HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-ILPC-2018-02-13 Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC)
Minutes—February 13, 2018
Present:
Ed Finegan, Chair Katelin Olson, Member Bryan McCracken, Historic
David Kramer, Vice Chair Susan Stein, Member Preservation Planner
Stephen Gibian, Member Donna Fleming, Common Council Anya Harris, Staff
Megan McDonald, Member Liaison(arrived 5:45)
Chair E. Finegan called the meeting to order at 5:38 p.m.
I. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. The No. 9 Fire Station, 311 College Avenue—Proposed Individual Landmark
Designation.
B. McCracken summarized the application for Proposed Individual Landmark
Designation, detailing the history and significance of the structure.
K. Olson added that Vivian donated design work because he was himself a firefighter.
She noted that firefighting was a community effort and was performed by volunteers (as
it still is in many places). She also observed that this fire station was critical to the
development of the East Hill neighborhood and of Cornell University, and that the reason
Cornell was so interested in ensuring they had a fire station in the area was that
previously it took a minimum of 20 to 25 minutes to get water up the hill. The University
was reluctant to continue building if they had no fire protection plans in place. She also
said that while most early buildings on East Hill were constructed of wood, the use of
stucco in the building's addition is notable, as it was one of the best fire retardant
materials available at the time.
Public Hearing
On a motion by D. Kramer, seconded by M. M. McDonald, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
Mary Tomlan, City Historian, speaking as a private citizen, spoke of the significance of
the building as a symbol of shared community responsibility in an expanding city. She
said that when the Village of Ithaca became a city in 1888, it was with expanded eastern
borders (City line previously at Eddy Street, but afterwards reaching beyond
Collegetown). She said it was also a time when Cornell was increasing enrollment and
adding faculty and staff. She said that the extension of the street railway up the hill in the
early 1890s made the area more accessible and desirable. Difficulties arose from fire
fighters and their apparatus being housed on the Flats below,which led to individuals
from the City and the University recognizing a shared need and partnering to create the
fire house.
John Schroeder, of 618 Stewart Avenue, Planning Board Member speaking as a private
1
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
citizen, said there are five historically significant institutional or commercial mixed use
buildings remaining in central Collegetown: the Chacona Block, the Larkin Building,
Sheldon Court, and the No. 9 Fire Station(which he counts as two separate buildings,
1894/1907). He said that all of these should be preserved in order to meet the minimum
goal of balancing multiple goods such as economic development and historic
preservation as laid out in the Comprehensive Plan. He said that Collegetown has been
almost completely transformed by development, so it is essential to hang on to the
historically significant buildings that remain. He expressed support for designation.
Schroeder also suggested the ILPC might strengthen the resolution by including
designation criterion no. 2, "identified with [an] historically significant person or event"
because of the building's connection to William Henry Sage,who lobbied City officials
and donated money to support the establishment of the No. 9 firehouse.
Additionally, Schroeder observed that the designation makes no mention of the open air
dining area out front. He suggested that it might be considered to "[represent] an
established and familiar visual feature of the community by virtue of its unique location
or singular physical characteristics," (per criterion no. 5). He said that that open space is
unique in the row of buildings facing College Avenue, it is treasured by the community
and it is a singular physical characteristic. He said that he thinks one of the negative
impacts of losing the building would be losing that space.
Christine O'Malley on behalf of Historic Ithaca, spoke in favor of designation. She said
the building meets the criteria for a locally significant building, and she noted that the
No. 9 fire station served as a physical, social, and residential connector between Cornell
University and the mixed-use neighborhood on East Hill. She said that it's important to
emphasize that connection because not all fire stations had that kind of history—it's very
particular to this neighborhood. She also said its presence is directly tied to the growth of
Cornell University and of Collegetown. She observed that several recent studies have
included it as an architecturally and historically significant landmark, including
"Collegetown Historic Resources Worthy of Detailed Research,"by Mary Tomlan and
John Schroeder(June 14, 2009). Further, she referenced the new Collegetown Design
Guidelines and noted that the former No. 9 Fire Station is one of just a few properties
pre-dating 1980 that can be found in the area denoted the "Collegetown Core Character
Area" and is one of the only buildings in the Collegetown Core that could be considered
historic.
Ken Vineburg, a friend of owners, spoke about the timing of designation, said it's
something important to think about in terms of the whole process of designation. He said
the current owners have owned this building for 38 years, and that the historic status has
not changed in all that time. He said that by waiting until after the zoning laws have
changed(which makes it an incredibly valuable piece of property), they allowed Todd
Fox to be enticed into spending money towards creating development plans for the site.
He said that if it had been designated earlier, the current owners would have had a
different attitude about how they dealt with this property. He said that they felt all these
years like they would have the opportunity to sell as a development property, so they ran
2
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
their restaurant and maintained their restaurant,but they let their building deteriorate. He
said that they did nothing with the upper two floors of the building,beyond the kitchen,
but they could have transformed some of that into student housing at any time. He noted
that these are things that they likely would have done if they had known that the site
could not be redeveloped. He said the whole course of history would have been different
if the designation had come sooner. He said that at this point it would be an incredibly
expensive undertaking to restore the rear of the building and develop the upper floors. He
also noted that Todd Fox and Visum have not withdrawn their proposal because of the
amount of money they have already spent, but they have backed off, letting the owners
take the lead with the ILPC, while they wait to see what will happen. He also referred to
rebuttal of lawyer Bond, Sherman& King. In addition, he acknowledged the comment
from J. Schroeder regarding the open space at the front of the building, and said that it is
"quite nice,"but he suggested that there are other ways to preserve that open space, such
as through the site plan review process or via zoning. He said that they have neglected to
require any such setbacks anywhere along College Avenue. He concluded by saying the
last minute nature of this proposed designation is particularly aggravating for the owners.
Mark Kielmann, owner of 311 College Avenue, referred the Commission to the letter
from Bond, Sherman& King, also to a letter from the County tax assessor, to a letter
from his local lawyer P. Littman dated February 13, as well as to an email from Historic
Ithaca. He said it is not economically feasible to keep the building as it currently is.
Chair E. Finegan asked if any of the Commission members had questions.
S. Gibian asked about alley along the north side.
M. Kielmann said that it belongs to Lambrous on the north, but that their property had a
right of way there.
Susan Holland, Director of Historic Ithaca, said that a lot of the time, historic
designations are about timing, and having the time and resources to put the applications
together. She continued by saying that while they at Historic Ithaca might want to see
every building eligible for designation be designated, sometimes the resources just aren't
there. She said that Historic Ithaca is interested in looking at the big picture, finding
properties whose owners would support designation and be interested in pursuing historic
preservation tax credits. She said she is dismayed to hear what sounds like a case of
demolition by neglect happening at 311 College Avenue, that now the building is in such
a state of disrepair that the owners are claiming it can't be saved. She concluded by
saying that Historic Ithaca supports designation.
There being no further public comments, on a motion by S. Stein, seconded by M. M.
McDonald, Chair E. Finegan closed the Public Hearing.
(Copies of all letters and written public comments regarding the designation of 311
College Avenue have been attached to the end of the minutes as an addendum.)
3
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
B. McCracken asked if any members wanted to make modifications to the nomination.
D. Kramer expressed support for the addition of information about the connection to
William H. Sage as suggested by J. Schroeder.
D. Kramer also asked for time to review the new materials (letters from lawyers on behalf
of the property owners.)
B. McCracken also alerted the ILPC to an email he had distributed earlier that afternoon
with about 20 letters of support attached, and he said he had hard copies available if the
members wanted to review those as well.
After some discussion regarding procedure for making revisions and sending the
nomination on to the PDB and PEDC, the ILPC took a break of approximately 10
minutes to review.
B. McCracken asked if they want to include both criteria No. 2 and No.5.
Discussion followed.
D. Kramer said he doesn't feel strongly about 5, but definitely supports no. 2, the Sage
connection.
K. Olson referenced a fire department history,published online by the IPD, and said that
the placement and/or expansion of fire stations often related to/followed after big fires.
D. Kramer said the Littman letter addresses almost exclusively economic concerns,
which is outside of the ILPC purview/consideration. The one piece of the letter that they
might be able to consider is that the rear of the building, the original firehouse, is
deteriorated, a state continuous with the ownership of the building because it wasn't
maintained. He said that if it were historic, they would consider it demolition by neglect
and demand it be repaired. He also observed that the letter from Kathleen Bennett,
however, does raise some pertinent issues.
Board agreed to further discuss the issues in the Bennett letter
K. Olson also raised an issue with the Littman letter, saying that item# 3 on page 3 is
inaccurate because Michael McGandy talked about 311 College Avenue repeatedly, and
it was also a focus of discussion following a 2009 Collegetown report.
S. Gibian referenced a September 2012 Planning Department report on 12 properties in
Collegetown worth preserving and observed that it not among those listed.
B. McCracken asked if that was the Intensive Level Study undertaken by Historic Ithaca,
and suggested that if so, it might be because everything in that report was supposed to fit
into one of three themes.
4
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
S. Gibian said it was the "Survey of Individual Collegetown Historic Resources"
Certified Local Government, City of Ithaca Planning Department, and it indicates which
properties were going to be nominated and which were not at that time.
B. McCracken said that the introduction of that document explains how the properties
included on the report were selected based on themes (college, mixed-use, and
residential).
E. Finegan asked if ILPC members felt they have enough information to vote at this time.
K. Olson said to clarify that she doesn't think they should have the power to designate
"just any building,"that they have very specific criteria, and that she wouldn't want
anyone thinking that they just"sit here and designate from on high because that is not
how it works."Further, she said that the issue of deterioration has cropped up numerous
times in the letters and that it is important to distinguish that there are two portions of the
building on this parcel, and that the deterioration of the rear portion should not preclude
designation of the front. She also said that it's inaccurate to say that historic buildings do
not acquire investment interest.
B. McCracken observed that in the past the Commission has reviewed and approved
requests to demolish historic buildings when it was determined that they have
deterioration demonstrated to be beyond repair. He clarified by saying that while he does
not think the deterioration of the fire station is that severe, the ILPC has in the past
worked with applicants on projects like that.
M.M. McDonald said that as the newest Commission member, she is imagining that there
were distinctions made in those situations such as a property being acquired by a new
owner, and that the Commission would not want to encourage demolition by neglect.
B. McCracken concurred and referenced a case in which a new owner acquired a
property with a garage that was seriously deteriorated(and the condition of which had not
been disclosed prior to the sale), and so the Commission agreed to allow the demolition
of the structure.
S. Gibian said that the Bennett letter references the 5 criteria, and that he wanted to point
out that it is not necessary for a structure to meet all five in order to be designated. He
asked if one is enough.
B. McCracken answered in the affirmative.
Chair E. Finegan asked B. McCracken about the language to be added. He said he would
read it,but noted it was still in rough form.
S. Gibian said he is still on the fence, and noted that if he votes against, it's because the
designation is coming at a late date and the owner is opposed.
5
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
RESOLUTION: Moved by K. Olson, seconded by M. Megan McDonald.
WHEREAS, as set forth in Section 228-3 of the Municipal Code,the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission (ILPC) may recommend the designation of historic landmarks and districts
of historic and cultural significance,and
WHEREAS, a public hearing held on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, for the purpose of considering a
proposal to designate the former No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue as a City of
Ithaca landmark has been concluded,and
WHEREAS, the ILPC has reviewed the New York State Building&Structure Inventory Form dated
February 13,2018,including the Narrative Description of Property and the Narrative Description
of Significance prepared by Katelin Olson,and
WHEREAS, the designation of historic landmarks is a "Type II Action" under the New York State
Environmental Quality Review Act (Sec. 617.5(C)(30) and an "Unlisted Action" under
the City Environmental Quality Review Ordinance, (CEQR Sec. 176-2) for which no
further environmental review is required,and
WHEREAS, consideration of the former No. 9 Fire Station as an historic resource was introduced in
a report prepared by Mary Tomlan and John Schroeder on June 14, 2009 entitled
Collegetown Historic Resources Worthy of Detailed Research: Icons of Collegetown,
Individual Buildings,Architectural Ensembles and Landscape Features,and
WHEREAS, the Collegetown Urban Plan &Conceptual Design Guidelines, endorsed by Common Council
in August, 2009, recommends that "historically significant resources within the entire
Collegetown Planning Area which merit designation as local landmarks, but which
currently have no such protection, should be identified by the Ithaca Landmarks
Preservation Commission and designated by Common Council,"and
WHEREAS, Section 228-3 of the Municipal Code defines the criteria for designation of an
individual landmark as follows:
1. Possesses special character or historic or aesthetic interest or value as part of
the cultural, political, economic, or social history of the locality, region, state, or nation;
or
2. Is identified with historically significant person(s) or event(s);or
3. Embodies the distinguishing characteristics of an architectural style;or
4. Is the work of a designer whose work has significantly influenced an age;or
5. Represents an established and familiar visual feature of the community by
virtue of its unique location or singular physical characteristics.
6
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
RESOLVED, that the Commission adopts as its own, the documentation and information more
fully set forth in the expanded New York State Building Structure Inventory Form
dated February 13, 2018,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Commission has made the following findings of fact concerning the
proposed designation.
As described in the Narrative Description of Significance portion of the New York State
Historic Resource Inventory Form prepared by Katelin Olson and dated February
13, 2018, the former No. 9 Fire Station (1894-95) and its 1907-08 addition are
structures deemed worthy of preservation by reason of their value to the city as
enumerated below:
Per criterion 1, the former No. 9 Fire Station possesses special historical and
aesthetic interest as a part of the development, heritage and cultural
characteristics of the City of Ithaca for its facilitation of the growth of Cornell
University and the upper East Hill community that would become Collegetown,its
role in the history of firefighting services in the City of Ithaca and on East Hill in
particular, and its representation of the City and university's collaborative
relationship during the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries, and
As described in the Narrative Description of Significance, East Hill experienced a
surge in real estate development at the end of 19`' century, courtesy of the
growing presence of Cornell University and the resulting demands for new
residential and commercial spaces. Expanded and improved transportation
options also spurred development. The increased urban density, coupled
with the diverse and dangerous range of lighting, heating, and cooking
methods, raised fire insurance concerns among area residents,property
owners, and members of the university community. In 1894, a group
representing these concerned parties organized,with the permission of the
City's Common Council,and formed the W.H. Sage Fire Company No. 9
(later the Neriton Hose Company No. 9). In support of the new company,
the City equipped it with an existing hose cart and a firehouse facility, the
No. 9 Fire Station, on Dryden Road near the intersection of College Avenue
(then Heustis Street). Through public subscription and a substantial donation
from the university, the company acquired the City's first chemical fire
engine for this fire station.
Within a decade of its completion in 1895, the wood-framed fire station was
deemed too small to adequately serve the continuously and rapidly
developing area. The building was moved to its current location on College
Avenue in 1905—a process that took significantly longer than scheduled due
to the miscalculation of the weight of the building--and a large, three-story
brick and stucco addition was constructed in front of it in 1907-1908,
providing space for an additional fire engine and expanded dormitories.
The presence of this station on East Hill dramatically decreased the amount
of time needed for firefighting personnel to respond to fires and safeguarded
7
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
the university's and private developers'investments in the area against fire.
East Hill's steep terrain made it challenging for existing fire companies to
respond to fires on the hill with the necessary water and equipment.
Response times were on average 20-30 minutes,which could be catastrophic
for a neighborhood filled with wood-frame structures. The formation of the
City's ninth fire company and construction of the No. 9 Fire Station ensured
this area's continued development. Of approximately thirteen (13) fire
stations constructed in the City during the 19`'and early-20`k'centuries, only
three survive: the No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue,No. 5 Fire
Station at 136 West State Street, and No. 7 Fire Station at 1012 North Tioga
Street.
The No. 9 Fire Station was developed through a collaborative relationship
between Cornell University and the City. As noted above, the university was
a driving force behind the formation of the firefighting company and
contributed financially to the outfit of the No. 9 Fire Station. This
collaborative relationship became a characteristic of the operations and
staffing of the No. 9 Fire Station throughout the first-half of the 20t1i century.
In exchange for room and board,university students staffed the fire station.
Per criterion 4, the former No. 9 Fire Station is the work of a designer whose
work has significantly influenced an age. As noted in the nomination,the fire
station is significant for its close association with three locally prominent architects:
Clinton L.Vivian,Arthur N. Gibb,and Oman H.Waltz.
The 1894-95 fire station was designed by the architecture firm of Vivian and
Gibb. After working in the office of the William H.Miller, Clinton L.Vivian
and Arthur W. Gibb established their firm in 1892. Although this partnership
was relatively short lived,lasting only eight years,they secured several important
commissions that shaped the character of Ithaca's built environment. Their
designs for the Cascadilla Boathouse and the main pavilion complex at Stewart
(then Renwick) Park are some of the best examples of Shingle-Style architecture
in the city and continue to define the character of that section of the Cayuga
Lake waterfront. The Shingle Style elements they successfully implemented in
these designs,including integrated roof-top,bell-shaped towers and classical
detailing,were also incorporated into their donated design for the No. 9 Fire
Station.
The 1907-08 addition to the fire station was designed by the firm of Gibb and
Waltz. After the dissolution of his partnership with Vivian in 1900, Gibb
partnered with Oman H.Waltz to form the firm of Gibb and Waltz in 1906.
Again,this firm's works have contributed significantly to the character of
Ithaca's built environment. Among their notable works were the YMCA
building,Rand Hall on the Cornell University campus,and Ithaca City Hospital.
The firm also designed the Ithaca Masonic Temple (1925),which is one of only
two Egyptian-Revival Style buildings in Ithaca and an excellent regional
example of the style.
8
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission, determines that based on the
findings set forth above, the former No. 9 Fire Station meets criteria 1 and 4 defining a
Local Landmark as set forth in Section 228-3 of the Municipal Code, Landmarks
Preservation,and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Commission hereby recommends the designation of the former No. 9 Fire
Station at 311 College Avenue,and the adjacent areas identified as tax parcel #64.-10-
18, as a City of Ithaca landmark.
RECORD OF VOTE:
Moved by: K. Olson
Seconded by: M.Megan McDonald
In favor: M.Megan McDonald,S. Stein,D. Kramer,E. Finegan,K. Olson, S. Gibian
Against: 0
Abstain: 0
Absent: 0
Vacancies: 1
McCracken explained the schedule by which the resolution would next go to the Planning
and Development Board for recommendations and then to the Planning and Economic
Development Committee in March for review,before going to Common Council for a
vote.
B. 310 W. State St., Downtown West Historic District—Proposal to Construct a Two-
story, Six-bedroom Residence in the Rear Yard
Owners David Halpert and Teresa Deschanes, along with Matt Haney from Carina
Construction appeared to provide updates on the proposed project.
T. Deschanes reviewed their finalized proposal, relating it,point by point, to the ILPC
design guidelines for accessory structures, arguing that the proposed building is a
subordinate structure due to its placement and scale, and explaining how it will comply
with the guidelines per massing, materials, detailing, etc.
Commission members asked a few questions regarding basement egress window wells,
solar panels, etc.
S. Gibian asked about the change from board and batten to clapboard siding, saying that
most carriage barns seem to use novelty siding or board and batten.
D. Halpert said that other carriage barns in the City use clapboard. B. McCracken
confirmed.
S. Gibian next registered a number of objections, the clapboard siding, the quality of the
9
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
drawings, etc., and he compared it to the infill development that has been halted by
moratorium by the Zoning Overlay District on South Hill.
T. Deschanes responded that it is nothing like South Hill, that the zoning here is
completely different.
S. Gibian continued to list his objections: size, scale, massing, solar panels, fence, that
there are only two parking spaces, and that it is being called a carriage house when it
isn't.
T. Deschanes responded that it fits the design guidelines for accessory structures and that
it is smaller than the carriage house previously on the site and smaller than some other
carriage barns in the neighborhood.
S. Gibian said that he will be voting against it, saying that they are setting a precedent for
other people to put in a"double wide, center hall colonial" in their backyards.
M. Haney said that Gibian should look at the details of the proposal carefully before
drawing a parallel to other duplex projects on South Hill and elsewhere. He said that the
applicants have worked hard to be sympathetic to the architectural details of the
neighborhood and to work with the ILPC; whereas some of the other projects referenced
were advanced without much consideration for historic character or look. He said that the
only similarity is that they are modular.
After some additional discussion, Chair E. Finegan asked if there were any other
concerns.
D. Kramer said that as someone with a large carriage house, he is fine with the principal
of carriage houses, and using them residentially. He said while he is not a fan of the low
quality drawings, he is far more sympathetic to the project than is S. Gibian, and he
actually likes some of the elevations, east and west, not so much the north.
T. Deschanes explained that that is the rear, Seneca Street side.
Public Hearing
On a motion by K. Olson, seconded by M.M. McDonald, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
There being no public comments, the Public Hearing was closed on a motion by M.M.
McDonald, and seconded by S. Stein.
K. Olson said she is fine with the project on principal: 1. Because it could be removed
one day without damage to the form of the currently designated historic building, and 2.
Because she does not think it will be obtrusive even though it is a large building. She also
noted that there was a very large building on that site previously, and she said historical
precedent matters. She said she has voted against enlargements of garages and carriage
10
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
barns previously, but in this case, there was a large building on this parcel previously.
She said it will also help achieve other goals, such as saving the existing building and
increasing density without negative impacts on the historic structure.
S. Stein asked about reviewing materials.
Discussion about materials, including HardieBoard, salvaged doors,windows,back door,
asphalt shingles, and brackets ensued.
The ILPC instructed applicants to consult with staff for approvals of materials. Also, they
added a condition of staff approval for final drawings to the resolution.
RESOLUTION: Moved by D. Kramer, seconded by M. M. McDonald.
WHEREAS, 310 W. State Street is located within the Downtown West Historic District, as
designated under Section 228-3 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code in 2015, and
WHEREAS, as set forth in Section 228-4 of the Municipal Code, an AAMlication for a Certificate
of Appropriateness, dated December 22, 2017,was submitted for review to the
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC) by property owner Teresa
Halpert Deschanes,including the following: (1) two narratives respectively titled
Description of Proposed Change(sl and Reasons for Changes(s); (2) a narrative titled
"Updated description,"(3) an"Existing site plan" (4) a "Proposed site plan;" (5) a
sketch titled "Footprint of demolished carriage barn from assessor's office;" (6) a
map of the property featured in the 1910 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map; (7) a 1938
aerial photograph of the property and surrounding neighborhood; (8) two
photographs documenting the existing rear yard conditions; (9) four representative
photographs of other similar buildings an architectural details in the neighborhood;
(10) a c. 1950 photograph of the carriage barn formerly in the rear yard of the
property; (11) five drawings illustrating the proposed project; (12) a photograph of
the primary facade of the building; (13) two sheets of materials illustrating proposed
design details; (14) sixteen sheets of information on proposed materials and design
elements; (15) a photograph denoting the location of on component of the
proposed project, and
WHEREAS, the ILPC has reviewed the entry in the annotated list of properties included within
the Downtown West Historic District for 310 W. State St., and the City of Ithaca's
Downtown West Historic District Summary Statement, and
WHEREAS, as stated in the narrative Description of Proposed Change(s), the project involves the
construction of a side-gabled, two-story accessory structure,hereinafter referred to as
a carriage barn,in the rear yard of the property; the installation of a wood,
"stockade"-style privacy fence and gate and blue-stone- and pea-gravel-paved patio,
also in the rear yard; and the installation of 36 solar panels on the south roof slope of
the proposed carriage barn, and
11
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
WHEREAS, the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness is a Type II Action under the New
York State Environmental Quality Review Act and the City Environmental Quality
Review Ordinance for which no further environmental review is required, and
WHEREAS, as required by Section 228-9, the proposal to construct a carriage barn in the rear
yard of 310 W. State St was reviewed by the ILPC for the purposes of"Early Design
Guidance" at their regular January 9, 2018 meeting, and
WHEREAS, the applicant has provided sufficient documentation and information to evaluate
impacts of the proposal on the subject property and surrounding properties, and
WHEREAS, a Public Hearing for the purpose of considering approval of the Application for a
Certificate of Appropriateness was conducted at the regularly scheduled ILPC
meeting on February 13, 2018,now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the ILPC has made the following findings of fact concerning the property and
the proposal:
As identified in the City of Ithaca's Downtown West Historic District Summary
Statement, the period of significance for the area now known as the Downtown
West Historic District is 1880 - c.1922.
As indicated in the individual property entry in the annotated list of properties
included within the Downtown West Historic District, 310 W. State St.was designed
by the locally prominent architect,Alvah B. (Buckbee) Wood and was constructed in
1880.
Constructed within the period of significance of the Downtown West Historic
District and possessing a high level of integrity, the property is a contributing
element of the Downtown West Historic District.
The project under consideration involves the construction of a six bedroom
residence in the rear yard of the property. Historically, a large, two-story carriage
barn with a mansard roof sat immediately south of the historic residence, but this
structure was demolished prior to the designation of the historic district in 2015. It
is the property owners'intent to construct a new building that visually appears to be
the property's carriage barn.
In consideration of this and all approvals of proposals for alterations,new
construction, or demolition in historic districts, the ILPC must determine that
the proposed exterior work will not have a substantial adverse effect on the
aesthetic, historical, or architectural significance and value of either the
landmark or, if the improvement is within a district, of the neighboring
improvements in such district. In considering architectural and cultural
value, the Commission shall consider whether the proposed change is
consistent with the historic value and the spirit of the architectural style of the
landmark or district in accordance with Section 228-6 of the Municipal Code.
In making this determination, the Commission is guided by the principles set
12
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
forth in Section 228-6B of the Municipal Code, as further elaborated in
Section 228-6C, and by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for
Rehabilitation, and in this case specifically the following principles and
Standards:
Principle #3 New construction located within an historic district shall be
compatible with the historic character of the district within which it is
located.
Standard #9 New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction
shall not destroy historic materials that characterize the property. The new
work shall be differentiated from the old and shall be compatible with the
massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the historic integrity
of the property and its environment.
Standard #10 New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall
be undertaken in such a manner that,if removed in the future, the essential
form and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be
unimpaired.
With respect to Principle #3 and Standard#9,the proposed two-story residence,
solar panels and associated site improvements are compatible with the historic
character of the Downtown West Historic District, and more specifically,with the
massing, size, scale, and architectural features of the property and its environment.
In in making this determination, the ILPC considered the carriage barns height,
massing, facade composition,materiality,and design details. The two-story height
and simple massing of the proposed carriage barn is consistent with the height and
massing of large historic carriage barns within the surrounding neighborhood, and
visually subordinates the new building to the historic residence. Also, the carriage
barn's traditional detailing around the doors and windows,in the gable ends, and
along the eaves reflects the architectural vocabulary of the historic accessory
structures type. The use of contemporary building materials that closely replicate the
appearance of historic materials will further relate the new building to its historic
environment.
Also with respect to Standard #9, the proposed carriage barn, solar panels and
associated site improvements will be differentiated from the old by its modern
design, the use contemporary, traditional and salvaged building materials and the
utilization of current construction techniques.
With respect to Standard#10, the carriage barn and associated site improvements
can be removed in the future without impairment of the essential form and integrity
of the historic property and its environment.
RESOLVED, that,based on the findings set forth above, the proposal will not have a substantial
adverse effect on the aesthetic,historical, or architectural significance of the
Downtown West Historic District, as set forth in Section 228-6, and be it further,
13
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission determines that the proposal
meets criteria for approval under Section 228-6 of the Municipal Code, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the ILPC approves the Application for a Certificate of Appropriateness with the
following condition(s):
• The applicant shall submit a complete and detailed schedule of proposed
building materials to the ILPC for staff-level review and approval. Specific
materials that must be included or items that must be addressed in this
submission include the final design drawings for the carriage barn, and detailed
information on the solar panels,roof shingles,basement windows,window well
covers,rear door and stockade fence details.
• Any changes to the approved design that result from subsequent reviews shall be
submitted to the ILPC or its staff for review and approval.
• All proposed two-over-two windows shall have simulated divided lights,with
grilles on the interior and exterior, and a spacer bar between the panes of glass.
• The locations of the proposed air-source heat pump condensers shall be
reviewed and approved by ILPC staff.
• If the applicant chooses to install a date plaque,its design and installation
location shall be review and approved by ILPC staff.
RECORD OF VOTE:
Moved by: D. Kramer
Seconded by: M.M. McDonald
In Favor: M.M. McDonald, S. Stein,D. Kramer, E. Finegan,K. Olson
Against: S. Gibian
Abstain: 0
Absent: 0
Vacancies: 1
Notice: Failure on the part of the owner or the owner's representative to bring to the attention
of the ILPC staff any deviation from the approved plans,including but not limited to changes
required by other involved agencies or that result from unforeseen circumstances as
construction progresses, may result in the issuance by the Building Department of a stop
work order or revocation of the building permit.
C. DeWitt Park, DeWitt Park Historic District—Proposal to Replace Sections of Curb
and Concrete Sidewalk, and Install Stamped-Concrete Paving in the Tree Lawn
along N. Cayuga and E. Buffalo Streets.
Mark Verbanic presented his sketch plan for replacing the sidewalks along the south and
west portions of the perimeter of Dewitt Park, and at that time also installing stamped
concrete in the treelawns which are severely worn due to Farmers' Market foot traffic, as
14
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
well as replacing some worn and broken curbs in the area.
After some discussion, the Commission members decided to table the resolution until
after they can schedule a site visit.
Public Hearing
On a motion by S. Gibian, seconded by M. M. McDonald, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
J. Schroeder said he thinks the concrete paving is appropriate because of the Farmers'
Market that is held in this location. Then he suggested ways to differentiate the main
sidewalk from the smaller squares and the stamped concrete areas, suggesting that they
might be able to use color in a way similar to what they did on West State Street. He said
that breaking up the expanse of grey concrete would make it feel more residential, more
appropriate around a green park. He also said that maybe street trees aren't needed in this
area because of the number of mature trees in the park. He concluded by responding to an
earlier comment from Verbanic and said that this treatment should not be continued down
Cayuga Street by the Dewitt Mall because creating tree wells around existing trees could
damage them.
On a motion by S. Gibian, seconded by M.M. McDonald,the Public Hearing was closed.
B. McCracken said he would schedule a site visit.
II. PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS OF INTEREST
Chair E. Finegan opened the floor to public comments.
J. Schroeder reported that the medallions on the uppermost story of the Chacona Block have
been removed in recent weeks. He said he has no idea what has happened. He asked: Have they
been removed permanently, or were they removed for repair? If they were removed permanently,
were they saved or destroyed? What did the Building Department approve? He said he wants to
know what is going on with the building, and said he is afraid that it is a deliberate attempt to
strip away anything that would make anyone care about this building preparatory for applying
for a demolition permit in a few years.
McCracken reported that he followed up but that the building permit simply states fagade repairs,
unspecified, and the building inspector who issued the permit has been out of the office for the
past two weeks.
III. OLD BUSINESS
There being no old business, the ILPC moved on to New Business by unanimous consent.
IV. NEW BUSINESS
• Certified Local Government(CLG) Report-Review of the National Register of Historic
Places Nomination for the Tibbetts-Rumsey House at 310 W. State St.
15
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
McCracken related the process for listing on the National Register. He asked the ILPC members
to submit comments to which the Mayor will add his comments and then transmit the nomination
to the SHPO.
RESOLUTION: Moved by M.M. McDonald, seconded by S. Stein.
WHEREAS, in its capacity as a New York State Certified Local Government(CLG), as
designated in 1986 by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and
Historic Preservation(PARKS), the City of Ithaca is required to participate in the
nomination process for properties being considered for listing on the State and
National Registers of Historic Places, and
WHEREAS, the Tibbetts-Rumsey House at 310 W. State St. is being considered by the New
York State Historic Preservation Review Board for nomination to the State and
National Registers of Historic Places at its meeting on March 16, 2018, and
WHEREAS, the specific requirements for participation include: (1) after reasonable
opportunity for public comment, the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
(ILPC) shall prepare a report stating whether or not, in its opinion, the property
meets criteria for listing on the New York State and National Registers, and(2)
the City's chief local elected official, Mayor Svante Myrick, shall transmit the
Commission's report and his recommendation to the State Historic Preservation
Office, and
WHEREAS, based on the recommendations of the ILPC and City of Ithaca Planning Board, the
Tibbetts-Rumsey House at 310 W. State St. was designated by the City of Ithaca's
Common Council as a contributing resource in the local Downtown West Historic
District on April 1, 2015, and
WHEREAS, the ILPC considered the nomination to the State and National Registers at their
regular meeting held on February 13, 2018, the agenda for which is routinely
posted in advance of the meeting in City Hall, 108 E. Green St., and on the City's
web site, and
WHEREAS, documentation reviewed by the ILPC includes the letter dated January 12, 2018
sent from R. Daniel Mackay, Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation and
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, at PARKS, and accompanying
materials from PARKS, including the National and State Registers Criteria for
Evaluation, Frequently Asked Questions About the State and National Registers
of Historic Places in New York State, and the draft National Register of Historic
Places Registration Form, and
WHEREAS, of the four criteria listed, the nomination has been proposed under criterion A and
C as follows:
16
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
A. Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to
the broad patterns of our history;
C. Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method
of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic
values, or represents a significant or distinguishable entity whose components
lack individual distinction.
WHEREAS, the ILPC concurs with Section 8 of the draft National Register of Historic Places
Registration form, Statement of Significant, and specifically the statement:
"The Tibbetts-Rumsey House is significant under Criterion A as indicating
the lifestyle of two important families of Ithaca in the late-nineteenth and
early-twentieth-centuries. The Tibbetts and Rumsey families were active in
local politics, either serving as president of the village and later city, or were
elected to the first City Council of the City of Ithaca. They were also
prominent businessmen, running nearby factories or have large mercantile
concerns in the city or its surroundings. The house is also significant under
Criterion C in the area of architecture for being a design of Alvah B. Wood
(1850-1909)who was an 1874 graduate of Cornell University with a degree in
engineering and architecture."
WHEREAS, in making a determination about whether Criterion A has been met as it relates to
social history, the ILPC has noted the following:
Built in 1880, the house at 310 W. State St was constructed for Captain J.
Warren Tibbets, a prominent local businessman. Tibbetts was born in Ithaca,
but after fighting in the Civil War, settled in the Poughkeepsie,New York
area where he established a"ready-mixed paint"business. In 1880, he
returned to the city to build a state-of-the-art paint factory, and like other
successful businessmen at the time, build the fashionable home in the affluent
section of State St west of the central business district. Tibbetts was actively
involved in civic affairs, serving as the Tompkins County Sheriff for several
terms and on the first City Council when the Village of Ithaca was chartered
as a City in 1888.
After owning the residence for only five years, Tibbetts sold the property to
Charles J. Rumsey. Rumsey was also a successful businessman and civically
engaged. He partnered in several successful hardware businesses and owned a
tin factory. He served as the Village president for three consecutive years
between 1883 and 1885. Rumsey purchased 310 W. State St in 1885, and it
remained in the Rumsey family until 1966.
WHEREAS, in making a determination about whether Criterion C has been met as it relates to
architecture, the ILPC has noted the following:
310 W. State St was designed by Alvah B. Wood, a locally prominent
architect responsible for numerous important commissions. Wood graduated
17
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
from Cornell University with dual degrees in architecture and engineering in
1874 and operated a successful architecture practice in Ithaca until his death in
1901. His significant works include the Immaculate Conception Church
(1896), Ithaca High School (c. 1884), Fall Creek School (1879), and Lehigh
Valley Rail Road Station(1898). He also partnered with T.B. Campbell and
formed the construction company Campbell and Wood in 1889. The firm built
several buildings on the Cornell University campus, including Sibley College
and parts of Sage College and Morse Hall. He also served on the City of
Ithaca's first Common Council with his former client, Captain J. Warren
Tibbetts.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ILPC finds that the documentation in the
draft National Register nomination form demonstrates that the Tibbetts-Rumsey
House at 310 W. State St. meets criteria for listing on the New York State and
National Registers of Historic Places, and be it further
RESOLVED,the ILPC notes that the Tibbetts-Rumsey House at 310 West State Street is an
outstanding local example of its architectural style, and recommends including
addition information under Criterion C to emphasize this significance, and be it
further
RESOLVED, that the ILPC recommends the listing of the Tibbetts Rumsey House on the New
York State and National Registers of Historic Places.
RECORD OF VOTE:
Moved by: M.M. McDonald
Seconded by: S. Stein
In Favor: M.M. McDonald, S. Stein, D. Kramer, E. Finegan, K. Olson, S. Gibian
Against: 0
Abstain: 0
Absent: 0
Vacancies: 1
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• 01/09/2018
The minutes from January 9, 2018 were approved unanimously with no modifications.
VI. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
• Election of Officers—Chair and Vice Chair
Moved by D. Kramer, seconded by S. Stein, and unanimously approved, E. Finegan was
re-elected as Chair of the ILPC.
Moved by K. Olson, seconded by M.M. McDonald, and unanimously approved, D.
Kramer was re-elected as Vice Chair of the ILPC.
• Introduction: Donna Fleming, Common Council Liaison
18
Approved by ILPC: 13,March 2017
• Assignment of Historic Districts
Assignments are as follows:
S. Stein—Cornell Heights
D. Kramer—University Hill
M.M. McDonald—Dewitt Park/Downtown East
E. Finegan and K. Olson—East Hill
S. Gibian—Henry St. John
• Historic Ithaca 2018 Preservation Award Nominations—deadline March 30, 2018
B. McCracken asked members to nominate someone who has done a project worthy of
recognition in the past two years.
• 2017 Staff-Level Approvals—Review
S.Stein asked if they should be working on a list of properties that are worthy of
designation. Discussion ensued, and the Greyhound Station at 710 W. State Street, among
others, was identified as a candidate. The need for a windshield survey and the possibility
of utilizing volunteers to assist was also discussed.
• 2017 Annual Report to the Mayor and Common Council—Review
• CLG and Preserve New York Grants—Discussion
Application for a CLG grant to do a survey to explore possible expansion of the East Hill
Historic District was discussed.
VII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, on a motion by M.M. McDonald, seconded by S. Stein, Chair E.
Finegan adjourned the meeting at 9:29 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Bryan McCracken, Historic Preservation Planner
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
19
BOND &KI NGNECK
One Lincoln Center Syracuse, NY 13202-1355 1 bsk.com
KATHLEEN M.BENNETT
kbennett@bsk.com
P:315-218-8631
F:315-218-8741
February 13, 2018
VIA HAND DELIVERY
City of Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
City of Ithaca
108 E. Green Street - 3rd Floor
Ithaca, New York 14850
Re: Proposed Landmark Designation — 311 College Street (The Nines)
Dear Commission Members:
We represent Mark Kielmann and Harold Schultz in connection with the proposal by the
City of Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC) to designate the property
owned by Mr. Kielmann and Mr. Schultz at 311 College Street as an individual local
historic landmark. Since 1980, our clients have operated a restaurant known as, The
Nines on the Property. In 2016, our clients entered into a purchase contract pursuant to
which the Property would ultimately be sold to a developer and converted into much
needed student housing — a use which is entirely consistent with the surrounding
neighborhood. Upon learning of proposed plans to redevelop the Property, the ILPC
indicated its intention to designate the Property as a local landmark. However, as set
forth herein, based on the information in ILPC's own application, there is little support
for designation of the Property as an individual local historic landmark. Instead, given
the timing of the ILPC's application, it is patent that the ILPC's purpose is to make
redevelopment of the Property more difficult, if not impossible. In fact, the ILPC's action
had its intended effect of interfering with the sale of the Property and impacting the
reasonable investment backed expectations of our clients.
Considerations for Designation
Prior to designating the Property as an individual local historic landmark pursuant to the
City's Landmark Preservation Code, the ILPC must find that the Property:
(1) Possesses special character or historic or aesthetic interest or value as part
of the cultural, political, economic, or social history of the locality, region,
state, or nation;
(2) Is identified with historically significant person(s) or event(s);
(3) Embodies the distinguishing characteristics of an architectural style;
3104835.1
Attorneys At Law I A Professional Limited Liability Company
City of Ithaca Landmark Preservation Commission
February 13, 2018
Page 2
(4) Is the work of a designer whose work has significantly influenced an age; or
(5) Represents an established and familiar visual feature of the community by
virtue of its unique location or singular physical characteristics.
Based on the Narrative Description of the property prepared by the City, the ILPC is
reaching in an effort to prevent the Property from being sold and developed for student
housing — a use which is actually consistent with what the surrounding neighborhood
has become and with what it needs.
First, the Property only possesses local interest with respect to the history of fire
protection within the City of Ithaca. However, that history is already well-preserved in
the written narrative and involves multiple fire stations — not just Fire Station No. 9. In
fact, the only thing special about the Property is that Fire Company No. 9 was the final
fire company established in Ithaca. According to the narrative, the Property is not even
the original location of Firehouse No. 9 and within 10 years of being constructed, it was
already viewed as largely obsolete. Had funding been available Firehouse No. 9 would
have been torn down in the early 1900s. Instead, the original bell tower and front
fagade were replaced in 1907-1908 when an addition with a new fagade was
constructed at the front of the Fire Station. Moreover, ILPC's narrative states that the
condition of the structure is not pristine. According to the narrative the original firehouse
is deteriorating due to water infiltration and rodent/insect activity and the resulting
deterioration of the shingles hardly makes the building a noteworthy example of a
shingle style civic building. The narrative also notes that the 1907-1908 fagade has
been altered with non-historic infill including windows and doors. Accordingly, it is a
stretch to say the building largely retains its essential form.
Second, the report does not demonstrate that the Firehouse is identified with a
historically significant person or event. Firehouse No. 9 does not appear to be any
more remarkable than any of its predecessor stations historically. To assert that the fire
station enabled tremendous growth by Cornell University and student housing on East
Hill overstates its importance. Cornell University and related student housing were
growing and would have continued to grow even in the absence of the fire station.
Third, the Property does not embody the distinguishing characteristics of an
architectural style and the narrative does not suggest that it does.
Fourth, while the Property may have been associated with architects who were
prominent locally for a brief period of time, it is not the work of a designer whose work
has significantly influenced an age, which is the required finding under the Landmark
Preservation Code.
3104835.1
City of Ithaca Landmark Preservation Commission
February 13, 2018
Page 3
Fifth, the Property may very well represent an established and familiar visual feature of
the community by virtue of its location (on College Street surrounded by student
housing developments) or physical characteristics (set back off the street unlike
surrounding buildings) — but not by virtue of its original and historical use as a fire hall.
In fact, its original use as a fire hall is not significant, since there were multiple fire halls
in the City. Likewise, its interim uses as housing did not establish the Property as a
significant visual feature of the community. Instead, the Property's "establishment as a
familiar visual feature" stems from its present use as a local restaurant serving the
community. This modern day recognition is not a sufficient reason to designate the
Property as an individual local historic landmark — especially considering that the
surrounding neighborhood is being redeveloped for student housing and the Property's
structure and its setback from the street is inconsistent with the surrounding
developments.
Conclusion
Accordingly, since the ILPC has utterly failed to satisfy the criteria, designation of the
Property as an individual local historic landmark would be arbitrary and capricious.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
BOND, SCHOENECK & KING, PLLC
Kathleen M. Bennett
KB/kb
cc: Harold Schultz
Peter Littman, Esq.
3104835.1
Mer N. Littman wun�?centra�ny�uxv�orrt
Stec J. FLITTMAN & BABIARZ
Stephen
BB.. Flash
J.Anthony Gaenslen Attorney at Law
,-Counsel
February 13, 2018
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Committee
108 E. Green St.
Ithaca,N.Y., 14850
RE: 311 College Ave.
Ithaca,NY, 14850
Mr. Chairman McCracken, and other members of the Landmark Preservation Committee, and
other interested parties:
Please accept this letter in opposition to the proposed Landmarking of 311 College Ave. I am
submitting this as attorney for Mr. Kielmann and Mr. Schultz, and would appreciate your review
of this letter and the remarks Mr. Kielmann will give at tonight's meeting.
My name is Mark Kielmann, and I have been an owner of the building at 311 College Ave.,
Ithaca, along with my partner, Harold Schultz, for the past 38 years. During those years, we
have been operating the restaurant"The Nines," a modestly priced pizza/sandwich restaurant.
Tonight I want to talk to you about our business and our building, and suggest that this building
should NOT be designated as a Landmark Building by the ILPC.
Long before this Committee listed The Nines as a candidate for Landmarking, my partner and I
entered into a Real Estate Purchase and Sale Agreement with Mr. Todd Fox. The contract was
signed on December 20, 2016, about 14 months ago. Mr. Fox is one of several individuals who
operate a development company called Visum Development Group. That group has developed
several properties in Ithaca, in Collegetown and elsewhere.
Harold and I have always viewed the Nines building as a real estate investment that we would
eventually sell to a developer when the time became appropriate. Harold and I opened The Nines
38 years ago. Running it has been my entire career. The growing value of the building has been
my retirement plan. Without a sale of the building at today's market value, I will have worked
38 years for nothing, which is not fair. Both Harold and I have been productive members of the
community, and have worked hard to be generous to The Ithaca Festival and other community
events. In 2016, we decided that it was time to sell the property and allow it to be developed the
way that a multitude of other Collegetown properties have been developed in the last 20 years,
and even more new developments that we have seen in the past 3-5 years.
308 N.Tiop Street.Ithaca, NY 14850 11 Court Strut.Auburn, NY 13021
607-277-752.7 s FAX 607-275.0141 315-253-8967.PAX 607-275-9141
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Committee
RE: 311 College Ave., Ithaca,NY
February 13, 2018
At this point in time,both Harold and I, and Todd Fox have spent hundreds of thousands of
dollars in anticipation of the sale, and development of the site as a much needed building for
student housing. If this Commission votes to recommend Landmark status to the Nines building,
the sale to Todd Fox will not take place, and the owners will suffer a significant financial
hardship. In addition, the City of Ithaca will lose out on millions of dollars in future real estate
taxes which would be a significant loss to the City as well.
Before coming here tonight,we have been in contact with the County Department of
Assessment. The director of that department, Jay Franklin has reviewed the market value and
potential future market value of 311 College Avenue. His analysis is contained in a letter dated
February 8, 2018, which we have handed out to Mr. McCracken and the committee members.
Simply put, the current assessment of the Nines property is $775,000, which he refers to as a
"valuation in use", and not"highest and best use." Mr. Franklin has also estimated the future
assessment value of the property were it to be developed as proposed by Mr. Fox, or by any other
developer to be "conservatively" EIGHT MILLION DOLLARS ($8,000,000.00). Based upon
those figures, the City, County, and School District will lose out on real estate taxes which would
be at least 5 - 10 times more per year than the current tax. That loss would amount to at
least $250,000 in lost tax revenue every year.
It's also important to note that the original firehouse (the oldest part of the building at the rear of
the lot) is in very bad condition. Also, aside from the kitchen, office and some storage, the
two upper floors of the whole building are entirely vacant. Rehabilitating the exterior of the
original firehouse and renovating the upper floors of the entire wood framed building to meet
code for any viable use would require an investment that would be hard if not impossible to
recover. Please note that the Historic Resource Inventory Form, attached to the Notice of this
Hearing states clearly that the condition of the building is "DETERIORATED," a factor that
should rule out any designation for Landmarking.
Not only is the building deteriorated, we do not believe that the building has any real historical or
architectural value. Much of the original wooden fire house is gone—the roof, the bell tower,
and the front of the building. The move to designate the building has come too late, now that
zoning in Collegetown has changed to favor development. The building is no more historic now
than it ever was, and that any designation should have come before the developer came forth
with the revised plans.
In addition to the substantial loss to the City, Harold and myself, as current owners, will be
prevented from selling this property to a ready, willing and able buyer, which will cause us
irreparable financial hardship. Among others, here is the way the Landmarking of this property
would create a financial hardship:
1. The fact that we had a contract to sell the property has been well know in
Collegetown, and in the City of Ithaca:
2. The loss of time, and expenses that we have spent entering into the sale
agreement, and continuing to extend the time deadline for Mr Fox to close.
- 2 -
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Committee
RE: 311 College Ave., Ithaca,NY
February 13, 2018
3. There was nothing publically being said that gave any hint that this Commission
was considering recommending The Nines for Landmarking
4. The Landmarking of this property would most likely prevent the current owners
from ever being able to sell this property for a financially reasonable amount.
5. The current Sales contract would suffer a"frustration of purpose" as any
Landmark designation would prevent the property from being economically developed by
anyone.
6. The current owners will be essentially prevented from soliciting any other
prospective developer to purchase the property for development in a financially feasible
way.
7. The City and Cornell University will lose the opportunity for housing at least 50
to 100 students, which would obviously mean that another property will be needed to
house those students, since it is an established fact that there is a major shortage of
student housing on campus and in Collegetown.
8. As the Committee is very well aware, Mr. Todd Fox and his group have a new,
updated design which includes many features which would maintain much of the exterior
design of the current building.
In addition to those financial hardships for the current owners, to the City of Ithaca, and the loss
of needed student housing, we have not heard any proposals for how the property can be used in
the future in a financially feasible manner. There would be no incentive for anyone to purchase
the property and invest significant dollars in owning and/or developing it.
In addition,we just wanted to mention that neither Harold nor myself have had the time or the
resources to engage in any public solicitation of people or groups to join us in opposing the
potential Landmarking of the Nines. As opposed to that, we have been advised that Historic
Ithaca has put together a pamphlet in favor of Landmarking the Nines, and they have been
distributing that pamphlet throughout the real estate community and business community in
Ithaca and Tompkins County. (We have also provided a copy of the Historic Ithaca pamphlet to
Mr. McCracken and the other committee members.) We further believe it would be unfair to
designate this property at this late point in time, as any Landmark designation would be a
significant financial hardship on us.
Finally, it is unfair and prejudicial to Harold and myself, and misleading to this
committee's members and to the community to continue referring to this property as Fire Station
No. 9, or No. 9 Fire Station. Fire Station#9 is next door at 309 College Avenue. The building
under consideration for Landmarking is at 311 College Avenue and it has not been a fire station
for over 50 years, it is misleading that in all the correspondence, and comments we have seen,
- 3 -
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Committee
RE: 311 College Ave., Ithaca,NY
February 13, 2018
the property is not once referred to as "THE NINES,"which has served thousands of Ithacans,
and College students and faculty from all over the world for the past 38 years.
We sincerely urge this committee to reject designation of The Nines for Landmark Preservation
status when you convene to discuss and vote on this proposal.
Thank you all for your time and your fair consideration of this issue.
Very truly yours,
Peter N. Littman
PNL:rj
- 4 -
s
V
, t
Depart ent of A
t
128 East Buffalo Street
Jay Franklin Inclusion through Diversity Irene Kehoe
Director Assistant Director
To: Mark Kielmann
From: Jay Franklin
Date: February 6, 2018
Re: The Nines
You have asked me to provide you with information regarding the property known as "The Nines" (parcel
64.-10-18 or 311 College Ave) in the City of Ithaca.
1. Current Market Value of the Current Improvements on the property.
The current assessment on the property is$775,000. This assessment reflects the fair market value
that a willing buyer will pay a willing seller for the approximate 6,768 square foot building on the
property. This is not the "highest and best use valuation" but rather a "valuation in-use".
2. Market value of the lot as if vacant.
This property is in the MU-2 zoning according to the City of Ithaca's Zoning Map online. Based upon
similar sales that have occurred in this zoning code for improved properties, I have estimated a
valuation of$400/sf or$1,8 million. (depending on the exact redevelopment project, a willing
buyer might be able to pay more or less for this property based upon the financials of the proposed
project).
3. Market value of the property as if improved.
Based upon our conversation,you have asked me to provide an estimate for a project that would
consist of"'50 studio loft apartments and approximately 850 square feet of retail on tl'ief rst floor". -
Based upon the rents in similar new apartment projects in Collegetown, I have estimated a
valuation of$8 million (This valuation is a conservative estimate. Any project would be looked at
individually and the estimate would be adjusted to reflect the financials of the actual project).
Please let me know if you have any questions regarding these figures.
Mail Address: Tel: 607-274-5517
128 East Buffalo Street Fax: 607-274-5507
Ithaca,New York 14850 assessment@tompkins-co.org
http://www.tompkins-co.org/assessment/
#9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
# 9 Fire Station
Ann Bowlsy [annieiac725@yahoo.com]
Sent:Wednesday,January 31, 2018 6:03 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
I support making the No. 9 Fire Station located at 311 College Ave a historic landmark.
This building is an icon of college town and Ithaca itself.
Ann M Bowlsby
607-327-0357
Sent from my iPhone
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:54 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Ashim K. Datta [akdl@cornell.edu]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 9:54 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
I support everything related to the preservation of"No. 9 Fire Station" at 311 College Avenue.
Ashim K.Datta
Professor,Cornell University,Riley-Robb Hall,Ithaca,NY 14853
Email:akdl@cornell.edu;Phone:(607)255-2482
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:52 AM
311 College Avenue https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
311 College Avenue
Barbara Van Dyk [barbarasvandyk@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 9:57 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Bryan McCracken
Historic Preservation Planner
City of Ithaca
Dear Mr McCracken,
Please protect the firehouse building at 311 College Avenue by giving it an individual historic landmark
designation at the forthcoming meeting.
We cannot afford to lose the remaining buildings of historic (and aesthetic) importance.
Yours, Barbara Van Dyk
Garrett Road, Ithaca
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 11:05 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Cally Arthur [caa9@cornell.edu]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 11:48 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Cc: Historic Ithaca [sholland@historicithaca.org]
Dear Bryan McCracken,
I am in favor of the nomination to designate the old Number 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue as an
Ithaca Landmark to be preserved.
The building reflects the hey-day of Collegetown a century ago. Its architecture as well as what it represents
in the development of Ithaca and Cornell relationship is well worth saving.
In view of inevitable and necessary re-development in Collegetown, it is critical that we preserve some
islands of historical and social significance.
Regards,
Cally Arthur
Cally Arthur
114 West Lincoln Street
Ithaca NY 14850
607 227 7983
caa9@cornell.edu
skype:callyarthur
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:50 AM
nomination for individual landmark status https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
nomination for individual landmark status
Dave Rochelle [dave@rochellemediaworks.com]
Sent:Thursday, February 01, 2018 10:01 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Hello Bryan -
I would like to nominate the No. 9 Fire Station building at 311 College Avenue in Ithaca - to be designated as
an individual landmark by the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission.
Thank you,
Dave Rochelle
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:53 AM
support no.9 fire station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
support no.9 fire station
dawncra mton @twcny.rr.com
Sent:Tuesday, February 13, 2018 9:06 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Dear City of Ithaca,
I am with all the citizens of Ithaca when I support the preservation
of no.9 fire Station at 311 College Ave.
This historical building deserves respect and admiration. The Ithaca community
would like to give this building a official historical designation.
It is so important for our community!
Thank you,
Dawn Cramton
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 11:02 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https:Hmail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Elissa Cogan [egc@coganenterprises.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 9:11 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Bryan,
I write in support of the nomination of this building at 311 College Avenue as an individual historic landmark. I
reiterate the reasons many have already mentioned:
• It is architecturally significant as a nearly intact example of a turn-of-the-20th century neighborhood fire station built
in response to pressing fire safety needs on Ithaca's East Hill.
• It is closely associated with the growth and development of Cornell University and the Collegetown neighborhood. Its
origin and institutional support over the late-19th and early-20th centuries reflect a true town-gown relationship. It
stands as an important built resource pointing to that significant history.
• It is significant for its close association with three locally prominent architects. Clinton L. Vivian and Arthur N. Gibb
designed the original portion of the firehouse (now at the rear), and Gibb and Ornan H. Waltz designed the three-story
brick and stucco addition on the front that is visible from College Avenue. These three architects worked on a large
number of buildings throughout the city of Ithaca and shaped its built environment in lasting ways.
• The No. 9 Fire Station served as a physical, social, and residential connector between Cornell University and the
mixed-use neighborhood on East Hill. Its presence and original use are directly tied to the growth of Cornell University
and Collegetown.
I hope the Commission will see fit to preserve this building.
Thank you,
--Elissa Cogan (313 East Buffalo Street)
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:53 AM
Historic Designation of the old fire station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
Historic Designation of the old fire station
Ellen McCollister [ellen.mccollister@gmail.com]
Sent:Wednesday, February 07, 2018 1:50 PM
To: Donna Fleming [df39@cornell.edu]; rgearhart@ithaca.edu
Cc: gamcgonigal@gmail.com; Graham Kerslick;Joseph Murtagh; Cynthia Brock; Ducson Nguyen; Stephen Smith; Bryan McCracken; Deb
Mohlenhoff; Laura Lewis
Dear Common Council,
I just read through the voluminous historical background materials prepared for the Feb
13 ILPC meeting regarding historic designation of the old No 9 fire station.
As a nearby Bryant Park resident who has witnessed Collegetown dramatically change in
the last 35 years (not always for the better) , and as a former Council member who was
deeply involved in the 2014 Collegetown rezoning, I hope you will support designation of
this individual local landmark.
The fire station contributes a rich and important legacy to the Collegetown built
environment, not only due to the significant architects who were involved in its siting
and development, but also because of its importance to both Cornell's and the Ithaca
Fire Department's history and development.
As Collegetown continues to densify and develop, we need to retain architectural merits
of our history now more than ever. The designation of the fire station would add to a
small but important inventory of Collegetown landmarks, including the Snaith House,
Grandview, and the Larkin Building.
Sincerely,
Ellen McCollister
ellen.mccollister@gmail.com
607.351.2598
Sent from my iPhone
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:49 AM
No. 9 Fire House https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire House
Heather Lambert [hlambert.porter@gmail.com]
Sent:Monday,January 29, 2018 7:41 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
I am an Ithaca resident and native. I believe that the No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Ave. has significant
historical value and should remain intact as a historical landmark. The the fabric of Collegetown needs some
older buildings to keep the feeling of a network of different aged buildings. Like a city not a development.
Good Luck.
Heather Lambert
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:57 AM
g56uyfIr -r ELEMENTS - LIBRARY • PRESERVA-rIQN SenV,,
IZS
-
K1S-Tp-RIC ITN-AC-A - - -�
--
'I -- - - - -
wWW i • 19G �\ ` ORG
G
January 31, 2018
Bryan McCracken and Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street Yd Floor
Ithaca,NY 14850
RE: Individual Landmark Nomination for the No. 9 Fire Station/311 College Avenue
Dear Bryan and ILPC members:
Historic Ithaca strongly supports the proposed individual landmark designation of the historic No. 9 Fire
Station at 311 College Avenue. This building meets the criteria for individual designation as a locally
significant building for several reasons. It is architecturally significant as a nearly intact example of a
historic neighborhood fire station built in response to urgent fire safety needs on Ithaca's East Hill. The
No. 9 Fire Station is also closely associated with the growth and development of Cornell University and
the Collegetown neighborhood. Its origin and institutional support over the late-19th and early-20th
centuries reflect a true town-gown relationship and it stands as an important built resource pointing to
that significant history. The two phases of the building's construction are significant for its close
association with three locally prominent architects. Clinton L. Vivian and Arthur N. Gibb designed the
original 1894-95 portion of the fire house (now at the rear) and Gibb and Oman H. Waltz designed the
three-story brick and stucco 1907-08 addition that is visible from College Avenue. These three architects
worked on a large number of buildings throughout the city of Ithaca and shaped its built environment in
lasting ways.
The No. 9 Fire Station served as a physical, social and residential connector between Cornell University
and the mixed-use neighborhood on East Hill. Its presence and original use is directly tied to the growth
of Cornell University and Collegetown. In the recent past, the building was identified as an
architecturally and historically significant landmark in several reports, including"Collegetown Historic
Resources Worthy of Detailed Research" completed on June 14, 2009, by Mary Tomlan and John
Schroeder.
We urge ILPC members to vote in favor of this designation and recognize this building as a significant
cultural resource for Collegetown and the city of Ithaca.
Sincerely,
'j, g of C�
Susan Holland
Executive Director
212 Center St. Ithaca,NY HistoricIthaca.org (607) 273-6633
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Kenneth Burkhart [bbl913@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 10:48 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Dear Mr. McCracken,
I am writing in support of the nomination of No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue for the Historic
Designation of this architecturally significant and historically important building. The building stands today
as a symbol of the intricately woven history of Cornell Collegetown and the East Hill Community.
Additionally, it is a significant reminder of firefighting history of the City of Ithaca. In an area already high
in population density, this historic building best serves the importance of human scale and pleasurable
activity for this location.
Thank you for your consideration on this important designation.
Kind Regards,
Kenneth C. Burkhart
98 Hickory Circle
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-319-0187
bbl9l3@gmail.com
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:51 AM
In support of the Nines building preservation https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
In support of the Nines building preservation
Kevin Dossinger [kevin@zirkadesign.com]
Sent:Tuesday,January 30, 2018 10:21 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
To whom it may concern,
I am writing in support of doing whatever is necessary to save the Nines building. There are two factors at
play here. First, the building itself deserves to be preserved. How is a firehouse from the 1800's not on the
historic register?How did this slip through the cracks?This is exactly the type of building that should be
preserved for future generations. If the Nines business can't be saved, at the very least this building must be
protected. The character of Collegetown is being ripped apart, and once these building are gone they are gone
forever. Collegetown is turning into one giant apartment building. Not to mention almost all the new
buildings are being designed by the same person. If there needs to be more housing, at least renovate the
upper floors of the building instead of demolishing it and rebuilding from scratch. The Mayers building was
saved. Let's think about this a little.
When it comes to the Nines, it's hard to fault the owners for trying to cash in for their retirement. That is fine,
they earned it, except they are forgetting about the community that supported them all these years. When the
owners of Shortstop Deli wanted to retire they sold the business to an employee who kept it going. They
could have sold the land to yet another developer who would put up an apartment building or garage and
made much more money, but they wanted the tradition and legacy of Shortstop to live on. The Nines owners
don't seem to care. It's just a cash-out for them, city and building and history be damned. That doesn't feel
right.
I realize the city can't dictate what people do with their businesses, but at the very least it can step in to help
preserve Ithaca's rich architectural history, which is quickly being erased.
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:59 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Lindsey Bryant [lindsey.bryant@aol.com]
Sent:Tuesday,January 30, 2018 8:41 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
Hi Bryan,
I am sending this email to voice my concern over the potential threat of losing the No.
9 Fire Station at the location of 311 College Avenue. Ithaca cannot afford to continue
to lose these historic buildings that maintain the character of this wonderful City. I
have been an Ithaca resident for twenty six years and would love to see this building
thrive. Thank you for your time!
Lindsey Bryant
Sent from my iPhone
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:56 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Lisa Swayze [Iswayzel962@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday,January 30, 2018 7:50 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
I'm writing in support of historic designation for this cornell and Ithaca landmark
building. This building feels especially important for where it is amid so much
development of new buildings on and around College Ave. It is also an attractive and
interesting architectural example and shows a unique slice of community history. Thank
you for your consideration.
Lisa Swayze
Sent from my iPhone
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:57 AM
concerning 311 College Ave. https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
concerning 311 College Ave.
Nancy Brcak [brcak@zoom-dsl.com]
Sent:Monday,January 29, 2018 2:14 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
Bryan,
Below is my letter of support:
January 29. 2018
Bryan McCracken
Historic Preservation Planner
City of Ithaca
Dear Bryan,
I was pleased to learn that an individual landmark nomination for 311 College Avenue
will be on the agenda for the February ILPC meeting. I enthusiastically support the
proposal for its designation as an Ithaca landmark.
As an architectural historian, I see the importance of this building clearly. First, it
has connections to important local architects, including Clinton Vivian and Arthur Gibb
(its original designers) and Gibb and Ornan Waltz (as the principal contributors to its
expansion) . Further, it is, as we say in my discipline, an "architecturally significant,
intact sample" of turn-of-the-century architecture; it is also a fine example of an
important building type, the fire station. This particular building played a crucial
role in the safety of its neighborhood of Collegetown (a place that, to my mind, is
being unappealingly transformed through massive development) . As well, there are
important historical and cultural links between 311 College Avenue and its giant East
Hill neighbor, but I leave it to Cornellians with greater knowledge of this relationship
to articulate these connections.
I understand that a private developer wishes to demolish this building for no better
reason than to maximize his profits. Must we lose the character - the individuality - of
our city because profits and/or private interests come first? Is this really
"progress"? Please don't condemn yet another Ithaca gem to a landfill. The facts of
the case before you are clear, I think. I urge the Landmarks Commission to designate
311 College Avenue as a historic landmark.
Thank you,
Nancy Brcak
Professor of Art History
Ithaca College
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 11:03 AM
JOHNSON-SCHMIDT, ARCHITECT, P.C.
SCMMIDT 15 E. MARKET ST., # 202
CORNING, NY 14830
607.937. 1946 (T)
607.937.6137 (F)
WWW.PRESERVATIONARCHITECTS.COM
J
February 8,2018
Bryan McCracken
Historic Preservation Planner
Ithaca City Hall
108 East Green Street, 3rd Floor
Ithaca,NY 14850
RE:No. 9 Fire Station Individual Landmark Nomination
Dear Mr. McCracken,
I am writing this letter in support of the proposed individual landmark nomination for the No. 9 Fire
Station located at 311 College Avenue in Ithaca. As an alumna of Cornell University who specializes
in preservation architecture, I have a particular connection to this building. This is a significant
historic structure that deserves to be listed.
The No. 9 Fire Station is a fine example of a firehouse dating to the turn of the 20'century, and has a
long history serving the Collegetown neighborhood. Originally organized in response to a need for
firefighting services among the student boarding houses,the relative safety resulting from presence
of the No. 9 Fire Station facilitated the growth of Cornell University.
In addition to community significance,the No. 9 Fire Station exemplifies the work of three
prominent local architecture firms. The original firehouse to the rear of the property was designed by
Clinton L. Vivian and Arthur N. Gibb,while the three-story addition at the front was designed by
Gibb and Oman H. Waltz. Together these architects are responsible for shaping much of the City of
Ithaca, and it is important to preserve examples of their work.
I fully support the nomination of the No. 9 Fire Station for individual landmark status, and hope that
this action will save the firehouse from demolition.
Sincerely yours,
Elisenson-Schmidt,AIA
Principal Architect
Johnson-Schmidt,Architect,P.C. 15 East Market Street Corning,New York 14830 607-937-1946
No 9 Fire Station Historic Designation https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No 9 Fire Station Historic Designation
Pamela Kingsbury [pjk@kingsburyarch.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 10:06 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Hi Brian,
Knowing the history of No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue, and recognizing its architectural character and
presence in Collegetown,I feel strongly the building should be designated a historic landmark, and its place in the
Collegetown neighborhood preserved.
Thanks,
Pam K.
Pamela J.Kingsbury AIA ASID
pik@kingsburvarch.com
KINGSBURY>
1
rn
rn
Kingsbury Architecture LLC
106 E.Court St.,Ithaca,NY 14850-4272
phone:607-273-1477 fax:607-273-1233 web:kin s buryarch.com
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:51 AM
Historic Designation for No.9 Fire Station,311 College Avenue https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
Historic Designation for No.9 Fire Station, 311 College Avenue
Sally Grubb [sally.grubb@gmail.com]
Sent:Thursday, February 08, 2018 11:57 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
I would like to add my full support for the Historic Designation of No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College Avenue.
It is a building with major architectural and cultural significance. It is a gem to be protected and preserved
for our future. It represents one of the earliest partnerships between Town and Gown. It is important that this
building should remain for our children and our children's children to see and learn from about their heritage.
Sally Grubb
Sally Grubb
Ithaca, NY 14850
607 257-6017
607 279-9189 cell
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:48 AM
Supporting Preservation of the No.9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
Supporting Preservation of the No. 9 Fire Station
Stephanie Iacovelli [sri6@cornell.edu]
Sent:Wednesday,January 31, 2018 2:38 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
Mr. McCracken,
I am writing to urge the ILPC to preserve the No. 9 Fire Station located at 311 College Ave. This piece of
architecture is a centerpiece of Collegetown and Cornell University and I believe we have torn down enough
historic buildings in Ithaca. Thanks for your time.
Stephanie
Stephanie Iacovelli
BA, Biological Sciences
Cornell University, 2011
Tufts University
Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine Candidate, 2019
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:54 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Sue Merrick [suemerrick0l@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 11:49 AM
To: Bryan McCracken
Please vote yes to preserve this fantastic fire station as a landmark preservation site.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sue Merrick
607-425-7218
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:50 AM
No. 9 Fire Station https://mail.cityofithaca.org/owa/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RgAAAA...
No. 9 Fire Station
Tom W. [twaku77@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday, February 06, 2018 2:54 PM
To: Bryan McCracken
Please include my support for historic designation of No. A Fire Station with a street address of iii
College Ave., Ithaca,NY. 148tio
Tom Wakula
Age is a case of mind over matter.
If you don't mind, it don't matter.
-Satchel Paige
1 of 1 2/13/2018, 10:49 AM