HomeMy Public PortalAbout04/22/1999MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING HELD BY THE
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW AND PLANNING BOARD OF THE TOWN OF GULF STREAM,
FLORIDA ON THURSDAY, APRIL 22, 1999, AT 8:30 A.M., IN THE TOWN HALL, 100
SEA ROAD, GULF STREAM, FLORIDA.
I. Call to Order. In the absence of Chairman Wilson, Vice Chairman
Kent called the meeting to order at 8:30 A.M.
II. Roll Call.
Present and Hewlett Kent
Participating: Muriel Anderson
Douglas Hornberger
Perry O'Neal
Chris Wheeler
Absent with Howard E.N. Wilson
Notice: (arrived at 10:10 A.M.)
Marjorie McGraw
Also Present and Kristin K. Garrison
Participating: John Randolph
Rita Taylor
Randall Stofft
Thomas McMurrian
Gerald Urbanek
Brian Pfeifler
William Weitsma
Vice Chairman
Board Member
Board Member
Alternate Member
Board Member
Chairman
Alternate Member
Town Manager
Town Attorney
Town Clerk
Agent for Mr. Goodman
Agent for Ocean Prop.
Applicant
Town Resident
Property Owner
Town Manager Garrison welcomed Mr. Chris Wheeler, a newly appointed
Board Member, and advised that Mr. Wheeler has a strong background in
residential development since receiving his MBA from Harvard University.
III. Minutes of the Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of 2-25-99.
Mrs. Anderson moved and Mr. Hornberger seconded that the minutes
be approved as circulated and all voted AYE at Roll Call.
IV. Additions, withdrawals, deferrals, a
There were no changes in the agenda.
ement of agenda items.
V. Announcements.
A. Meeting Dates
1. Regular Meeting & Public Hearing 5-27-99 at 8:30 A.M.
2. Regular Meeting & Public Hearing 6-24-99 at 8:30 A.M.
3. Regular Meeting & Public Hearing 7-22-99 at 8:30 A.M.
4. No meeting will be held in August 1999
5. Regular Meeting & Public Hearing 9-23-99 at 8:30 A.M.
Vice Chairman Kent asked if there were any conflicts with the dates as
shown. There were several members who advised the would not be
available for the July 22 Id meeting and it was unanimously agreed that
the July meeting would be held on July 29, 1999 at 8:30 A.M. Mrs.
Anderson was the only member who would be unable to attend this meeting,
as she would be out of Town the entire month of July.
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 2
VI. PUBLIC HEARING.
Attorney Randolph explained the Quasi -Judicial nature of these
public hearings and stressed the importance of disclosing any ex -parte
communications and visits to the development sites.
Vice Chairman Kent asked that all persons who intended to speak at the
Public Hearing please stand to take the oath. The Town Clerk
administered the oath to Randall Stofft, Thomas McMurrian, Gerald
Urbanek, Brian Pfeifler and William Wietsma.
Vice Chairman Kent reported that he had visited the Goodman site and had
ex -parte communication with Mr. Urbanek who had explained his side of
the story regarding the unapproved extension to his garage addition. He
also advised that he had visited the site and discussed the matter with
staff. Mrs. Anderson stated that she had visited all of the sites on
this agenda and Mr. Hornberger stated he had visited the Urbanek &
Goodman sites, as had Mr. Wheeler. Mr. O'Neal advised that he had
discussions with staff and had visited the Urbanek site.
A. Applications for Development Approval
1. An application submitted by Randall Stofft, Architect,
as Agent for Barry and Pam Goodman, the owners of
property located at 3603 N. Ocean Blvd, Gulf Stream,
Florida, which is legally described as the northerly 100'
of the southerly 170' of Lot 6 in Gulf Stream Ocean Tracts
Subdivision, Gulf Stream, Florida.
Mr. Stofft displayed a color rendering of the proposed structure and
reminded that a few months previously the Board had approved a plan that
contained several small additions to the existing home. He advised that
subsequent to the approval, a large sinkhole had developed that has
rendered the foundation unsafe. The owner proposed to demolish the
existing structure and construct a new one that is like the existing
approval with only a few minor changes. He pointed out that the
existing structure does not conform to the current setbacks and it was
necessary to make a few adjustments to fit the current provisions of the
code. Mr. Stofft called attention to the picture window on the east
side that is a discouraged feature and reminded that it was approved as
a part of the previous approval for the additions.
Brian Pfeifler, the property owner to the north, requested that a
condition be attached to any approval that would require that auger
.� piles be used rather than driven piles, due to the presence of
underground caves that extend across both properties. Mr. Pfeifler
further requested that it be made clear that the wood fence between the
two properties is on his property and is not to be damaged or removed.
Town Manager Garrison agreed with Mr. Pfeifler regarding the requested
conditions and advised that the engineer has recommended using auger
piles. Mrs. Garrison called attention to the white barrel tile on the
roof and advised that she had suggested that the owner consider a flat
tile in either white or slate, adding that white barrel tile is not
associated with any traditional architectural style; it is a roofing
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 3
material not commonly used in this area. She pointed out that the
structure is of no specific traditional architectural style.
Mr. Stofft disagreed and advised that the proposed structure is classic
Palladian style architecture and that white barrel tile is consistent
with this style. He added that the owner did not want a Mediterranean
C`) or Bermuda style, which are the preferred styles in the area. He
believed this to be a simple, soft home and advised that the owner is
opposed to the slate and wants the white barrel tile.
Mr. O'Neal asked if there are any other white barrel tile roofs in the
Town. The Town Manager stated she only knows of one at this time and it
is an older roof that will most likely be in need of replacing in the
near future. She added that there had been two others but that they
have recently changed the roofs to conform to the style of the
structures.
Mr. Wheeler pointed out that the Manual encourages consistency and that
this proposed structure is neither Bermuda nor Mediterranean. He
believed it would be a simple matter to change to Bermuda and pointed
out that the existing homes in Gulf Stream are timeless, as opposed to
this structure which will appear to be dated as a 1980's or 1990's
style.
Vice Chairman Kent believed that gables would not be permitted on the
Bermuda style, but that it could be converted to Mediterranean. He did
not feel that white barrel tile would fit with the style and believes
the roof should be changed to be consistent with what is in the Town.
Mr. Hornberger asked for a clarification regarding pool enclosures.
Town Manager Garrison advised that the Town adopted the County Building
Code that requires a minimum 5' enclosure. However, she further advised
that the Town also has a code that deals with this matter from the
zoning aspect. As a result, a modification of the County Code has
occurred in certain instances.
a. AlA VEGETATIVE DISTURBANCE PERMIT to permit alteration
of the existing landscape material and improvements
within the Historic Corridor.
Mr. Hornberger moved and Mr. O'Neal seconded that the AlA Vegetative
Disturbance Permit be recommended for approval, based on a finding that
the plans are consistent with the AlA Landscape Enhancement Project.
Roll Call: Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. Hornberger; AYE, Mr. O'Neal; AYE,
Mr. Wheeler; AYE, and Vice Chairman Kent; AYE.
b. LEVEL 3 ARCHITECTURAL/SITE PLAN REVIEW to permit the
demolition of the existing structure and the
construction of a two-story, single family dwelling.
Mr. Hornberger moved and Mrs. Anderson seconded that approval of the
Level 3 Architectural/Site Plan Review be recommended based on a finding
that all applicable code requirements have been met, subject the
following conditions: 1) A permit from the Department of Environmental
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 4
Protection shall be secured prior to issuance of a building permit for
construction seaward of the 1997 Coastal Construction Control Line; 2)
Any pilings installed shall be auger piles, and no pile driving shall
take place; 3) The contractor shall take all reasonable precautions to
protect adjacent properties from damage due to construction; 4) A 5 -foot
high pool enclosure that complies with Palm Beach County regulations is
O required; 5) The building colors shall be consistent with the guidelines
in the Design Manual; 6) The wood fence on the north side, which belongs
to the property owner to the north, shall not be damaged or removed; 7)
The roofing material shall be changed to a material that is compatible
with the architectural style and the area. The Town Manager may approve
a white flat cement tile or a slate -style, but any other shall be
resubmitted to the Architectural Review & Planning Board. Roll Call:
Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. O'Neal; AYE, Mr. Hornberger; AYE, Mr. Wheeler;
AYE, and Vice Chairman Kent; AYE.
B. An application submitted by Thomas T. McMurrian as Agent for
Ocean Properties Ltd., the owner of the property located at
3421 N. Ocean Blvd., Gulf Stream, Florida, which is legally
described in metes and bounds as a part of Lots 5 & 6 in
Gulf Steam Ocean Tracts Subdivision, Gulf Stream, Florida.
Mr. McMurrian distributed copies of the proposed landscape plan to each
member of the Board and explained that some improvements had been
started when it became apparent that extensive replacement would be
necessary. At this point, work was discontinued and plans were
submitted for review. He pointed out that all plant material that is
planned is salt tolerant and one objective is to screen the garage. Mr.
McMurrian advised that there will be some low material added for color.
Mr. O'Neal questioned if the garage would be screened from the road and
Mr. Wheeler asked if the fence would be blocked out. Mr. McMurrian
answered yes to both questions.
Mr. Wheeler noted that a Surinam Cherry hedge is shown on the plan and
commented that it can be difficult to grow. He questioned if a Cocoa
Plum hedge had been considered.
Mr. McMurrian stated that they will be happy to change to the Cocoa
Plum.
a. AlA VEGETATIVE DISTURBANCE PERMIT to permit the
^) removal of existing unmaintained vegetation and the
installation of new landscape material within the 50
foot Historic Corridor.
Mrs. Anderson moved and Mr. Wheeler seconded that the AlA Vegetative
Disturbance Permit be approved based on a finding that the application
meets all applicable code requirements, and will be consistent with the
AlA landscape project, subject to the following conditions: 1) The
owner shall assume perpetual responsibility for irrigation, maintenance
and replacement of any landscape materials planted in the right-of-way;
2) The Surinam Cherry hedge be replaced with a Cocoa Plum hedge. Roll
Call: Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. O'Neal; AYE, Mr. Hornberger; AYE, Mr.
Wheeler; AYE, and Vice Chairman Kent; AYE.
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 5
C. Request for a revision to a previous approval of 9-24-98,
submitted by Gerald Urbanek, 3777 Gulf Stream Road, Gulf
Stream, Florida to approve a garage design that has been
constructed 3.4 feet longer, approximately 75 square feet
larger, than the approved garage; and to approve an
�i additional window that has been constructed on the west end
of the garage.
Mr. Urbanek was administered the Oath by the Town Clerk. He then stated
that he thought he was doing something acceptable as long as he didn't
encroach into the setback. He explained that when the architect first
drew the plan, he was not certain how much setback to provide so the
garage was shown as 22'x221. Subsequent to that, it was discovered that
only 25' was required so he added 3.4' to the length of the garage.
Mr.Wheeler questioned why this error was not discovered when the tie-in
survey was submitted.
It was explained that no inspections had been called in for the
structure and that the inspector was summoned by the Town when it
appeared that the structure was longer and closer to the street than
what was approved by ARPB. In that the slab had been poured and the
walls erected without having an inspection, the County Building
Department accepted a letter from Mr. Urbanek's engineer stating that
the structure had been erected according to approved plans. Further
investigation subsequent to this revealed that the extra 3.4' had been
added without architectural approval.
Town Manager Garrison gave a brief chronology of the process.
Mr. Urbanek attempted to explain that there were various misunderstand-
ings due to his being out of town at various times and his architect
retiring and moving away.
Mr. Wheeler pointed out that while there may be various circumstances
surrounding this project, the fact remains that concrete was poured and
walls erected without an inspection and the 3.4' was added without first
having approval.
Mr. O'Neal felt the addition was out of scale with the building and
gives the appearance that the "garage is wagging the house". He
questioned if adding a window, as the one that is there appears to be
off center, could break up the length of the south side of the garage.
Mrs. Anderson also believed another window might help.
Mr. Urbanek stated that in order to add another window, it might be
necessary to close the opening that is existing and cut two new ones.
Mr. Hornberger believed that this request should be considered as if it
were originally submitted and that the Board Members should ask
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 6
themselves if they would have approved the addition if the 3.4' had been
included. He stated that he feels he would have given approval. Mr.
Hornberger agreed that the addition appears too long for the building
but felt this could be softened with landscape material. Mr. Hornberger
added that some safeguards should be put in place so that in the future
people would not think that they can come in for an approval and then
Ojust build whatever they want to and get it approved after the fact.
Mr. Wheeler, in reviewing a landscape plan that Mr. Urbanek brought to
the meeting, questioned some of the plant material planned for the front
of the garage with regard to softening the south west corner.
Mr. Urbanek stated that if the Board has certain plants they would like
to see in this area, he would be happy to change the plan.
Mr. Wheeler and Attorney Randolph stated that is not the function of the
Board to design landscaping, and that Mr. Urbanek should tell the
landscape architect that the object is to soften the southwest corner of
the garage and the length of the south side.
Mr. Hornberger moved to approve the addition of 3.4' to the garage, and
the second window that was added to the west end, subject to submission
of a landscape plan that softens the appearance of the addition, said
plans to be submitted for the May 27, 1999 ARPB meeting. The motion was
seconded by Mr. O'Neal. Roll Call: Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. O'Neal;
AYE, Mr. Hornberger; AYE, Mr. Wheeler; AYE, and Vice Chairman Kent; AYE.
Mr. Wheeler questioned what the submission deadline would be and Mrs.
Garrison stated that the staff would need 11 copies no later than May
14, 1999. Mr. Urbanek stated that he would meet the deadline.
Town Manager Garrison advised Mr. Urbanek that he has approval from the
Town to continue work on the garage but that he must first submit the
required number of revised drawings showing the additional window and
the additional 3.4' of garage to the County Building Department, comply
with their requirements, and receive their approval.
Mr. Wheeler was excused from the meeting and Chairman Wilson arrived at
10:10 A.M. Chairman Wilson requested that Vice Chairman Kent continue
to preside.
VII. Items by Staff.
A. Review of Design Manual and Related Codes
1. Architectural Site Analysis Map -Update & Correct
2. Roof Standards
3. Consider alternative name for
4. Miscellaneous
a. Doors
b. Supplemental Regulations
c. Front Setback requirements,
d. Chimney design for Bermuda
"RS -Fringe District"
Driveway Setbacks
Architecture
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
page 7
e. Hedges in the Core District
Due to the length of the meeting, it was unanimously agreed that this
matter be postponed until the May meeting. Town Manager Garrison
suggested that the Board Members call her during the next few weeks to
discuss any of these items in advance of the May meeting.
VIII. Items by Board Members. There were no items by the members.
IX. Reorganization. Chairman Wilson advised that he will soon be
moving out of the State and that his name is to be withdrawn from
any consideration.
A. Election of a Chairman
Mr. O'Neal stated that he was very impressed with the knowledge and
expertise displayed by Mr. Wheeler at the meeting today, and he believed
he would be an excellent choice for Chairman.
Mrs. Anderson agreed, adding that it is unusual for a newly appointed
member to immediately be considered for the Chairmanship but she
believed it to be well deserved.
Mrs. Anderson moved and Mr. O'Neal seconded that Mr. Wheeler be elected
Chairman. Roll Call: Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. O'Neal; AYE, Mr.
Hornberger; AYE, Mr. Wilson; AYE and Vice Chairman Kent; AYE.
B. Election of a Vice Chairman
Mr. O'Neal moved and Mr. Hornberger seconded that Vice Chairman Kent be
re-elected Vice Chairman. Roll Call: Mrs. Anderson; AYE, Mr. O'Neal;
AYE, Mr. Hornberger; AYE, Mr. Wilson; AYE, and Vice Chairman Kent
abstained.
X. Informal Architectural Review.
A. Proposed variance request to permit addition of a swimming
pool in the rear yard and proposed rehabilitation of the
existing dwelling located at 578 Palm Way, Gulf Stream,
Florida requested by William Wietsma.
Mr. Wietsma advised that he has an opportunity to purchase the property
at 578 Palm Way, an older home with a mansard roof that certainly is not
compatible with the neighborhood. He stated that it has very nice
features inside and he would like to remodel the existing structure by
removing the existing roof and adding space on the 2nd floor. The design
J would be a Bermuda cottage. Mr. Wietsma advised that under the current
setback regulations, a swimming pool would need a 20' setback from the
seawall and there is not space for a pool. He further advised that
there is an existing jacuzzi pool that encroaches into this setback and
he would like to replace it with a swimming pool. Mr. Wietsma asked the
Board if they felt they would want to even consider an application that
would encompass this type of renovation.
All of the Board Members agreed that they would like to see more of the
existing homes renovated rather than having them demolished with new
structures erected. They expressed that some flexibility should be
Regular Meeting & Public Hearing
Architectural Review & Planning Board
April 22, 1999
allowed to facilitate this. The Board encouraged Mr. Wietsma prepare a
justification for this project for consideration.
XI. Public. There was no comment from the public.
XII. Adjournment. Vice Chairman Kent adjourned the meeting at
approximately 10:30 P.M. on a motion to do so made by Mrs.
Anderson that was seconded by Mr. O'Neal with all voting in the
affirmative.