Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board Regular Meeting – August 16, 2023

The Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board (CHB) held a regular meeting on August 16, 2023, from 4:33 PM to 7:17 PM. The board discussed two major agenda items: a concept review for unpermitted exterior changes at 635 Mill Street (LMA23-005) and a continued brainstorming session on how to address work done without permits within the city's preservation districts. Seven board members were present. The meeting included introductions of a new board member, department reports, recusals, and a vote to continue the second item to a date uncertain.

Consent Calendar

• None.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were made during either public comment period.

Discussion Items

• Item 8.1 – Concept Review for Exterior Changes at 635 Mill Street (LMA23-005): The applicant, represented by Bob Biederman of Ground School Management and historical architect Mark Perry, sought direction from the board to legalize exterior work done without permits at 635 Mill Street, located in the Luther Burbank Gardens Preservation District. The work included replacement of windows, restoration of original board-and-batten siding, addition of a new front porch, and conversion of a window into a front door. Staff noted that the property was in severe disrepair before the work. Board members provided feedback on the porch scale, the two front doors, the porch railing, exposed foundation materials, and light fixtures. The board generally appreciated the improvement but expressed concerns about the new porch's size and the second front door. Suggestions included using a Dutch door or window for the bedroom access, covering exposed foundation with lattice or landscaping, and refining the front door appearance. The applicant indicated willingness to collaborate. No action was taken; the board's direction will inform a future major landmark alteration permit application.
• Item 8.2 – Brainstorming on Unpermitted Work in Preservation Districts: The board continued a discussion started in June 2023 on how to reduce unpermitted alterations in historic districts. Board members suggested better education (e.g., neighborhood meetings, social media, realtor disclosures), streamlining the permit process, reducing fees, and delegating some approvals to staff. Chair Meuser proposed a special study session or a workshop to develop concrete recommendations. After discussion, a motion was made and seconded to continue the item to a date uncertain, which passed 7–0. A subsequent motion to direct staff to set up a workshop (likely in October 2023) also passed 7–0.

Key Outcomes

• Item 8.1: No formal action taken; board provided conceptual direction to the applicant for future permit submittal. Key points: re-evaluate the two-door configuration, cover exposed foundation, and consider porch scale and materials.
• Item 8.2: Motion to continue the discussion to a date uncertain carried 7–0. Board also voted 7–0 to direct staff to schedule a workshop to explore causes and solutions for unpermitted work in preservation districts.
• Other Business: The board approved the July 19, 2023 draft minutes as submitted. New board member Janice Marzlin was introduced. Staff reported on the General Plan update, upcoming zoning code changes (Resilient City measures), and a potential special meeting on September 13, 2023, to discuss streamlining landmark alterations.
• Recusals: Chair Meuser and Board Member Fennell recused themselves from Item 8.1 due to proximity to the property. Vice Chair Garrett presided over that item.