HomeMy WebLinkAboutHPC agenda 120920 AGENDA
ORANGE COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
6:30 PM
""Virtual Meeting via GoToMeeting—link sent upon written request""
December 91h 2020
TIME AGENDA ITEMS
6:30 1. Call to Order
6:32 2. Changes or Additions to Agenda
6:34 3. Approval of Minutes: Oct. 28, 2020 meeting(Attachment 1)
6:35 4. Items for Decision: None
a. Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for Chatwood
(Orange County Historic Landmark), 1900 Faucette Mill Road
(Attachment 2)
b. Approval of HPC Calendar for 2021 (Attachment 3)
6:35 5. Discussion Items:
a. Annual Report and Work Plan for 2019-20: Review and
discussion of final draft(Attachment 4)
b. Membership
7:50 6. Updates and Informational Items
a. Dendrochronology project receives additional funding
b. Book project status/update
c. Oaks Community meeting regarding a rural historic district
d. Occaneechi Village updates
e. Cameron Ice House sign and repairs; Hughes Academy repairs
f. Open air time for other new information by members/staff
8:15 7. Adjourn
**Next meeting: TBD**
Attachment 1
Orange County
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
DRAFT Meeting Summary
October 28, 2020 at 6:30 pm
Virtual meeting via Go To Meeting
MEMBERS PRESENT: Susan Ballard, Todd Dickinson, Tom Loter, Art Menius, Paul Noe, Steve Peck
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Peter Sandbeck GUESTS: None
ITEM #1: CALL TO ORDER
Chair Dickinson called the meeting to order at 6:34 pm.
ITEM #2: CHANGES OR ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: Dickinson wished to add a few remarks for an
update about the old Davis Farm log house and cotton gin
ITEM #3: APPROVAL OF MINUTES for September 23rd, 2020 (Attachment 1): Menius moved to
approve the minutes; seconded by Ballard; motion approved.
ITEM #4: DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Davis Farm Cotton Gin and Press: landmark evaluation exercise: At the September
meeting, the HPC agreed that the cotton gin and associated barn should be considered
for landmark status at this meeting. Therefore, staff provided a powerpoint program
depicting the Davis Farm and Cotton Gin complex and its history, consisting of a mid 19tn
century log house and outbuildings, with later additions and a cotton gin and press dating
from around 1880. The early log house was expanded by two periods of additions. The
outbuildings were all moved. The early kitchen and smokehouse survive. Down the hill
and west of the house is a barn that houses an 1870s cotton gin and a unique hand-built
cotton press, all still intact but threatened by ongoing roof leaks. Discussion followed as
members proceeded to carry out the evaluation exercise and provided summaries of their
scores. Also discussed were the pros and cons of designating just the gin or multiple
structures, concluding with the recommendation that just the gin and its barn be proposed
for landmark status. After completing the exercise and tallying the member's scores, staff
reported that the final evaluation score was 62.5, which is well above the general
threshold of 50 points to be considered for landmark status.
b. Annual Report and Work Plan for 2019-20: Review and discussion of draft: Staff
prepared a rough draft update of the 2018-19 report which was shown on the screen. This
version shows the new text for updates highlighted in yellow, or with strikethrough where
text has been deleted. Staff reviewed the various changes and updates. Discussion
followed. Staff asked members to look over the draft version, focusing primarily on the
sections dealing with the section at the front that highlights the HPC's accomplishments
and new/future projects, along with the last two sections dealing with proposed projects
for 2021 and final section addressing concerns or emerging issues. Members can send
their comments or suggestions directly to staff to be incorporated into a final draft, to be
reviewed at the December 9 meeting.
1
c. Oaks Community Rural Historic District: new interest from local residents: Members
of what was called the Oaks community, near the Inn at Bingham School, contacted staff
to follow up on recent discussions about the history and significance of their community as
a result of the recent construction of the microbrewery facility at the Pluck Farm site on
NC 54, just east of the Inn. Staff has been invited to participate in an online community
meeting to discuss possible historic designations for this area, such as a National Register
Rural Historic District, as a tool in their efforts to preserve the rural character of their area
of the county. Staff will report back at the December meeting with an update.
d. Membership: Members discussed potential ways to recruit new members, with the
caveat that any new members will be required to possess one of the specific professional
backgrounds stipulated by the state's Certified Local Government program: historian,
architect, preservationist, landscape architect, or archaeologist. It is not easy to find
members who can meet these qualifications. All agreed to continue to seek new ways to
identify prospective members who can meet these requirements.
ITEM #6: UPDATES AND INFORMATION ITEMS
a. Dendrochronology project receives Covington Foundation Grant:
The HPC and the Alliance received word that the grant application for $10,000 was
funding at a partial level of$5,000. This is good news. Staff will proceed to approach the
Hillsborough Preservation Fund for some additional financial support. Ayr Mount has
agreed to participate to have that house dated. Other sources will be pursued.
b. Book project status/update:
Editor/author Laura Phillips continues to make progress on the written property entries.
The lack of detailed research continues to make for slower progress than we'd like. This is
exacerbated by the closure of the State Archives, UNC and other places where we need
to do essential research to complete the text. The Alliance will have their attorney review
the proposed contract with the book designer and will then enter into that contract. We
need to have the book designer on board in order to obtain nicely designed promotional
materials to send with our funding request letter and for various PR initiatives.
c. Occaneechi Village Workday and possible National Register Nomination:
Staff contacted the Office of State Archaeology to get their thoughts on the potential for
National Register listing the historic Occaneechi sites along the Eno (Wall, Fredericks and
Jenrette sites). There was a productive volunteer workday at the reconstructed village site
on October 24, and will be final one for this year on November 21. The goal will be to
complete the frame of the large hut.
d. Open airtime: None
ITEM #7: ADJOURNMENT: the meeting was adjourned at 7:55.
Meeting summary by Peter Sandbeck, DEAPR staff
2
Attachment 2
ORANGE COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF EN IRONMEN'. A RPDULTUREr PARKS AND RECREATION
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SCOPE OF WORK
Conversion of existing kitchen to master bedroom
Addition of 12 'x17' structure on east side for master bathroom
connected to new master bedroom by small hyphen
Expansion of existing sun room on south (rear) side of house for
new kitchen
Addition of small, covered porch, mud room and stone terrace on
F-1 south side
Addition of 14'-6" x 22 '-6" screened porch and stone terrace on
west side
11
Architecture
Fredrick Stewart, AIA
MATERIALS Fredrick Stewart Architecture PLL
7207 Harmony Church Road
Efland, N.C. 27243
Existing Kitchen 919-868-0778
Siding: all new siding to match existing, lap siding and painted fred@fredrickstewart.com
uniform with the rest of the house
Significant, historic Foundations: stone to match existing with similar, tucked mortar
Existing Sunroom cellar steps to be unaffected over concealed concrete block masonry
Trim: all new trim to match existing in material, detail and color
Existing Floor Plan Windows and Doors: all new windows and doors to be painted wood
ort _ with panes larger scale to distinguish additions from existing house
1 /a11 - 1 ,_0" Terrace surface: cut stone or brick
Roofing: standing seam metal to match existing house except small,
low-slope portion above porch to be membrane
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1
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS - STAFF REPORT
COA Number: 01-2020
Applicant: Fred Stewart, for owners P. J. and Alexandra Heller
Address: 1900 Faucette Mill Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Received: Nov. 19, 2020
Meeting date(s): December 9, 2020
Historic District/ Local Landmark: Chatwood--Local Landmark
Zoning: Agricultural Residential (AR); Upper Eno Critical Area
Additional Permits Required: Yes
Nature of Protect: Addition of new bathroom, enlarge/rebuild existing 1950s
sunroom, construct new free-standing screened pavilion
and enlarge/reconfigure stone terrace
Amendments: None
Action: Approve, Approve with Conditions, or Deny within 45 days of
meeting or application shall be deemed approved
Misc.: Property is listed in the National Register of Historic Places
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT
P.J. and Alexandra Heller (represented by architect Fred Stewart) propose to make several
additions to Chatwood as described below:
Background: These work items are closely related to two previous proposals presented by
architect Fred Stewart to the HPC: the first one was approved by the HPC at their May, 2014,
but only some of this work was carried out. A revised application was approved by the HPC
in May, 2018. In 2020, Chatwood was purchased by P. J. and Alexandria Heller, who retained
Fred Stewart to make minor modifications to the 2018 plan, primarily the addition of the
small screened pavilion at the west end of the reconfigured stone terrace.
1. New bathroom addition: construct a new one-story addition, wood frame, with a gable
roof and traditional detailing to be compatible with the main house. It will have wood siding,
wood trim and windows, corner boards etc. It will be connected to the ca. 1840 rear addition
of the house by a low-profile connector passage or hyphen. This will convert the existing
kitchen into a first floor bedroom suite. This addition has been detailed to give the
appearance of a traditional early 19th century outbuilding at the suggestion of HPC
members in 2014. It will have a stone foundation to match the main house foundations. The
two original windows on the east elevation of the 1840s addition will be preserved and re-
used in the new construction; if that is not feasible due to condition, then these will be
retained and stored on site.
2. Enlarge/rebuild existing 1950s sun porch to create new kitchen: The present shed-
roofed rear porch or sunroom was added in the 1950s to the rear of the "Naile Johnson
wing," which is a ca. 1800 house that was dismantled, moved and then rebuilt at the rear
and west end of the existing Chatwood House in the 1950s—nearly doubling the size of the
original house. This project proposes to rebuild the existing rear porch or sunroom to create
a larger kitchen/eating area, with walls composed largely of wood windows to take
advantage of the expansive views across the lawn and gardens. This will have wood siding
and trim. This enlargement of the sun room will include a new mud room at the east end, to
connect the kitchen with the present rear door. The existing rear door/porch arrangement
will be reconfigured and joined to the new mud room. Both the kitchen and mud room will
be covered with a low shed roof, with the same standing seam material now on the rest of
the house.
2
3. Construct new stone terrace to replace existing terrace: The project includes rebuilding
the existing stone terrace at the south or rear side of the old kitchen addition, wrapping
around the west end of the new kitchen and adding a new lower level for the proposed
screened porch or room. This will also wrap around the east end of the new kitchen to tie
into the existing rear door area of the main house.
4. Construct new screened room or pavilion at west end of rear wing: The owners
propose to build a free-standing screened porch or pavilion, following the general design
and scale of the existing outdoor dining pavilion located east of the house, with open or
exposed wood framework supporting a plain gable roof. This will include a small stone
chimney, similar to the existing stone chimneys of the main house, at the east end to
provide a fireplace for this outdoor room.
3
HPC REVIEW OF APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF DESIGN STANDARDS & FINDINGS OF FACT
(S=satisfies standard; NC=does not comply with standard; ? = insufficient information
Staff review findings are shown below, with yellow highlighting used to indicate the applicable sections of the
Design Standards for Orange County Historic Landmarks. The staff evaluation is indicated in the left column,
using the abbreviations shown above. A green S indicates that the project as proposed meets the standards,
while a red question mark indicates issues that are not fully addressed by the application and may warrant
additional mention or conditions in the HPC review discussion and the approval motion.
II. Historic Context
A: Design Standards for SETTING
S II-A-1.Retain and preserve the historic relationship between contributing buildings and site features. Avoid removing,
relocating,or radically changing existing buildings that contribute to the overall character of the site.
II-A-2. Maintain and protect the historic topography,significant views and vistas,accessory structures, roads,walkways,
S fences,walls,and plantings. Avoid removing, relocating,or radically changing existing landscape features(including plants
and grade)that contribute to the overall character of the site.
II-A-3. Maintain historic site features and plantings through appropriate methods. Seek the advice of a professional to
protect site features and plantings from damage during or as a result of construction activities.
II-A-4. Repair deteriorated historic site features such as terraces,benches,fountains,and trellises through traditional
methods of repair and with materials comparable to the originals.
II-A-5. Replace significant plantings with new plantings that are identical or similar in species. It is not appropriate to
remove a healthy planting that is significant to the overall historic character of the landmark site.
S II-A-6. Locate new site features and plantings,if needed, in a manner that maintains or enhances the overall character of
the landmark.
II-A-7. Illuminate site features and plantings,if desired, in a manner consistent with the historic character of the landmark
building and site. In general,the HPC will discourage new lighting that does not serve a specific safety concern.
II-A-8. When introducing new plantings to a Local Landmark Property consider the size of the tree or plant at maturity.
Vegetation can damage historic buildings if not maintained properly. Avoid planting new trees or shrubbery too close to
existing buildings,or encouraging climbing plants such as ivy from covering exterior walls or features. Consider also the
mature size of specimen trees when planting new trees near property boundaries or right-of-ways subject to utility company
trimming or other controls.
C: Design Standards for OUTBUILDINGS AND ACCESSORY STRUCTURES
II-C-1. Retain and preserve outbuildings and accessory structures such as smokehouses,dairies,washhouses, barns,
storage bins,and sheds that contribute to the historic character of the site.
II-C-2. Maintain and protect historic outbuildings and accessory structures and their distinctive features and details.
Repair deteriorated or damaged outbuildings and accessory structures and their character-defining features,elements,and
details using like materials. Repair work may require traditional construction methods,such as the use of hand tools,to
retain the integrity and authentic appearance of the historic building or building feature.
II-C-3. Replace any missing or deteriorated element of contributing outbuildings or accessory structures to match the
original in design, material,dimension,and detail. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail of a feature rather than
the entire feature,whenever possible. When considering the use of substitute materials, please contact Orange County
Historic Preservation staff before completing your design proposal to ensure compatibility.
II-C-4. Reproduce contributing outbuildings that are deteriorated beyond repair with new designs based on accurate
documentation,or replace with new designs that are compatible in scale and proportion,form and materials,and detail and
finish,with other secondary structures on the site and the main dwelling. New buildings that replicate deteriorated
structures should appear authentic from a distance but should maintain sufficient subtle differences to reveal their true date
of construction.
II-C-5. Introduce new outbuildings and accessory buildings, if necessary,that maintain the historic character of the site.
Consider the compatibility of a proposed structure in terms of location,scale and proportion,form and materials,and detail
and finish. New construction should not duplicate historic buildings but should complement Orange County's architectural
traditions.
4
D: Design Standards for FENCES AND WALLS
II-D-1. Retain and preserve contributing fences and walls including their original material,decorative and functional
detailing,height and configuration.
II-D-2. Maintain and protect the surfaces,features,and details of fences and walls through appropriate methods. Repair
deteriorated or damaged surfaces and features using traditional methods. Repaint painted fences and walls to extend
useful life.
II-D-3. Replace deteriorated or damaged features of historic fences or walls to match original in size,shape,material,
dimension, pattern,texture,color and detail. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail of a feature rather than the
entire feature whenever possible. Consider compatible substitute materials only if using the original material is not
technically feasible.
II-D-4. Replace a missing historic fence or wall feature with a new feature based upon accurate documentation of the
original or with a new design compatible with the landmark building and site in configuration,scale, height,material and
detail.
II-D-5. Introduce new fences and walls only in locations and configurations that are consistent with the character of the
landmark building and site. Construct new fences and walls of traditional materials in designs compatible with the landmark
building and site in scale, material, height,and detail. The HPC discourages the use of synthetic material such as vinyl
fencing. If vinyl fencing is the only feasible alternative,consider using wood fencing along the public right-of-ways and the
same type of fencing in vinyl along the remaining property lines.
II-D-6. Introduce utilitarian fences(such as chain link or electric)and walls, if necessary,only in locations that will not
diminish the overall historic character of the landmark building and site.
E: Design Standards for WALKWAYS, DRIVEWAYS AND ON-SITE PARKING
II-E-1.Retain and preserve walkways,driveways,and parking areas that are significant in defining the overall historic
character of the site including their width,configuration,scale, materials,curbing,and related plantings.
II-E-2. Repair deteriorated or damaged walkways,driveways,and parking areas through traditional methods of repair.
II-E-3. Replace deteriorated or damaged features of walkways,driveways,or parking areas with materials that are
compatible in appearance,color,and texture. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail of a feature rather than the
entire feature,whenever possible.
II-E-4. Introduce new walkways,driveways,or parking areas, if necessary,in unobtrusive locations that do not compromise
character-defining elevations or important site features or views.
II-E-5. Protect mature vegetation and significant site features from damage caused by the construction of new walkways,
driveways,and parking areas.
II-E-6. Illuminate walkways,driveways,and parking areas in a manner consistent with the historic character of the site.
F: Design Standards for CEMETERIES AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES
II-F-1. Retain and preserve historic cemeteries on landmark sites including any visual characteristics of the cemetery,such
as a stone wall,that contribute to the overall historic character of the landmark site.
II-F-2. Maintain and protect cemetery features through traditional methods of repair and appropriate pruning of plantings.
Repair deteriorated cemetery site features through traditional methods of repair and appropriate pruning of plantings.
II-F-3. Replace deteriorated or missing cemetery site features such as benches,fences,walls,grave markers, pathways,
and plantings with new features that are compatible with the historic character of the cemetery and the landmark site.
II-F-4. Locate new site features and planting in ways that maintain or enhance the historic character of the cemetery and
the landmark site.
S II-F-5. Preserve and protect all known cemeteries and archaeological resources on the property from construction and yard
work. Reduce potential damage to known and unknown archaeological resources by minimizing site disturbances and
changes that impact site terrain. It is not appropriate to use heavy machinery or equipment on sites as doing so may
damage important archaeological resources.
II-F-6. Prior to any site changes, survey and record the site,using professional archaeologists and contemporary
archaeological methods,to determine the potential impact of disturbances on any known or unknown archaeological
resources.
? II-F-7. Record archaeological evidence that is uncovered during site work if the resources cannot be preserved in place.
G: Design Standards for EXTERIOR LIGHTING
II-G-1. Retain and preserve exterior lighting fixtures that contribute to the overall historic character of the site, particularly
the main dwelling.
II-G-2. Replace damaged,deteriorated,or missing exterior lighting fixtures with new fixtures that are either similar to the
original in material,appearance,detail,and scale or compatible with the historic landmark and site in material,appearance,
and scale.
II-G-3. Introduce and locate new exterior lighting that does not detract from the historic character of the site. Check with
Orange County Planning Staff to ensure that any lighting proposals comply with the zoning ordinance.
5
H: Design Standards for SIGNAGE
II-H-1. Retain and preserve historic signage,including its design and color.
II-H-2. Replace missing,deteriorated,or damaged signs with new signs that are compatible with the character of the
property in scale, material,design,and color.
II-H-3. Minimize the quantity of new signage and locate signage so it does not diminish the architectural or historic
character of the landmark building,structure or site.
II-H-4. Illuminate new signage in a manner consistent with the historic character of the landmark building and site.
III. Maintenance& Exterior Changes
A: Design Standards for MAINTENANCE AND EXTERIOR CHANGES
III-A-1. All buildings located within designated landmark properties should be maintained properly. (See Section B
Materials:Wood, Masonry,Architectural Metals,and Roofing for more information about the appropriate techniques for
different building elements.)
III-A-2. Trees and vegetation surrounding Local Landmark buildings should be trimmed and pruned as necessary to
prevent long-term damage to adjacent structures.
B: Design Standards for MATERIALS -WOOD
III-B-1. Retain and preserve historic wood fabric such as siding,trim and details,and wood features that are significant in
defining the overall historic character of a contributing building,structure,or site.
III-13-2. Maintain and protect wood features and surfaces with appropriate methods,always using the gentlest effective
method. Regular maintenance should include termite inspection and/or treatment.
III-13-3. Repair deteriorated or damaged wood features through traditional patching,consolidating(with epoxy), piecing,or
reinforcing by other accepted preservation methods.
III-13 4. Replace deteriorated or damaged wood features,if necessary,to match the original in design,material,
dimension,and detail. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail of a feature rather than the entire feature whenever
possible. Consider compatible substitute materials only if using the original material is not technically feasible. It is not
appropriate to replace or cover wooden features such as siding,trim,or window sash with contemporary substitute
materials such as vinyl, masonite,or aluminum. In most cases,the HPC will deny requests to do so. Covering original
fabric with substitute materials can trap moisture within the wall surface and damage the inner layers of siding—and
eventually the wall framing system.
III-13-5. Replace a missing wood feature with a new feature based upon accurate documentation of the original or a new
design compatible with the scale,size, material,and color of the Local Landmark building. It is not appropriate to
introduce wood features or details to a Local Landmark building in an effort to create a false historic appearance.
III-13-6. Most wood buildings should be protected with paint or clear wood preservative to protect the material from
exposure to weather. The HPC does not regulate paint colors,but recommends the use of quality paint products in
traditional colors.
B: Design Standards for MATERIALS - MASONRY
III-B-7. Retain and preserve masonry features such as brick,stone,concrete,terracotta,and stucco that are significant in
defining the overall historic character of a Local Landmark building structure or site.
III-13-8. Maintain and protect masonry features and surfaces by appropriate methods. Test any proposed cleaning or
paint-removing technique well in advance on an inconspicuous sample area. It is not appropriate to use destructive
cleaning techniques such as sandblasting,power washing,or high-pressure water blasting on historic masonry surfaces.
Use chemical cleaners only if gentler methods like low-pressure washing are ineffective.
III-B-9. It is not appropriate to paint or coat an unpainted masonry surface if it was not painted or coated historically.
Repaint previously painted masonry surfaces in traditional colors--appropriate to the historic character of the property.
III-B-10. Repair deteriorated or damaged masonry surfaces and features through traditional methods for consolidating,
piecing-in,or patching. Repoint masonry mortar joints if the mortar is cracked,deteriorated,or missing or if moisture
penetration of the masonry surface is evident. Prior to repointing, use hand tools to carefully remove loose and
deteriorated mortar. Replace mortar with new mortar to match the original in composition,strength, color,and texture.
Duplicate the width and profile of the original mortar joints. It is not appropriate to substitute modern coatings such as
water repellents for repointing or repairing historic masonry. Consider such coatings only if traditional repair techniques
fail to eliminate moisture problems.
III-B-11. Replace deteriorated or damaged masonry features, if necessary,to match the original in design,material,
dimension,and detail. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail of a feature rather than the entire feature whenever
possible. Consider compatible substitute materials only if using the original materials are not technically feasible.
III-B-12. Replace a missing masonry feature with a new feature based upon accurate documentation of the original or a
new design compatible with the scale,size,material,and color of the Local Landmark building.
III-B-13. It is not appropriate to introduce new masonry features,such as a large temple-front porch,or details to a
building,on a designated property, in an effort to create a false historic appearance.
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B: Design Standards for MATERIALS—ARCHITECTURAL METALS
III-B-14. Retain and preserve architectural metals, metallic features,surfaces,as well as their form, pattern,detail,color
and texture,through appropriate methods.
III-B-15. Clean soft metals with chemical cleaning solutions using the least intrusive method. Test first to assure that they
do not damage the metal or its finish. Do not clean soft metal surfaces with harsh abrasive methods.
III-B-16. Repaint architectural metal surfaces,when needed,using paint that is appropriate for the use. (Staff can provide
assistance as necessary.)
III-13-17. Repair deteriorated or damaged architectural surfaces and features using traditional methods for reinforcing,
splicing,or patching.
III-B-18. Replace deteriorated or damaged architectural metal only if necessary. Match the original design, material,
dimension,and detail. Replace only the deteriorated portion or detail rather than the entire feature whenever possible.
Consider compatible substitute material only if using the original material is technically not feasible.
III-B-19. Replace a missing architectural metal feature with a new feature based upon accurate documentation of the
original or a new design compatible with the scale,size,material,and color of the building on the Local Landmark
property.
B: Design Standards for MATERIALS - ROOFING
III-B-20. The original roof material should be preserved whenever possible.
III-B-21. Roof trim(fascia,soffit etc.)should be maintained and preserved. Necessary repairs shall be made using the
same materials and the same pattern as the original detail.
S III-113-22. Roof material on new additions should be compatible with existing roofs in material,type, color,etc.
C: Design Standards for SIZE AND SCALE
S III-C-1. Maintain the size and scale of all contributing buildings,especially the main house. Obviously constructing an
addition will increase the size of a building. The addition should not dwarf the older portions of the building or be so
dominant that the building takes on an entirely different character.
S III-C-2. The proposal for any new addition should incorporate one or more of the three common design tools:a
connecting breezeway,an elevation setback,or a change of materials.
III-C-3. Maintain the relationship between the contributing buildings. Contributing buildings described in the designation
Research Report should not become overshadowed by new buildings,existing non-contributing buildings,or enlarged
contributing buildings,which were originally small.
C: Design Standards for PROPORTION AND RYTHYM
q III-C-4. The combination of projecting and recessed features such as porches,doors and windows creates a sense of
rhythm that should be maintained.
5 III-C-5. New additions should maintain the proportion and rhythm of the existing building.
III-C-6. Front porches should be preserved as outdoor spaces. Requests to enclose porches in screen may be approved;
requests to completely enclose porches with solid walls will likely be denied.
III-C-7. Porch posts and decorative trim should be maintained and preserved. Porch supports should not be replaced
with metal or synthetic posts. Porch trim should not be removed, hidden,or simplified under synthetic siding.
III-C-8. If the porch on a designated property has to be replaced,the original porch should be reproduced as closely as
possible. If the removed porch is not original to the house,the applicant shall undertake sufficient research to determine
an appropriate porch design based on the age of the house, its style and detailing. New porches and related trim work
should never attempt to predate the house or to be overly elaborate.
C: Design Standards for WINDOWS AND DOORS
III-C-9. The HPC encourages the use of storm windows to protect historic windows from deterioration.
S III-C-10. Existing windows and doors should be maintained and preserved.
III-C-11. When windows must be replaced, new units should be the same size,type,design,and material as the original
windows.
III-C-12. Windows and doors should never be removed,or"covered over"without replacement. Windows or doors that
are not used can be enclosed using a traditional method such as louvered blinds to create a"false"door or window
without disrupting the balance.
III-C-13. The HPC discourages the use of replacement aluminum or vinyl windows on contributing buildings constructed
with wood windows.
S III-C-14. When new windows are used for an addition or detached new construction project, units should have panes with
individual wood muntins(true-divided lights). Windows with"snap-in"muntin grids are inappropriate for historic buildings.
The HPC will discourage their use unless no other cost-effective alternative is available. The HPC will consider new
technological advances on a case-by-case basis.
C Design Standards for ROOFLINES AND ROOF DETAILS
III-C-15. The original roof pitch and the ridge height should be retained. The construction of any new dormers or skylights
should not be visible from any public road and should be on the least visible sections of the roof from within the property
boundary.
III-C-16. All chimneys should be preserved and repaired using the same material,patterns,and methods as the original
construction. New chimneys should not visually compete with original chimneys.
C Design Standards for OTHER IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES
S III-C-17. All character-defining elements and exterior features should be preserved.
III-C-18. Elements that cannot be repaired should be replaced in kind.
S III-C-19. Additions,and new construction,should never dominate existing buildings. Details(roofline,door,and window
trim)and other visually important molding on additions and new freestanding buildings should be visually compatible with
details on existing buildings. New trim should maintain the proportions of the original trim in a simplified version; it should
never overpower the original trim. Moreover, new trim should never predate an existing structure unless it is part of a
researched restoration or reproduction project.
D Design Standards for REVERSIBILITY
S III-D-1. Large additions should be constructed as stand-alone units placed alongside existing buildings, not integrated into
the structure. Additions should be constructed so that they can be removed in the future should circumstances change.
III-D-2. Care should be used when locating new or moved buildings to a Local Landmark property. New detached
construction and relocated older buildings should be able to be removed from the site without altering the overall character
of the property. New or moved buildings should not diminish the historic integrity of the Local Landmark property by their
location on the site. (See Standards for Introducing Buildings to a Landmark Property.)
E Design Standards for UNTILITIES AND ENERGY RETROFIT
III-E-1. Retain and preserve traditional or inherent energy-conserving features of the historic buildings such as porches,
screen doors,etc.
III-E-2. Install narrow profile exterior or interior storm windows so that they do not damage or obscure existing sash and
window frames for energy efficiency. Choose storm windows that are painted or finished with a color compatible with the
existing sash color. If covering double-hung windows,select operable storm windows with dividers that align with existing
sash division.
III-E-3. Install full-light storm doors,constructed of wood or aluminum painted or finished with a color that is compatible
with the color of the existing door for energy efficiency. Install storm doors so that the original doors and frames are not
obscured or damaged.
III-E-4. Install mechanical systems with care so alterations to the contributing historic building are minimized and its
character-defining elevations and features are not compromised.
III-E-5. Locate new transformers,meters, pipes,and mechanical or communication-related equipment as inconspicuously
as possible, usually in rear yard locations or along non-character-defining elevations. Screen mechanical or
communication equipment with landscaping or opaque fencing. Do not locate new mechanical or communication-related
equipment(satellite dishes,solar panels,etc.)on roofs or elevations visible from the road,or visible on the approach to
the front door. Inspect and repair roof surfaces before installing solar panels. Consider installing solar panels on garage
roofs with south-facing exposures instead of the house roof to limit the potential for interior damage should the roof leak.
III-E-6. Locate portable air-conditioning units, if needed,on rear or non-character-defining elevations.
III-E-7. The use of underground wiring is encouraged where possible, but be sure to protect significant site features,
including archaeological resources and mature vegetation,from damage if underground utility and communication lines
are installed.
F Design Standards for ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
III-F-1. Determine if solutions to ADA requirements are compatible with preserving the Local Landmark property's historic
character and setting.
III-F-2. Seek input from local disability groups and preservation specialists in developing appropriate solutions to
accessibility.
III-F-3. When possible locate accessibility and life safety changes such as ramps,elevator additions,and fire doors on the
rear elevation or a non-character-defining elevation of the Local Landmark building.
III-F-4. Design any new or additional means of access or egress so that the change is reversible and the original design
of the historic entrance or porch is not compromised.
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IV Introducing Buildings to a Landmark Property
A Design Standards for HISTORIC VALUE AND INTEGRITY
IV-A-1. While new structures should be placed in their traditional locations(eg.,a new barn near agricultural buildings,a
new garage near the main house)they should be separate from contributing buildings or clusters of contributing buildings,
whenever possible. New or relocated buildings should also avoid important landscape features or vistas. If the
designation application does not contain a recommended location for additional structures,the HPC will work with the
property owner to determine possible locations for the new or relocated building.
S IV-A-2. New buildings or relocated older buildings should always be placed on a Local Landmark property in a way that
will allow for their potential removal and will maintain the site's historic context.
IV-A-3. New buildings should be visually compatible with contributing buildings on the site,but should not copy existing
structures. Visitors to a Local Landmark property should be able to understand the progression of construction on the site.
IV-A-4. Reproductions should only be undertaken with accurate documentation of a specific building from the site. These
new structures should be identified as a reproduction either by small differences in detail,such as different colored mortar,
different paint color from other buildings in the complex,or labeled with a small plaque or sign.
IV-A-5. When considering applications for relocating older buildings,the HPC will always ask if the building has to be
moved.
IV-A-6. Relocated older buildings should be differentiated from the existing buildings constructed on site. Proposals to
relocate structures that predate the landmark's period of significance shall be subjected to a higher level of scrutiny.
Substantial buildings should not be relocated to Local Landmark properties containing only small vernacular structures,
where they will dominate the existing complex.
B DESIGN STANDARDS for Visual Character
S IV-13-1. New buildings should never visually dominate the Local Landmark or compete with individual contributing
buildings on the site.
S IV-13-2. The designs for new buildings should take their cues from existing structures on the site. New buildings should
not attempt to copy an existing building feature by feature,but should be visually compatible with the contributing buildings
in terms of scale and proportion,form and materials,and detail and finish. The elevations for proposed new buildings
should maintain the general rhythm(the combination of projecting and recessed features,and the balance of door and
window openings to wall area)of the surrounding structures. New construction should also incorporate native building
materials.
IV-13-3. In most cases the HPC will recommend that new construction or relocated buildings be placed away from public
roads to limit their visual intrusion on the historic site.
IV-13-4. Property owners may reconstruct buildings on existing foundations,particularly if sufficient physical or
documentary evidence is available to determine what the building looked like. The HPC will work with the applicant to
ensure that the reconstruction is accurate. Signage should be placed near the reconstructed building to document when it
was erected.
V Removing Buildings from a Landmark Property
A DESIGN STANDARDS for Relocation
V-A-1. Before relocating any building on a landmark site document the existing landmark setting and site conditions with
photographs and other written or graphic means such as site plans.
V-A-2. Minimize damage to the landmark structure during and after the move by:
• Assessing its structural conditions prior to the move;
• Taking all necessary precautions to prevent damage during the move;
• Working with contractors experienced in moving historic structures;and
• Securing and protecting the structure from weather damage and vandalism.
V-A-3. Select a new site for the landmark structure that is compatible in character with its original setting. Consider
compatibility of the proposed site in terms of the larger context of surrounding properties as well as the relocated building's
setback,orientation,and distance from other buildings.
V-A-4. Review proposed site changes and landscaping for the new site according to all pertinent guidelines.
V-A-5. Protect significant site features(topography,viewsheds, landscaping)of the original site and the new site from
damage during and after the move.
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B DESIGN STANDARDS for Demolition
V-113-1. Seek alternatives to demolition by working with the HPC and other interested parties.
V-113-2. Document the existing Local Landmark and its setting through photographs and other written or graphic means,
such as site plans and drawings, prior to demolition.
V-13-3. Salvage reusable architectural materials and features prior to demolition,or provide an opportunity for others to
salvage those materials.
V-1134. Submit to the HPC a schematic plan illustrating the proposed post-demolition site treatment prior to demolition.
V-113-5. Protect significant site features including landscaping and archaeological resources from damage during
demolition.
V-13-6. Clear the site promptly and thoroughly following demolition.
V-113-7. Implement approved site plan for constructing a new building or relocating an existing building to the site promptly
following demolition.
FINDINGS OF FACT
(Staff's determination of Findings of Fact)
Scope of Work
The Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation has received a COA application from P.
J. and Alexandria Heller (represented by project architect Fred Stewart) proposing work at Chatwood, a
designated Orange County Local Historic Landmark. The work consists of the following: construct a new
bathroom addition, rebuild and enlarge the existing rear sun porch, install a new stone terrace and construct
a separate free-standing screened room or pavilion at the west end of the house. The proposed work is
shown in detail on project plan documents submitted by architect Fred Stewart, dated Nov. 17, 2020.
Extent of the HPC's Purview
The Historic Preservation Commission's purview of this site is limited to the exterior of all structures and
landscaping features.
Relevant Design Standards
It is the staff opinion that the following design standards appear to apply to Certificate of Appropriateness
Application 01-2020for Chatwood:
SETTING: II-A-1, II-A-2, and II-A-6
CEMETERIES AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES: II-F-5
ROOFING: III-B-22
SIZE and SCALE: III-C-1 and III-C-2
PROPORTION and RHYTHM: III-C-4 and III-C-5
WINDOWS and DOORS: III-C-10 and III-C-14
OTHER IMPORTANT VISUAL FEATURES: III-C-17 and III-C-19
REVERSIBILITY: 111-D-1
HISTORIC VALUE AND INTEGRITY: IV-A-2
VISUAL CHARACTER: IV-B-1, IV-B-2, and IV-B-3
This application does not appear to address two standards that may be relevant here:
1. Preserving and protecting significant historic landscape and site features (Design Standard 11-A-3:
Maintain historic site features and plantings through appropriate methods)
2. Protect and document any archaeological resources during the course of the project work Desi n
Standard 11-F-7:Record archaeological evidence that is uncovered during site work if the resources
cannot be preserved in place)
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Staff recommendation:
Staff believes that the work proposed in the project application as submitted complies with and is congruous
with the Design Standards for Orange County Local Historic Landmarks, with the following recommended
conditions added to address two issues not fully covered in the application materials:
Historic landscape and plantings: Preserve significant plantings and site features to the fullest extent
possible. Seek the advice of a historic landscape design professional to provide guidance on how to
protect site features and plantings from damage during or as a result of construction activities. Chatwood
still retains portions of its significant mid-201h century designed colonial revival landscape designs as well
as earlier plantings and site features like the historic road. (Design Standard 11-A-3:Maintain historic site
features and plantings through appropriate methods)
Archaeological resources: Make provisions to allow for the discovery of potentially significant
archaeological features that may be uncovered during the course of the work, particularly as excavations
are made for new footings. The site at Chatwood has a long history and presents a high probability for
the discovery of archaeological finds. Workers should be instructed to be watchful for below-ground
features. Consult with the staff of the HPC in the event that features are located, to develop a plan for
documenting any such features or artifacts. (Design Standard 11-F-7: Record archaeological evidence
that is uncovered during site work if the resources cannot be preserved in place)
Attachment 3
Orange County Historic Preservation Commission
Proposed Schedule of Meetings for 2021
January 27
February 24
March 24
April 28
May 26
June 23
July No meeting
August 25
September 22
October 27
November No Meeting
December 8
Notes: Meetings are held on at 6:30 pm on the 4th Wednesday of every month
except as noted.
All meetings are being held virtually via the Orange County GoToMeeting
program until further notice.
Staff Contact: Peter Sandbeck (919) 245-2517
Schedule approved by the Orange County Historic Preservation Commission at the Dec. 9, 2020 regular
meeting
DRAFT Attachment 4
NAME OF BOARD/COMMISSION: Historic Preservation Commission
Report Period: 2020
ORANGE COUNTY ADVISORY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT / WORK PLAN FOR THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Board/Commission Name: Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
Person to address the BOCC at Retreat (if requested) and contact information:
Chair: Todd Dickinson (919) 732-7538 email: dicres(),mindspring.com
Vice Chair: Art Menius (443) 605-4355 email: art(a�artmenius.com
Primary County Staff Contact:
Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation
Peter Sandbeck (Cultural Resources Coordinator): 245-2517 psandbeck@orangecountync.gov
How many times per month does this commission meet, including any special meetings
and sub-committee meetings?
Regular meeting: one each month (4t" Wednesday)
Book subcommittee meetings every other month (date varies)
Brief Statement of Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities.
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) is charged with the identification, inventory and protection
of architectural and archaeological sites in the County, with publishing and/or offering online records of
this inventory, and advising the Board of County Commissioners on matters pertaining to historic
preservation. The HPC is also charged with providing guidance and a forum for public comments on
National Register nominations and administering the Local Landmark Program as outlined in the
Certified Local Government Program.
What are your Commission's most important accomplishments?
• Historic Resources Book Protect: The HPC is nearing completion on its major project to publish
a book documenting the historic resources of Orange County and Hillsborough, working in
partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. The project author has researched and
written about over 225 historic properties to be included in this publication. The Alliance has just
entered into a contract with a highly qualified book design firm to complete the layout, design
and indexing of the book. Progress has been slowed due to the pandemic, pushing the
completion date to mid-late 2021.
• Cedar Grove School National Register Nomination: The HPC contracted with a historic
preservation consultant who prepared a National Register Nomination for the historic Cedar
Grove School, built in 1951 as the county's first consolidated school for African Americans and
now renovated by the County for the Cedar Grove Community Center. This building was
approved by the Dept. of the Interior for official listing on the National Register in April, 2020.
• Schley Grange National Register Nomination: Initiated a project to have the historically
significant Schley Grange Hall nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. Our
historic preservation consultant prepared the nomination report. This building was approved by
the Dept. of the Interior for official listing on the National Register in April, 2020. Project funded
jointly by the Grange and County through Lands Legacy program.
• New Local Historic Landmark Properties: The HPC has approved three diverse historic
resources for landmark designation; research reports are underway and will be submitted to the
BOCC in early 2021 for approval:
1. Harvey's Chapel AME Church and historic cemetery: 19t"century African American cemetery
and the site of the first 1890s church, as well as the present 1940s church building.
2. Old Eno Quaker Cemetery: traditional burying ground for first Quaker settlers in area, dating
back to 1750s, with early gravestones and archaeological remains of first meeting house.
3. David Faucette House: One of the best-preserved of the county's antebellum houses, built
about 1830 on the banks of the Eno River, featuring handsome original interior woodwork
and finishes.
• Piper-Cox House at Eno River State Park: The HPC assembled a team of members and historic
restoration experts to assist the State Park in the restoration of the house following serious
damage from a storm in 2018. HPC helped motivate State Parks to protect this historic property
and make necessary repairs, which were completed in September, 2020.
• Historic Brickwork Restoration Workshop: The HPC hosted its second successful hands-on
training workshop on June 291" to instruct craftspeople and homeowners in the fine art of
restoring and repointing historic brickwork, in partnership with the Alliance for Historic
Hillsborough and the Burwell School Historic Site. Participants helped restore historic brickwork
on outbuildings at the Burwell School. (2019)
• Annual "Farm to Table" Demonstration for Historic Preservation Month: On Nov. 6t", 2019, HPC
members once again presented hands-on programs on historic woodworking, historic hand
tools and traditional farm life skills for over 300 fourth graders at Blackwood Farm Park, as part
of the annual "Farm to Table" event sponsored by DEAPR. (ongoing)
• Historic Courthouse Archaeology and Preservation Protect: Sponsored an archaeological
survey of the Old Courthouse Square, using ground penetrating radar (GPR). Contracted with
an architectural historian to carry out research about Old Courthouse and Square as part of
upcoming CIP project to preserve these historic resources. The HPC partnered with the State
Archives to digitize all historic County Commissioner minutes going back to 1868. (ongoing)
• Efland Home National Register Nomination: Completed a project to prepare a National Register
Nomination for the historic Efland Home (NC Industrial Home for Colored Girls) (2017).
List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually.
• Submits annual report of all preservation activities to the State Historic Preservation Office to
meet federal requirements needed to maintain Orange County's status as Certified Local
Government. This allows the County to apply for federal grants for historic preservation activities
• Partners local history groups to hold/assist in producing educational and informational programs
that encourage and promote historic preservation as a tool to preserve and enhance community
character, slow down sprawl and encourage smart growth.
• Administers the Orange County Local Historic Landmark Program, including reviews of
proposed restoration work or additions through Certificates of Appropriateness.
• Provides forum for public comments on nominations to National Register of Historic Places
• Conducts reviews of proposed new public infrastructure projects that might have an impact on
historic resources, including cell towers, pipelines and transportation projects>
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• Presents annual program at the Farm-to-Table event hosted by DEAPR at Blackwood Farm
Park for 41" graders from local schools (approx. 300) about historic buildings and preservation.
Describe this commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC
goal(s)/priorities, if applicable.
Goal Two: Promote an interactive and transparent system of governance that reflects
community values.
Priority 7: Improve intra-and intergovernmental coordination, cooperation and collaboration.
• The HPC and the Town of Hillsborough worked together to establish a joint review process
for projects affecting cultural resources (2014) that is ongoing. The HPC continues to work
with Hillsborough and Carrboro to develop a process to allow the HPC to designate historic
landmarks located in the ETJ's.
Goal Three: Implement planning and economic development policies which create a
balanced, dynamic local economy, and which promote diversity, sustainable growth and
enhanced revenue while embracing community values.
• Many of the HPC's major activities (Local Historic Landmarks, historic resource inventory
and mapping and education/public programs) provide support for a range of heritage
tourism initiatives. These activities will help ensure that historic preservation continues to be
an integral part of the planning process to promote sustainable growth while respecting
community values.
• The Historic Resources Book will have a significant impact on cultural resource and heritage
tourism in the county. The promotion and sales of the new book can be used to highlight the
many historic resources, attractions and sites of cultural significance.
Goal Five: Create, preserve, and protect a natural environment that includes clean water,
clean air, wildlife, important natural lands and sustainable energy for present and future
generations.
Priority 15: Complete stewardship and management plans for Lands Legacy.
• The HPC has been actively involved in the stabilization and ongoing preservation work for
the historic buildings at the County's park sites, with a special focus on Blackwood Farm
Park. Members have offered suggestions on potential new uses for buildings that outlived
their original purpose. The collective expertise of HPC members and staff are of great value
in helping the County preserve its important historic structures parks and elsewhere.
If your commission played the role of an Element Lead Advisory Board involved in the 2030
Comprehensive Plan preparation process, please indicate your activities/ accomplishments as
they may relate to the Comprehensive Plan's goals or objectives.
• The HPC provided extensive input into DEAPR staff's development of the Natural and Cultural
System Element of the Comprehensive Plan—specifically the chapter on Cultural and Historic
Resources. The HPC frames its annual work plan around efforts to implement these objectives.
Objective CR-1:
Provide for the systematic identification of historic buildings, objects, districts, sites, structures and
archaeological sites. Update and improve these inventories every 25 years.
-3-
• The HPC obtained multiple federal grants to update and maintain the inventory of historic
cultural resources. New property data has been entered into the joint county/state historic
resources database and in the state's master GIS mapping system (HPO-GIS). These
updating projects also provide data and content for the historic resources book project.
• The HPC collaborates with Asset Management Services and Planning to ensure all
archaeological and cultural resources are identified and protected in accordance with the
County's "Cultural and Archaeological Resources Policy." Through this process, dozens of
Indian and historic archaeological sites have been identified, documented, and mapped.
Objective CR-3:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and resolve existing policies which
may be in conflict with the County's historic preservation mission.
• HPC and DEAPR staff work closely with Planning staff during the permitting process to
protect historic properties; also coordinate with AMS in the identification and protection of
archaeological resources during County-initiated construction projects.
• Partners with Planning to operate a notification process that allows the HPC to document
historic properties slated for demolition or practice burning.
Objective CR-7:
Encourage publication of material relating to the County's heritage.
• The HPC is now working toward the completion of a high quality book documenting the
county's historic resources, in partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough. This
book is scheduled to be printed in 2021.
Objective CR-10:
Establish a dialogue with the other jurisdictions in and adjacent to Orange County to address
cultural resources in areas with or without designated Historic Preservation/District Commissions.
• The HPC worked with the Town of Hillsborough to develop a joint County/Town policy to
better coordinate the mapping and sharing of information regarding cultural resources.
• The HPC continues working with Hillsborough and Carrboro to establish a process to allow
the HPC to designate Local Historic Landmarks within the boundaries of both town's ETJs.
The County Attorney assisted by providing a draft interlocal agreement for HPC review.
Identify any activities this commission expects to carry out in 2021 as they relate to
established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e.,
funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
• Historic Resources Book Protect: The HPC will complete the historic resources book, in
partnership with the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, to be printed in 2021. Our author has
completed writing descriptions and histories for 225 properties. The Alliance has contracted
with a book design firm to handle the design, layout, editorial and indexing work needed
prior to going to press. The Alliance and the HPC have started a final fund-raising effort to
raise approx. $35,000 in private donations needed to pay for final editorial and printing. (No
fiscal impact—funding provided in prior budget years)
• Dendrochronology Protect: The HPC and the Alliance have obtained a private foundation
grant to help fund the use of this scientific process that involves using tree ring data
obtained by using core samples from original historic building timbers. Careful analysis of
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the ring count and spacing between rings can be used to determine the age of the original
timbers found in historic buildings. This will support the historic resources book project by
providing accurate construction dates for some of the most important historic buildings in the
County and Hillsborough. (No fiscal impact)
• Old Courthouse Historical and Architectural Research: Assisted by experienced consultants,
the HPC will undertake a project to document the many alterations and changes to the Old
Orange County Courthouse, in preparation for the upcoming CIP project. Findings will be
used to develop high quality interpretive exhibits about the courthouse and its history.
(Funding already approved in prior year budget)
• Promote diversity in the Landmark and National Register Programs: The HPC will continue
to recognize more diverse historic resources through the Local Historic Landmark and
National Register programs, with special focus on African American sites and other
overlooked or threatened historic resources. The HPC seeks to generate at least two new
landmark and/or National Register applications per year (No fiscal impact—already
budgeted in the Lands Legacy program funding)
• Increase focus on Archaeological Resources: Our county possesses a wealth of historic and
pre-historic archaeological resources that help illuminate the history and cultural of all our
people, ranging from the Indian cultures thousands of years ago to our earliest African and
European settlers. The HPC will explore ways to highlight the importance of these resources
and share them with the general public.
• North Carolina Celebration of the USA 250th Anniversary: The HPC will form a
subcommittee to identify sites in the county that can be highlighted and included in planning
efforts at the state and local levels to prepare for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the
American Revolution in 2025-2026. The HPC will coordinate with other local historic sites
and museums.
• Designating Landmarks in Town ETJ's: Develop a final draft interlocal agreement with the
various municipalities to govern the designation of historic landmarks within the various
town's ETTs; work with municipalities to seek adoption of agreement (No fiscal impact)
What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming
year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention?
• Preservation of endangered rural historic resources: There are numerous endangered
historic resources in rural Orange County that merit preservation. The few remaining historic
two-room black schools that closed in the 1950s are seriously threatened, as are surviving
rural slave cemeteries. Many deteriorated log cabins and farm buildings that tell important
stories about Orange County's history will be lost in the next decade. Most of these are
owned by farm families who face financial challenges and cannot justify spending money on
structures that have no use. The HPC wishes to develop a small-scale grant program to
assist owners with basic repairs to preserve these rural landmarks, by providing matching
funds for owners who are willing to participate. The HPC plans to seek grant funding from
foundations to help start this program, to be matched by a modest level of County funding.
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