Historic Preservation Commission Meeting: March 21, 2023

The Joplin Historic Preservation Commission met on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 5 p.m. The meeting included a public hearing for a local landmark designation, discussion of the upcoming Missouri Preservation Conference, Preservation Month events, downtown signage standards, potential historic districts, and other business. Commissioners present: Mr. Kaski, Dr. Fisher, Ms. Holland, Mr. Berkner, Dr. Mounds, Ms. Hahn, Mr. Huff, and Mr. Brigner (arrived later). Absent members were excused.

Consent Calendar

• Excused Absences: Ms. Frankowski, Ms. Ditarr, and Mr. Bruckner were excused from the meeting by unanimous vote.
• Minutes: The minutes from the February 21, 2023 meeting were approved unanimously.
• Budget: Staff reported an expenditure for the National Trust membership, renewing the commission's membership for another year.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Public Hearing for HPC Resolution 2023-01 (216 North Wall Avenue Local Landmark Designation):
  • Applicant/Owner Samuel Wimpset (2602 South Kingsdale, Joplin) spoke in favor. He described the house as built in 1895, well-preserved and in the same family until he purchased it in late 2022. He stated the intent is to rehabilitate the home and then pass it on to future owners, not to use it as a rental or primary residence. He emphasized the historic integrity and expressed support for the designation to honor the Glover family and the city.

Discussion Items

• Missouri Preservation Conference (June 7–9, 2023): Staff updated that scheduling and tour details are being finalized. Tours include the depot (limited tickets), a potential Olivia tour, and a shuttle bus tour of four historic Black churches (limited to 20 each). The conference will offer sessions and workshops. Volunteers will be needed.
• Preservation Month and Honor Awards:
  • The commission discussed holding the local Honor Awards ceremony in May instead of during the conference. The awards committee will meet after March 31 to review nominations and make recommendations at the April HPC meeting. A Preservation Month proclamation and poster are planned.
  • Lock Tour (May 6, 2023): The tour will feature 6–8 locations (finished, in-progress, and planned downtown housing). Volunteers are needed for each location. An evening rooftop reception at the Columbia Building (30–40 tickets) will also occur.
• Signs for Downtown Businesses: Staff acknowledged delay in drafting changes to the Sunshine Lamp District design review standards to allow larger neon signs, which are historically accurate for some buildings. The commission urged progress as property owners are eager for updated allowances.
• Bungalow-Style Houses on South Main Street: Commissioner reported that 2902 South Main was demolished that day. The commission discussed reaching out to owners of the remaining bungalows (approximately seven) to gauge interest in local or national historic designation. Staff will research the properties’ history and prepare a letter of inquiry.
• Fourth Street Stone Bridge: Commissioner inquired about preservation of the stone railroad bridge near Range Line. Staff noted it is railroad property; the commission may explore options to ensure it is not demolished.
• Potential Mini-District at 5th and Wall: The commission discussed creating a National Register mini-district including Robertson, Fly Shaker, YMCA, McHale House, Joplin Avenue Coffee, etc. Staff proposed that nonprofits (e.g., Downtown Joplin Alliance, Post Art Library) apply for a CLG grant to fund the nomination, as the city’s CLG funds are committed to the North Heights district. Property owners would cover the match. Grant applications open in fall; timeline uncertain. North Heights remains the priority.

Key Outcomes

• HPC Resolution 2023-01 (216 North Wall Local Landmark): Approved unanimously. The property met Category 3 (identification with significant persons) based on the Glover brothers’ contributions. Staff recommended approval; commission concurred.
• Honor Awards: Committee to meet after March 31; recommendations to be brought to April HPC meeting.
• Downtown Signage Standards: Staff to draft revised design guidelines for commission review at a future meeting.
• Bungalow Properties: Staff will research and prepare outreach to property owners.
• 5th and Wall District: Further exploration of a nonprofit-led grant application; no formal action taken.
• Adjournment: Motion made and seconded; meeting adjourned.