HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-ILPC-2018-03-13Approved by ILPC: 10, April 2018
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Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC)
Minutes — March 13, 2018
Present:
Ed Finegan, Chair
David Kramer, Vice Chair
Stephen Gibian, Member
Megan McDonald, Member
Katelin Olson, Member
Susan Stein, Member
Donna Fleming, Common Council
Liaison
Bryan McCracken, Historic
Preservation Planner
Anya Harris, Staff
Chair E. Finegan called the meeting to order at 5:34 p.m.
I. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. 426 E. Buffalo St., East Hill Historic District – Proposal to Replace a Standing
Seam Metal Roof with Asphalt, Architectural-Style Shingles.
David Spaulding of JD Ferro Roofing appeared in front of the ILPC on behalf of the
property owner Mark Haag, to present their proposal to replace a standing seam metal
roof with asphalt, architectural-style shingles
Chair E. Finegan asked if they had considered using metal roofing for the portion that is
visible.
K. Olson asked if the original roof had been slate, noting that the historic inventory form
seemed to show that it was. B. McCracken said that the Sanborn maps used the same
symbol for slate as for metal roofs, and that it’s possible the person who prepared the
form was not aware of that and entered it as slate in error.
S. Gibian asked if D. Spaulding does standing seam roofs.
D. Spaulding said he does but that due to the added cost, the owner might decide not to
move forward with the project.
K. Olson pointed out that the appearance is going to change whether they use metal or
shingles, as a very old metal roof has a much different look than a new one.
Public Hearing
On a motion by M.M. McDonald, seconded by S. Stein, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
There being no public comments, Chair E. Finegan closed the Public Hearing on a
motion by D. Kramer, seconded by M.M. McDonald.
After additional discussion, the Commission members decided to table the resolution
until D. Spaulding consults with the building owner and returns with a revised proposal.
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B. 310 W. State St., Downtown West Historic District – Proposal to Replace Slate and
Composite Roof tiles with Synthetic Slate Shingles, Replace the Primary Entrance
Door System, and Construct an Entrance Platform and Stairs on the North
Elevation.
Owners David Halpert and Teresa Deschanes Halpert appeared in front of the ILPC to
present their proposal to replace the roof and repair the exterior of 310 W. State Street,
including replacing the modern front door with a salvaged set of double doors close to the
same age as the house, building a new rear entry landing with trim matching the rear
porch, replacing a rotten bulkhead door with a metal one, replacing some rotten trim
pieces, and replacing the roof and rebuilding the chimney.
S. Gibian suggested asking the mason if they can replicate the more detailed corbeling
like what can be seen on the chimney of the sister house on South Albany Street. He also
said he likes the details on the back porch and suggested they might want to use treated
wood there.
Public Hearing regarding RB.1
On a motion by M.M. McDonald, seconded by S. Stein, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
There being no public comments, Chair E. Finegan closed the Public Hearing on a
motion by M.M. McDonald, and seconded by K. Olson.
RESOLUTION RB.1: Moved by S. Stein, seconded by M.M. McDonald.
WHEREAS, 310 W. State St. 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 Application for a Certificate
of Appropriateness, dated February 27, 2018, was submitted for review to the Ithaca
Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC) by property owner Teresa Deschanes,
including the following: (1) two narratives respectively titled Description of
Proposed Change(s) and Reasons for Changes(s); (2) an eighteen page document of
annotated photographs titled “310 W. State St. Exterior repairs/changes,” illustrating
existing conditions, proposed materials and design features; and (3) three sketches
illustrating a proposed alteration, 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:
repairing in-kind exterior trim; rebuilding the southeast chimney; repairing in-kind
the wood windows and installing wood-framed window screens; replacing the non-
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historic primary entrance door with a pair of salvaged doors; replacing non-historic
windows and a door on the northeast porch with modified, salvaged wood windows
and a salvaged wood door, respectively; installing a steel bulkhead door on the
basement entrance on the east elevation; and constructing a code-compliant landing
at the entrance to the enclosed northeast porch, and
WHEREAS, as authorized by the City of Ithaca Historic District and Landmark Design Guidelines, the
in-kind repair of the wood windows and exterior trim, and reconstruction of the
southeast chimney were approved by ILPC staff on March 6, 2018, and
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, 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 March 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, the Stick-Style residence at
310 W State St was designed by Alvin B. Wood, a locally prominent architect, and
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.
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
forth in Section 228-6B of the Municipal Code, as further elaborated in
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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 #2 The historic features of a property located within, and
contributing to the significance of, an historic district shall be altered as little
as possible and any alterations made shall be compatible with both the
historic character of the individual property and the character of the district as
a whole.
Standard #2 The historic character of a property will be retained and
preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features and
spaces that characterize a property will be avoided.
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.
With respect to Principle #2, Standard #2, and Standard #9, the modifications to
the north porch, construction of an entrance platform, replacement of the primary
entrance door, and installation of a steel bulkhead door and wood-framed window
screens will not remove distinctive materials and will not alter features and spaces
that characterize the property.
Also with respect to Principle #2, and Standard #9, the proposed window screens,
wood windows, salvaged doors, landing, are compatible with the massing, size, scale,
and architectural features of the 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,
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.
RECORD OF VOTE:
Moved by: S. Stein
Seconded by: M.M. McDonald
In Favor: M.M. McDonald, S. Stein, D. Kramer, E. Finegan, K. Olson, S. Gibian
Against: 0
Abstain: 0
Absent: 0
Vacancies: 1
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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.
The applicants explained that the slate that had been removed was deteriorated and that left them
with the choice to either have a mix of old slate and new asphalt shingles (an option which might
make the National Parks Service reject their bid for tax credit funding), or to replace the entire
roof using synthetic slate tiles (with ridge caps and valleys in copper.) T. Deschanes explained
that they had also considered using painted metal on the ridges and valleys, but because of the
height and complexity of the roof, decided against that because they would not want to have to
go up to paint it periodically.
S. Gibian suggested they might want to look at a smaller width of tile.
T. Deschanes said that EcoStar makes a smaller tile, and that they would be willing to go with
that one instead of the 12-inch tile. (Not yet settled on one manufacturer.)
D. Halpert said that they have been looking at what sizes are available and that the EcoStar might
offer something closer in size to what was there originally.
T. Deschanes said they didn’t have a sample from EcoStar.
S. Gibian asked about durability, but noted that these products haven’t been around long enough
to know for sure.
After some further discussion, the Commission members decided to approve synthetic slate with
metal on the ridges and in the valleys, with the condition that staff approve the final materials
selected.
Public Hearing regarding RB.2
On a motion by, M.M. McDonald seconded by K. Olson, Chair E. Finegan opened the
Public Hearing.
There being no public comments, Chair E. Finegan closed the Public Hearing on a
motion by D. Kramer, and seconded by M.M. McDonald.
RESOLUTION RB.2: Moved by D. Kramer, seconded by M.M. McDonald.
WHEREAS, 310 W. State St. is located within the Downtown West Historic District, as
designated under Section 228-3 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code in 2015, and
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WHEREAS, as set forth in Section 228-4 of the Municipal Code, an Application for a Certificate
of Appropriateness, dated February 27, 2018, was submitted for review to the Ithaca
Landmarks Preservation Commission (ILPC) by property owner Teresa Deschanes,
including the following: (1) two narratives respectively titled Description of
Proposed Change(s) and Reasons for Changes(s); (2) an eighteen page document of
annotated photographs titled “310 W. State St. Exterior repairs/changes,” illustrating
existing conditions, proposed materials and design features; and (3) three sketches
illustrating a proposed alteration, 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
replacement of sections of roof clad in slate and asbestos composite roof tiles with a
synthetic slate product with metal ridge and hip caps and valley flashing, and
replacement the asphalt shingles on the south porch and the metal roof on the north
east porch with a standing seam metal roof material, and
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, 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 March 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, the Stick-Style residence at
310 W State St was designed by Alvin B. Wood, a locally prominent architect, and
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 proposal under consideration involves the replacement of the building’s roof
cladding materials, which include both slate and asbestos composite tiles. While it is
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unclear whether the slate portions of roof are original, Sanborn Fire Insurance maps
indicate that the roof material was either slate or tin from at least 1893 through 1968,
suggesting the historic material was in place for more than half of the district’s
period of significance. It appears that most of the slate roof material was replaced
with an asbestos composite tile in the mid-20th century; only about a third of the
original historic material remains. To prevent further damage to the interior from the
leaking sections of slate roof, the slate tiles were removed by the previous property
owner in November 2016 and the salvageable tiles were stored in the building.
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
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 #2 The historic features of a property located within, and
contributing to the significance of, an historic district shall be altered as little
as possible and any alterations made shall be compatible with both the
historic character of the individual property and the character of the district as
a whole.
Standard #2 The historic character of a property will be retained and
preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features and
spaces that characterize a property will be avoided.
Standard #6 Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than
replaced. When the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a
distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old in design, color, texture,
and other visual qualities, and where possible, materials. Replacement of
missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial
evidence.
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.
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With respect to Principle #2, Standard #2, and Standard #9, the replacement of slate
roof tiles with synthetic slate tiles will remove distinctive materials but will not alter
features and spaces that characterize the property.
With respect to Principle #2 and Standard #6, as confirmed by and examination of
the salvaged slate tiles by ILPC staff, the severity of the deterioration of the slate roof
tiles requires their replacement. The proposed new work will match the old in design,
color, texture, and other visual qualities. Although the proposed material is synthetic,
the visual properties of the proposed slate-like material closely replicate the appearance
of the historic building material. The ILPC also notes that the implementation of
traditional slate roof details, including open, metal-clad valleys and molded-metal hip
and ridge caps, reinforces the authentic appearance of the proposed roof system. The
ILPC also noted that the material cannot be closely inspected for authenticity from
the public right-of-way due to the height of the historic residence. Finally, the ILPC
considered the unique circumstances of this particular case. The sloped portions of
the roof were clad in slate tile historically but at some point during the 20th century,
approximately two thirds of the roof was replaced with an asbestos composite tile that
matched the visual characteristics of the historic roof material. Only a portion of the
roof was clad in a historic material protected by the Landmarks Ordinance at the time
the Downtown West Historic District was designate in 2015, and both materials, the
historic slate and the composite tile, were visible on the primary facade of the building
at that time. The proposal under consideration preserves the historic appearance of
the slate roof on the property and restores the visual and material continuity of the
roof cladding materials on the primary façade, a condition the Landmarks Ordinance
cannot require.
With respect to Principle #2, Standard #2, and Standard #9, the replacement of
asbestos composite roof tiles with synthetic slate tiles and the porch roofs with
standing seam metal will not remove distinctive materials and will not alter features
and spaces that characterize the property.
Also with respect to Principle #2, and Standard #9, the proposed synthetic slate tiles
are compatible with the massing, size, scale, and architectural features of the 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,
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):
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The final selected synthetic slate and metal roof materials shall be reviewed and
approved by ILPC staff. The slate roof tiles should ideally be 8” wide and the
metal roof panels should be flat.
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, S. Gibian
Against: 0
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.
II. PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS OF INTEREST
Chair E. Finegan opened the floor to public comments.
John Schroeder of 618 Stewart Avenue, spoke about the recommendation to designate the No.
Nine Fire Station at 311 College Ave a local landmark. He said he still believes that the
resolution would be strengthened by the addition of Criterion no. 2 and Criterion no. 5. He said
that the setback – the only one of its kind on College Avenue – represents an established and
unique visual feature of the community, per Criterion no. 5. He also said that Mary Tomlan has
done additional research since the last meeting and uncovered even more information that
connects the formation of the firehouse to Henry William Sage, making the case for including
Criterion no. 2. Schroeder pointed out that Sage advocated for the establishment of the firehouse
and he put up money to finance its construction. He identified three historic aspects to the
property, the open space in front; the 1907 addition, which is the most visible and most intact
portion of the building; and the 1894 wooden structure in the rear, which is less visible and has
had significant elements removed. He said that if the matter comes back in front of the
Commission, it seems reasonable to distinguish between those elements based on their visibility,
because preserving two out of three of those elements seems better than losing all three.
Mark Kiellman, owner of The Nines spoke against designation. He apologized for speaking
too much to the economic impacts of designation at the last meeting. He said that he thinks the
case for designation is not strong and that the historic value of the building has been exaggerated.
He said that he and his business partner have owned Clinton Hall, an historic property, since the
early 2000s. He said that they take good care of that building, that it is a beautiful building and
was well restored by a previous owner. He said he’s not one to neglect property, which is how he
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felt several speakers portrayed him at the previous meeting. Rather, he said, that he and his
business partner had long had plans to sell the building to someone looking to redevelop the site.
Mary Tomlan, City Historian, said that though it wasn’t in the original nomination, she learned
from subsequent research that Henry Sage had loaned money to the City for the construction of
the firehouse, and she wanted to make sure the Commission members were aware of that.
III. OLD BUSINESS
Former No. 9 Fire Station – Recommendation Review
B. McCracken said that the resolution was being recirculated because at the last meeting, the
ILPC had voted to recommend designation based on criteria 1, 2, and 4, but then after more
consideration and discussion via email, they decided to recommend only on the basis of criteria 1
and 4. He said that though the additional information was included in the narrative, criterion no.
2 was not included on the resolution. He said that they are re-opening the discussion tonight so
that the matter can be vetted publicly, and the Commission can decide either to reaffirm or
modify the resolution they sent to Common Council.
D. Kramer said that he thinks the connection to Sage is important and should be included.
Resolution - RC
WHEREAS, after careful consideration of the historic record and the facts presented at the public
hearing on February 13, 2017 and at the regular Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission meeting on March 13, 2018, the Commission voted to amend the below
resolution recommending the local designation of the Former No. 9 Fire Station at 311
College Avenue to include criteria 2 and 5 defining a Local Landmark, as set forth in
Section 228-3 of the City of Ithaca Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, the reasons for including criteria 2 and 5 in their recommendation to designate the
Former No. 9 Fire Station are enumerated in the amended resolution below.
RESOLVED, the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission affirms the amended recommendation
made by resolution on February 13, 2018 to designate the Former No. 9 Fire Station at
311 College Avenue.
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
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RE: Local Historic Landmark Designation of the former No. 9 Fire Station at 311 College
Avenue
AMENDED RESOLUTION:
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.
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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 19th 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
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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 19th and early-20th 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 20th century.
In exchange for room and board, university students staffed the fire station.
Per criterion 2, the former No. 9 Fire Station is identified with historically
significant person(s) or event(s), Henry W. Sage.
Henry W. Sage, a successful businessman and important Cornell University
Trustee and benefactor, is well recognized for his donations to the
University, including the Sage College for Women, Sage Chapel and the
University Library building (Uris Library) and its initial endowment. Sage
realized the need to protect the rapidly expanding university and the
neighborhood that would become Collegetown from fire, and used his
influential position as the president of the University’s Board of Trustee to
lobby for the establishment of a fire company on East Hill. With a loan of
approximately $1,500, Sage financed the construction of the 1894-95 fire
station facility. This loan represents Sage’s long-term commitment to
address fire safety concerns on East Hill. The fire company was originally
named for his son, William H. Sage, also a prominent citizen and an
important benefactor of Cornell University.
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 Ornan 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
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(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 Ornan 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.
Per Criterion 5, the Former No. 9 Fire Station, and its deep setback from College
Avenue in particular, represents an established and familiar visual feature of the
community by virtue of its unique location or singular physical characteristics.
As noted in the Narrative Description of the Property, the Former No. 9 Fire Station
has a “characteristically deep setback” that was used historically for staging and
maneuvering firefighting equipment. As illustrated in Sanborn Fire Insurance
Company maps from the late-19th and early-20th centuries, most of the buildings
along College Avenue were constructed with relatively shallow setbacks during
this time period. The fire station’s generous front yard deviated from this
development pattern due the historic use of the property and is historically
significant for this reason. Additionally, as the neighborhood urbanized
throughout the 20th and early-21st centuries, this unique feature, and the open
space it provides, has become increasingly more important to the character and
livability of Collegetown and is a unique visual feature of the neighborhood and
of the 300 block of College Avenue, specifically.
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, 2, 4, and 5 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
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Abstain: 0
Absent: 0
Vacancies: 1
There being no additional public comments, on a motion by S. Stein, seconded by M.M.
McDonald, Chair E. Finegan closed the public comments.
The ILPC recessed for 5 minutes.
IV. NEW BUSINESS
Former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad Station, 700 W State St. –
Discussion
B. McCracken said that a Building Structure Inventory form was prepared for the property in
2002, and a public hearing was scheduled at that time but the record shows that the public
hearing never happened. He said it’s unclear why the ILPC didn’t take action then, as the
minutes from that time are very sparse.
B. McCracken said that he has provided the Commission members with materials relating to the
building so they can review them and consider whether they want to recommend Landmark
designation. He noted that the Waterfront Neighborhood Plan Committee is also reviewing
historic resources in their survey area. He asked if the ILPC members had had the opportunity to
read the material and if so, if they think it meets criteria for designation.
S. Gibian said he had visited the building and that the interior seems pretty intact, all original.
M.M. McDonald said that it’s also an important moment, that they can act on designation while
the building is still serving a purpose related to what it was designed to do.
A brief discussion followed. ILPC members generally expressed support for the designation
recommendation. B. McCracken suggested waiting for recommendations from the Waterfront
Committee before moving forward. Commission members agreed.
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
02/13/2018
S. Gibian requested the removal of the word “gestalt” from the February 13, 2018 minutes.
Then, on a motion by M.M. McDonald and seconded by K. Olson, the February 13, 2018
minutes, thus modified, were approved unanimously.
VI. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Town of Ithaca Potential Certified Local Government Program
The Town of Ithaca is considering passing a Landmarks Ordinance and are tentatively
interested in partnering with the City ILPC to review projects. Commission members asked
questions regarding membership composition, workload, and the possibility of a SSA to
defray costs incurred by the City.
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Historic Ithaca 2018 Preservation Award Nominations – deadline March 30, 2018
B. McCracken reminded Commission members that the deadline for nominations is coming
up. Projects need to have been completed within the past two years to be eligible for
consideration.
Landmarks Ordinance Revisions – Planning and Economic Development Committee
Discussion
B. McCracken said he attended the previous month’s Planning and Economic Development
Committee meeting. He said that they were largely receptive to the proposed changes to the
designation criteria (although they found one to be redundant) and that their suggestions
would be reflected in the revised ordinance he would be sending the ILPC.
B. McCracken said that the PEDC was not in favor of revising the criteria that Common
Council uses in making a decision on a Landmarking recommendation. He said that they
were interested in preserving the flexibility they currently have to consider a range of factors
beyond preservation concerns alone.
2018 New York Statewide Preservation Conference – April 26-28th, 2018
B. McCracken referred the Commission members to the conference materials provided with
their meeting packets and encouraged them to attend.
Additional items of discussion:
K. Olson and the rest of the ILPC thanked John Schroeder for his years of service on the
Planning Board.
S. Gibian asked B. McCracken about a notice in the Ithaca Times advertising for a Historic
Preservation Planner. B. McCracken explained that it is because they are offering the Civil
Service exam related to his position and said he has no plans to leave. The Commission
members wished him good luck on the exam.
VII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, on a motion by M.M. McDonald , seconded by K. Olson, Chair
E. Finegan adjourned the meeting at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Bryan McCracken, Historic Preservation Planner
Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission