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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.01.2025 HISTORICAL COMMISSION ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting April 1, 2025 Convened: 4:02 pm Adjourned: 4:59 pm 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 4:02 PM by Chair Betty Jo Starke. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Pledge of Allegiance led by Chair Starke. 3. ROLL CALL Present Chair Betty Jo Starke, Outgoing Vice Chair Mike Menard, Commission Member Krissta King, Commission Member Paul Langel, Commission Member Judy Biglin, Commission Member Lynn Swartzel, Incoming Commission Member Christopher Koblegard Others Present Staff: Kori Benton, SLC Planning Manager and Historic Preservation Officer; Ciara Forbes, Assistant County Attorney; Christopher Koblegard, Dana Pirulli, Commission Secretary 4. ANNOUNCEMENTS The Commission announced the retirement of Commission Member Mike Menard and welcomed its newest member, Christopher Koblegard. Mr. Koblegard expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that his family has lived in Fort Pierce for five generations and that he currently works as a commercial property appraiser for the County. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Chair Betty Jo Starke SECONDER: Commission Member Krissta King AYES: Commission Member Judy Biglin, Commission Member Lynn Schwartzel, Commission Member Paul Langel NAYS: None Historical Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025 4:02 PM 2 | Page 5. PUBLIC COMMENT 6. ELECTION OF OFFICIALS 2025 Mr. Benton opened the floor for the election of the Vice Chair; however, Chair Starke recommended postponing the election until the next Historical Commission meeting. RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Commission Member Judy Biglin SECONDER: Commission Member Krissta King AYES: Commission Member Lynn Schwartzel, Commission Member Paul Langel, Commission Member Chris Koblegard NAYS: None 7. MINUTES A. Approval of the January 7, 2025 Historical Commission Meeting Minutes RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Chair Betty Jo Starke SECONDER: Commission Member Krissta King AYES: Commission Member Judy Biglin, Commission Member Lynn Schwartzel, Commission Member Paul Langel. Commission Member Chris Koblegard NAYS: None 8. ITEMS FOR ACTION / CONSIDERATION A. OLD BUSINESS Status Update: White City Historic Sign Kiosk at White City Park Mr. Benton provided an update on the White City Historic Sign Kiosk project at White City Park. He reported that the County is pursuing the development of a series of informational kiosks to highlight significant local history. One kiosk, dedicated to Edwin Binney and his family's contributions to St. Lucie County—including the creation of the inlet and other business ventures—has already been installed at the St. Lucie County Regional History Center. Planned locations for additional kiosks include the Indrio Road Schoolhouse, White City Park, and a prospective site along the Fort Pierce Riverwalk. Mr. Benton shared a draft of the White City Park kiosk, which features Historical Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025 4:02 PM 3 | Page content curated by County staff and selected exhibits showcasing the area’s historical importance. The kiosk will be constructed with durable, weather-resistant materials, including a powder-coated aluminum frame and a laminated polyboard display panel. Once installed, it will serve as an educational resource for both residents and visitors, offering insight into the heritage of White City. Fort Pierce Farms School (AKA Indrio Road Schoolhouse ) – initiation of National Register of Historic Places Application Mr. Benton provided an update on the Fort Pierce Farms School, also known as the Indrio Road Schoolhouse, located at Emerson Avenue and Indrio Road. Following a presentation on its historical and architectural significance, the Historical Commission recommended pursuing a National Register of Historic Places nomination—an action later approved by the Board of County Commissioners. Staff are now preparing a draft designation report detailing the site’s history, zoning, and significance. Built around 1915, the schoolhouse served students in northern St. Lucie County and has ties to the Binney family. The site appears eligible under Criteria A, C, and D for its cultural, architectural, and historical value. To support the nomination, Mr. Benton encouraged contributions of historical photos, documents, and personal stories from community members, including descendants of families once served by the school. Chair Starke asked if the Historical Commission should formally act on the request and whether outreach to the St. Lucie Regional History Center had occurred. Mr. Benton confirmed informal discussions but no formal letter. He proposed presenting findings to the Commission first, then drafting a letter of support. The goal is to gather materials by July, with a focus on engaging families from the surrounding rural areas, including Westwood. Mr. Benton shared that a nearby resident has offered historical records related to the Fort Pierce Farms School. Chair Starke emphasized the urgency of preserving historic sites and increasing public awareness—especially among new residents—about the County’s historic registry. She asked about the availability of past survey materials. Mr. Benton confirmed he could provide the Commission with a digital copy of the 2003 historic resource survey, conducted by consultants to identify structures in unincorporated areas over 50 years old. The survey linked findings to the Florida Master Site File, which includes photos, research, and assessments. He noted that while many properties—such as those in White City—may meet criteria for designation, formal listing requires either property owner initiation or County action under applicable code provisions. Mr. Benton concluded by stating he would distribute the historic survey document and encouraged local preservation groups to identify and refer notable structures for designation. He cited the successful listing of the Edwin Binney estate, which began with a referral from the Port St. Lucie Historical Society and was advanced by the Historical Commission. Chair Starke inquired about the historic status of the White City Mercantile and White City School, expressing concern about the potential loss of these significant sites. She recalled a past effort (circa 2005–2007) to establish a historic district that included these properties, which ultimately stalled, leaving designation up to individual property owners. Historical Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025 4:02 PM 4 | Page Mr. Benton noted the potential for renewed interest, particularly in advocating for the preservation of the original White City School building. He referenced the School District’s prior preservation efforts, including the designation and ongoing restoration of the former St. Lucie Elementary and High School, now the Creative Arts Academy. Given that precedent, he suggested the District may be open to a similar initiative and encouraged collaboration between the Commission and community stakeholders to explore this opportunity. Chair Starke inquired about the appropriate process for pursuing historic designation for the White City School and Mercantile. Mr. Benton explained that Commission members may individually express interest in historic preservation efforts. However, to issue formal correspondence on behalf of the Commission, a motion and direction to staff would be required, with communication issued through the Chair. He suggested this could help spark public and private sector interest. Chair Starke asked whether informational materials were available to share with the owners of the Mercantile to explain the benefits of historic designation. Mr. Benton confirmed that materials could be compiled and noted that while benefits are often long-term, financial incentives do exist—such as the ad valorem tax abatement program. This program offers tax savings for substantial rehabilitation projects, typically $50,000 or more, over up to ten years. He cited successful use of this program for the Arcade Building and the Gates and Gates Building on Orange Avenue. Mr. Benton provided an update on the Gates and Gates Building, mentioning that its owner, Phillip C. “Flip” Gates, Jr., recently spoke at the Fort Pierce Rotary Club. During his presentation, Mr. Gates highlighted the architectural legacy of William Hatcher, a renowned local architect responsible for designing several notable structures in Fort Pierce, including the Sunrise Theatre and Raulerson Building. Hatcher also designed the Peacock Building, and although the original fire station is gone, the historical fire truck from that facility has been preserved. Mr. Benton invited the Fire Chief to discuss recent preservation efforts. Commissioner Langel shared an update on the Fire District’s ongoing efforts as part of the construction of a new fire station near Midway Road, set to open in about six weeks. The District, in partnership with the St. Lucie County Historical Society, is restoring the County’s first fire truck, a 1921 American LaFrance, and plans to feature it in a public display area. The new station will also include a historical timeline, photographs, and preserved elements from previous fire stations, such as a flagpole salvaged from the second central fire station, along with reused signage from that station. A symbolic fire pole from the current central station will be displayed in the antique area of the new fire station, preserving the tradition, though it will be non-functional. The facility is located on Milner Drive, near the sheriff's office and behind the health department. Mr. Langel noted that construction is ongoing, and the station is expected to open in about a month to a month and a half. He plans to provide a full update at the next Historical Commission meeting. Mr. Langel emphasized the importance of making the facility accessible to youth groups, special interest organizations, and the community. The aim is to integrate the site into educational outreach, including the County's Citizens Academy, to help share and preserve the history of the St. Lucie County Fire District. Historical Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025 4:02 PM 5 | Page RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Chair Betty Jo Starke SECONDER: Commission Member Krissta King AYES: Commission Member Paul Langel, Commission Member Lynn Schwartzel, Commission Member Krissta King, Commission Member Judy Biglin, Commission Member Chris Koblegard NAYS: None B. NEW BUSINESS 9. MEMBER MATTERS & DISCUSSION Chair Starke inquired whether the pace of development activity was slowing due to current economic conditions or if things were continuing at full speed. Mr. Benton stated that while he is not a market analyst or appraiser, he tracks trends in development and permitting. He observed market uncertainty due to increased housing supply, high material costs, and sustained interest rates. Many homeowners with low-rate mortgages are reluctant to sell, and home prices have softened slightly—less than 5%. More accurate data is expected from the Property Appraiser’s Office, though with a time lag. Despite hesitancy, developer interest remains strong, especially for oceanfront properties. He cited a 23-lot subdivision on Hutchinson Island with projected home prices of $3–6 million. Mr. Benton emphasized that St. Lucie County’s appeal remains high due to its beaches, friendly community, and relatively well-functioning infrastructure. County staff continue working closely with the Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to ensure that infrastructure investments keep pace with growth. He stressed the importance of balancing new development with historic preservation, environmental protection, and compatibility with existing neighborhoods. Ongoing efforts include tree preservation, wetland protection, and sensitive integration of new residential and commercial projects. Mr. Benton discussed ongoing challenges with stormwater management and cited a recent rezoning proposal near U.S. 1 and Dyer Road, noting the need to balance property rights with environmental and infrastructure concerns. Despite a brief slowdown, development remains active, with new fire stations under construction and continued collaboration with the Fire and School Districts. In response to Chair Starke’s inquiry about the proposed Wave Park, Mr. Benton clarified the project is within Fort Pierce but affects County-managed Midway Road. Though detailed plans were submitted years ago, activity has stalled, and recent construction observed nearby is unrelated. He plans to meet with Fort Pierce’s Planning Director for updates. Mr. Benton explained that developers typically have 1–2 years to act after approval, but state laws allow deadline extensions during declared emergencies. These can significantly delay projects, as seen with St. Lucie Business Park, which remains active decades after approval. He also noted ongoing development at LTC Ranch, a long-standing project including a golf course, housing, and a school site, with origins dating back to 1999–2001. In contrast, new proposals like Indrio Groves—currently in the rezoning phase—reflect the region’s continued growth, with plans for around 3,000 units. Historical Commission Tuesday, April 1, 2025 4:02 PM 6 | Page 10. ADJOURNMENT RESULT: APPROVE MOVER: Chair Betty Jo Starke SECONDER: Commission Member Lynn Schwartzel AYES: Commission Member Paul Langel, Commission Member Judy Biglin, Commission Member Krissta King, Commission Member Chris Koblegard NAYS: None