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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-02-13 ACHP AGENDA & PACKET� rrAQ��� xtsro X ILAAN AGENDA CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION 12800 Ravine Parkway South Training Room, Cottage Grove, MN 55016 February 13, 2024 6.00 PM 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of the Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes 4.1 October 10, 2023 ACHP Minutes 5. Open Forum 6. Action Items 6.1 Committee Terms 6.2 2024 Meeting Schedule and Start Time Discussion 6.3 2024 Historic Preservationist of the Year - Online Public Submission 7. Discussion Items 7.1 Old Town Hall - 9550 Islay Avenue South 7.2 Historical Markers - MNHS Grant Opportunity 8. Project Updates (Verbal) 8.1 Historical Display Case 8.2 CLG Grant for Historic Context Study 8.3 Mississippi Landing 8.4 Cedarhurst 9. Historic, Inquiries, Articles, and Research Information 9.1 Langdon Village - Ground Penetrating Radar 9.2 South Washington County Telecommunications Commission (SWCTC) - Video Topics 9.3 History Matters Day at the Capitol 9.4 Washington County Historical Society - Annual Open House 10. Committee Comments 11. Council Comments 12. Adjournment COTTAGE " TORIC LANDVARK MINUTES CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION October 10, 2023 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Historic Preserva- tion was duly held at the Cottage Grove City Hall, 12800 Ravine Parkway South, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, on the 10th day of October, 2023. CALL TO ORDER Chair Reckinger called the meeting to order at 6.08 p.m. ROLL CALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Herb Reckinger (Chair), Joseph Gall, Corinne Marz, Tony Brinkman, Linda Johnston, Jacob Grundhauser MEMBERS ABSENT: Marie Sumstine OTHERS PRESENT: Councilmember Dave Thiede; Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner; Conner Jakes, Associate Planner APROVAL OF THE AGENDA Motion made by Gall to approve the Agenda with no changes. Grundhauser seconded. The motion passed unanimously 6-0. APROVAL OF MINUTES Grundhauser made a motion to approve the August 8, 2023 meeting minutes as is with no changes. Johnston seconded. The motion passed unanimously 6-to-O. OPEN FORUM No one spoke. ACTION ITEMS Historical Display Case Concept Design Review Jakes summarized the memo and displayed the concept design for the historical display case on the projector. Mrosla stated the timeline proposed for the top of the display is still being finalized. The item was opened to the Committee for comments, errors, and any updates that needed to be made. Grundhauser stated it would be beneficial to include how many one -room schoolhouses Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Minutes October 10, 2023 Page 2 of 4 were present at the time and make note somewhere on the display board. The Committee agreed that the concept design looked appealing and met the intent of displaying and communicating his- tory to residents. Johnston inquired as to where the photo contest winners would be displayed since the current display case has a plaque that states, "Photo Contest Winners." Staff stated the photos are now posted online and are no longer posted within the display case. Grundhauser made a motion to approve the historical display case concept design with the inclu- sion of the number of single room schoolhouses displayed and the timeline finalized. Gall seconded. The motion passed unanimously 6-to-O. DISCUSSION ITEMS Historical Display Case Future Topics Jakes summarized the memo regarding future display case topics so work could begin on the next rotational display. The Committee produced several ideas for topics that could be done for the dis- play case including the following: Military Road, the railroad, river corridor, commercial areas before and after (focused on restaurants), cemeteries, Henry Lewis and Henry Bose, mayors, City Hall, the Langdon area, street renaming in 1967, and the Sieben Bridge area before and after. Grundhauser also made note that a social media post or display case could be done focusing on the Unification Vote which occurred around 1963. Staff asked the Committee if there were any certain topics they would like to see for the next dis- play following the schools of the past. The Committee responded that they are open to any idea that staff can gather sufficient information on but would be most interested in commercial areas before and after with a focus on restaurants. PROJECT UPDATES Certified Local Government Grant Application Jakes summarized the memo regarding CLG grant applications and gave examples of what the grant funds have been used for across the state. Gall inquired as to the amount of funds available for the grant pool, Jakes stated there is estimated to be about $125,000 for the upcoming cycle. In addition, Jakes stated there is a 70.30 match required with the City needing to match 30 percent. He explained the match can be met through staff/committee member time or through a cash match, and that staff is working with the finance department on if funds are available in order to apply for the grant cycle this January. Staff stated if there is not enough time to apply by this Janu- ary, the plan would be to come back to the Committee and apply the following year. Preserve MN 2023 Conference Report Jakes summarized the memo regarding the Preserve MN 2023 Conference. Discussion occurred around the revitalization of Mankato's downtown and the art/sculpture walk that was created. Jakes also stated that the SHPO provides grant opportunities for up to a total of five staff and committee members to attend the conference, so next year there is an opportunity for committee members to attend the conference that will be hosted in Red Wing. Social Media Postings Bi-Weekly Jakes summarized the memo regarding regular social media postings to occur bi-weekly. He further stated that staff was proposing to begin postings with the ACHP playing cards that were Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Minutes October 10, 2023 Page 3 of 4 previously created. Staff stated each card was scanned and the information digitized so the photo and brief write-up could be included in a social media post. The item was opened for discussion; the Committee did not have any comments and stated it would be a good idea to begin with the playing cards. Once the playing card posts run out, the Committee could then produce new social media postings or new playing cards. Additional discussion centered around the larger goal staff presented of an online database of the historic files contained by the City. Staff stated there is a large number of paper files within City storage and the goal would be to digitize the files and have them available for viewing on the City website. In addition to the database, staff also discussed doing interviews with residents regarding the local history of Cottage Grove and posting the discussion online with a recording. It was noted that Eden Prairie has an example of what this could potentially look like. HISTORIC INQUIRIES, ARTICLES, AND RESEARCH INFORMATION Chari Reckinger stated Cindy Yff, who has been researching the Old People's Home & Cemetery, attended the Southern Washington County Historical Society meeting recently and discussed her research. Mrosla gave a brief updated on Dodge Nature Center as they connected to City utilities, which required clearing of some trees so onsite buildings are now more visible. In addition, the facility also constructed a blacksmith forge that will serve for blacksmith classes. Mrosla gave a brief update about the Furber House and the Furber Barn which are located at 7310 Lamar Avenue South. The property is now for sale and staff has received numerous inquiries re- garding the property. The house onsite is designated on the National Register of Historic Places and the barn is designated on the City's Local Register of Historic Places. Grundhauser requested for the committee to tour the property and buildings prior to making a vote on any items related to the property. COUNCIL LIASON COMMENTS Councilmember Thiede inquired as to whether staff was informed of the communication he had with City Administrator Levitt regarding puzzles. Staff stated they were not informed but that it sounds like CLG grant money could potentially be used as it would be under the public education category of grant applications. COMMITTEE COMMENTS Grundhauser inquired as to whether there are any updates relating to the Cedarhurst property. Staff stated there is no update. Chair Reckinger inquired as to where Kwik Trip is looking to locate. Staff responded that the cur- rent site for consideration is located at 9484 Glendenning Road. Chair Reckinger inquired about the construction activity occurring at the corner of 95th Street and Jamaica Avenue. Staff stated Hohenstein Liquor Distribution has approvals to construct a distribu- tion facility and onsite construction is beginning to occur. Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Minutes October 10, 2023 Page 4 of 4 Chair Reckinger inquired about construction activities occurring at Hamlet Park, staff stated there is trail repaving and water main work being conducted. Gall stated Bev Gross, past Committee member, passed away recently and inquired as to whether anyone has been in contact with the family, and if the Committee would be able to obtain any of the historic files she had. Staff and Committee members stated they have not been in contact with the family. Gall inquired as to whether staff or the ACHP has ever researched Native American history within Cottage Grove. Marz gave a brief synopsis of the Native American History of Cottage Grove. Jakes stated he would research City files and documents to determine if there is any documented infor- mation on the Native American History within Cottage Grove. Marz informed the Committee that the Hastings Historical Society is arranging and hosting an event commemorating the historic Gettysburg document. The event was planned for November 19 at the Oakwood Cemetery. Brinkman stated it would be a good idea to interview current farmers within the community as part of the historic interviews as they have many interesting stories that people would like to hear. Reckinger stated an interview with the Gerlach's would also be a good idea. STAFF COMMENTS There were none. ADJOURNMENT Grundhauser made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Gall seconded. The motion passed unani- mously 6-to-0, and the meeting was adjourned. Cottage Grove here Pride and "05"P"ty Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: 2024 Meeting Schedule and Start Time Discussion Introduction: The 2024 Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (ACHP) meeting schedule is as follows: • February 13 • April • June 11 • August 13 • October 8 • Optional December 10 All meetings are held at Cottage Grove City Hall, 12800 Ravine Parkway South, in the Training Room unless otherwise noted. Please mark your calendars with these dates. If a meeting is rescheduled, you will be notified of that change in a timely fashion. Call Mike at 651-458-2825 or Conner at 651-458-2868 if you have any questions or comments on this schedule. Discussion: Meetings have previously started at 6:00 p.m. and staff is wondering if the Committee likes this time or would like to meet at the one of the following times: • 7:30 A.M. • 8:00 A.M. • 5:30 P.M. • 6:30 P.M. Recommendation That the ACHP discuss the meeting starting time and make a recommendation. Cottage Grove here Pride and "05Perity Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: 2024 Historic Preservationist of the Year — Online Public Submission Introduction The Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation annually nominates a person or organization who goes above and beyond to promote an aspect of Cottage Grove's history that helps to share our understanding and general knowledge of the people and places of Cottage Grove's past. In 2023, the Committee opened an online submission portal for the public to submit their nominations. Discussion As stated above the ACHP has annually selected person or organization for the Historic Preservationist of the Year Award, and in 2023 the public could submit nominations. Staff is wondering if the ACHP would again like to open the online submittal portal and accept nominations from the public. All nominations will be reviewed at the ACHP's April 9, 2024, meeting. Recommendation That the ACHP shall discuss allowing community members to nominate potential recipients of the 2024 Historic Preservationist of the Year award. Cottage J Grove here Pride an,P,Osger!tY Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: Old Town Hall — 9550 Islay Avenue South Background The Cottage Grove Old Town Hall was constructed in 1881 and used for various meetings until 1961. The structure is listed on the City's Register of Historic Sites and Landmarks and is currently utilized for material storage. The site is located at 9550 Islay Avenue South, which is adjacent to the current Public Works Facility. Site Location Staff was recently contacted by Zac Dockter, Parks and Recreation Director, in regard to the physical condition of the Old Town Hall building. Staff was informed that the roof of the structure has significant leaks and is in need of repair. An inspection of the structure was scheduled and completed on February 1, 2024, with one of the City's building inspectors. The inspector indicated the following items most likely need be repaired/replaced: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Old Town Hall — 9550 Islay Avenue South February 13, 2023 Page 2 of 2 - Roof - Roof decking - All windows - Entry door - Lath and plaster on walls - Ceiling - Flooring Based on the results of the inspection, it is clear that in order to continue preserving the structure, repairs are needed. Staff has been researching potential funding options to fund physical repairs of the Old Town Hall. Discussion Staff would like the Committee to discuss potential funding options for physical repairs of the Old Town Hall. Recommendation That the ACHP should discuss the Old Town Hall and provide recommendations for repair. Cottage J Grove here Pride and?1059eritY Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: Historical Markers— MNHS Grant Opportunity Introduction/Background The Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants program — also known as Legacy Grants — is a grant program created to provide financial support for projects focused on preserving Minnesota's history and culture. This state -funded program is made possible by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund using sales tax revenue resulting from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy amendment created through the vote of Minnesotans on November 4, 2008. Staff is requesting the ACHP's approval to apply for a $10,000 Small Grant; there is no match required as part of this grant program. Staff is proposing to use the funds to create and purchase interpretive signage that will be placed at various historical sites throughout the City with the intent of highlighting the site and its past and/or present significance. Discussion Staff would like the Committee's input on the proposed marker locations. The locations listed below were selected based on the site's impact to the City's history and proximity to existing trails, and if it currently exists, any benches. Currently, staff is proposing a total of seven signs at or in close proximity to the following present/past locations. 1. Atkinson Cemetery 2. Old People's Home & Cemetery 3. Cottage View Drive-in (current site of Walmart) 4. Dodge Nature Center (Shepard Farm) 5. Cedarhurst 6. Thompson Grove (at Well No. 1) 7. Hill -Gibson House (current site of The Legends) In addition to the proposed locations above, staff is seeking the Committee's input on the historical marker style/size. Three options are provided below, the selection of marker style will dictate the amount of information and photos that can be included on a given marker. Depending on the site location, an alternate plaque size may be required; however, the current proposal is to have consistent a marker style for each site. Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Historical Markers— MNHS Grant Opportunity February 13, 2024 Page 2 of 3 n 2- One -Post Titled Cedarhurst Meadows Park �dakw. M1lmr 4 rh i tl.. a.u. 4 P .w.aearM1u ar,.�aa1r..Lrbrre oEa+ clr�,'�awl pal tl.�. LaH Ira dx tin ,o.WaeW m.u.tla .erur.4[. J ri it-— I WhJ al Inh1 I J 4 II 1 N Iprll Y Mn I d 1 L Jr 1 I: ll 1 L r [',a• l 11 I. hrnn rlrc �Ja„ra.ui.ti Ir Ir�wr . � r� rrr Ir :Jt.n .l.'.rGrx IWirwr'na�uw* r Werr, r.lie : lii, hiWr nilr. . t%..G.-}'r+p.cm.� t'�ur11.uN6,p nYY'.,fiYgriwr liil. vrjrm t:Jlrn ourae.l irialnl„rl, n.�l �-n rri+., al ltua, r.Lr. t'.rlarlr�n+la� uJry rl I:x rWaii� .- - - e I N 1 r od U�u .y„;� rY e, Il ]4�iI1�nLr&i 11 J Mom I n in rlv w.rli[,,rn ilydlala['rJwhlvn. M1iwarer arul Jy,r+l lw Jm llmlr+l Mwr-,.1h.n ,. .. _ IJ:tA:NI u.,4 r41wn n.wtrueaw aYra- +1'„viil.ini.iVl"u.,i>u.�l ��,I�i.,.i,�. \1:-. . ulinu�l d ISW 'Yl+ltt--drr4mm I 1 � I Jtl( RW I Il I 1 bh L J Rr+ I ruwn 1 rrr4i,6 r.,n t np l.rrnw. Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Historical Markers— MNHS Grant Opportunity February 13, 2024 Page 3 of 3 wi Recommendation That the ACHP discuss the grant application, proposed site locations, historical marker style, and make a recommendation. Cottage J Grove 4-6ere Pride an.?,05gerity Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: Langdon Village — Ground Penetrating Radar Background On December 15, 2023, staff was contacted by a resident, Brandon Lewanski, inquiring about a vacant City -owned lot off Islay Avenue across from the current Public Works Facility. Subject Site Location Brandon was a recipient of the Historic Preservationist of the year in 2019 for his work on discovering medicine bottles, mason jars, and shards of pottery at the Dr. Arthur H. Steen home in Old Cottage Grove. Recently he inquired to staff about the possibility to access the subject site noted in the above image to conduct use of a metal detector in order to find potential artifacts/items. Preliminary research has indicated the subject site could be the potential location of a hotel and saloon in the 1870s, and the building remained until around the 1900s. Further information is currently not known. Brandon conducted a metal detector scan with ground penetrating radar the weekend of December 30 and found potential dig spots. Two locations are believed to be the spots of outhouses, and there Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation Langdon Village — Ground Penetrating Radar February 13, 2023 Page 2 of 2 were additional dig spots found based on the metal detection system. Potential digging onsite would occur in early spring. Potential Outhouse Locations Discussion Staff is seeking additional information on the Langdon Village area including any information/ documentation on the layout of the area and where buildings would have potentially been located. The information will assist in telling the story of the area and blend with work completed by Mr. Lewanksi. Cottage Grove it-,5ere Pride an6Pr05perity Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Conner Jakes, Associate Planner Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: South Washington County Telecommunications Commission (SWCTC) Video Topics Introduction/Background: The South Washington County Telecommunications Commission (SWCTC) contacted staff to request a list of three video topics and ideas that are related to Cottage Grove's history. Various videos regarding the history of Cottage Grove have been filmed previously and are available on the City's YouTube channel. Staff would like the Committee to provide video topic recommendations and any important information that should be included for the given topic. Recommendation There is no action required for this item. Cottage Grove here Pride and "05Perity Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner Conner Jakes, Associate Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: History Matters Day at the Capitol Introduction/Background History Matters Day at the Capitol, led by the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS), is scheduled for Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 9.00 A.M. to 12.00 P.M. This is an opportunity for citizens to let state legislators know why history matters and how their support of history has made a difference in communities across Minnesota. The event also provides an opportunity to share the work of MNHS and other history partners and to urge legislators to provide state funding for historic preservation. MNHS CEO, Kent Whitworth, and MNHS Director of Public Policy, David Kelliher, will kick off the morning and share how to get involved. The event is planned to be in hybrid capacity with the ability to attend in -person at the Minnesota State Capitol in Room G19 or to attend virtually via Zoom. Attendees to the event are asked to fill out the registration form no later than February 9, 2024, so they can be connected with their representatives during the event. The registration is completed online, and City Staff can provide the link/webpage for registration. Recommendation There is no action required for this item. Cottage Grove here Pride and "05Perity Meet TO: Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation FROM: Mike Mrosla, Senior Planner Conner Jakes, Associate Planner DATE: February 13, 2024 RE: Washington County Historical Society — Open House Introduction/Background: The Washington County Historical Society (WCHS) will be kicking off the 2024 museum touring season by hosting the WCHS Annual Open House on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at the Warden's House Museum from 12.00 P.M. to 4.00 P.M. Admission is free, and guests are invited to enjoy refreshments, snacks, self -guided tours, opening of new exhibits, and music. Recommendation There is no action required for this item.