
Martin moved items C (Historic Preservation Plan, Phase IT) and E (Jesse Lee Home
Historic Nomination) from the work session section to the Regular Meeting Agenda under New
Business.
VOTE ON APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED.
Motion Passed.
Without objection
PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE None
PUBLIC HEARINGS None
RESOLUTIONS None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS None
NEW BUSINESS
Establishment of Meeting Date. Time and Place.
The CommililSioners concurred that the regular meetings would be held on the third
Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.
Commission Make UJ' and Duties.
Martin explained the requirements of the Certified Local Government status. He noted
that the requirements mandated that three of the commissioners must be professionals from the
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City of Seward, Alaska
May 11, 1994
Historic PreseTllation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 3
disciplines of history, architecture or architectural history and archaeology. He noted that if the
commissioners were not professionals in any of these fields, consultants could be appointed.
Seavey stated that he was certified as a historian and would submit a resume. Martin
stated that he would pursue other consultants for the other two disciplines.
Wiley suggested advertising if the services of the former consultants were not available.
The Commission agreed.
Historic Preservation Plan. Phase II and Jesse Lee Home Historic Nomination.
Martin explained that grant funds were available as a 50 percent match for the Historic
Preservation Plan, Phase II and the Jesse Lee Home nomination. Martin stated that there was
not enough time or city funds available to complete both projects. He recommended completion
of the Jesse Lee Home historic nomination project and the return of grant funds for the Historic
Preservation Plan, Phase II since the required city match was not available.
Martin explained that Phase I of the Historic Preservation Plan had been completed. He
noted that the main focus of the first phase was to develop a theme and identify historic places
and sites in the community. He explained that Phase II included identification of current and
future projects and a determination of which historic properties were endangered. He noted that,
once the properties were identified, the commission could make recommendations to preserve
existing historic properties.
Martin reported that the Jesse Lee Home was in danger of being demolished. He added
that, in the past, no support had come from the state legislature for preservation putpOses, but
if the home were placed on the historic register, grant funds might be available for future
preservation. He stated that the nomination could be based on historical rather than architectural
importance.
Capra suggested handling the project in-house, hiring a writer and holding public
hearings. He stated that he would like to focus on funding for the Jesse Lee Home. He noted
that the local historical society might be interested in working on the project.
In response to a question from Seavey, Martin stated that the community had issued
petitions in the past requesting preservation of the Jesse Lee Home. Darling stated that the
structure was beyond preservation and it was not economically feasible to restore the building.
Wiley and Corrigan stated that they would like to see what information was currently
available on the home.
A lengthy discussion on the background of the Jesse Lee Home followed.
MOTION (Corrigan/Galvano)
Consolidate efforts to complete the Jesse
Lee Home nomination and return the
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City of Seward, Alaska
May 11,1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume J, Page 4
Historic Preservation Plan Phase II grant
funds to the state.
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Capra stated that it would be valuable to produce a document to consolidate research and
history for future reference.
Darling stated that she was in favor of erecting a monument to the Jesse Lee Home but
not salvaging the buildings.
Seavey stated that placing the building on the National Historic Register it would provide
for more feasibility and interest in preservation.
Motion Passed.
YES: Capra, Corrigan, Galvano, Seavey,
Skibeness, Wiley
NO: Darling
ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
Martin thanked the commissioners for volunteering their time and efforts to historic
preservation.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
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Corrigan encouraged the commission to support the proposed office assistant position for
the Community Development Department at the next Council budget worl.c session.
The commissioners introduced and gave brief backgrounds about themselves.
GALVANO stated that she enjoyed grant research and writing. She noted that she had
worked on native and archaeological history.
CAPRA noted that he performed research and wrote articles about Seward's hi~tory.
DARLING stated that she was a descendant of one of the original settlers and owner of
the oldest building in town.
SEAVEY stated that he was formerly a history teacher at the high school. He noted that
he was a member of the Historical Society and President of the Iditarod Trailblazers, an
organization associated with the State's history.
CORRIGAN stated that he was a retired naval officer. He noted his interest in history
and historical preservation. He stated that he was employed as a commercial pilot for Scenic I
Mountain Air.
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City of Seward, Alaska
May 11, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 5
SKIBENESS stated that she was raised in Washington and moved to Alaska in 1985.
She noted that she was interested in historic preservation. She stated that she worked for the
U. S. Forest Service out of the local office.
WILEY stated that he was interested in history. He noted his appreciation for old
buildings and stated that he would like to see them preserved.
CITIZENS' DISCUSSION None
COMMISSION & ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
-9~~.
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Patricia J. Jones, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
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Doug Capra ---
Chairman
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City a/Seward, Alaska
August 17, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 5
CALL TO ORDER
The August 17, 1994, regular meeting ofthe Seward Historic Preservation Commission was
called to order at 7:45 p.m. by Chairman Doug Capra.
OPENING CEREMONY
Seavey led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
ROLLCALL
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City of Seward, Alaska
August 17,1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 6
There were present:
Doug Capra, presiding, and
Virginia Darling
Dan Seavey
Jeanne Galvano
Michael Wiley
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Kerry Martin, Community Planning Director
Patricia Jones, Deputy City Clerk
ABSENT were:
Walter Corrigan (excused)
Shannon Skibeness (excused)
CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC
HEARING None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION (Wiley/Seavey)
Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion Passed.
Without objection
Deputy Clerk Jones read the approved consent agenda items as follows:
The May 11, 1994, organizational meeting minutes were approved;
The National Preservation Conference to be held October 26-30 in Boston was noted for
information;
The National Alliance of Preservation Commissions newsletter was noted for information;
and
Information regarding the Alaska Funding Exchange was noted for information.
PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE None
SPECIAL ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS None
RESOLUTIONS None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
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City o/Seward, Alaska
August 17. 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 7
Jesse Lee Home National Register Nomination. Martin stated that the review of the draft
nomination was postponed until final amendments were made in accordance with the State Office
of Historic Preservation. He gave an overview of the items that needed further work before the final
report would be completed. He noted that the final report would be ready for approval at the
September meeting.
Memorial Plaque Report. Martin noted that a number of people were in attendance during
the July 27th dedication of a bronze plaque memorializing the Jesse Lee Home. He noted that quite
a few visitors had stopped to view the area and read the plaque.
Grant Reportine. Martin gave an update on the progress of the historic preservation grant
reports.
Senior Citizens Project. Martin stated that the local senior citizens were working towards
acquiring the Jesse Lee Home and property from Frank Irick and submitting grant applications to
assist in funding the acquisition and development of the Jesse Lee Home into a senior citizen center
and apartments.
Seavey asked if the state had emphasized how important the building was as part of a
territorial school before statehood. Martin replied that this was discussed along with the fact that
the Jesse Lee Home was the home of Benny Benson. He added that other historical facts significant
to its preservation were mentioned.
Wiley asked if the senior citizens' project was viable. Martin stated that there was significant
interest generated in acquiring the Jesse Lee Home. He stated that the goal was to moved the senior
center that was currently located downtown to the Jesse Lee Home.
Alaska Humanities Forum. Communities of Memory. Darling stated that the forum was
scheduled for Friday, August 26th at 7:00 p.m. at the Historical Society/Museum.
NEW BUSINESS
FY95 Grants in Aid - Letter ofIntent to Apply. Martin explained that about $40,000 was
available from the Fiscal Year 1995 Historic Preservation Fund Grants-In-Aid Program. He asked
the commission to decide which projects to include in the letter of intent that was due before
September 16th. He noted that the grant funds must be applied towards the preservation of a
structure or building, historic preservation planning or inventory of historic related property or
projects.
Capra suggested applying for funding for the Historic Preservation Plan, Phase II.
MOTION (Wiley/Galvano)
Send letter of intent to proceed with Phase II of the
Historic Preservation Plan.
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City of Seward . Alaska
August 17.1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1. Page 8
Motion Passed.
Unanimous Consent
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Certified Local Government Report. Martin stated that he was working on this report and
had nothing to discuss at this time.
Alaska Sea Life Center (ASLC) - Environmental Impact Statement. Martin stated that
there were concerns that the cultural and historic resources in the waterfront area had not been fully
emphasized in the environmental impact statement for the ASLC. He noted that, in order to address
these concerns, archaeological monitoring had been added as a condition of the Conditional Use
Permit at the August 3rd Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.
MOTION (WileyIDarling)
Suspend rules to allow response to ques-
tions by ASLC project manager and staff.
Motion Passed.
Without Objection
LiefSelkregg, Project Manager; Maureen Sims, EIS coordinator; and Darryl Schaefermeyer,
Project Administrator; answered questions from the commission. Selkregg noted that, in accordance
with federal requirements, archaeological monitoring would be done on site during all excavation.
In answer to a question from Seavey, Selkregg explained that the monitor would make a
determination on whether or not to stop the project for archaeological purposes. He noted that an
independent contractor would be hired for this purpose.
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Maureen Sims, 5600 B Street, Anchorage, explained Section 106, the federal regulation that
identified archaeological finds. She stated that a sampling of the property would be done and
reviewed by the archeological monitor and an historian. She added that a strip of land on the south
side of Railway Avenue was identified for monitoring and the remainder of the property was
determined to be rip rap fill that was added in the 1950's.
Wiley suggested that, during excavation, perhaps some of the old railroad tracks that were
buried at the site could be salvaged for future preservation purposes in case the rail car was moved
to the site of the Depot Building.
In answer to a question from Seavey, Selkregg explained that the bike path would be
preserved and extended to the west ofthe project.
Darryl Schaefermeyer, 214 Bluefield Drive, SAAMS boardmember, stated that, during
negotiations with the city for transfer of the land, there could possibly be some restoration funding
provided as a contribution from SAAMS for Hoben Park in exchange for something else. He noted
that he was willing to include this in future discussions. Seavey stated that he wanted to see the park I
restored to its original beauty which included a fountain.
MOTION (Seavey/Galvano)
Historic restoration of Hoben Park would
be considered during land transfer negoti-
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City of Seward. Alaska
August 17, 1994
Historic Preservatiun Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 9
ations between the City of Seward and
SAAMS.
Capra stated that he agreed that there could be a trade off to make the project feasible.
Motion Passed.
Unanimous
ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
Publications on Historic Preservation. Martin stated that there were a number of
publications related to historic preservation. He asked the Commission if they were interested in
subscribing to any ofthese publications or joining any of the preservation groups.
Capra suggested subscribing to two publications and asked Martin to review these for awhile
and make a recommendation. He stated that the publications could be included in the agenda packet
for review by each commissioner.
Martin asked when the commissioners would like to receive packets. The Commission
agreed that the packets should be ready by the Friday before each meeting.
Darling clarified that the park at the south end of town was named "Hoben's Park" (instead
of Ladies Park).
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
CAPRA stated that researching the correct names of sites was something that should be
addressed during completion of the Historic Preservation Plan, Phase II.
WILEY asked about the designations of architect and archeologist for CLG status purposes.
Martin explained and stated that he needed to advertise in the newspaper for these positions in
accordance with the requirements that each professional would be utilized on an as-needed basis.
CITIZENS' DISCUSSION None
COMMISSION & ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
9~...~.~. l ~. ~~
Patricia 1. Jones, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
Do~~-
Chairman
City of Seward, Alaska
September 21, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 10
CALL TO ORDER
The September 21, 1994, regular meeting of the Seward Historic Preservation Commission
was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chairman Doug Capra.
OPENING CEREMONY
Corrigan led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Doug Capra, presiding, and
Walter Corrigan, Jr.
Dan Seavey
Michael Wiley
Virginia Darling
Shannon Skibeness
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Kerry Martin, Community Development Director
Patricia Jones, Deputy City Clerk
Rachel James, Planning Assistant
ABSENT were:
Jeanne Galvano (excused)
CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC
HEARING
Arlene Wiley, 550 Railway Avenue, Seward, informed the commission that the Seward
Women's Club, (a federated club involved around family and historic points of view) would meet
on October 6, 1994, at noon to discuss historic preservation in Seward. She requested that a
commissioner attend the meeting to provide input and direction for future projects.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION (Corrigan/Skibeness)
Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion Passed.
Without objection
Deputy Clerk Jones read the approved consent agenda items as follows:
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City of Seward, Alaska
September 21, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 11
The August 17, 1994, regular meeting minutes were approved.
PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE None
PUBLIC HEARINGS None
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution No. 94-001, recommending the Jesse Lee Home National Register
Nomination be forwarded to The Alaska Office of History and Archaeology,
for final review.
Martin reviewed his memorandum which was included in the agenda packet. He explained
that Tim Sczawinski was revising the nomination at the request of the State Historic Preservation
Office (SHPO). He further explained that all work needed to be completed by September 30,
1994 in order to receive reimbursement from SHPO. He recommended approval of Resolution
No. 94-001 since the final report was essentially the same as the draft with a few technical
additions.
MOTION (Wiley/Skibeness)
Approve Resolution No. 94-001.
MOTION (Corrigan/Capra)
Amend by deleting the second
whereas clause of Resolution 94-001.
Corrigan stated that he was hesitant to approve a resolution recommending a document
to the Council without seeing the final product.
Tim Sczawinski, 611 Momoe, apologized for not having the final nomination available for
review by the commission. He explained that the State Historic Preservation Office required a
detailed description of the building, and research and reconstruction of how the building looked
in 1942, which was the end of the period of significance. He stated he was also making the
necessary revisions to the document in relation to significant features. He emphasized the need
to comply with the state office recommendations in order to obtain consideration from the office
in Washington D.C. He assured the commission and staff that the paperwork would be in Kerry's
office in time to be submitted to the state office by the end of next week.
Martin stated that, even though the funds needed to be expended, the project did not have
to be submitted by September 30th.
Corrigan clarified that he was in support of Resolution 94-001, but he could not vote for
approval as written because he had not been provided a copy of the nomination as stated.
City of Seward. Alaska
September 21, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 12
Skibeness voiced her support for the resolution with or without the amendment so the I
nomination could be forwarded to the state.
VOTE ON AMENDMENT
Motion Passed.
Unanimous
VOTE ON RESOLUTION NO. 94-001 AS AMENDED
Motion Passed.
Unanimous
Resolution No. 94-002, recommending the City concur and sign the Memorandum of
Agreement (MOA) with USDI, SHPO and SAAMS to assure Section 106 National Historic
Preservation Act compliance during construction of the Institute of Marine Science
Infrastructure Improvement Project.
MOTION (Corrigan/Seavey)
Approve Resolution No. 94-002.
In reference to the state correspondence, Wiley asked if there were any adverse effects of
the SAAMS project on the Seward Machine Shop. Skibeness stated that the state was referring I
to the visual impact of the project on the historical properties in the area. She noted that the
character of the properties along Railway Avenue could be changed.
Martin stated that he thought it important that the commission have the opportunity to
review and provide recommendations on the MOA. He stated that the MOA would be finalized
with comments and revisions from the City of Seward, State Historic Preservation Office and
SAAMS. He noted that the commission will not have an active part in the MOA but are involved
because the project was on city land. He explained that the purpose of the resolution was to
concur that the state and federal government would follow the law.
Motion Passed
Unanimous
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Historic Preservation Fund Grants in Aid Program. Letter of Intent to Apply.
Martin stated that the letter of intent to complete Phase II of the Seward Historic
Preservation Plan was mailed to the State Historic Preservation Office. He informed the
commission that the city would be receiving the grant application in the next few weeks and it I
would be addressed at the next meeting. He also reported that Donna Lane and Sylvia Elliot,
historic preservation contractors, met with city staff to discuss Seward's historic preservation
efforts, and they sent a budget proposal for Phase II of the preservation plan to the city.
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City of Seward, Alaska
September 21, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume I. Page 13
Alaska Humanities Forum. Communities of Memory (Update Discussion).
Darling stated that not many people were involved in the project, but she reported that a
committee was organizing to tell the stories of Seward's past. Capra appointed Darling as liaison
for this project.
NEW BUSINESS None
ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
Martin congratulated Commissioner Skibeness on her recent marriage. He informed the
commission that the Community Development Department was now located across the street from
City Hall in the historic Ray Building.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
SEAVEY stated that the commission needed to address the official name of Hoben Park
to ease confusion and clarify the name for future discussions.
DARLING stated that Pat Williams had requested that the Ray Building be re-named to
the Harriman Building to honor the Harriman Bank Company, the original owner of the building.
Wiley questioned whether the commission or city should involve itself because the building was
privately owned.
CAPRA addressed Arlene Wiley's request for a commission liaison for the Women's Club
meeting. He stated that he would verify the time and date of the meeting, and see if he or Galvano
could attend.
CAPRA expressed that he was very impressed with the report prepared by Charles M.
Mobley. He stated that it was an extremely detailed and interesting historical report of Seward.
SKmENESS informed the commission that she attended the design concept meeting for
the SAAMS project and felt that the commission should stay involved in the design process of
the building. She stated that at the meeting she expressed the commission's desire that the
building design be compatible with the downtown design and not the Seward Machine Shop.
CORRIGAN agreed. He requested that consultation with the Historic Commission when
historical names were in question be added to the October agenda. Skibeness stated that at the next
meeting she would like to address the historic names of Hoben Park and the Ray Building.
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City of Seward, Alaska
September 21, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 14
CITIZENS'DISCUSSION
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TIM SCZA WINSKI, 611 Monroe, stated that, although Harry Hoben built the park now
known as Ladies Park, that was not the original name and the commission should research the
historical name. He also expressed his disappointment with the archaeological survey that was
prepared for the SAAMS project.
DONNA KOWALSKI, 601 3rd Avenue, relayed to the commission that visitors taking
tours of the Kenai Fjords National Park were hearing inaccurate historical information. She
suggested that the Commission assist whoever provided training for the tour boat operators prior
to the next season.
COMMISSION & ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS
CAPRA stated that he was also disappointed in the archaeological report. Wiley stated that
it would have been very costly to do an in-depth test and emphasized that the area would be
monitored by an archaeologist, during construction.
SKIBENESS noted that the Kenai Fjords National Park provided training to tour boat
operators and she was aware of one other inter-agency training session.
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MARTIN explained that there was a national and state register of historic properties and
it may be possible to have a city register as well. Martin stated that education was one of the
duties of the commission and it might be worthwhile to set up an official procedure for naming
historic buildings and sites.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:54 p.m.
D~~
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(City Seal)
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City of Seward, Alaska
November 16, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 15
CALL TO ORDER
The November 16th, 1994, regular meeting of the Seward Historic Preservation
Commission was called to order at 7:37 p.m. by Chairman Doug Capra.
OPENING CEREMONY
Seavey led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Doug Capra, presiding, and
Walter Corrigan, Jr.
Dan Seavey
Virginia Darling
Shannon Skibeness
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Kerry Martin, Community Development Director
Rachel James, Planning Assistant
ABSENT were:
Jeanne Galvano (excused)
Michael Wiley (unexcused)
CITIZENS' COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS NOT SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC
HEARING None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION ( Skibeness/Corrigan)
Approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda
Motion Passed.
Without objection
The Planning Assistant read the approved consent agenda items as follows:
The September 21, 1994, regular meeting minutes were approved;
The Jesse Lee Home National Register Nomination Update was noted for information;
The National Advisory Council on Historic Preservation memo was noted for information,
and;
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City of Seward, Alaska
November 16, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume I, Page 16
The Annual Certified Local Government Report for Calendar Year 1993 was noted for
information.
PRESENTATIONS WITH PRIOR NOTICE None
PUBLIC HEARINGS None
RESOLUTIONS
Resolution No. 94-003, recommending that the City Council authorize the
administration to apply for funding assistance from the State Historic
Preservation Office to complete the Seward Historic Preservation Plan.
MOTION (Corrigan/Skibeness)
Approve Resolution No. 94-003.
Motion Passed.
Unanimous
UNFINISHED BUSINESS None
NEW BUSINESS
Local Historic & Geol:l"aphic Names. Skibeness suggested that the commission discuss
the name of the park at the south end of 4th A venue.
Capra recommended that the park be officially named Hoben Park. He noted that he
preferred that buildings and sites be named after local historic citizens.
In response to a question from Corrigan, Martin asked the commission to gather
information on "Harry" Hoben so that staff could draft a resolution for the commission to forward
to the City Council. He further recommended that any commissioner interested in naming a
geographic feature should complete the form contained in their packet and submit it to staff for
future recommendation by resolution of the commission.
Capra stated that he would like to see the commission provide input on subdivision
development by reviewing the plats and advising the developers of possible historic names for
streets.
Martin stated that subdivision plats could be considered by the Historic Preservation
Commission after review by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Local Historic Register. Corrigan recommended that the commission work with the
Resurrection Bay Historical Society in establishing a local historic register.
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Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 17
City of Seward, Alaska
November 16, 1994
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Skibeness stated that there would need to be incentives to encourage people to nominate
their property to the local register.
Corrigan stated that he did not want to see the local register limited to only those sites that
did not qualify for the National Register. He recommended that sites and/or buildings already on
the National Register of Historic Places automatically be included on the local register.
The commission held a lengthy discussion of possible criteria for evaluating property
nominated to the local historic register.
Capra stated that he did not believe it would be fair to ask the Historical Society to perform
research for nominations. He stated that the Society might be willing to act in an advisory role
but the applicant should be responsible for the research.
Skibeness clarified that the incentives for property owners to nominate property to the local
register would be local recognition and tourism enhancement.
Capra appointed Seavey to schedule a joint work session with the Resurrection Bay
Historical Society to establish a local historic register.
I ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
James thanked Commissioner Skibeness for submitting the article that was published in the
September issue of The Alaska Association for Historic Preservation.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
SKIBENESS invited the commission to attend the December 7th Planning & Zoning
meeting to listen to a presentation by the SAAMS design team. She suggested that a resolution
be drafted for the December meeting to address Councilmember Anderson's memo related to the
planning for the Ferry Building and Hoben/Ladies Park.
CITIZENS'DISCUSSION
DONNA KOWALSKI, 601 3rd Avenue, spoke on behalf of The Downtown Business
Association regarding the Historic Walking Tour. She noted that the Association planned to add
the words "Seward Historic" above the words "Downtown Business District" on the signs located
in the harbor.
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TIM SCZA WINSKI, 611 Monroe, spoke in supports of the idea of a local register and
encouraged the commission to pursue the project. He noted that establishing a local register could
be addressed in Phase II of the Historic Preservation Plan.
COMMISSION & ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE TO CITIZENS' COMMENTS
18
City of Seward, Alaska
November 16, 1994
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
Volume 1, Page 18
MARTIN discussed the purpose of the Historic Preservation Plan. He explained what was
addressed in Phase I and what would be added in Phase II. He informed the commission that the
downtown area and the Jesse Lee Home area were established as Historic Districts by resolution
of the City Council.
CAPRA stated that the library, as the repository of historic information gathered by the
commission, would need a special historic preservation room in the near future.
SKmENESS encouraged the addition of "Seward Historic" to the "Downtown Business
District" signs located in the harbor.
CAPRA noted that the downtown merchants were voluntarily establishing a historical
theme in that area. He stated that at some point the commission might need to recommend a
zoning ordinance to the Planning & Zoning Commission in order to protect the historic character
and financial interests of the businesses.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
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Chairman
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