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12/08/1998DESIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING CITY OF CLEARWATER December 8, 1998 Present: William McCann Chair Robert Herberich Board Member Kathy Milam Vice Chair Howard Hamilton Board Member 7th Seat Vacant Absent: Alex Plisko Board Member Mark Cagni Board Member Also Present: Leslie Dougall-Sides Assistant City Attorney Antonia Gerli Senior Planner Gwen Legters Board Reporter To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order. The Chair called the meeting to order at 3:05 p.m. at City Hall, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and review of meeting procedures. Minutes Approval – November 10, 1998 Chair McCann corrected case number DRB 98-236 to DRB 98-026 on page three. Member Herberich moved to approve the minutes as amended. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Proposals for Design Review 1. (cont. from 10/27/98) DRB 98-020 - Mace-Kingsley Clearwater 900 Grove Street (Exterior Modifications) This item was continued with a request for the applicant to revisit fenestration and exterior symmetry. Senior Planner Antonia Gerli presented background. Representative Thomas Füegel and architect Pierre Conoyeur displayed photographs of the building’s exterior, showing how the proposal will lighten and improve site aesthetics. New elevation drawings showed Southwest style archways over some of the French doors to unify and relieve repetition on the facades. In response to questions, it was indicated the 6,000 square-foot building will have single-occupancy offices in front, warehouse area in back; the parking lot will be recoated and restriped for aesthetics; landscaping improvements in the rear will create a recreation area; and an exit doorway is in the north side of the building. No verbal or written support or opposition was expressed. Member Milam moved to approve DRB 98-020 as submitted. The motion was duly seconded. Concerns were expressed the Southwest style is not consistent with design guidelines; and photographs illustrating the proposal do not match the elevation drawings. In response to concerns that the window repetition is boring, Mr. Conoyeur said the offices in front align with the existing windows. The windows were lowered and changed to French doors for more light. Upon the vote being taken, Members McCann, Milam, and Hamilton voted “Aye”; Member Herberich voted, “Nay.” Motion carried. 2. DRB 98-023 Club More -- “Flash” Gordon C. Williamson, Owner 703 Franklin Street (Signage) The applicant withdrew the request to bring signs into compliance. A new application will be filed when ready. 3. DRB 98-024 Theta Townhomes of Clearwater – Barry Ullman, Inc., Architects 900 Block of Laura Street (New Development Proposal) The applicant proposes to construct 21 attached townhomes in two rows on a vacant .79-acre site. Barry Ullman, with the architectural firm representing the applicants, stated he designed the townhome property at the request of a group of Italian investors. He detailed site conditions, retention, surrounding uses, and how the design was reconfigured to save a large specimen oak tree. He outlined the proposal for an open feeling in front, with European-style pastel colors and finishes alternating along the building to give individuality to the units. He discussed side and rear elevation drawings showing the residential scale, streetscaping and shingle roofs in compatible colors. In response to questions, he stated the development management will control landscaping. Downtown Manger Diane Smith spoke in support of the proposal. No verbal or written opposition was expressed. Discussion ensued regarding parking requirements, emergency vehicle access, and the $110,000 to $130,000 projected unit cost. Concerns were expressed with walls and gates proposed to restrict access and discussion ensued regarding impacts to surroundings streets. Member Milam moved to approve DRB 98-24 as submitted. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. DRB 98-28 The Oaks of Clearwater -- Thomas C. Nash, Representative 210 Osceola Avenue (exterior modifications) In a letter dated December 3, 1998, the applicants’ representative stated this item will be continued to the meeting of January 26, 1999, in order to provide additional details regarding the proposed changes. Board & Staff Comments Discussion ensued regarding the new code’s anticipated adoption schedule and how the code will affect 1999 Design Review Board membership and meeting schedule. Questions were raised regarding membership composition and selection for the new community development board. Member Milam moved to schedule the next two Design Review Board meetings for January 12 and 26, 1999. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 3:38 p.m.