The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) of Frederick, Maryland, convened on August 11, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. Commissioners present: Robert Van Rens (Chair), Paul Fitzgerald (Vice Chair), Anne Hart, Iva Saller, and Elizabeth Burns. Staff: Gabrielle Collard, Christina Martinkosky, Sarah Hoffeditz, Lisa Mroszczyk Murphy, Shannon Pyle (administrative assistant; agenda listed Tanzi Crayton), legal counsel Iris Annan, City Council liaison Donna Kuzemchak, and attorney Scott Waxter (arrived late). The meeting included a public hearing, approval of minutes, business items, consent items, and three contested cases. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 28, 2022): Unanimously approved (motion by Commissioner, seconded). - Administrative Approval Report: Staff reported 16 administrative approvals in July 2021? (transcript says July 2022?) – entered into record. - Consent Items (HPC22-662, HPC22-689, HPC22-721): Approved unanimously. None of the three items (railing installation at 608 N. Maxwell Ave., rehabilitation at 118 E. 2nd St., retaining walls at 120-122 W. South St.) were contested. Public Comments & Testimony - HPC22-458 (215-217 W. Patrick Street): Applicant Edward Callan expressed willingness to use wood railing instead of composite, stating the commission’s earlier comments “really took that comment to heart” and the property owner’s family prioritized heritage. No other public comment. - HPC22-552 / HPC22-487 (235A E. Church Street): Contractor Brady Rosner spoke for applicants Deborah Baker and Edwin Seidewitz. He noted they would salvage brick from the partial demolition and seek to reuse it within the historic district, including potentially for an ice cream business pop-up. Discussion Items - HPC22-723DR – Demolition Review, 0 Shearwater Lane: Staff presented the Warman Log House, a mid-19th century V-notched log structure possibly used as slave quarters or tenant housing, previously documented by Maryland Historic Trust in 2009. Chair Van Rens motioned to make an application for historic designation; seconded and unanimously approved. - HPC22-458 – Rehabilitation of Rear Porches: Staff recommended approval with condition that railing be painted wood inset picket. Applicant agreed to wood for railing. Commission approved unanimously. - HPC22-552 – Partial Demolition: Applicant sought to demolish the rear elevation and porch for a new addition. Staff recommended limiting demolition to the rear porch only. Commissioner Saller argued for approving the full demolition as presented, noting it would not affect public views and would preserve the addition’s functionality. The motion to approve “as presented” (i.e., including more than just the porch) was seconded and passed unanimously, conditioned on an approved replacement plan. - HPC22-487 – Addition (Replacement Plan): Staff recommended conditions: cementitious board skirt (plain, not board-and-batten), balcony depth reduced from 8 to 5 ft, non‑pressure‑treated wood railing, windows with simulated divided lights, and standing‑seam metal roof with flat panels in a traditional color. Applicant requested 8 ft balcony depth and pressure‑treated railing for durability. Commissioners debated; Chair Van Rens motioned to approve with staff’s recommended conditions. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (as implied by adjournment without further discussion). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: All items approved unanimously (16 administrative approvals noted). - 0 Shearwater Lane: Commission directed staff to prepare an application for historic designation of the Warman Log House. - 215-217 W. Patrick Street: Application approved with condition to use painted wood inset picket railing. - 235A E. Church Street: Partial demolition approved as presented (not limited to porch) conditioned on approved replacement plan; addition approved with staff’s conditions regarding skirt, balcony depth, railing material, window design, and roof material. - All votes were unanimous. Note: The agenda listed Tanzi Crayton as administrative assistant, but the transcript identified Shannon Pyle in that role. No minutes for this meeting were provided in the source materials.
Public Meetings - Frederick, Maryland
Public Meetings - Frederick, MarylandThe City of Frederick Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a combined public hearing and workshop on Thursday, July 28, 2022, starting at 6:00 PM. The meeting included officer elections, a demolition review, several regular cases involving demolition, rehabilitation, and new construction, and two workshop items. Public comments were heard on one case, and a neighbor raised concerns about a proposed screen porch. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - HPC22-682 (232 E. 6th Street): Scott Miller and Karen Miller, neighbors at 230 E. 6th Street, expressed concern that the proposed screen porch roof line would be only about an inch from their kitchen window, potentially blocking natural light and incorporating the window into the porch enclosure. The applicant, Angel Fitzpatrick, clarified that the window would not be enclosed and that the protective plywood was temporary. No other public comments were made. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: Commissioner Carrie Albee nominated herself and was unanimously elected Chair. Commissioner Albee nominated Robert Van Rens for Vice Chair, who was also elected unanimously. - HPC22-707DR – 1724 N. Market Street (Demolition Review): Staff reported two utilitarian structures (c. 1947 block structure and c. 1970 garage) on the site of the former David O. Thomas House had no historical or architectural significance and did not meet criteria for designation. The Commission unanimously agreed not to make an application for designation, after confirming no public comment was desired. - HPC22-466 – 1730 N. Market Street (Roof Replacement): The applicant, Alex Cedarbaum representing the Maryland State Odd Fellows Home, proposed replacing original slate roofing with synthetic slate on three buildings, TPO on a flat portico roof, and riblock metal on a sunroom. Staff recommended approval for the slate and TPO but recommended standing seam metal instead of riblock. The Commission approved the application with the condition that the sunroom roof use flat seam or traditional standing seam metal, with product info submitted prior to permit. A commissioner asked about salvaging usable slate, and the applicant agreed to consider saving pieces for others. - HPC22-548 – 604 N. Market Street (Partial Demolition): Staff recommended denial of demolition of a French stoop on a contributing 1860s dwelling, citing guidelines to preserve historic fabric. The applicant, Scott Stancill, explained the concrete stoop underneath was in poor condition and he preferred a side-access brick stoop like neighbors. After discussion, the Commission approved the demolition contingent on an acceptable replacement plan. - HPC22-549 – 604 N. Market Street (Rehabilitation/New Stoop): Staff recommended denial of a proposed brick side stoop. The Commission debated materials and orientation. They approved the application with conditions: the new stoop must be concrete (no brick detailing) with a metal railing, side access. Vote was 4-0-1 (one abstention). - HPC22-552 – 235A E. Church Street (Partial Demolition): Staff found the dwelling (built 1904-1911) to be a contributing resource but not of unusual importance. The Commission unanimously found it to be a contributing resource, a prerequisite for demolition review. - HPC22-556 – 210 E. 2nd Street (Post-Work Approval for Demolition of Garden Shed): The Visitation Academy property, a contributing resource of unusual importance, had a garden shed (c. 1922-1930) that collapsed during construction. Staff recommended approval subject to a replacement plan (level two new construction). The Commission approved unanimously, noting the applicant had consulted historic preservation offices and salvaged materials. - HPC22-682 – 232 E. 6th Street (Screen Porch Addition): Staff recommended approval with conditions regarding materials. The applicant agreed to staff's recommendations (white aluminum or painted wood door, standing seam metal roof, painted exterior wood). The Commission approved unanimously with those conditions. - Workshop Item – HPC22-458 (215-217 W. Patrick Street – Rehabilitation): The applicant, Mr. Callan, requested to use composite decking and railing for rear porches, citing poor wood longevity and 300+ foot setback. Staff noted prior vinyl and composite installations on site. Commissioners debated material appropriateness; some favored wood or traditional composites. The item was continued to the August 11 hearing for further refinement of the material proposal. - Workshop Item – HPC22-689 (118 E. 2nd Street – Stained Glass Window Installation): Bob Fitzsimmons presented a plan to install 12 historic stained glass windows (originally from a Pennsylvania church) into St. John the Evangelist Church, along with exterior protective storm windows with thermal breaks and argon gas. Staff noted the design guidelines allow replacement based on documentary evidence. Commissioners expressed strong support, noting the conservation of historic windows and energy efficiency. The application was recommended for placement on a future consent agenda. Key Outcomes - Officers Elected: Carrie Albee as Chair, Robert Van Rens as Vice Chair. - 1724 N. Market Street: No designation applied; demolition may proceed without further HPC review. - 1730 N. Market Street: Approved with conditions (sunroom roof must be flat seam or traditional standing seam metal). - 604 N. Market Street (Demolition): Approved contingent on an acceptable replacement plan. - 604 N. Market Street (Rehabilitation): Approved with conditions (concrete side stoop with metal railing, no brick). - 235A E. Church Street: Found to be a contributing resource. - 210 E. 2nd Street: Demolition approved subject to replacement plan approval. - 232 E. 6th Street: Approved with conditions (door material, roof type, painted wood). - 215-217 W. Patrick Street: Continued to the August 11, 2022 hearing for final material decisions. - 118 E. 2nd Street: Workshop concluded; application expected on future consent agenda with additional documentation.
The Historic Preservation Commission of Frederick, Maryland, met on July 14, 2022, at 6:00 PM in City Hall. Commissioners Robert Van Rens (Vice Chair), Elizabeth Burns, Iva Saller, and Ann Hart were present. The meeting included a public hearing, approvals of minutes, commission business, and a workshop for several cases. Key actions included approval of a consent agenda item, approval of several rehabilitation and new construction projects, and continuation of cases involving window openings and a stoop replacement. The election of officers was tabled. The commission also provided feedback on several workshop items. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 23, 2022 hearing and workshop were approved with two administrative corrections (staff attendance and a measurement correction). Unanimous. - Administrative Approval Report: 27 projects approved administratively were accepted. Unanimous. - Consent Agenda Item (HPC22-499): Rehabilitation at 129 E. Patrick Street was approved. Unanimous. - Election of officers was tabled to the next meeting due to the absence of the chair. Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Section 106 Review – 100 W. All Saints Street: The commission reviewed a proposal to install a concealed utility pole and antenna (31 ft) replacing a 25 ft street light within the Frederick Downtown Historic District and near the B&O Station. The commission agreed to submit a letter noting the site is within the historic district and its viewshed, and authorized the vice chair to sign. Unanimous. - HPC21-1367 – 401 Linden Avenue (Roof Rehabilitation): Approved with conditions requiring non-pressure treated wood siding, traditional wood for beaded tongue-and-groove soffit, siding with a 7-inch reveal, and window framing matching the north elevation. Unanimous. - HPC22-441 – 47 S. Carroll Street (Exterior Stair & New Windows): The commission split 2-2 on the proposed new window openings on the north wall. A motion to approve the stair and reapproval of expired permits passed unanimously. The window portion was continued to July 28. Unanimous. - HPC22-556 – 210 E. 2nd Street (Partial Demolition of Shed): The commission found the Visitation Academy property to be a contributing resource of unusual importance. Unanimous. Discussion on the demolition itself and replacement plan will occur at a future meeting after a separate application is submitted. - HPC22-445 – 210 E. 2nd Street (Level 1 New Construction): A new 5-story multifamily building was approved at the level 1 review stage, with design referencing the existing historic campus. Unanimous. - HPC22-458 – 215-217 W. Patrick Street (Rehabilitation): Continued to August 11 at the applicant’s written request. Unanimous. - HPC22-572 – 120 E. Patrick Street (Amendment): Approval to replace a cellar battened door with a double-hung window and recessed brick, retaining the lintel and sill. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - HPC22-441 (47 S. Carroll St): Approved the metal stair and reapproval of expired permits; continued the new window discussion to July 28. - HPC22-556 (210 E. 2nd St): Determined the property is a contributing resource of unusual importance. No demolition approved yet. - Workshop Items (no votes): - 150 W. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition & Rehabilitation): Commission recommended aligning the third-floor addition with the existing east wall, stacking porches traditionally, and using traditional materials for the historic porch and synthetic materials for the addition. Applicant will revise drawings. - 604 N. Market Street (Demolition & Rehabilitation): Commission advised obtaining a structural assessment of the existing concrete stoop to determine if repair is feasible before considering a replacement side-access brick stoop. Applicant may resubmit by July 18. - 216 E. Patrick Street (Alterations to Fraternal Order of Eagles Building): The commission concurred that the existing glass block windows are a character-defining feature and should be retained. Replacement of the front door with a period-appropriate design and infilling of louvered vents were acceptable. No vote taken.
Ethics and Defensive Decision Making Training for Historic Preservation Commission - June 30, 2022\n\nThe Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) of Frederick, Maryland, held a training session on ethics and defensive decision making on June 30, 2022. The training was presented by Kirsty O'Neill of the Maryland Association of Historic District Commissions (MAHDC) and supported by grant funds from the Maryland Historical Trust. The session covered ethical dilemmas such as conflicts of interest, bias, ex parte communication, and the importance of due process. Commissioners participated in discussing nine scenarios to test their understanding of ethical standards. The meeting also included a discussion about interacting with the press and the Open Meetings Act. The training was attended by commissioners in person and virtually, along with staff and legal counsel.\n\n Discussion Items (Scenarios and Responses)\n- Scenario 1: Honorary Chair of Fundraiser – Commissioner Gomez declines to be honorary chair after learning the event organizers might request city council actions. Commissioners generally agreed that perception of conflict matters; some would recuse, others would seek input. The presenter noted that while no real conflict may exist, the higher ethical standard of avoiding appearance is prudent.\n- Scenario 2: Window Restorer Commissioner – Commissioner Anderson, a window restorer, is hired by a district resident and then recuses herself when the application comes before the commission. All commissioners agreed recusal was the correct ethical choice. The presenter highlighted that conflicts of interest must be disclosed and the commissioner should leave the room.\n- Scenario 3: Free Meal from a Developer – Commissioner Jones receives an apparent free meal from a property owner who will soon apply for projects. Commissioners unanimously agreed that the full bill should be paid to avoid any appearance of impropriety, and that even if a gift is under a legal threshold, it should be refused if it creates a perception of bias.\n- Scenario 4: Behind-the-Scenes Tour for Friend – Commission chairperson Young arranges a tour of the planning department for a college friend who plans to bid on a future RFP. Opinions were mixed: some saw it as unfair access or insider information, while others saw no serious ethical problem if no RFP details were shared. Legal counsel noted that the nexus between the tour and the RFP is unclear, but perception must be considered.\n- Scenario 5: Friendly Neighbor Asking for Favor – Commissioner Lee’s neighbor asks her to sway other commissioners on a potential addition. Lee correctly avoids discussing the case and directs the neighbor to the preservation planner. Commissioners agreed this was the proper response. A follow-up discussion addressed whether a commissioner who is also a neighbor should recuse if the project directly affects their property; the consensus was to recuse if they cannot be impartial.\n- Scenario 6: Planner and Commissioner Close Relationship – A commissioner meets monthly with the planner to get advance information on agenda items and strategies to sway other commissioners. Commissioners and staff identified this as problematic, especially the behind-the-scenes coordination. The line was drawn at discussing specific upcoming cases or attempting to influence colleagues outside public meetings. The presenter noted that while informal conversations with staff are acceptable, “machinations” to build majority support cross ethical boundaries.\n- Scenario 7: Conference Discussions – Four commissioners attend a conference, discuss general process improvements, and later talk about a slate roof case study almost identical to an upcoming application. Commissioners and legal counsel distinguished between discussing process (acceptable) and discussing specific pending cases (violation of Open Meetings Act). The presenter emphasized that any discussion of a pending application among a quorum outside a public meeting violates the Open Meetings Act.\n- Scenario 8: Overwhelmed Commissioner – Commissioner Alyssa, due to family crises, has not reviewed applications or made site visits, but plans to vote with the majority. Commissioners agreed she should either disqualify herself or provide a statement of eligibility explaining she cannot vote. They noted that if her absence affects quorum, she may need to consider resignation. The presenter tied this to accountability and competency as ethical requirements.\n- Scenario 9: (Bonus) Speaking to the Press – Commissioner Carrie asked about handling press inquiries. Staff and legal counsel advised never speaking on behalf of the commission without explicit permission, and if forced to comment, to clearly state it is a personal opinion. They recommended deflecting to staff or the city’s communications director to avoid misquotation or premature commitments.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Commissioners gained a clearer understanding of ethical standards for conflicts of interest, bias, ex parte communication, and accountability.\n- The training reinforced the importance of due process, both procedural and substantive, and the need for decisions to be based on evidence and design guidelines.\n- Commissioners were reminded to always consult legal counsel when in doubt, and to consider how actions might appear on the front page of a newspaper (the “Marksula Center” test).\n- It was noted that Frederick has an ethics commission and an ethics ordinance, though ethics training is not currently required for commissioners.\n- The presenter committed to sharing a link to the Markkula Center video on ethics.\n- Commissioners were advised that the Open Meetings Act training is available and encouraged to take it.\n- No formal votes were taken; this was an educational session.\n
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) of the City of Frederick met on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 101 North Court Street. The meeting was broadcast live on Channel 99 and streamed online. The board approved the May 24, 2022 meeting minutes and conducted a public hearing on a conditional use application for a brewery. After hearing testimony, the board voted unanimously to approve the application. Call to Order and Announcements - Chair Jim Racheff called the meeting to order and provided an overview of ZBA procedures. - Mr. Atkins announced vacancies on the Planning Commission and Historic Preservation Commission, and the Maryland Planning Commission Association's annual training session scheduled for October 25-26, 2022, in Frederick. Approval of Minutes - The May 24, 2022 meeting minutes were approved as written by a motion from Bob Sisson, seconded by Lawrence Aronow, with all members voting in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - No general public comment was received. - No public testimony was offered regarding the conditional use case. Discussion Items - ZBA22-484CU – Conditional Use for a Brewery at 8411 Broadband Drive. The applicant requested approval to establish a brewery with retail sales, a tasting room, and food and beverage service in the Mixed-Use Employment (MXE) zoning district at Riverside Corporate Park. Staff from the Planning Department presented a report recommending approval. The transcript identifies the staff presenter as "Ms. Kelly," while the agenda lists Gabrielle Collard, Deputy Director for Planning; this discrepancy is noted. - Applicant representatives, including attorney Dave Severn, Danny Severn of St. John Properties, and Paul Tinney of Rockwell Brewery, testified in support. They noted the brewery would relocate from a smaller East Street location to the larger facility, and that the use is compatible with the mixed-use park and the city's comprehensive plan, which encourages the craft beverage industry. - Board members asked questions about entertainment hours, parking adequacy, and site access. One member expressed minor concern about the entrance on Broadband Drive. Staff suggested a possible condition limiting entertainment to midnight, but the final motion did not include that condition. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved (4-0) the conditional use for the brewery at 8411 Broadband Drive, with retail sales, tasting room, and food and beverage service. The motion was made by Dixon Hicks, seconded by Lawrence Aronow, and passed with all four present members voting in favor. - The approval was based on findings of fact that the brewery is complementary to other non-residential uses in the area and complies with the Land Management Code, including Section 857. - Zoning determinations completed: ZBA22-559ZD (1513 Tilco Drive) and ZBA22-547ZD (1305 W 7th Street).
The Historic Preservation Commission held a workshop on June 27, 2022, to review three applications for work on properties in the historic district. No consent calendar or public comments were presented. The commission provided guidance on each application and continued all cases to future meetings. Parapet Metal Cap Application (HPC 22-XXX) - Staff presented an application to add a nine-to-ten-inch-tall metal cap around the parapet roof of a building built in two phases (1952 and 1968). Staff noted that guidelines encourage retaining existing parapets and that the applicant had not sufficiently justified the height increase or provided evidence of ongoing leaks. - Applicant Jarvis and engineer Boris explained that the metal cap would slope water away from the stone parapet, preventing water infiltration and reducing maintenance. They clarified that the actual height increase would be only about 1.5 to 2 inches (not 9–10 inches) because the cap would cover the existing stone, not raise it significantly. - Commissioners expressed concerns about drilling into the stone to attach the cap and about a pipe railing extension that was not included in the original application. The applicant agreed to explore non-penetrating attachment methods and to submit full details on the railing. - The commission continued the case to the June 23, 2022, meeting with a resubmission deadline of June 13, 2022 at 11 a.m. Rear Addition Replacement (221 West Patrick Street) (HPC 22-447 and HPC 22-449) - Staff reviewed a proposal to replace a demolished one-story frame addition and porch at the rear of a twin dwelling. The applicant, owner George Horman, seeks to replicate the historic structure with a similar design, including a kitchen addition and a porch with a concrete floor and a possible handicap ramp. - Commissioners requested additional details: how the new structure will tie into existing brick walls without damaging historic fabric, drainage plans, a complete elevation drawing showing roof height and placement, and clarification that the porch ceiling and rafters will be finished with fascia and soffit. - The applicant agreed to provide a written statement on construction methods and to submit updated drawings. The case was continued; the next meeting date was offered as June 23 or July 14, 2022. Rear Porch Rehabilitation (215-217 West Patrick Street) (HPC 22-458) - Staff presented an application to replace deteriorated rear porches (circa 1920) with wood tongue-and-groove flooring and wood railings per guidelines. The applicant, Ed Callan, requested approval to use composite decking and railings for durability, citing the porches’ distance from public view (332 feet) and past inappropriate interventions. - Commissioners noted that guidelines generally do not approve composite materials unless specific conditions are demonstrated. They asked for a professional opinion on repairability of existing railings and documentation of dimensional changes required by code. A commissioner suggested researching alternative products like Extruded PVC (e.g., Eratus) that better mimic wood. - The applicant indicated willingness to explore other materials and will coordinate with staff regarding the next meeting (June 23 or July 14, 2022) after further research. Key Outcomes - All three applications were continued to future meetings (June 23 or July 14, 2022, with specific resubmission deadlines). - No formal votes were taken; the commission provided guidance to applicants on additional documentation and design changes needed for approval.
The Frederick City Historic Preservation Commission convened at 6:00 PM on June 23, 2022, at City Hall to hold a public hearing and workshop. The agenda included a Section 106 review, several case hearings for demolition, replacement, and new construction, and workshop discussions on proposed projects. The Commission approved minutes, determined contributing status for two properties, approved a new construction design with conditions, and provided guidance for revisions to a major addition. Public Comments & Testimony - Kevin Sellner (East Fifth Street) addressed the Commission on case HPC22-10 (1730 N. Market Street). He argued that the proposed new construction did not comply with historic design guidelines regarding mass, style, and height, and urged the Commission to act as a check on staff and require consistency with the existing Oddfellows buildings. No other citizen comments were received during the public comment period. Discussion Items Section 106 Review – 54 Monocacy Boulevard Staff presented a proposal for a 36‑foot utility pole and wireless antenna in the public right‑of‑way. The Commission concurred with staff that the project is not within the viewshed of the Frederick Town National Register Historic District due to intervening trees and topography. The Commission authorized Vice Chair to sign a letter recommending that the applicant verify with the Maryland Historic Trust that no archaeological resources are affected. (Motion carried unanimously.) HPC22-10 – 1730 N. Market Street (Level 1 New Construction) The applicant proposed a four‑story multifamily building on Lot 203 of the former Oddfellows Home. Commissioners noted the design had evolved from previous workshops and generally supported the location and massing, though concerns about the parking deck at grade and pedestrian scale were noted for future level‑2 review. Staff recommended approval with conditions. The Commission approved level‑1 with three conditions: site access from Market Street is excluded until final site plan approval; tree removals are excluded; surface parking shall be limited to the north side and reduced to the minimum required by code. (Motion carried unanimously.) HPC22-301 – 33 E. Patrick Street (Alter Parapet Cap and Railing) The applicant requested a metal cap on the parapet and a new roof railing. After discussion, the Commission approved the metal cap subject to a revised drawing showing the anchor does not penetrate the stone cap and that liquid adhesive is used. The request for a railing extension was denied because the attachment to brick could damage historic masonry and no alternative attachment was shown; the replacement of existing railing in kind was deferred to staff‑level review. (Two separate motions: cap approved with conditions, railing extension denied; both unanimous.) HPC22-441 – 47 S. Carroll Street The applicant requested a continuance to July 14, 2022. Motion carried unanimously. HPC22-447/449 – 221 W. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition and Replacement) The applicant sought post‑demolition approval for a deteriorated rear frame structure and porch. The Commission first approved the demolition (subject to a replacement plan) and then approved the replacement plan, which replicates the former one‑story frame addition with a porch. Conditions require all exterior wood to be painted or stained with an opaque finish, and product information for the porch ceiling to be submitted for staff review. (Motions carried unanimously.) HPC22-548 – 604 N. Market Street (Partial Demolition – Stoop) The applicant explained that the front stoop was damaged in an auto accident and proposed a new side‑access brick stoop. The Commission first determined that the property is a contributing resource to the Frederick Town Historic District. Per the land management code, action on the demolition request was deferred to a subsequent meeting. (Motion finding contributing resource carried unanimously.) HPC22-558 – 150 W. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition) The applicant requested demolition of the rear wing roof, chimneys, and porches to accommodate an addition. The Commission found the property to be a contributing resource. Action on demolition was deferred; the replacement plan was discussed in the workshop. (Motion finding contributing carried unanimously.) Continuances Two applications at 210 E. 2nd Street (HPC22-556 and HPC22-445) were continued to July 14, 2022, at the applicant’s request. (Motion carried unanimously.) Workshop Discussion – HPC22-499 – 129 E. Patrick Street (Rehabilitation) The applicant proposed converting an attached brick garage into an ice cream shop, with a wood‑framed infill, double Dutch doors, three equal windows, and a revised awning. Commissioners praised the adaptive reuse and symmetrical design. Minor details on lighting, signage, and window repairs remain; staff indicated the application could be placed on a consent agenda once finalized. Workshop Discussion – HPC22-558/504 – 150 W. Patrick Street (Partial Demolition and Rehabilitation/Addition) The applicant presented a plan to add a third story to the rear wing, replace porches, and add new windows. Commissioners expressed serious concerns: the proposed vinyl siding and windows are incompatible with the historic district; the removal of a one‑foot‑wide strip of brick along the west side would obliterate the historic wing’s form; the third‑story addition appears top‑heavy and should be set back; new windows on the west wall may violate building code fire‑separation requirements; porch materials should be wood, not aluminum. Staff recommended a major redesign that preserves the historic telescoping form and uses traditional materials. The applicant agreed to revise the proposal. Key Outcomes - Minutes of the June 9, 2022 hearing and workshop were approved. - Section 106 letter authorized for 54 Monocacy Boulevard. - HPC22-10 approved at level 1 with conditions (unanimous). - HPC22-301 parapet cap approved with conditions; railing extension denied (unanimous). - HPC22-441 continued to July 14 (unanimous). - HPC22-447 demolition approved (unanimous). - HPC22-449 replacement plan approved with conditions (unanimous). - HPC22-548 found to be a contributing resource; demolition action deferred. - HPC22-558 (150 W. Patrick) found to be a contributing resource; demolition and addition plan to be revised. - HPC22-556/445 continued to July 14 (unanimous). - Workshop guidance provided for 129 E. Patrick and 150 W. Patrick; applicants to submit revised designs. Note: Several items on the workshop agenda (HPC22-549, HPC22-552, HPC22-487) were not reached due to time; meeting adjourned.
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a public hearing on June 9, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 101 North Court Street. The commission considered five cases, including a demolition review, an administrative report, a consent item, and three contested cases. All decisions were made unanimous. The hearing also included a continuance request and a workshop agenda item carried over to a later date. Consent Calendar - HPC22-420 (Maxwell Square) – Replacement of windows by the homeowner association. Approved unanimously without discussion after no requests to remove from consent. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on any agenda item. No citizen comment was offered at the end of the hearing. Discussion Items - Administrative Approval Report – Staff reported 38 administrative approvals in May 2022; entered into the record. - Demolition Review – 1728 N. Market Street – Staff determined that the concrete block building (built 1964–1970) does not meet criteria for historic designation. Commissioners concurred and voted not to initiate an application for designation. - HPC20-860 – 358 W. Patrick Street – Applicant Sam Shi sought rehabilitation including a second-story addition, parking, tree removal, and window/door replacement. Staff recommended approval with conditions: smooth finish cement board siding, traditional hue standing-seam metal roof (galvanized green or red), and replacement of front doors FD1 and FD2 with full-light or three-quarter-light wood doors. Applicant accepted conditions. Approved unanimously. - HPC21-1324 – 14 N. Market Street – Applicant Jonathan Kapneck proposed selective removal of deteriorating marble tiles and replacement with 18 honed granite tiles of similar color. Staff noted good-faith efforts to source marble but inherent flaws in original material; found substitute appropriate. Approved unanimously. - HPC22-10 – 1730 N. Market Street – Applicant requested a continuance to June 23, 2022. Approved unanimously. - HPC22-258 – 401 Linden Avenue (Kramer House) – Applicant Richard Holzer sought partial demolition of a deteriorated roof structure connecting the main house to a garage. The property is a resource of unusual importance. Staff recommended approval conditioned on a replacement plan (the associated rehabilitation application HPC21-1367). After discussion, the commission approved demolition with a condition that exposed areas be covered with a tarp or weather-resistant material until further work is approved. Unanimous. - HPC22-447 – 221 W. Patrick Street – Applicant George Horman requested post-demolition approval for a one-story structure and porch. The commission first determined that the building is a contributing resource to the historic district (built during period of significance). The replacement plan (HPC22-449) was deferred to a later workshop. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - 1728 N. Market Street – Commission declined to initiate historic designation. Demolition review closed. - 358 W. Patrick Street – Approved with conditions (smooth siding, metal roof color, door design). - 14 N. Market Street – Approved substitute material (granite tiles) for marble facade. - 401 Linden Avenue – Partial demolition approved with tarping condition; rehabilitation plan to follow. - 221 W. Patrick Street – Building found to be a contributing resource; partial demolition and replacement plan to be reviewed at workshop. - Consent agenda and minutes (May 26, 2022) approved unanimously. - Continuance granted for 1730 N. Market Street to June 23, 2022.
The Frederick Historic Preservation Commission held a public hearing and workshop on May 26, 2022, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting covered a Section 106 review, a demolition review request, election of a vice chairman, and several case hearings. The workshop portion discussed multiple projects including a new construction, rehabilitation, and demolition proposals. The commission approved several applications, continued others, and provided guidance for future submissions. Consent Calendar - No consent items were listed on the agenda. The approval of the May 12, 2022 hearing minutes and May 17, 2022 workshop minutes were approved unanimously under separate motions. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the citizen comment portion of the hearing. No public testimony was offered during the workshop. Discussion Items (Hearing) - Section 106 Review – 6262 Butterfly Lane: Staff presented a request for comments on a 143-foot monopole. The commission authorized the chair to sign a letter of no adverse effect on historic properties. Motion passed unanimously. - Demolition Review – 220 N. East Street: The applicant requested a one-month postponement. The commission voted to continue the case to the June 23, 2022 hearing. Motion passed unanimously. - Election of Vice Chairman: Commissioner Robert Van Rens was nominated and elected vice chairman unanimously. - HPC21-288 – 700 N. Market Street (Shed): Post-construction approval for a shed. Staff recommended approval with replacement of vinyl siding. The commission approved the application as presented. Motion passed unanimously. - HPC22-238 – 252 S. Carroll Street (New Duplex): Approval for a two-and-a-half story duplex. Staff recommended conditions including foundation finish, true divided light front door, and concrete stoop. The commission approved with conditions. Motion passed unanimously. - HPC22-243 – 10 N. Carroll Street (Windows): Approval for window repairs and replacements. The applicant requested to replace window E3 with aluminum clad, while staff recommended retention. The commission agreed with the applicant, approving the application with a condition that the six-light aluminum clad window at N3 feature true or simulated divided lights. Motion passed unanimously. - HPC22-258 – 401 Linden Avenue (Partial Demolition): The applicant requested demolition of a carport roof. The commission voted to continue the case to the June 9, 2022 hearing to allow workshop discussion. Motion passed unanimously. - HPC22-329 – 154 N. Market Street (Masonry Cleaning): Approval for cleaning with Cathedral Stone Light Duty Cleaner, at no more than 400 PSI. Motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items (Workshop) - HPC20-860 – 358 W. Patrick Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant presented plans for a second-story addition, parking area, porch enclosure, and window/door repairs. Staff and commissioners supported the design but requested clarification on siding finish (smooth fiber cement) and documentation of retained historic features. The applicant agreed to submit updated plans by the May 27, 2022 deadline. - HPC22-258 & HPC21-1367 – 401 Linden Avenue (Partial Demolition & Roof Rehabilitation): The applicant sought approval to remove a carport roof and replace the roof. The commission expressed concern over demolition by neglect and unpermitted work. The applicant provided verbal descriptions but was required to submit detailed documentation (shop drawings, photos, material specs) by May 27, 2022. The commission emphasized the need for a complete application to avoid denial. - HPC22-10 – 1730 N. Market Street (Level 1 New Construction): The applicant presented a 72-unit multifamily building. Staff and commissioners commended the design but recommended reducing surface parking, retaining mature trees, and improving pedestrian experience along North Market Street. The applicant agreed to address these in future submissions. - HPC22-441 – 47 S. Carroll Street (Rehabilitation): The applicant proposed an exterior metal stair and four new window openings. The commission was split on new windows; some preferred skylights. Staff recommended including previously unapproved work (from prior approvals) in the application. The applicant agreed to consider skylights and to include all outstanding work. - HPC22-445 – 210 E. 2nd Street (Level 1 New Construction): The applicant presented a five-story building on the Visitation Academy site. Commissioners requested more facade modulation on Second Street, consideration of a demolished brick shed (to be reconstructed), and context with neighboring buildings. The applicant agreed to revise the design and provide additional renderings. Key Outcomes - Approved: Section 106 letter (6262 Butterfly Lane), HPC21-288 (700 N. Market Street), HPC22-238 (252 S. Carroll Street), HPC22-243 (10 N. Carroll Street), HPC22-329 (154 N. Market Street). - Continued: Demolition review (220 N. East Street) to June 23, 2022; HPC22-258 (401 Linden Avenue partial demolition) to June 9, 2022. - Withdrawn: HPC21-955 (105 E. 3rd Street) by applicant. - No action taken: HPC21-1324 (14 N. Market Street) due to incomplete public notice. - Election: Robert Van Rens elected vice chairman. - Workshop guidance: All workshop items require updated submissions by the May 27, 2022 resubmission deadline. The commission emphasized detailed documentation to ensure timely approvals.
The City of Frederick Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) met on May 24, 2022, at 7:00 PM in City Hall to conduct a public hearing. The agenda included approval of previous meeting minutes, one conditional use modification case, and a list of zoning determinations completed by staff. The meeting was broadcast live on Channel 99 and streamed online. The board consists of volunteer members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the board of aldermen; four voting members were present, constituting a quorum. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the March 22, 2022 meeting minutes as written (motion by Vice Chair Lawrence Aronow, seconded by Bob Sisson, with all four voting members in favor). Public Comments & Testimony - No general public comments were offered regarding zoning matters not on the agenda. - No public comments were made regarding the specific case. Discussion Items - ZBA22-283CU – Conditional Use Modification – 889 Butterfly Lane (Prospect Hall Mansion) - Applicant Request: Prospect Hall Properties LLC, represented by attorney Bruce Dean of McCurdy, Dean & Gratutor, sought to modify the previously approved conditional use (ZBA20-786CU) by removing the farmers market and other community-wide events open to the public, and reducing the required on-site parking spaces from 72 to 41 (inclusive of ADA spaces). The original approval allowed commercial uses in the historic mansion, including a reception facility, recreation center, social service center, and seasonal farmers market. - Staff Report: Staff planner Sherry (identified as Gabrielle Collard? Actually staff name is Gabrielle Collard, but the transcript refers to "Ms. Kelly"? The transcript says "Thank you, Ms. Kelly" but the agenda lists Gabrielle Collard as Deputy Director for Planning; we'll use "staff" generically) entered a report noting that the applicant’s request to reduce parking was driven by the need to preserve specimen trees and the historic viewshed. The removal of the farmers market significantly reduces parking demand. Staff found the request compliant with Section 813 (commercial use of historic structures) and recommended approval with conditions, including: (1) removing the farmers market and community-wide events from approved uses; (2) modifying condition 3 to provide no less than 41 parking spaces and bicycle parking at 1 per 10 vehicle spaces (minimum 10); (3) implementing mitigating measures (landscaping, barriers, signage) to prevent parking on grass; and (4) upholding all other original conditions (e.g., screening buffer, access via Butterfly Lane, two-year expiration per Section 312G). - Applicant Testimony: Bruce Dean explained that the original 72-space requirement proved infeasible without destroying historic trees and creating a large retaining wall. After unsuccessfully seeking legally binding off-site parking agreements with local churches, the applicant chose to reduce uses and parking to preserve the property’s grandeur. Owner Michelle Sigler testified that events would be limited to controlled private gatherings (e.g., weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs) averaging around 100 guests, with parking managed through ride-sharing, buses, and per-event planning. She emphasized the goal of restoring the historic mansion and its viewshed. - Board Questions: Board members asked about gym equipment shown in drawings (clarified as yoga classes, not a gymnasium) and the parking layout (tucked closer to the mansion to preserve trees). They also questioned whether event sizes might grow post-pandemic; the applicant stated current trends favor smaller, intimate weddings. - Staff Conditions Accepted: The applicant agreed to the additional condition regarding mitigation measures to prevent lawn parking. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Board member Bob Sisson moved to approve the conditional use modification (ZBA22-283CU) based on staff’s findings of fact and conditions, with an amendment to include all staff-recommended conditions. The motion was seconded by Lawrence Aronow and passed unanimously (4-0: Aronow, Hicks, Sisson, and Chair Racheff). - Approved Conditions: The approval includes: (1) removal of farmers market and community-wide public events; (2) reduction of parking to 41 spaces with ADA compliance and bicycle parking per 10 vehicle spaces; (3) mitigation measures to prevent grass parking; and (4) all other original conditions from ZBA20-786CU remain in effect. - Zoning Determinations: The board acknowledged a list of 16 zoning determinations completed by staff (e.g., ZBA22-084ZD, ZBA22-308ZD, etc.) covering various properties, with no action required. Additional Notes - The board welcomed new members and administrative staff, noting this was the first in-person meeting in some time. - The meeting adjourned after the case and housekeeping items. No conflicts were noted between the agenda, minutes (not provided), and transcript.