HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-11-06 Historic PACKET
HPACCommittee Agenda
Note: Anyone wishing to speak at any HPAC meeting is encouraged to do so. If you wish to speak, please rise and, after you have been
recognized by the Chair, give your name and complete address for the record. You will then be allowed to speak. Please note the public
testimony may be limited by the Chair. Times noted for each item are approximate…
November 6, 2024
AGENDA
(4:00) CALL TO ORDER: Meeting held in person at 51 Winburn Way and via Zoom at:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/96477553301?pwd=PwUPK4acbVm7ZOZK9udGRZ1Y7Yp71P.1
Meeting ID: 964 7755 3301
Passcode: 776383
READING OF LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I.(4:05) APPROVAL OF AGENDA
II.(4:10)APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of October 2, 2024
III.(4:15) PUBLIC FORUM
IV.(4:30) LIASON REPORTS
A.Council Liaison - Jeff Dahle
B.Staff Liaison – Derek Severson
V.(4:45) DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.Review Board Assignments
B.Community Center Recommendation
C.2025 Work Plan
VI.(5:30) PLANNING ACTION REVIEW
PLANNING ACTION: PA-T1-2024-00251
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 264 Fourth Street
OWNER/APPLICANT: Carlos Delgado
DESCRIPTION: A request for Commercial Site Design Review for an addition to an existing
structure at 264 Fourth Street. The proposal is for a 1,200 square foot addition to the rear of the existing
building. The request also includes the removal of two trees within the development footprint of the
addition. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION: Employment; ZONING: E-1; MAP: 391E09AB TAX LOT:5,600
VII.(6:00) ADJOURNMENT
Page 1 of 1
HPAC Committee Minutes (Draft)
October 2, 2024
4:00PM – 6:00PM
Community Development/Engineering Services Building – 51 Winburn Way
6:00PM CALL TO ORDER
Scharen called the meeting to order at 4:02pm
Commissioners Present: Council Liaison:
Shostrom Jeff Dahle
Skibby -ZOOM Staff Present:
Scharen Derek Severson; Planning Manager
Whitford Regan Trapp; Admin Support
Repp
Emery
Brouillard
Committee members absent: Bonetti
READING OF LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Land Acknowledgement was read by Scharen.
“We acknowledge and honor the aboriginal people on whose ancestral homelands
we live, —the Ikirakutsum Band of the Shasta Nation, including the original past
indigenous inhabitants, as well as the diverse Native communities who make their
home here today. We also recognize and acknowledge the Shasta village of
K’wakhakha — “Where the Crow lights”—that is now the Ashland City Plaza.”
(4:05) APPROVAL OF AGENDA (5 min)
Committee suggested amendments to agenda.
There we no suggested amendments by the committee.
(4:10) APPROVAL OF MINUTES (5 min)
Historic Committee meeting of September 4, 2024
(4:15) PUBLIC FORUM (15 min)
There was no one in the audience wishing to speak.
HPAC Committee Minutes (Draft)
(4:30) LIAISON REPORTS (5 min)
Councilor Dahle gave the liaison report.
Council is revamping the uniform policies for commissions and committees.
Councilor Dahle expressed the importance of reading the uniform policies and
giving input to Severson.
Severson gave the staff report.
264 Fourth Street – Addition to Haskins garage will likely be presented at the
November meeting.
Community Center status – There will be a site visit with council at 11am on Oct
14. Contractor has discovered deficiencies with the building and funds have
th
exceeded the allotted amount.
Council has considered a uniform operating policy for all commissions and
committees. This includes term limits and a policy regarding electronic
participation.
B Street updates are being looked at by City of Ashland and the survey is on
the City Website. There is horse hitching rings located in the curbs around B
and 4 streets that the Committee would like to look at. They will do a site visit
th
soon to make sure these do not disappear with the road updates.
(4:35) PLANNING ACTION REVIEW (20 min)
PLANNING ACTION: PA-T1-2024-00247
SUBJECT PROPERTY: 77 Fifth Street
OWNER/APPLICANT: Asher Homes
DESCRIPTION: A request for a Conditional Use Permit approval for an addition to an
existing non-conforming structure at 77 Fifth Street. The proposal is for a 295 square
foot addition to the rear of the existing residence. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DESIGNATION:
Multi-Family Residential; ZONING: R-2; MAP: 391E09AC; TAX LOT: 6,900
Scharen recused herself due to conflict of interest. Shostrom assigned as Chair and
opened the public hearing.
Severson gave the staff report for PA-T1-2024-00247.
Applicants present:
Steve Asher, of Asher Homes was in attendance and answered committee questions
regarding the proposal.
HPAC Committee Minutes (Draft)
Shostrom closed the public hearing.
(4:55) DISCUSSION ITEMS (10 min)
A. Review Board
B. Goal Setting – The committee reviewed their options from the “look ahead” memo
that Severson provided in the packet. The committee will present their goals for the
next budget cycle at the council meeting in December. Some of the areas of interest
are:
Review/refresh/update the Ashland Preservation Plan.
Postage and printing costs for mailings
Reaching out to the Rogue Valley Realtors
Updating HPAC preservation page on the website
Creating a welcome packet for people moving into the Historic District
Advertising in the Sneak Preview
Map II Project
Update historic surveys
Playwrights
ADJOURNMENT
Next meeting is scheduled November 6, 2024, at 4:00pm at, 51 Winburn Way
There being no other items to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 5:42pm
Nov2024
HPAC Review Board
Meet at 3:00pm - Lithia Room
Every other week
**Staff to email if there is anything to review on the off weeks**
DATE COMMITTEE MEMBERS ATTENDING
Nov 7th Repp Emery Shostrom
Nov 21st Whitford Bonetti
*Call 541-488-5305 to verify there are items on the agenda to review
Dec 2024
HPAC Review Board
Meet at 3:00pm - Lithia Room
Every other week
**Staff to email if there is anything to review on the off weeks**
DATE COMMITTEE MEMBERS ATTENDING
Dec 5th
Dec 19th
*Call 541-488-5305 to verify there are items on the agenda to review
11-10-2022
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee
Winburn Way Community Center/Pioneer Log Cabin
REPORT TO THE ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
21-September-2021
Mayor Akins and Members of the Ashland City Council,
The following report details the findings and recommendations of the Winburn Way Ad Hoc
Committee, appointed in June 2021 to develop least-cost recommendations for the timely
repair and reopening of two historic, city-owned, buildings on Winburn Way, opposite Lithia
Park. The committee is composed of Chris Brown, AIA, architect, George Kramer, M.S., HP,
historic preservation specialist, and Gil Livni, a licensed Oregon building contractor, with
Stef Seffinger and Shaun Moran, Ashland City Council, as ex-officio members. The
e supported by Eric Snyder, P.E., structural engineer. Kaylea Kathol
and Scott Fleury, of the Public Works Department, provided staff support. The Ad Hoc
Committee held three public meetings between June 23 and August 23, 2021, with additional
site visits by individual members to assess current condition in depth.
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 2
COMMITTEE CHARGE
the buildings and develop least-cost recommendations to repair and reopen them for public
use, reporting back to council with options and estimated costs for the work involved.
CURRENT CODE STATUS
and City Building Official, Steve Matiaco, there is no proposed change of use or occupancy
for either structure from the previously existing (Hanks, 25-June-21).
that because no occupancy change was anticipated, there would be no requirements to bring
any other systems up to code. Upon questioning by Mr. Livni, Matiaco confirmed that
without an occupancy change, neither seismic strengthening nor sprinklers are required at
either building (Matiaco, 14-July-21). The Community Center was closed due to concerns
raised by the 2019 Marquess structural evaluation. The Pioneer Log Cabin is currently
occupied but closed during snow events.
Given the lack of occupancy change, all work proposed for the two buildings is largely
voluntary, provided it addresses the identified structural concerns raised in previous reports.
RECOMMENDATIONS - Winburn Way Community Center
Clubhouse, was completed in October 1922, aided by a donation from Jesse Winburn. The
Community Center was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
The single story wood frame structure rises from a post and pier foundation with a perimeter
skirting of parged stucco. Interior spaces include the large, main auditorium with a curved
roof, smaller meeting areas, kitchen, and service spaces. An unfinished attic, accessed by a
non-original straight flight stairway, is used for casual storage.
North Wall-Out of Plane Issue
The 2019 Marquess report identified the deflection of the north wall as a major area of
concern. On-site review and analysis of the 1985 structural upgrade indicates that this
situation was present in 1985 and addressed and stabilized with the addition of two metal
tie-rods, inserted below the chords over the auditorium and tied to the wall plate. Evaluation
of the current condition, with no cracks in the drywall, no twisting or gaps in wood trim, or
other indication of movement suggest that this problem has been stabilized and is not a
concern. The Ad Hoc Committeebelieves there is no
1
further need to address this issue. During future repair, the turnbuckles on the tie-bars
should be assessed/tuned to determine if they have loosened and, if needed, tightened to
Window operation could not be evaluated due to the presence of strand board over all openings. Windows are assumed to
1
be operable without any binding or other indications of continued wall movement.
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 3
continue to secure the wall against movement (see Strong-Ties, below). No other effort to
return the north wall to plumb is recommended.
Roof Structure
The roof is idiosyncratically framed and subject to multiple recommendations for
improvement as per Eric Snyder, P.E. and detailed in his memo, attached. The primary
solution involves the construction of a steel moment frame to span the main auditorium and
create additional support for the existing timber trusses. This will involve installing a series
of columns along the perimeter of the auditorium, with steel beams below the truss and
phantom bearing wall at the rear (west) end of that space, with new footings at grade, through
the existing wood floor. Installation of the moment frame will be mitigated by painting all
elements white, to blend into the ceiling, and applied trim to match existing treatments. All
verticals here will be plumb, meaning that some form of tapered blocking will be needed
between the columns and the north wall for aesthetics. Careful evaluation of the westernmost
beam run to minimize impact to the proscenium is recommended (see Figure 1).
Additional beams, pony walls and other modifications will occur above the ceiling, in the
attic area, with minimal visual impact to the historic spaces below. This work will provide
additional support for the existing rafters and hips, augmenting or replacing existing
members (see Figure 3). As per Eric Snyder, P.E., this proposed work will increase the
capacity of the roof to code for snow loads, 25 psf, identified as an issue in 2019.
Foundation
Previous studies noted some settlement between the concrete footings and support piers in
the main auditorium area. These can be addressed by a mixture of shims, where the gap is
all new posts, for gaps larger than that. It is noted that access to the
understructure, through the rear mechanical room, is very good, with ample height and
generally dry and good conditions.
Diagonal wall sheeting has been cut and there is currently no lateral shear transfer from the
main floor to grade. While a new continuous foot/concrete stem wall system could be added,
we do not recommend this as required or necessary. As per Snyder, we recommend installed
diagonal X-bracing between columns and Simpson-type strapping.
(not related to the 2019 Structural Evaluation)
SUGGESTED WORK
part of general upgrades to the Winburn Way Community in connection with the structural
repair project. This work is NOT REQUIRED to reopen the building.
A.Strong-Ties: To take advantage of work on site, we recommend that Strong-Ties
(Simpson clips) be installed sill and plate connections in both the attic and basement
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 4
areas to provide additional connection. Lateral shear transfer should be addressed
with the installation of x-bracing and strapping at the foundation.
B.ADA Restroom: Lack of an ADA-compliant restroom was identified as a building
need. We recommend that the storage area immediately east of the restroom
on the main floor be converted into a single stall unisex restroom. Water and sewer
are located in a common wall, for ease of construction.
C.Attic Stairwell: To improve access to the existing and rooms by
opening up the hallway, we recommend removal of the current, non-historic, attic
stairwell and its replacement with a folding stair. This will have the additional benefit
of reducing access to the attic area and inhibiting its continued use for casual storage.
All material currently in the attic should be removed (retaining any historic fixtures or
other building elements).
D.Rear Entry Steps: The existing rear entry steps are of 2x wood on an unknown
foundation with severe settlement and deterioration. These steps should be removed
and replaced with new work, either cast concrete or pressure-treated wood and non-
combustible deck material (Trex, or similar) (see Figure 2)
Retaining Wall & Fire Break: The sloped site at the rear of both buildings creates a
E.
sloughing issue that leads to large debris piles of dirt and leaves (see Figure 4). Staff
reports that this area is also prone to unauthorized access, creating a hazardous
situation that complicates debris removal and maintenance. The banked debris
against the wood foundations of both the Community Center and Log Cabin increase
decay by trapping moisture, provide an access point for vermin, and, most
importantly, represent a significant fire danger. All of these issues are further
exacerbated by unauthorized access. The Ad Hoc Committee strongly recommends
that the slope be excavated, and an engineered concrete retaining wall be installed
approximately away from the foundation, with a new concrete
slab/walkway to provide separation (see Figure 12). The slab will be designed with
drainage to reduce water into the basement/foundation and should extend at the
northwest corner to correct and improve access to the WWCC basement.
To reduce unauthorized access behind both buildings, new security gates (black steel,
of suitable design) should be installed at the NW and SW corners with a shared gate
to be located between the facades on Winburn Way (see Figure 5).
Reducing unauthorized access and removing debris/fire hazard from the rear of the
buildings is considered the single most important element of securing the future of these
historic structures. The Ad Hoc Committee unanimously recommends that this work
item be pulled from the larger repair project and contracted as soon as possible to
reduce fire risk.
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 5
RECOMMENDATIONS Pioneer Log Cabin
The Pioneer Log Cabin, funded by Gwin S. Butler, was completed in 1921 (not 1890, as
previously reported) and was initially used as a of Oregon pioneers. Adjacent to
Lithia Park and the Ashland Downtown Historic District, the Pioneer Log Cabin is considered
for listing in the National Register of Historic Places but is not, in fact, formally listed.
eligible
Built of bearing log on a post and pier foundation, the main building consists of a large
meeting space, with a kitchen and service areas to the rear. The roof is idiosyncratically
framed with a round-log rafters. A typical wood framed addition was built at the SW corner
in 1988.
The majority of issues identified by previous studies relate to a proposed change in occupancy
that triggered a seismic evaluation and recommended upgrade. Those changes are no longer
anticipated. Meeting code for 25 psf snow load would require extensive re-construction of
the roof or the installation of an interior moment frame (wood) to transfer roof loads to grade.
Neither is recommended or considered necessary. Because there is no proposed change of
2
occupancy upgraded to the roof is not required. The Log Cabin is currently in use. All
proposed work is, therefore, suggested but not mandatory to improve the building
performance.
(not related to the 2019 Structural Evaluation):
SUGGESTED WORK
be pursued as
part of general upgrades to the Pioneer Log Cabin as the city determines appropriate.
A.Strong-Ties: To take advantage of work on site, we recommend that Strong-Ties
(Simpson clips) be installed as recommended at plate connections in the attic of the
original log volume, augmented with gussets at existing (non-original) collar ties.
Further evaluation may justify adding rafters to augment the existing. It is possible
the roof sag predates the installation of the collar ties, which stiffen the roof, and may
have addressed and stabilized the roof in its current condition in 1988Additional
.
reinforcement as recommended will increase capacity, but we do not represent that
these actions will result in a full-code upgrade.
B.South Wall Window: Log movement at the SE corner apparently results from the
installation of a new window, installed without sufficient pinning to keep the logs in
place. As per the engineer, this should be corrected with an inserted steel bar or a PT
4x4 on each side of the window rough-opening, screwed and clipped into place to
inhibit further movement. The existing window can be reinstalled into the reinforced
opening (see figure 9)
(see
2
www.jlconline.comUS Climate Data (www.usclimatadata.com) reports
the average annual snowfall in Ashland as one inch. The highest recorded annual snowfall in Ashland since 1948 is
approximately seven inches (https://wrcc.dri.edu). Upgrade to the Pioneer Log Cabin roof structure, via a moment frame
similar to that proposed for WWCC, may be an appropriate upgrade the next time the roof is replaced.
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 6
C.Retaining Wall & Fire Break: (see E, above, as this recommendation should continue
the entire length of the Log Cabin as well). A new gate/fence should be installed
between the adjacent neighbor wall and the SW corner of the Log Cabin addition to
reduce access to the rear and side areas of the building (See figures 7 and 8).
ESTIMATED COSTS
The following cost estimates reflect current costs for materials and labor (2021), including
BOLI and related soft costs. Actual costs may vary, depending on the status of the
construction sector at the time of contracting.
ITEM DESCRIPTION LOW HIGH
Winburn Way Community Center
1 $ 65,000 $ 80,000
Install wood and steel moment frame/roof repair over
auditorium, including drywall as needed, footings, etc.
2
Unisex ADA Restroom in former storage $ 20,000 $ 25,000
Rebuild Hall, remove stairs, install fold-down access,
3
repaint and repair trim, etc. $ 8,000 $ 12,000
Replace rear entry steps (may be combined with retaining
4
wall work if concrete $ 2,500 $ 3,500
Basement StrongTies/sill clips, re-shim/replace footings,
5
add x-bracing and strapping for lateral shear as needed $ 20,000 $ 25,000
Pioneer Log Cabin
Install StrongTies at plate connections, enhance roof
1
framing with collar ties and gussets $ 15,000 $ 20,000
2
Reinforce south wall window opening $ 5,000 $ 8,000
Engineering/Soft Costs (includes retaining wall) $ 15,000 $ 25,000
TOTAL STRUCTURAL/Functional Upgrades to reopen $ 150,500 $ 198,500
RECOMMENDED UPGRADE TO REDUCE FIRE HAZARD
Excavate & install rear retaining wall behind both
buildings, including concrete pad at WWCC basement
entry, fencing and gates to reduce access $ 65,000 $ 80,000
TOTAL RECOMMENDED PROJECT COSTS $ 215,500 $ 278,500
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 7
SUMMARY
We would like to express our gratitude to the Council, and especially to Councilors Seffinger
and Moran, for allowing this evaluation to proceed. It was heartening to determine that both
these historic structures were in better shape than anticipated after reviewing the prior
studies and meeting with staff. We believe we have outlined a program of minimally
invasive, cost-effective methods to address issues and have given the city a path that can
quickly return both buildings to full public use. We appreciate the staff support in preparing
this report and are available to assist as the city moves forward toward construction.
Respectfully Submitted,
_________________________ _____________________ _____________________
Chris Brown, AIA George Kramer, MS, HP Gil Livni
Arkitek:Design & Architecture Kramer & Company Magnolia Construction
ATTACHMENTS:
Current images (Figures 1-9)
Snyder memorandum
Interior rendering, WWCC brace frame
Section, Proposed Retaining wall and walkway
Historic Newspaper Articles
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 8
Figure 1. Winburn Way Community Center, Main Space, Proscenium Arch
Figure 2. Winburn Way Community Center, Rear Entry Stair (note hillside at left)
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 9
Figure 3. Winburn Way Community Center, Over-stressed hip support
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 10
Figure 4. Winburn Way Community Center, Rear Sloughing Conditions
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 11
Figure 5. Winburn Way Community Center, Proposed Gate Location
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 12
Figure 6. Pioneer Log Cabin, Main Meeting Area
Figure 7. Pioneer Log Cabin, Proposed Gate Location
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 13
Figure 8. Pioneer Log Cabin, Rear Sloughing Conditions
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 14
Figure 9.
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 15
Structural Evaluation Memorandum
Snyder Engineering Company
Eric A. Snyder, P.E.
August 2021
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 16
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 17
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 18
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 19
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 20
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 21
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 22
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 23
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 24
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 25
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 26
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 27
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 28
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 29
Figure 10. Winburn Way CC, Proposed Moment Frame, View Towards Stage/Proscenium
(Arkitek, 2021)
Figure 11. Winburn Way CC, Proposed Moment Frame. View at Stage/Proscenium
(Arkitek, 2021)
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 30
Figure 12. Proposed Retaining Wall, to be constructed at rear of both Winburn Way CC and
Pioneer Log Cabin (Section), Snyder Engineering, 2021
Winburn Way Ad Hoc Committee Report
September 2021, Page 31
Medford Mail Tribune Medford Mail Tribune
31-August-1921, Pg. 6, Col. 1 1-December-1922, Pg. 6, Col. 3
November 6, 2024
City of Ashland
Attn: Mayor Graham & City Council
20 East Main Street
DRAFT
Ashland, OR 97520
RE: Community Center
Honorable Mayor & Council,
I am writing on behalf of the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee regarding the
Community Center on Winburn Way. The recent discovery of additional structural
issues in the building is problematic, but not unsurmountable. Many of us in the
community have considerable experience working on historic structures, and making
these discoveries throughout construction is not to be unexpected. There will always
be several solutions (and compromises) moving forward.
I am sure you are aware of the value of preserving our historic buildings — they provide
context to our past, identity for our present, and inform our future. A municipality that
has demolished its historic structures for the sake of modernity is a sad one. What
would the cities of Venice or Kyoto be without the iconic buildings that shape their
landscape and reflect their culture? The Community Center building in Ashland as
humble as it may be, is our version of this; it is an extension of our community
character.
Constructed in 1922, the building was the meeting place of the Ashland Women’s Civic
Improvement Club, and as such it is the foundation of the women’s movement in
Ashland that engaged public support for involvement in the City Beautiful Movement
of the early 20th century. In the years that followed, the building was the setting for
innumerable public occasions and social events, meetings, parties, exhibits, dances,
festivals, and gatherings that have occurred over the past 100 years. The memories of
this place reach across the community and beyond. The building’s Arts and Crafts
character, evocative of the Chautauqua movement and Ashland’s heyday as a
mountain wellness sanctuary, defines our community — enriches it and enlivens it. It
sets us within a context of understanding our place in the world. This is not something
that can be replicated with new construction.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
http://www.ashlandoregon.gov TTY: 1.800.735.2900
The Secretary of the Department of the Interior(DOI) has set standards for the
preservation of historic structures in our country which have been adopted by
reference as a guiding document to Ashland’s own Historic District Development
Standards. These include recommendations for the care, maintenance, and repair of
buildings listed on the National Historic Register. The Council may not be aware that
these standards emphasize preservation of all historic fabric in favor of replacement.
This means preservation of original materials and craftsmanship to the maximum
extent possible while any repair work is underway. Where original materials cannot be
preserved, they should be replaced in-kind. Where this is untenable, the DOI
recommends reconstruction of buildings in-kind. In the case of the Community Center,
I urge the council to explore options that maximize the amount of preservation of
original materials, and creative reuse of such materials as possible.
The HPAC recognizes the advanced cost of rehabilitating the Community Center
building, yet I beseech you to reconsider demolition as the only path forward.
Preserving our history comes at a cost, however the price of losing one of our historic
gems is even greater. We lose out on part of the unique character that makes Ashland
such a wonderful place to live and visit. There are other paths forward, and HPAC is
happy to provide guidance on how to get there.
Kindly,
Shelby Scharen, Chair
City of Ashland Historic Preservation Advisory Committee
For further reading:
The Secretary of the Interiors Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with
Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring & Reconstructing Historic Buildings,
Kay D. Weeks and Anne E. Grimmer (1995, rev. 2017). US Dept of the Interior, NPS,
Technical Preservation Services, Washington, DC
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
http://www.ashlandoregon.gov TTY: 1.800.735.2900
Memo
DATE: November 6, 2024
TO:Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC) Members
FROM: Derek Severson, Planning Manager
RE: HPAC Priorities & Workplan Preliminary Discussion
Background
The City Council “LookAhead” includes a study session on Monday, December
16 to consider Advisory Committee workplans and celebrate community
th
volunteers. Assuming this will be handled like other study sessions, it will be held at
5:30 p.m. at the Council Chambers; should this change staff will make you aware.
At its 2023 retreat, HPAC developed workplan and list of priorities that were provided
to the City Council noting that these would be the focus of HPAC meetings when
there were not multiple land use actions to consider. The 2023 priority list included:
Restart the HPAC Weekly Review Board
The Review Board resumed weekly in-person meetings on Thursday
afternoons by appointment and hasreviewed building permit submittals
and pre-applications and provided consultations with property owners,
designers and contractors by appointment as needed. Permits and
planning actions within the districts have been relatively slow compared
to prior years, and the Review Board shifted to meetings every other week
earlier in 2024. Scheduled members are notified in advance if there are
no items to review or appointments scheduled.
Implement Residential Site Design Review
With the passage of House Bill 2001, which required cities to allow
accessory residential units and duplexes with the same procedural as
detached single-family homes, planning actions are no longer required
and HPAC no longer reviews a substantial portion of the new construction
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
in the four National Register-listed historic districts which previously
required review. In 2023, HPAC members conveyed to Council that they
would like to see residential Site Design Review requirements
implemented so that the designs for new Single-Family Residences,
Accessory Residential Units and Duplexes in the historic districts could be
reviewed for compliance with Historic District Development Standards.
In staff’s assessment, this would be difficult to accomplish even if there
were political will to do so as the current long-range workplan in
implementing new state laws and rules along with local priorities has
Ashland’s limited staffing scheduled at least 18-24 months out (i.e.
Climate Friendly & Equitable Communities (CFEC) rules Climate Friendly
Areas (CFAs) including Re-Zoning CFAs and developing new land use
regulations, crafting new Walkable Design Standards required under
CFEC, completing multi-modal gap analyses and highway impact
summaries for the CFAs; completing a new city-wide Economic
Opportunities Analysis; developing a new Manufactured Home Park
Ordinance, and working with Public Works/Engineering to create a new
Transportation System Plan (TSP) which will require a greater Planning
role in response to CFEC requirements, and continuing to work on larger
scale developments including recent annexation requests for the third
iteration of the Grand Terrace project and the old Cooper property at 300
Clay Street, and the anticipated Townmakers’ master planned
redevelopment of the former Croman Mill site.
Updatethe city’s Historic Preservation Plan.
The current Preservation Plan was completed in 2008 using consultant
services funded by a Certified Local Government (CLG) grant. The plan
speaks to the city’s planned preservation activities from 2009-2018, and
in 2023 HPAC members indicated it was overdue for an update. In the
absence of available consultant services funds, HPAC had discussed
revisiting the plan and updating it through regular meetings or as a
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
subcommittee project but there seemed to be limited interest after initial
discussions last year.
UpdateHistoric Surveys.
The documents inventorying the four existing historic districts are
decades old, and do not reflect new development within the districts or
buildings which were not eligible to be considered historic resources at
the time the districts were adopted but may now be considered historic
due to their age. In addition, there may be additional areas, such as the
Quiet Village Subdivision, which are now qualified for nomination as
historic districts.
Historic Surveys are a substantial undertaking and typically rely heavily on
consultant services because they are so time and labor intensive. It is
unlikely that there will be budget or staffing in the near term to support
updating the historic surveys.
DigitizeText & Photos of Existing Historic Surveys/Make Available On-Line.
The photos used in the existing survey were taken on film originally.
Digitizing them would require obtaining negatives from the original
consultant who prepared the original historic district survey documents,
having them scanned, and then creating a user-friendly, searchable
webpage. It might also involve the creation of a “story map” through the
city’s Geographic Information System (GIS). Currently, there are not funds
budgeted to support such an undertaking.
Updating the HPAC Webpage.
In 2023, HPAC members noted that they would like to see the committee’s
webpage updated to be more comprehensive and user friendly and to
contain all documents relating to the historic districts and historic
preservation in Ashland in a single convenient on-line location.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
In 2024, Maureen Batistella of the Jackson County Heritage Association
provided some recommendations for a webpage update. In mid-2024,
the city’s webpage was fully replaced and now has the web address of
http://www.ashlandoregon.gov. Pages associated with individual
departments and divisions, as well as commissions and committees, are
being rebuilt individually as staff time allows. If the Commission wanted
to make this a project, we could review the current page at a regular
meeting item to identify needed changes, or consider forming a
subcommittee.
As previously discussed, it would be worthwhile to consolidate historic
documents on a single HPAC page including the current survey
information in as much detail as possible for the four National Register-
listed historic districts,and to ultimately look at the potential for using GIS
Story Maps.
Continuing education opportunities for HPAC members
Last year’s discussion suggested that when meeting time was available,
HPAC could take advantage of the extra time to provide some continuing
education on the information that HPAC members should know in order
to carry out their responsibilities, such as:
Review the Ashland Municipal Code to understand HPAC’s role and
responsibilities as an Advisory Body to the City Council. (Note: The
ordinance establishing advisory committee roles and responsibilities
is scheduled to be updated, with a second reading tentatively on the
Council agenda for November 19. A training manual/guidebook is
th
also being developed by the City Manager’s office.)
Become familiar with the regulations for Building Placement,
Orientation, and Design for residential and non-residential
developments, as well as Historic District developments, and
Downtown Ashland (AMC 18.4.2).
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
Provide a short workshop on how to read the monthly packets, which
include becoming familiar with the definition of terms related to
Planning Actions reviewed by HPAC. For example, understand the
difference between a contributing and non-contributing property,
conforming and non-conforming property, etc.
Become familiar with the different kinds of planning actions (Type
I/Type II/Type III) and planning procedures such as site design reviews
and conditional use permits, etc.
Review the national standards for historic preservation from the
National Park’s Service’s National Register of Historic Places.
Become familiar with the responsibilities of being designated as a
Certified Local Government under the State Historic Preservation Office
(SHPO).
If the HPAC would like to move ahead with continuing education items
like these, they could be scheduled whenever regular meeting time is
available.
Raise Public Awareness of Historic Preservation and HPAC’s Role
HPAC discussion of promoting preservation and the committee included:
Plan special events and activities that educate the general public
about the role historic preservation plays in revitalizing neighborhoods
andpromoting tourism that highlights the historic and cultural
heritage of Ashland, such as the annual Historic Preservation Week in
May.(Preservation Week in May 2024 included a number of events
promoting the Railroad Addition Historic District as highlighted through
the Marking Ashland Places (MAP) Project and the HPAC’s role in
partnering with the Public Arts Advisory Committee, Ashland Chamber
of Commerce, Southern Oregon University and WalkAshland.)
Identify target professional groups, such as realtors, developers,
designers and architects, to inform them of the design standards, as
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
well as building materials, that are required in properties located within
the Historic Districts. This information is already available in pamphlet
form.
Strategize ways to make new homebuyers moving into Ashland’s
historic districts aware of the City’s process in regards to making
exterior improvements to their properties (See attached Historic
”. There was an initial
Building Brief #1 “Living With Historic Buildings
mailing of the Living With Historic Buildings brief to new homeowners
within the districts. This could be repeated.)
HPAC also noted “Preservation Planning for Local Governments” from
Oregon Heritage (http://www.oregonheritage.org) as a reference item.
Next Steps
The December 16 study session will provide an opportunity to communicate HPAC’s
th
priorities and proposed workplan to the Council and hear any feedback.Tonight’s
meeting is an opportunity to craft a priority list/work plan to send to the Council for
their December study session with any desired additions to or deletions from the
existing list.
REFERENCES & ATTACHMENTS
None.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
51 Winburn Way Tel: 541.488.5305
Ashland, Oregon 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050
ashland.or.usTTY: 800.735.2900
shelby@scharendesignstudio.com
jeff.dahle@council.ashland.or.us
Derek.Severson@ashland.or.us
ashlandoregon@gmail.com
regan.trapp@ashland.or.us
Kaylynnrepp@gmail.com
skwhippet@charter.net
bill@ashlandhome.net
terryskibby@gmail.com
mtbrouillard@msn.com
shobro@jeffnet.org
Web
5.1.2024
-
List
Updated
Mail
Membership
AC
E-
HP
4/30/274/30/254/30/264/30/26
4/30/264/30/274/30/264/30/26
Term
Name
Commissioner
Support
Shelby Scharen
Liaison
Derek Severson
Mark Brouillard
Shostrom
Whitford
SkibbyLiaison
Eric Bonetti
Trapp
Katy Repp
Emery
Jeff Dahle
Council
Admin
Regan
Terry
Staff
Dale
Bill
Sam