01/06/2026 Meeting Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Other areas of the Design Guidelines document provide further evidence of inappropriateness. In the Quick Reference section it states "The collection of historic resources within the Butternut Ridge Historic District has created a unique community identity, neighborhood environment and sense of place that cannot be replicated". It further states "design review protects the important character -defining features of the District". If these guidelines have meaning, the character defining features will be substantially altered. The community identity will also be damaged as this substantial change should be rejected. In section 1.1 History of Butternut Ridge, it is stated Butternut "is a source of pride for residents of the neighborhood and the community at large". Why in the world would this area be disrespected against the wishes of those of us that live here? Why would it be suggested altering this area would in any way benefit the city? What it would do is diminish this area of pride for our city. Section three is the Design Guidelines & Historic Preservation section. 3.4 states the purpose is to reinforce community identity. This restates the points in the design guidelines quick reference section. Under 3.4 paragraph three states "Design Review Demonstrates Commitment". It "demonstrates commitment to the Butternut Ridge Historic District through historic preservation. It ASSURES PROPERTY OWNERS THAT THEIR INVESTMENT WILL BE PROTECTED BY ENSURING THAT HISTORIC CHARACTER WILL BE MAINTAINED". A profound statement for sure as we believe putting modern structures in the middle of the district will forever alter the character in a damaging way. Section 5.3 deals with Preserving Historic Significance and Integrity. Of importance is point three of Recommended for Preserving Historic Significance & Integrity which indicates "Defining elements of surrounding historic architecture, settings and spatial relationships of an area should be identified and RESPECTED when designing alterations, additions, or new construction". The proposed modern structures do not show respect to the area and are in conflict with this intent. Point four states "The traditional relationship with surrounding properties and setting should be retained". This traditional relationship intent is not present in the current proposal. In section 10 there are recommendations for Site Design. Point five states parking should be located to the rear of buildings. The drawings presented all have parking in the front in conflict with this recommendation. An analysis of the 2025 Master Plan along with the Historic District Design Guidelines provide overwhelming evidence and specificity to reject the proposed plan. Robert Sharp Homeowner and Southeast Area Growth Association group member