TOWN OF MANCHESTER, VERMONT
DESIGN ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAB) MINUTES
November 30, 2022
KILBURN MEETING ROOM
Committee Attendees: Joelle Greenland, Ramsay Gourd, Ray Nevin, Mary Shoener Absent: John Watanabe
Staff Attendees: Peter Brabazon, Assistant Zoning Administrator and Leslie Perra, Interim Town Manager
Public Attendees: Michael & Carolina Ellenbogen
Brabazon initiated recording. Greenland called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Shoener motioned to approve the November 2, 2022 meeting minutes. Nevin seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-1 with Gourd abstaining due to not being present at meeting.
Christine Mackson, 231 Bonnet Street, Signage. Application 2022-11-117, Tax Map ID 31-50-10.01.
Brabazon displayed images showing the proposed signage on the existing sign posts. Materials for the proposed sign were discussed and questioned as Brabazon thought they were vinyl. The applicant was not present/available at the time of the meeting. The preferred materials are typically wood with painted surface. Based on the existing vinyl signs, the Board decided the proposed sign would be consistent with existing materials.
[JG1]
Ramsay motioned to recommend approval as proposed. Ray seconded the motion. The motion carried 4-0-0.
Ellenbogen Gallery LLC, 4620 Main Street, Construction of a two-story residential addition and upgraded to the site. Application 2022-11-117, Tax Map ID 31-50-26.00.
Michael and Carolina Ellenbogen presented their project, and included how the new addition was intended to be used as well as the benefits for artwork creation.
The Committee[JG2] had an extensive conversation with applicants that included some questions and concerns with materials and finish details as described in the presentation. Gourd indicated from a longevity standpoint some paint finishes may hold up better than clear finishes on the proposed clear coat wood paneling. Ramsay pointed out that unless an effort was made to preserve the clear coat finish annually, it may turn gray and be difficult to achieve a consistent appearance.
Other finish details were needed to get an overall sense of the look and feel of the building.
Most notable was the lack of details for doors, fences and landscaping.
Greenland asked if there were any other anticipated protrusions like venting needed which the applicant advised it did not need any.
With no further discussion, the Committee felt that the overall project was well thought out and was complimentary to the existing structure. They considered this meeting to be a conceptual one and appreciated the applicant bringing their plans to them for review and comment. Additional discussions would be needed to address the outstanding details.
Gourd motioned to recommend tabling the review until such time as more information on materials and finishes are available. Ray seconded the motion. The motion carried 4-0-0.
Other Business.
Greenland formally recognized Gourd for his service, expertise and dedication to the community and Town over the past three years (especially since he had only originally agreed to fill a one-year vacancy). She thanked him for his expertise and keen eye for design as well as his humor when providing guidance and recommendations.
Gourd provided some words of wisdom, including being aware of historical precedence, temporal context, stay away from trends and homogenizing the built environment. Always be mindful of the impacts that may have over the long haul in the community. Gourd offered to continue on as an alternate as the need may arise.
With Gourd’s vacancy, it was prudent to fill his position as Vice-Chair. Greenland nominated Nevin, as Shoener, who is currently Secretary, indicated that she was not interested in being considered for the Vice-chair position. Mary seconded Greenland’s motion and and the motion carried 4-0-0. Nevin is now the Vice-chair of the Committee. Committee officers are: Greenland, Chair, Nevin, Vice-chair and Shoener, Secretary.
With no further business, Gourd motioned to adjourn the meeting with Nevin seconding the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 6:28 pm. The next meeting was tentatively set for December 21, 2022 at 5pm; however, this may be moved up to December 14, 2022 due to the holidays.
___________________________________________ _______________________
For the Design Advisory Committee Date
[JG1]repeat
[JG2]Until Leslie looks into this and confirms