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2002-12-11 SRA MinutesMINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF THE SALEM REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY HELD ON DECEMBER 11, 2002 A regular meeting of the Salem Redevelopment Authority was held in the third floor conference room at 120 Washington Street on Wednesday, December 11, 2002, at 6:00 p.m. Chairman Curran called the meeting to order and on roll call the following members answered present: Michael Connelly, Russell Vickers, Robert Curran and Conrad Baldini. Executive Director Joseph Walsh, Economic Development Planner Tania Hartford and SRA Project Coordinator Don Giard were also present. DISCUSSION/NEW BUSINESS Executive Director’s Report Mr. Walsh stated that financing and the LDA were discussed at the last Board meeting. He explained that he has received correspondence from Mr. Luster. Mr. Walsh explained that the developers have requested approval to begin the removal of asbestos located in the building. The developers have agreed to assume full liability and risk on behalf of the SRA and have prepared a scope that is limited to asbestos removal. Mr. Curran stated that the Board should make sure that City Solicitor has reviewed the proposal. Mr. Walsh explained that the City Solicitor will review the documents to make sure that all conditions have been met. Mr. Walsh stated that the Board can authorize the developer to proceed with the abatement. The board may also want to take a closer look at the financials, including the commitment letter in more detail. Mr. Balidini made a motion to authorize the asbestos abatement Mr. Curran added that the motion should include the condition that the developer shall assume full liability and responsibility for the work. Mr. Vickers seconded the motion, all were in favor, the motion so carried. Mr. Walsh stated that a meeting will take place between City staff and the architect to resolve some discrepancies with the final construction plans. DRB Recommendations Bowman’s Building (266 Essex Street) An architect from H.H Morant and Company, Inc. made a final presentation to the Board for the redevelopment of 266 Essex Street. The architect reviewed the final site plan, floor plans and elevations, and the changes that were made during the design review process. Mr. Walsh stated that the applicant worked cooperatively with the DRB to create a final proposal that encourages the continuation of an active retail ground level use and a more contextual storefront design with more glazing. Mr. Vickers made a motion to approve the recommendation of the DRB for the renovation of 266 Essex Street. Mr. Baldini seconded the motion, all were in favor, motion so carried. Winter River Realty Trust (209 Essex Street) Mr. Giard presented an application for a new fence to be installed at the rear of 209 Essex Street. The proposal consists of a 27’-6” long green metal “topiary” fence. The fence will be 3’ high and will be located along an existing retaining wall. The Design Review Board recommended approval of the application as submitted. Mr. Connelly made a motion to approve the DRB recommendation for the 230 Essex Street. Mr. Vickers seconded the motion, all were in favor, motion so carried. Redevelopment Projects Review Salem Laundry Building (51-71 Lafayette Street) Mr. Walsh stated that the project is currently at the preliminary review level. The project will go to the Zoning Board of Appeals and then back to the SRA. Mr. Walsh stated that the law firm Tinti, Quinn, Grover and Frey is handling the audit for the City. A letter has been submitted stating that there is no conflict of interest. Mr. Walsh explained that this is a landmark building that has enormous potential for the continued revitalization of downtown. Scott Grover, attorney for the developer, addressed the Board. He introduced the development team and outlined the project scope and funding. Mr. Grover stated that the property is owned by the owner of the Engine House Pizza. The developer is RC Development Group, which has experience with loft conversions. Mr. Grover explained that the project will retain most of the existing tenants and will include 55 new residential units. Two new levels will be added to the building, which will require a height variance and a possibly a F.A.R. variance. The added density will help offset the tremendous costs associated with the renovation. Mark Meche, from Winter Street Architects, addressed the Board. He stated that the building was most likely constructed between 1908 and 1909. The building is a good example of reinforced concrete construction and is on the National Register. Mr. Meche explained that the building has some structural issues and is in poor condition. He stated that the height issues are largely attributed to the extremely tall first level of the building. Mr. Meche also explained that the building consists of a concrete portion to the rear and a brick portion facing Derby Street. The project proposal includes auto access at the center of the building for loading and unloading. Parking will be off-site. Mr. Meche stated that the proposal includes the demolition of the top two levels of the building and the construction of a series of terraces that step down to the street. He also stated that the proposal includes the introduction of new vertical elements and canopies. Mr. Grover stated that the massing will help reduce the impact on the neighborhood. He also stated that there are issues concerning the removal of the existing clock at the corner of Lafayette and New Derby. Mr. Brennan inquired about the unit types. Thomas Costio from RCG stated that their proposal includes retail on the first floor and that they have met w/ the City to discuss the site. He explained that from a cost perspective, the ideal residential product is a two-bedroom unit priced at $350,000. Mr. Curran inquired about the number of parking spaces. Mr. Costio stated that they are making arrangements for the parking and that they will work with the Off-Street Parking Commission and will also try to acquire adjacent property for parking. Mr. Curran asked Mr. Costio how many spaces will be located under the building. Mr. Costio explained that there will not be any parking underneath the building. The building will only accommodate a “pass-thru” for residents. He stated that they intend to purchase 84 parking spaces at the South Harbor Garage. Mr. Curran inquired about the building material. Mr. Meche stated that the they are still working on the details but they are looking into a plaster material or cast stone. Alex Steinburg stated that they will put the units on the market and will offer custom units. The developer will market the units during the construction period. Mr. Grover stated that the applicant will include a large commercial space along New Derby Street for a major retail tenant such as Crate and Barrel. Mr. Vickers expressed concern over the sale of public parking spaces at the South Harbor Garage, citing the spaces that have already been set aside for the Pickering Wharf Hotel. Mr. Walsh stated that the applicant can purchase right to use the garage, but not specific parking spaces. They will work with the Off-street Parking Commission. Mr. Vickers asked if the concrete building will remain as it is when it is rebuilt. He also asked if it will blend in with the rest of the building. Mr. Meche explained that they will be using smoother surfaces for the new levels. Mr. Walsh stated that the DRB will be reviewing the project but that the project begins and ends with the SRA. Mr. Grover stated that they are looking for a conceptual approval on the use and the concept. Mr. Curran stated that the Board has positively responded to the project. There being no further business, Mr. Baldini made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Connelly seconded the motion, all were in favor, motion so carried. Meeting stands adjourned.