Loading...
SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION MINUTES I SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting January 21, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library at 700 p,m. Present were Messrs, Chalifour, Bishop, Ahmed, Callahan and Mesdames Welch and Hunt. Guests present were City Councillors Nowak, Swiniuch and Plante . The background of the Derby St, district was explained to Mr. Swiniuch and Mr. Plante , both members of the City Council Committee on Historical and Tourist Development, Mr; Swiniuch asked for a copy of Chapter 40C. Clerk will xerox and mail to committee members. She will also send them copies of letter to Chestnut St, residents and certificates along with new ordinance , Mr. Chalifour explained the function and other duties of the Commission to our guests. He told. them that it is the hope of the Commission that they will endorse our efforts. Explained our jurisdiction and the fact that Commission does not restrict paint colors. It is also the function of the Commission to help people - to give them advice on restoring exterior of their homes. He told our guests that as a result of the May 2 hearing it was decided to let the Common rest and enlarge the Derby St, district. Clerk .will send Mr. Swiniuch a copy of the Common proposal at his request, Mr. Nowak said that people have called him and wanted to be included in the Derby St, district, He does not know of any oppo- sition within the district. People on Derby St, more concerned with Pickering and Power Company problems, Mr. Nowak indicated that the matter would go to the Committee first for study--then be brought before the Council. He is con- cerned with people who live in the district--not opinions of absentee landlords. He asked if we could eliminate anyone who lived In district who objected , Mr. Chalifour said that the Commission felt it was better to have a solid boundary--go as far as any oppo- sition and draw line . Better to try to persuade people who seemed opposed, They may not understand and their objections may be un- founded, 'Mr. Nowak said he was concerned with the vacant lot at the corner of Daniel St. - doesn' t want to see a monstrosity go up there. Mr. Ahmed asked Mr, Swiniuch how long the proposal would be in committee . Not any longer than necessary, was his reply, Mr. Nowak thinks the district would help people , Mr. Callahan pointed out that there have been many improvements on Derby St, In recent years, Area has great potential all agree. It is a matter of educating the people , Mr, Swiniuch asked about effect on taxes, Mr. Ahmed said not. Assessors have set standards for reevaluation, so historic district shouldn' t change tax. Commission doesn' t control interiors or zoning, Mr. Nowak pointed out improvements made to house on corner of L Blaney St, Asked who did research on Derby St, project. Our Commission did basic work with help from Historic Salem, Inc , Mr, Swiniuch asked why Turner St, not included. Because we had to stop somewhere . Wanted to get Derby St, established, Businesses on the Common were opposed because they did not want further restrictions, Mr. Ahmed pointed out that it would be nice tohaveall historic areas in the city preserved . Also gives protection from eminent, domain. 2 Mr, Nowak asked if we were concerned about the Council voting regarding the Pickering oil tanks. Yes. Mr. Ahmed said people in Ward One should get a reduction on taxes because of all the problems, Mr. Swiniuch said same for Ward 2 . • Clerk will mall info, kit to the three committee members plus Mr, Nowak, We were told that we have to bring this to the Council in order to refer it to Committee . Processa ask City Clerk (Mr, Toomey) , Clerk will contact him. We would like to get it on the agenda for Jan. 24. The Chairman of the Committee (Mr. Swiniuch ) will notify us when it is due to come before the Council. The committee meetings are public and are posted. They might have. a request for a public hearing. Submit report with covering letter to City Clerk, Include copies for all the Councillors. If a private home wanted to convert to a business - what about changing exterior--we have no control over use , but do over exterior changes. This has been done successfully, as long as it is in keeping with area. Mr. Nowak said he has contacted many people in area who are in favor, Once City Council approves it becomes an ordinance . People can't withdraw once the area becomes a district, Mr. Swiniuch said people fear that eventually Commission will have interior .control. Answer no. He asked about Chestnut St, siding issue . Told him that was what brought about creation of the district. Mr. Nowak asked if we could. get the City Planner to visit some other towns and take slides, etc . He already has a film. People more interested in their own area. People are concerned about tourism. That has nothing to do with districting. People will go to Gables • regardless of whether area Is a district. That objection unfounded , Mr. Nowak asked if .any money was available to help people re- store their homes . We have no funds of our own but can accept outside funds for that purpose . As it stands we have no funds. We were told .that we do not have to appear before the Council Thursday night -- get proposal on order for meeting -- the Committee will study and probably have a public hearing, Mr. Swiniuch told us that anything we can give him in the way of information on historic matters would be helpful, Mrs . Welch asked if we could ask Council to help facilitate our getting our vacancy on the Commission filled, We have already notified Mayor, Have submitted the name of John Emerson , an architect who is willing to serve. Mr. Swiniuch will call the Mayor to remind him. Once Derby St, a district we would also need a representative from that area. Clerk asked to call Carl Johnson at the Salem News and let him know what is going on. Let public know what is going on, Mr. Nowak and Committee members thanked. We discussed form of letter to City Clerk. Ask him to submit proposal (include copies for all councillors ) Thursday, Jan, 24. Refer to forms in letter and enclose a set. j 3. Old Business: letter of thanks from St. Peter' s Church for our endorsement of their Auction, • Notice of a meeting to which the Commission is inviteds at the S. R. A. office , Old Town Hall on Feb. 5 at 7s30 P.M. to hear John Collins present further details on sculpture , etc, in renewal area. Budget changes we have, asked for a $100 increase to cover allotment of $175. 00 for 1974-75 budget for publicity and promo- tion for Bicentennial. New stationery has been ordered. Letterhead only - no names because of changes. Cemetery restoration--Mr, Ahmed asked if we could do something about protecting the old cemetery on Essex St, We should get it on the National Register, Bicentennial conference this next weekend at Amherst, Mr, Ahmed made motion, seconded by Mrs. Welch that Commission appoint Mr. Chalifour Chairman, All present voted yes . We will wait until new member appointed and other members present before electing a vice-chairman. The next regular meeting of the Commission will be on Feb, 6, Mr, Ahmed asked if someone from the Commission should be •. present Thursday evening at the City Council Meeting, Clerk will check with Mr, Toomey, Clerk asked to draft a letter thanking all 3 Councillors for attending our meeting-and thank them for their support. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting Feb. 6, 1974 • The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library, Present were Mssrs. Chalifour and Bishop and Mesdames Welch, LeBlanc and Hunt. The meeting was called to order at 7s45. New Commission member, Mrs. Angela LeBlanc was welcomed, Mr. Chalifour explained to her the structure of the Commission - how members chosen, etc, Mrs. LeBlanc filled Commission members in on her backgrounds her pro- fessional training is in the field of interior design. She is a graduate of Boston University School of Fine and Applied Arts. She and her husband (an Air Force Mayor) have dust returned to Salem after being away for four years. While at Westover A. F. Base, she was President, for 2 years, of the Antique and Historical Club. Since her return to Salem she has been substitute teaching. She volunteered to serve in a civic capacity upon her return to Salem and was appointed by the Mayor to the Historical Commission. She is willing to help in any way that she can. Derby St. Historic Districts Mr. Chalifour read a letter from the Jordan sisters commending the Commission for the work its mem- bers have done on the district, Councillor Atkins will keep an eye on the committee for us. We should ask Miss Jordan to submit a copy of the letter or edit it to go in the Salem News. We should keep alert as to when the matter will be brought before the City Council so we can get a good turnout at that meeting, 9 • New Business: Mrs. Welch told us about a 17th century house on Conant St. She has taken photographs and sent them to Mass. Historical Commission. Called the Skerry House, this structure has had many additions and changes. According to Mr. Bishop, the house has been butchered. It is scheduled to be demolished for the proposed Bridge St, By-pass, Mrs, Welch says the Mass. Histor- ical 'Commission has records on file now so state knows about it, 17 1/2 Chestnut St.- Mrs, Welch had a call from Warren Shreve, who has submitted a proposal to put in fixed transom skylight windows in roof of carriage house (visible from Street) , He has filled out Application for Certificate of Appropriateness and submitted drawings of proposed changes. He would like to fill out a waiver of public hearing. Must get petition from nearest neigh- bors : Binney, Burns, Johnson and Bacall. He should also fill out application for certificate of non-applicability for alterations he wants to make to the rear of carriage house. It was decided that the Commission members present would go over to Chestnut St, to look at building following this meeting, Unless they decide otherwise , he may pick waiver and other application form from Clerk and proceed with contacting his neighbors. Burger Kings The Commission should oppose this, Mrs. LeBlanc said the person to contact is Mr. Leahy of the Licensing Board, Letter stating opposition and reasons to be sent to Mr. Leahy (with copies to Mayor and President, City Council ) . Motion made (Bishop) and seconded (Welch) to do so. Motion carried, Mrs. LeBlanc asked if anyone had ever approached Mr. Rich about sign at Jerry's. City needs more stringent sign control. Feb. 6 (cont. ) 2. The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. Respectfully submitted,' Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk Addendum: Following the meeting Commission members went to look at carriage house at 17 1/2 Chestnut St. Mr. Chalifour wondered If Mr. Shreve had considered any alternativess le. placing windows off center so centered under cupola, or three separate windows rather than one long continuous series. Mr. Shreve ' s sister spoke with Commission members ; said they would like to get as much light as possible as they plan to use the loft for a studio. If alternatives not feasible , Commission will approve design. The next Commission meeting will be held on March 6, 1974, at 7:30 p.m, at the North Branch Library. • • I SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting March 6, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch • Library at 7;30 p.m, Present were Mssrs, Ahmed, Callahan, Chalifour, and Griffin and Mesdames LeBlanc and Hunt. The meeting was called to order by Mr, Chalifour, Chairman. • A brief discussion was held on signs. Several points of view were put forth by Commission members, Mr. Ahmed believes signs are important for business and that Salem is a mixed community and should not rigidly control signs. ' Mr. Chalifour believes it is a matter of taste, Mrs. LeBlanc cited the example of Jerry's sign as a bad one , Mr. Ahmed feels there are enough controls and restrictions already--he defended people who have businesses in city and who live elsewhere--said many of these people do care about Salem. Mrs, LeBlanc suggested that maybe the Redevelopment area would set a good example and change people ' s ideas. Commission could write a letter to the Chamber and say we are not trying to restrict people but want to encourage quality. We don't have control but can encourage right kind of signs. Find out if any type of approach has been made to business people. Perhaps we can help. Another suggestions Mr Ahmed suggested we contact the Salem Sign Company, as clients often turn to them for suggestions. Perhaps we can encourage them and say we want to help develop more appropriate signs for city, 1'72 Chestnut St, : Commission members filled in on matter as it stands. 3 Waiver forms have been filled in and returned. Mr. • Shreve has had verbal approval from the Johnsons. Only party which has any objections are the Binneys, They do not object to proposed architectural changes, but to the use of the building as they. consider it a fire hazard. Questions do we have to hold a public hearing since only objection raised not within our juris- diction? Mrs. Welch checked with Mass, Historical Commission: they say we do not since we sent out a waiver notice and waited 10 days . Mr. Griffin reviewed 40C and said the only objection that could be raised would be how we determined who was materially affected He thinks we have complied with the statue . We haven't had any objections in writing. We should write to the party (Binneys ) regarding this.: Give them a chance to reply in writing if they wish and advise them to take their objections to appropriate authorities (building inspector) etc. We discussed proper course of action to take. We want all parties to have a chance to express their views. Do they under- stand that not sending in a waiver signifies objection. Mr. Chalifour says they do. We should write to them and give them another 10 days. We can say their objection is not within our province, as we understand it, and(unless they state any other ` objections that are in our jurisdiction) that we will send the approval to the building inspector and let them go on from there. New Business : Mr, Chalifour read a letter from Secretary Davoren re : allocations for grants to Mass. Historical Commission, Tells about matching grants to National Register Property. Dead- line April 1. We should write and ask for a current list of Salem properties on National Register, 2 , Derby Street Historic Districts Mr, Chalifour called Mr. Swiniuch, Chr, of the City Council committee on Historical Develop- ment, He hasn't had a chance to call a meeting of that committee due to the death of his father. He asked if we had sent a survey • questionaire out to people in district. Told him no, neighbors had been surveyed in person, Ask Jordan sisters to get a copy of petition--as he would like a list of those who were in favor. We will send with a covering letter to Mr. Swiniuch explaining that this was done initially at the beginning of the project and therefore is not a complete list. See if we can get a legible copy. Mr. Chalifour will call Mrs. Welch and find out if she would care to remain on the Commission, since her term.expired March 1, or if not, if she would care to recommend anyone else . Member should be from Chestnut St, The meeting was adjourned at 9105 P.m. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk • The next regular Commission meeting will be held on April 3 , 1974, at 7130 p,m, at the North Branch Library, r r 1 C SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting April 10, 1974 • The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library at 7 :30 p.m. Present were Messrs. Chalifour, Bishop and Callahan, and Mesdames LeBlanc and Hunt. • Mr Chalifour read letter sent to the Mayor re: appointment of new members to the Commission, asking for an architect and a lawyer. Mrs . LeBlanc suggested that perhaps Judge Durkin might be willing to serve. 17 1/2 Chestnut Street: The hearing was called off. Mr. Chalifour explained the situation. After the last Commission meeting Mr Griffin went to see Mr. Binney - who still wanted a hearing - so we sent out notices. Mr Binney subsequently withdrew his objections as he was satisfied that all precautions would be taken by Mr. Shreve to guard against fire hazard, so it was not necessary for the Com- mission to hold a hearing. The Commission has granted Mr. Shreve a certificate of appropriateness. Letter re Gedney Houses being placed on National Register. Mr. Chalifour will look in file to see if we have any information. Letter re: Bakers Island light--Mr. Chalifour will ask John • Wright who works at Essex Institute. Mass. Historical Commission Regional Historic Preservation Workshop held in Salem, March 23, at the Tabernacle Church. Mr. Chalifour attended and reported on meeting. Historic Salem, Inc . made arrangements and acted as host. Specific subjects covered in different group discussions. Mrs. Amadon said if we write to her office she will send a list of all national register properties in Salem. She also said progress is being made on storage tank situation. Re: Winter Island, she said National Register is more interested in structures than land. The thing to do, she suggested, would be to go through the Conservation Acts - ask Conservation Commission what we should do about it. Note: The City Council is holding a meeting regarding Winter Island on Wednesday, April 24, at 7 p.m. at the Council Chamber, City Hall. Mr. Chalifour also learned at the Workshop that requests may be ' made to designate a scenic road - which would prevent the cutting down of trees, removal of walls, etc. unless a public hearing is held. It cannot be a numbered route or highway. Requests can come • from Historical Commission, Conservation Commission or Planning Board (Chapter 67) . April 10, 1974 (cont) . 2. Check with Mass. Historical Commission on the following: Is the material dated 7'/25/72 that we have in our notebooks the same as the manual for that year? We have no manuals with yellow • covers (only with blue) . We should ask for copies of forms c, D, E and F (2 of each) Send in request form with items checked. Mr Chalifour also said we could check with the Mass. Historical Commission to see exactly what is on file on survey (He thinks we have to go there in person to see) . There are few historic sites - many landmarks. Park Service owns and administers former. Natiohal Register a general term. Clerk will xerox background information for members. Derby Street district: Mr. Chalifour called George Atkins to see what wasappe nin g. Mr. Swiniuch is also on the finance Committee --which has been very involved in going over the city budget. They are almost through. Mr. Atkins will speak to him and follow up. Bicentennial: Clerk will ask Bob Murray, Chairman of Bicentennial Committeeor city, if Historical Commission can send a representa- tive. Mr. Callahan is interested in serving in this capacity. Town House Square : Mrs. Hunt told Commission that the Garden Club is in eres a in keeping the land at the corner of Essex and Washington Streets (proposed location for Burger Chef) as a park. They have contacted the Mayor and asked that the City buy the por- tion of that land owned by Mr. Lappin. Bay State Historical League Heritage Tour announced. Our Annual Report is due October 9, 1974. Bicentennial Meeting - April_23, 1974, 8 p.m. at Old Town Hall. Edward c o gan, Executive Director Mass. State Bicentennial Com. will be the speaker. All invited to attend. Meeting adjourned, 9 :oo p.m. Respectfully submitted, " r • Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk Next Meeting: Wed. , May 1, 7 :30 p.m. North Branch Library SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting May 1, 1974 ;� The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library at 7 :30 p.m. Present were Mssrs. Chalifour, Bishop and Callahan and Mesdames Welch and Hunt. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Mr. Chalifour. Re : Gedney Houses -- The S.P.N.E.A. wanted additional information. Mr. Chalifour found some in the Historic District Study Committee report. This material has been forwarded. to the S.P.N.E.A. Re : Mr. Allen's request for information on Bakers Island light - John Wright of the Essex Institute got information for us. The light belongs to Salem, not Manchester. Info. from book Now, Then, . Baker 's Island by Dewitt D. Wise, Baker 's Island Assoc. , nc ., Baker 's Islan , Salem, Mass. , 1964 (at the Essex Institute Library) . Clerk will send John Wright a personal note of thanks for furnishing the Commission with this information, which will be forwarded with a covering letter to Mr. Allen. Re: Budget - The annual apgropria.tion (July 1, 1974-June 30, 1975) has been approved. It is 1,100.00. Re : Derby Street District - Mr. Chalifour has a call from Mr. • Swiniuch, Uhairman 01 the hls7oric Development Committee of the City Council. He had many questions. He wanted to know why we did not have a preliminary report. Was told we don't have to under statute, since district expanded (original preliminary report covered Custom House area) . He wanted a copy of the second petition, which we have been unable to locate. Mr. C. told him this was extra -- not a requirement. He also asked about color. The Commission has never established any strong control, but does have some authority, since color is not mentioned in the original ordinance as something the Commission does not have control over. According to Mr. Chalifour, the Commission can review and object - this would have to come up at a public meeting. Mrs. Welch referred. to Sept. 6, 1972 minutes. Nantucket the only place that has a color code. Color also men- tioned in Oct. , Nov. and Dec. 1972 minutes. Also reference to color in letter to Chestnut St. residents. The concensus was that the Commission should review each case separately. Color depends on neighborhood. Mr. Swiniuch wants a set of survey forms. There is a set in the City Clerk's office. We can loan him our set. Mrs. Welch will get them to clerk. Mr. Swiniuch also wants a map -- he would like to see it before it comes before the council. Mr. Bishop brought the map, and it was checked over at this meeting. The lots are numbered as in the Assessor 's office. VTe should indicate the back . lot lines. Mr. Bishop will outline them in magic marker. Let Mr. Swiniuch know we will get him the forms and map. Mr. Chalifour said Mr. S. mentioned he might have a "mini" public hearing himself. If he does this, he should invite the Commission. It was decided Mr. Chalifour should send him a letter, f 2 . indicating this is unprecedented and that if he does have a hearing, the public must be invited. Meeting will have to be advertised. Letter from the Bay State Historical League. They are looking for places to hold League meeting for 1976. We should suggest that they hold one in Salem. They are also looking for advertisers for their Bulletin: we should suggest Mr. Landry, Auctioneer and Appraiser, and Mr. Bourgeault, Antique dealer. The Commission should nominate a vice-chairman and a secretary, (latter to keep survey forms , as Mrs. Welch has done) . This should be on agenda at next meeting. Bicentennial Committee : Mr. Callahan has been appointed our representative to the iTy—Committee. He reported on the meeting he attended. There are 23 members . Many ideas presented at the first meeting. They discussed. how Salem will handle tourists . It is expected that many ships will come from other countries (Operation Sail) . There will be an exhibit this year June-Aug. at the Old Town Hall. They are also seeking a stamp commemorating Leslie ' s Retreat. Salem High School students will re-enact Leslie 's Retreat under the direction of Frank Nolan, high school history teacher. The students also want to paint murals at the railroad station. There are some interesting old murals in the Lally Building-- might open these to the public . Their next step will be to divide into sub-committees. Financing -- they have some money from the state. Housing? -- maybe could set up network of housing in private homes ( like Expo) . The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk Next regular meeting: Wed. , June 5, 1974, at 7 :30 p.m. at the North Branch Library r SALEM HISTORICAL CU34ISSION Minutes of IUIeeting June 5, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library at 7 :30 p.m. on June S, 1974. Present were Messrs. Chalifour, Bishop and Callahan and Mesdames LeBlanc and Hunt. The Clerk was asked to contact Mrs. Welch and Mr. Griffin since the Mayor 's office requires an official letter of resignation even though their terms on the Commission have expired. In the future, we will inform members two months in advance to send in a letter notifying the Mayor if their term is up and they no longer wish to serve on the Commission. Bay State Historical League : We received a reply to our letter thanking usfor�offering tom a League Meeting in Salem on Oct. 15, 1977 . They would like this date confirmed before June 10. Clerk will reply. Ask them to send us a reminder 6 months before (May 1977 ) . Bicentennial Committee : Mr. Callahan reported on the May meeting. The committee has Tormea b task forces . He is working on tourism. They are contacting various churches and asking them to serve as hos- pitality centers. They plan to involve senior citizens and youth. Ltiinter Island: The Power Company has reacted favorably to a re- quest from an individual to restoring Forts Pickering and Lee. This may be something we would like to contact them about in the future. Mr. Callahan reported that the Pickering property is to be sold to the city for one-half the appraised price. This is a very generous gesture and it would be nice if the Commission wrote the Pickering Company a letter saying we are pleased with their gesture and that we hope the area will be attractively developed so that the water- front will be enhanced. Mr. Chalif our reported that the Burger King people have submitted new plans for a two story building--not a very attractive one. Clerk asked to write to Mr. Swiniuch re herby St. Historic District and ask him when the Council Committee is planning to meet. Let him know that if they are still entertaining the thought of having a public hearing on the matter that the Commission has no objections, but of course request that we be notified in advance, particularly if the hearing is to be held during the summer. Replacements for vacancies on the Commission. Since the Mayor 's secretary indicated there might be a conflict of interest as far as John Emerson is concerned., we should be thinking of an alternate suggestion. We might ask Chestnut St. Associates to suggest another architect or lawyer, since we must have a representative from that district. Another possibility -vie might consider, according to Mr. Chalifour, is Mr. Richard Savidcey, a Derby St. resident, who is in the business of restoring old houses. Clerk asked. to speak to Mrs . Welch re : Chestnut St. Associates. 2. If the Mayor has not appointed new commission members by next month Mr. Chalifour will go and talk to him about the matter. It was decided that the Commission would recess for the summer unless any important business comes up ( such as a hearing) in which case the Chairman will ask the clerk to notify the members. Our next regularly scheduled meeting will be the second Wednesday in September. The meeting was adjourned at 8 :20. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt Clerk i Salem Historical Commission Yeeting September 17, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met on September 17, 1974, at 7 :30 • p.m. at the North Branch Library.— (This meeting had been rescheduled as a quorum not available for Sept. 11 meeting) . Present were Mr. Raymond L. Chalifour, Chairman, L.rs. Francis C. ' elch and Mrs. Hunt, Clerk. As there was not a quorum, those .present discussed status of several projects and the clerk took notes as follows : Historic Districts : Mrs. -.7elch has photographed houses on Federal —re­e7'—an w, _ finish the forms this month. ?fir. Chalifour called 1cr. 9winiuch regarding the herby St. district. The City Council Com.;::i ttee has still not meet, but ::r. S,,�„i niuch told Yr. Cha.lifour he would be meeting with his committee in the next two weeks. bir. Chalifour has had calls from Common residents who are anxious to proceed with that district. He told them Commission could not do anything until Derby St. district established. Re: Appoint^ ents to Commission. 1,1ayor will submit r,lrs. ";elch's name for reappointment as she has agreed to serve another term. Since there is presently no lawyer available to serve, Vr. Chalifour sug- gested we depend on outside legal helR if we need it and submit another candidate to fill the vacancy. He suggested that Richard • Savickey, a builder who specializes in the restoring of old houses , would be a Food candidate. irr. Savickey lives at 78 ?lerby St. , Salem (tel. 744-0572) . Clerk asked to write to him and find out if he would be willing to serve--if so we will submit his name to the l ayor. Clerk will also check with 1ayor's secretary beforehand to make sure vacancy has not already been filled. Custodial fee : Since the Public Library can no longer absorb the cos of ne custodian for our meetings, we are being charged $15.00 per meeting for the use of the building. This was not anticipated when we mane up our budget, but we have been able to rearrange our budget to allow S150. for this item. Clerk will prepare annual report which is due at City Clerk's office by Oct. 9. . Per order of the City Council on August 14-- "all Boards and Commissions of the City of Salem file with the City Clerk, within five days — after each meeting, a record of all members present and absent from their meeting. ” "!e should note in report that this was not our regu- lar meeting date. Yr. Chalifour reported that he received a draft environmental state- • *Hent-- a lengthy report-- rhich he read over the summer. Since the board did not meet during the sunmer, Ray also had Tim Doggett of Historic Salem, Inc. read the report. In the answering letter, he expressed the concern of the Comiission about the proposed Burger Sept. 17 (cont. ) 2. • King restaurant to be located in Town House Square and voiced our opposition to the proposal. Bring this up for discussion at next Commission meeting and decide if we should publicize our stand via a letter to the Editor. Mr. Chalifour read a letter he received from the University of Florida regarding a preservation project--a Bicentennial booklet on Preservation techniques--they would like to know about successful preservation projects. Ray will deliver letter to Bob Scagliotti of the S. R. A... --so that he can provide them with information on I)erby Square project. The next meeting will be held on FEednesday, October 2, 1974, at . 7 :30 p.m. at the TVorth French Library. Please contact clerk at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend e mee ing. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk I Salem Historical Commission CITY HALL. SALEM. MASS. 01970 1-'eeting held Tuesday, Sept. 17, 1974 at Nlorth Branch Library, 7 :30 p.m. Present: Raymond L. Chalifour, Chairman, Pars. Francis C. . elch; E. hunt, Clerk .'.bsent: Erwin Bishop, George Ahmed and James Callahan and Angela LeBlanc. Note: As the regular meeting had to be postponed, this was an alternate date and several peoole had previous committments. Commission currently has only 6 members. v Elizabeth S. Hunt Clerk q i j � _ f - I SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION -- Minutes of Meeting -- Oct. 2 , 1974 . The Salem Historical Commission met on Wed. , Oct. 2, 1974 at 7130 p.m, at the North Branch Library. Present were Messrs. Ahmed, Bishop, Callahan, Chalifour and Mesdames Welch and Hunt. Mr, Chalifour announced that he had received notification from the City Clerk that Mrs. Welch has been reappointed to the Commission for a three year term. c. Pending appointments The Mayor's office is sending Mr. Richard . Savickey a resume. It is our hope that he will be appointed at the Oct. 10th Council meeting, Burger Kings Jim McAllister of the Gables who has organized the Community Coalition (an organization based on civic groups band- ing together to act on common concerns ) is planning a meeting to express opposition to the proposed Burger King restaurant in Town House Square to the Mayor. This group would like the city to buy the land. Next Monday or Tuesday evening there will be a meeting to organize visit-:,t o Mayor. Mr. Chalifour will try to attend this meeting. Commission expressed our opposition to the Burger King proposal in a letter to the Mayor earlier this year and also in a letter to HUD in reply to their environmental impact study of Heri- tage Plaza East during the summer. Mr. Chalifour read the latter communication and explained that even though the far side of Wash- ington Street and Essex Street is outside the boundary of Heritage • Plaza East, it has an impact on the renewal area. Commission is not necessarily opposed to a building at that location, but feels it should be a different types perhaps service and information area downstairs, with cafeteria above. We can't legally stop Burger King from building there but can try to get City to take land and put up something else , Mr. Chalifour has the HUD report and will be glad to make it available to anyone who wishes to read it, Bakers Island : Mr. Chalifour received a letter from the Coast Guard, Dept, of Transportation asking if there was any historical significance attached to Bakers Island. The Mass. Historical Commission was contacted by Mr. Chalifour and they don't have any Information on the island. Letter referred to Acts of 1935 and 1966. Maybe people on the Island will know. Mr. Chalifour will contact Mrs. Nicholson, a neighbor of his, who owns property on the Island. Commission members not present at last meeting were informed of the new rule that attendance at commission meetings must be reported to the City Clerk within five days of each meeting. Clerk will do this each month. The Annual Report draft by Mrs. Hunt was read and approved. A vote of thanks was given to her for the preparation of the re- port. Several minor corrections were made. • Mr. James Callahan reported on the plans of the Bicentennial J Committee. The committee has been meeting monthly, and has pre- 10/2/74 2 . pared a calendar covering all sorts of events for period 1975-1977. Among the affairs planned are Old Salem Market Days, tours , a B1- cennial Ball. Something will be going on almost every month. The Committee has some funding from the city but will need more money to carry on its work, They have a logo which will be used on various articles for sale ; also have some other fund raising projects planned . Their total proposed budget is $85,900. Mr. Chalifour suggested that a calendar of events be published and sent to all the mayor hotels in Boston, Mr. Callahan will suggest this to the committee . Perhaps the Chamber of Commerce might help. The committee also has an exhibit at the Boston Globe book fair. Federal Streets Mrs, Welch has been working on survey forms for Federal St, Commission needs some workers to do research. Also needs a zoning map to block out area, Derby Streets Mr. Ahmed suggested that the Commission send a letter Eo he—city solicitor asking for legal advice on how we can get the district out of committee and onto the floor of the council, Mr. Chalifour said members of Historic Salem, Inc, have contacted councillors. The out is that by a majority vote of the council, the matter can be withdrawn from committee and brought out on the floor. Commission should write a letter to Mr. Tintl and state the facts that the report was put before the council in January and • that the matter is still in committee , that the Commission and Mr. Nowak and Mr. Swiniuch have had many requests, and that we feel that the matter has been in committee an unreasonable length of time , The commission has endeavored to meet every request of the committee and answer all their questions--the commission met with the committee in January before submitting the matter to the City Council. Ask the City Solicitor what move we should take next. Motion made (Mrs, Welch) and seconded (Mr. Bishop) , Voted yes unanimously to send above letter. Copies to be sent to the Mayor, Councillor Nowak and Councillor Atkins, The meeting was adjourned at 9:10. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt Clerk The next regular meeting of the Historical Commission will be held on Wed. , Nov. 6, 19749 at 7: 30 p.m. at the North Branch Library. I • SALEM HISTORICAL C011IISSION Nov. 4, 1974 A meeting of the Historical Commission was held with the • City Council Committee on Historic and Tourist Development on Monday, November 4, 1974, at 7 :30 p.m. at the Council Chambers Present were Chairman Councillor .Swiniuch and Councillors Plante and Bouley, as well as Councillors Field, Nowak and Atkins. Commission members, Chairman Ray Chalifour, Mr. Bishop, Mr. Callahan, Mrs. LeBlanc and Mrs. Welch. There were also about a dozen residents of the Derby St. area. Councillor.- Swiniuch asked Mr. Chalifour to give the background of the proposed Derby Street Historic District, and to explain its boundaries, to tell about the public hearing held by the Commission, and if the plan had been filed with the Registry of Deeds. Mr. Chalifour complied, and was further questioned as follows. Councillor Plante - Have owners in the district been notified . since the hearing? Mr. Chalifour - "No. " Councillor Plante - How many people came to the hearing? Mr. Chalifour - about fifty or seventy-five. None were opposed - Miss Alice Jordan said no one in the district has expressed oppo- sition. There were other questions about the boundary lines of the Dis- trict. The reason the House of the Seven Gables was not included is • because it is well cared for - it will delay matters if it is now in- cluded. Mr. Nowak said a house at the head of Palfrey Court has been erroneously included. Chairman Swiniuch stated that this and any other corrections must be made, in consultation with the City Shcicitor and filed with the Registry of Deeds. He stated he doesn't want the City Council to make any mistakes. Chairman Swiniuch also asked why the ordinance submitted for this proposed distf`,ict did not include all the exemptions stated in Chapter 40. Mr. Chalifour said the Chestnut St. Ordinance was used as a model. It works for the Chestnut St. District and it is hoped it would be satisfactory for other Salem Districts. Councillor Bouley moved to have the proposed district plan reported favorably to the Council pro- vided it is cleared and approved by the City Solicitor. The motion . was seconded by Councillor Plante. Mr. Swiniuch stated that a public hearing will be held by the full Council. The motion was passed. Mr. Bouley and Mr. Atkins commended the Commission for its work and Mr. Atkins said the future maintenance of the district will depend on the calibre of the Commission overseeing it. The meeting adjourned at 9:05. , Respectfully submitted, 0 Ellen C. Welch Secretary SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting Nov. 6, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met at the North Branch Library. • Present were Mssrs. Ahmed, Bishop, Callahan and Chalifour and Mesdames LeBlanc and Hunt. Derby St. Historic District: — lIie —mee ing was ca e to order. Mr. Chalifour went over the guidelines provided by the Mass. Historical Commission--and found that the Commission has complied. We provided the City Council with a large scale map as requested. It is not necessary to give one to the Registry of Deeds until the District is approved by the City Council. The City Solicitor has been given a copy of the map along with the final report and proposed ordinance for his approval. Mr. Chalifour read over the minutes of the Nov. 4 meeting with the City Council Committee on Historic and Tourist ??evelopment. Mr. Ahmed asked for clarification of paragraph #4 regarding corrections. Mr. Chalifour said Mr. Atkins hopes this district can be voted on for first passage the same evening as the hearing. Clerk will contact Mrs. Gardner at the House of Seven Gables re; the inclusion of the Gables Parking lot. The boundaries would only go to back lot and not include house on Turner St. that borders the parking lot. What if there is opposition at the hearing from clubs? If any • opposition, we can compromise at lower end of street, but ofly if necessary. If we get approval from the City Solicitor for changes, both City Solicitor 's and Mr. Swiniuch's maps should be adjusted. Bakers Island: Mr. Chalifour reported that only two Salem families own property on Bakers Island. One is a neighbor of his who is very much in favor of getting the Coast Guard property on the National Register. He has talked to the Mass. Historical Commission and was told that this all came about because owners of federal property (in this case, the Coast Guard) are supposed to fill out forms and put their property on the National Register. The Mass. Historical Commission will contact the Coast Guard and tall them we will be glad to aid them in filling out proper forms and supplying them with information. Appointment of Mr. Savickey: Has not yet taken place because the city council is holding up 1 all appointments until approved by their committee. t 10 Election of Vice-Chairman: It was decided to wait until our next meeting so all members could be present. 11/6/74 minutes 2. Topics Plan: We have received a communication from the Planning Dept. as ing us o review the plans for changes to be made on Dalton Park- way and intersection of Warren, Broad, Jackson and Essex Sts. We must send our approval in writing if we comply. Clerk will check with Conservation Commission to see if they have any objections. If not, we will approve. Bur ge_r�King: Mrs. LeBlanc represented the Commission at a meeting at the Ga—F es Settlement House and gave our position on this matter. Representatives of this group then met with the Mayor and vdiced their objections. Burger King has since decided not to build in this location. The committee has now decided to take an offensive position and find something positive and productive for that space. Will meet on Nov. 12 to offer constructive ideas. Mrs. LeBlanc would like to push for idea of city buying lot for a park and having it properly landscaped. Bob Murray has proposed an old fashioned ice-cream parlor for that location. It would also be a good spot for a tourist information bureau--only problem would be traffic conges- tion. However, people csould park in Riley Plaza. Mr. Chalifour believes that space needs a building--design of building should be right for area--could also keep green area in front. City ®awns L- shaped piece of land on Essex St. side. Mr. Chalifour suggested a crescent-shaped building--could have shops, Chamber of Commerce, etc. Garden area. in front. Could also have public restrooms in building. • There are alternatives to a big square block. There is growing oppo- sition to fast food chains all over the country, Mrs. LeBlanc pointed out. She wondered if funds could be obtained from the National Park Service as Town House Square was the site of some very important historic events (eg. first Provincial Congress was held in Salem-- this was first official move to oppose British domination. Mr. Chalifour replied that things happened in that area, but not on that specific corner. Bicentennial: Mr Callahan reported that Committee had a booth at e o e ook Fair and also held Market Days last month. Mr. Chalifour read an order from the City Council that city boards divide their advertising between the two newspapers published in Salem. If what we do is important, we might want to advertise in both. It was moved and seconded that we renew our membership in the Bay State Historical League. The meeting was adjourned at 9 :15. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk Next meeting: Wed. , Dec. 4, at 7 :30 at North Branch Library We will notify people when hearing date set and contact Mr. Swiniuch re: map. SALEM HISTORICAL COMMISSION Meeting -- Dec. 4, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met on Wed. , Dec. 4, 1974, at 7:30 p.m, at the North Branch Library. Present were Mssrs. Bishop, Callahan, Chalifour, Savickey and Ahmed, and Mesdames LeBlanc, Welch and Hunt (clerk) . An executive session of the Commission was held at 7$15 p.m. prior to the regularly scheduled meeting. New Commission member, Mr. Savickey, was introduced. Commission members not at the recent City Council meeting were brought up to date on the Derby Street District situation, The District received first passage at that meeting but some councillors felt that the matter should be explored further regarding 2 objecting parties, so those persons have been invited to attend our meeting this evening. Others in attendances Councillors Bouley and Swiniuchp Mr. William McKinnon, the Misses Delores and Alice Jordan, Mrs. Savickey and Stanley Smith. Also a reporter from Radio Station WMLO in Beverly. Announcements: Mr. Callahan reported for the Bicentennial Com- mittee that the Bicentennial Ball will be held in late February - early March, at the Salem Armory. Mrs. LeBlanc announced that a wine tasting party will be held for the benefit of the Alternate School on Sun. , Dec. 8, from 2 :30 to 4$30 at Grace Church. Anyone Interested may contact her for tickets. The meeting was called to order at 7$30 p.m. The first item on • the agenda: further discussion re : Derb Street District. Mr. Chalifour asked Mr. McKinnon to speak first. Mr. McKinnon said that basically he had no objection to the historic district but he does not want his property to be included. He views the district as one more restriction. He has owned property there for a long time. He is in the process of putting cedar shingling on #14 Kosciusko St. --probably the only change that will be made to that building. He also owns an undersized lot of land (#s 18-20 K. St. ) that he wants to build on. His previous plans have been turned down by the Board of Appeals. He wants to build 3-family townhouse units. Will need a variance since area is zoned for 2-family structures. He pointed out that other buildings in area don't conform to zoning ordinance since they were built prior to the enactment of that ordinance. . He cited dimensions of his lot and approximate dimensions of structure he might erect. Materials he has in mind for exterior finish are cedar shingles, clapboards and brick. He feels Board of Appeals is an ordeal. Mr Chalifour explained the process he would go through with the Commission--we are dealing with Design Review. We are the first step. He can get our basic approval first by coming to us with photos or sketches before getting involved in detailed drawings., etc. . .` He also explained that each district is viewed in a different light I l according to the character of the neighborhood. The location determines the type of design that would be acceptable in a given area. The Commission would bend over backwards to co-operate . Our board can • also offer him expert advice . Mr. Chalifour also referred to a letter signed by other residents of K. St. in favor of being included in a district. 2. Mr. Ahmed asked Mr. McKinnon what he estimated the cost of constructing townhouses would. be. He thought about $50,000. Mr. . Ahmed asked him if he thought his building would fit in - in that area. He thought so. Mr. A. asked him if he was concerned about how surrounding property would affect his own--reply -- not really. Mr. Chalifour pointed out that Commission does not object to his putting white cedar shingles on his house at #14. We aren't going to be purists. Under those conditions, Mr. McKinnon said he would be willing to include #14. He doesn't think we need to include last 2 lots. Peter Bouley pointed out that the city has no control over design. He thinks being in the historic district would protect Mr. McKinnon's investment. Also if property excluded there Is no control over someone else who might buy it in the future and do something different. Mr. McKinnon does not think more controls are the answers to our problems. He pointed out that there are not that many old houses on Kosciusko St. Mr. Chalifour pointed out that K. St, is Important because it borders Derby Wharf. Mr. Callahan pointed out that the plans Mr. McKinnon has would improve area. Mr. McKinnon stated that as long as=there is a shadow of a doubt, he will hold out. If we can come to an agreement (res #s 18-20) he will be glad to co- operate . Mr. Chalifour stated that we need a specific idea of how the house will sit on the property. Commission would have no objection to balconies and sliding doors on the water side , if he so desires. Type of design he is thinking of is similar to units in Marblehead and Hawthorne Crossing in Swampscott (without staggered setbacks ) . Only fear he has is that we would say "no" at Board of Appeals. • Mr. Callahan read from manual - advantages of being in a historic district. This matter comes up before the City Council for second passage on December 12. If Mr. McKinnon can get us together some material photos or sketches to give an idea of the design before the Council i meeting, Commission will be glad to sit down and go over it with him. / Mr. Chalifour showed him a sample application form. The Commission has to act by law within 60 days on a given apblication. Mx Chalifour also wants indication of how the building will be situated on the site. Time set for meetings Monday, Dec. 9 at 700 p.m. --places 78 Derby St. (home of Mr. Richard Savickey) Mr. Swiniuch told us that Mrs. Grabas did not want to come to a public meeting. He suggested that someone from the Commission go to see her and explain what being in a district entails. Mr. Ahmed will go and talk with her. Miss Jordan also volunteered to research her house. House has been altered - but so have many others in area. David Johnson's letter was read -- residents of Kosciusko St. in support. Clerk will compose letter after we meet with Mr. McKinnon next Monday and after Mr. Ahmed meets with Mrs. Grabas to report out- come to City Council. • 3. Other business : i"e have received a reminder from • the Mass. . is orica Commission re : grants-in-aid for properties listed on National Register. (This also includes individual properties included in a National Historic District. ) These properties are eligible for 50% aid. IIrs. Welch will ask Mrs. A;madon, who is now Chairman of the Vass. Historical Commission, about this. She thinks we should publicize this information. We also received a communication from the ' ass. Historical Commission asking for current list of members serving on our Commission. Appointment of Vice-Chairman: Motion made by Mrs . Welch and seconded y Mr. _E31s-R_o_p7EE`F.T7,r. Callahan be elected as our Vice-Chairman. Voted unanimously in the affirmative. Budget--Clerk informed Commission that our proposed budgel—Yor 1975-76 must be submitted by Dec. 9. Discussed budget and decided to ask for an ad.ditional $100. to cover part of custodial expenses which were not included in our last budget. Commission asked clerk to inquire to see whether she was in line for a raise; as her duties would be increased with the addition of a new district. • Concensus : Re Derby St. Historic District. The Commission is opposed o eliminating dissenters. 1�7e should ask the Council to go for the entire district. In the event that the proposal is turned down, we can then resubmit with changes . The meeting was adjourned at 9 :30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. aunt, Clerk Reminder of meetings : Special meeting with Mr. McKinnon: Monday, Dec. 9, at 7 :30 p.m. at 78 Derby St. Next regular Commission meeting: Wed. , Jan. 8, at 7 :30 p.m. at the North Branch ti rar' r SALEM HISTORICAL COLU' ISSION Dec. 9, 1974 The Salem Historical Commission met at the home of Mr. and Mrs . Richard Sa.vickey, 78 Derby St, Salem, at 7 :30 p.m. to review the proposal of Mr. and Mrs . 'dilliam F. McKinnon to construct 3 townhouse units on their property at No. 18-20 Kosciusko St. Present were Messrs . Bishop, Callahan, Ahmed. and Savickey, and Mesdames 111'elch, LeBlanc and Hunt; also Mr. and Mrs. McKinnon. Mr. McKinnon showed the Commission some photographs he had taken of Colonial style townhouses on Pond Street in Marblehead. He would like to construct something similar in design on his property on Kosciusko St. These would. be 2-story townhouses 22-23 ft. high. He brought a diagram showing proposed dimensions of these units and how they would be situated. on the land. The building would have a 15 foot setback and be divided into 3 units . Overall dimensions : from 42 minimum to 48 maximum width tP 30 it It 32 " depth He would be willing to have front of building facing the water side if that would be more important to us. He would be agreeable to whatever types of doors and windows we suggest, within a reasonable cost range. He also showed the placement of the parking areas which are required by law--he must provide 1 1/2 • parking spaces per unit. Parking could be rovided along each side of building plus front corners of lot p(on K. St. ) There would also be landscaping on K. St. side of house. The Commission members present at this meeting told Mr. McKinnon they were favorably impressed with his proposal and felt that the type of design he was proposing would be acceptable to the Commission. He would, of course, have to go through the proper channels once the district is set up. He said he was impressed with the fact that the Commission was willing to sit down and listen to his ideas and that since he forsaw no great obstacles to his plans for that piece of property, he would with- draw his objections to having his property at 18-20 Kosciusko St. included in the district. He said he would write to the City Council and tell them he has changed his mind.. The clerk will get a letter to the City Clerk before tomorrow noon reporting on our meeting with the MIcKinnons . Mr. Ahmed has tried twice to contact Mrs Grabas, but she has not been at home. He will try again tomorrow morning. The clerk will report the outcome of tba.t in her letter, as well as the position of the Commission: that we urge second passage of the Derby Street Ordinance as originally submitted, with no alteration to the boundaries. Respectfully submitted, Elizabeth S. Hunt, Clerk