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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.