A meeting of the Stowe Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC) was held on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 in the Akeley Memorial Building starting at approximately 5:15 pm.

Members Present: Sam Scofield (Chair), Chris Carey, Barbara Baraw, Gordon Dixon, Tim Meehan, Sarah McLane, and Cindy McKechnie

Members Absent: None

Staff Present: Richard Baker, Zoning Director

Preliminary Discussion: Owner: Buttertubb Mill LLC, 53 River Road, Reconstruction/Renovation of TubbsBuilding

Daniel Prior was present to discuss the possibility of demolishing the building at 53 Tubbs Street and reconstructing a building of a similar style. He said the building was in disrepair and probably has not been renovated due to the high costs and structural issues. The Commission discussed possible flood hazard regulations that may need to be addressed including the supports that are currently in the river. Tim Meehan, who previously was part owner of the building, said that the difficulties and cost of renovations in the past has made renovation prohibitive. The Commission reviewed the historic survey information. All members agreed that the building had significant historical significance.

Given the information presented and given Tim’s personal knowledge of the existing building conditions, the consensus of the Commission was that all or partial demolition probably meets the criteria for demolition under Section 10.8. Documentation of the building condition would be required for any formal recommendation for demolition. In addition, the consensus was that full or partial demolition would only be considered if a similar style building was reconstructed. It was noted that a such recommendation allowing reconstruction was made for the Moody Farm building and the Brackenberry house. No official action was taken on this item. Mr. Prior will return with a development application and plans if he decides to pursue a formal recommendation.

Project 4157: Owner: Rolan LLC, 172 Thomas Lane, Installation of Monopole and Dish Antennas

Rick Rothammer was present to present the application to install a 60-foot monopole and ground mounted dish antennas behind the Stowe Cablevision building at 172 Thomas Lane. Based upon the balloon test, the Commission found that the pole would not be visible from Route 100 so long as the trees on the parcel remain. Mr. Gordon moved to recommend approval as submitted with a condition that the trees on the parcel not be cut. The motion was approved 7-0.

Discussion of continued design review on parcels where historic buildings are demolished

Members discussed the pros and cons of having jurisdiction over design review where historic buildings outside of the SHOD are approved for demolition. Currently, there is no design review once a historic building outside of the SHOD is demolished. It was the consensus of the Commission to meet with the Planning Commission to further discuss this matter for a possible zoning amendment. The Chair will set up a time for the meeting.

The draft minutes were approved as submitted.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Richard Baker, Zoning Director