Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout190106 - Minutes, Historic District CommMINUTES HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY February 6, 2019 A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL The regular monthly meeting of the Historic District Commission was called to order on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in Room 2001 of the Washington County Administration Building, 100 West Washington Street, Hagerstown, Maryland. Members present included: Tom Clemens, Edie Wallace, Ann Aldrich, Gary Rohrer, and Vernell Doyle. Also present was Staff member Stephen Goodrich, Director, Washington County Department of Planning & Zoning. B. MINUTES None C. COMMUNICATIONS AND BILLS None D, UNFINISHED BUSINESS None E. BUDGET None F. NEW BUSINESS None G. OTHER BUSINESS Discussion of Demolition Application Process The Commission began its discussion with a letter received from the Washington County Historical Advisory Committee relative to a demolition permit application that was recently reviewed by the HDC and the Planning Commission. The Commission would like to eventually make recommendations for changes in the demolition permit process to the Board of County Commissioners for consideration. • Adoption of a delayed demolition process: Currently being considered in Frederick County. This would not prevent the demolition; however, it would delay the process in order for the Commission and staff to discuss alternatives with property owners. Members discussed creating a list of criteria to be used when evaluating specific issues. • Fine for demolition without a permit: The Commission believes that the current fine is too low. However, instead of, or in addition to a fine, the Commission suggested that if the demolition process is not followed a building permit to build on the land be withheld for a specified amount of time. Mr. Goodrich noted that this may not be allowed but he would further investigate. Fine for demolition without a permit be calculated at a percentage of the assessed value of the property. • Voluntary incentives for saving historic structures when development of property is proposed. There was a discussion with regard to the incentives already in place. Discussions focused on the present HP (Historic Preservation) zoning district, how to encourage property owners to apply for the zoning, and a comprehensive rezoning of all historic properties. There were discussions relative to creating a delayed demolition policy, the process involved, and having discussions with the Planning Commission. Mr. Goodrich suggested making revisions to the current policy before meeting with the Planning Commission. He will gather information from other jurisdictions to see how they are handling these issues and distribute the information. The Commission also asked how many times the fine for demolishing an historic structure without a permit has been issued and paid. H. CLOSED SESSION None I. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Stephen T. Goodrich, Director