2008/11/19 Council Agenda Packet

Planning Commission October 21, 2008 Pg. 2 Meeting Minutes zone, review of the existing historic overlay zone guidelines and standards, and modification of those to apply directly to the proposed area in Riverside. A historic overlay zone is a defined area where special design regulations apply. The purpose is to preserve the character and streetscape of the neighborhood, historic architecture of the houses, and to guide new development and additions to existing buildings to be consistent with historic architecture and streetscape. The advantages of the overlay zone are to protect property investment and values, preserve and enhance neighborhood character, discourage demolition of contributing buildings, encourage compatible infill construction, promote restoration and revitalization, and reinforce a sense of community. There are three aspects of the historic overlay zone that are being considered: boundaries, the designation of what structures are contributing structures, and the standards and guidelines. Within the EMC, there are specific criteria for historic overlay zones. One of the criteria is that the property is listed on the Everett Register of Historic places and the overlay has two properties that are listed. The second is that the overlay is necessary to protect historic properties and promote compatibility. Ms. Meston showed two pictures of the two properties that are listed on the Everett register. In regard to boundaries, Planning Commission will be considering Alternative 1 which includes the area south of Everett Avenue to California and Alternative 2 which ends at Everett Avenue. Contributing structures are those built prior to 1931 that retain the basic shape and architectural qualities associated with the era. The proposed boundaries have a very high concentration of contributing structures — 83%. She presented pictures of the homes in the area: Craftsman, Colonial revival, and American Foursquare which are the predominant styles in the neighborhood. The guidelines apply to the exterior of the buildings only. The purpose of the guidelines is to inform residents about elements which create unique neighborhood character, guide new developments and additions, and help guide the historical commission and staff review. The historical overlay zoning standards apply to all area development and supersede other zoning requirements. The design elements address: • streetscape with consistent setbacks, clear welcoming entries, accessory buildings in rear yards, and regular spacing of houses on the block which create a regular rhythm along the street; 6:50:13 PM • heights and setbacks — heights in the R-2/ 28 feet and R-3/ 35 feet are not proposed for change; R-4 zone is proposed to reduce from 45 feet to 40 feet; and infill dwellings are proposed at 24 feet to make sure that they are secondary to the primary structure; • massing is the size and proportions of the buildings; • rooflines—a variety of styles are allowed but the minimum pitch is 6:12 and the maximum pitch is 12:12; • window (vertical windows are emphasized) and door configuration; • exterior materials —wood was predominant in that era but hardiplank is allowed; • vehicular access is required from alleys; • garages required to be constructed in the rear of the lot and to take access off the alley; and • parking is consistent with existing zoning code regulations — no change proposed;