Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 07.09.2024 HISTORICAL COMMISSION ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FLORIDA Regular Meeting July 9, 2024 Convened: 4:00 PM Adjourned: 4:51 PM 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 4:00 PM by Chair Richard McAfoos. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Pledge of Allegiance led by Chair McAfoos. 3. ROLL CALL Present Commission Member Krissta King, Commission Member Betty Jo Starke, Commission Member Lynn Swartzel, Commission Member Mike Menard, Commission Member Judy Biglin Vice-Chair Trewyn, and Chair Richard McAfoos. Staff Kori Benton, Historic Preservation Officer, Rubi Dial, Esq., Assistant County Attorney, & Corey Barnes, Staff Secretary. Absent 4. ANNOUNCEMENTS None 5. PUBLIC COMMENT None 6. MINUTES A. Approval of the 4/2/2024 Meeting minutes RESULT: Approve MOVER: Ms. Starke Historical Commission Tuesday, July 9, 2024 4:00 PM 2 | P a g e SECONDER: Ms. King AYES: Ms. Starke, Ms. King, Mr. Menard, Vice Chair Trewyn, Lynn Swartzel, Ms Biglin, Chair McAfoo's NAYS: None EXCUSED: 7. ITEMS FOR ACTION / CONSIDERATION A. OLD BUSINESS 1. Edwin Binney Historic Sign Kiosk & Support Exhibit Kori Benton provided an quick update on the Edwin Binney Historical Sign Kiosk. Mr. Benton explained that the unveiling of the kiosk was a success and also wanted to express his gratitude to all members of the public along with the Historical members of the board who helped with the process. Mr. Benton also addressed the vocabulary on the kiosk as it greets visitors of the Regional History Center detailing Edwin Binney as contributions to the city of Fort Pierce and abroad. Mr. Benton also spoke about the watering trough display as well. another key updates is that Harry Quatraro, SLC' s special Facilities Coordinator has been exploring options to support restoration of this artifact as well as to install a circulation water pump. 2. Status Update: Edwin Binney Estate Historic Designations & Adjacent Indrio Woods PUD Development Kori Benton provided a quick update on the Edwin Binney Historic Designations and explained what happened during the BOA. Mr. Benton explained that the BOCC was in favor and is now in our local registry of historical places. Mr. Benton wanted to give an update for the planned unit development for development of 32 acres surrounding the Edwin Binney estate known as Indrio Woods. The BOCC did convene an additional hearing in May and a three-to-twovote. That rezoning was approved with numerous conditions. The.The density in the overall residential unit total for this project was reduced notably. The reduction in height for the four northern buildings was brought down to two stores. Additional Open space, additional buffering, preservation of on-site trees, and supplemental landscaping were all part of those conditions of approval, including some of the access and infrastructure improvements adjacent. Mr. Benton gave an aerial of that property on screen, which surrounds the Binney Estate, so the Historical members can have a refresher and see current landscaping within the area. Me. Benton is expecting an updated final site plan that would go to the BOCC, and presumes that would occur in the fall of 2024. Ms. Biglin asked about the entrance on Taylor Dairy Rd. Mr. Benton did confirm that there would be one entrance from Indrio Rd. at the far northeast corner. The applicant agreed Right-in Ingress only. 3. Status Update: Fort Pierce Farms (Indrio Road) Schoolhouse Historic Sign Kiosk Historical Commission Tuesday, July 9, 2024 4:00 PM 3 | P a g e Kori Benton provided a quick update on the Fort Pierce Farms Schoolhouse Historic Sign Kiosk. Mr. Benton advised the committee members that staff did receive feedback from Cynthia Putnam. He believes that by the end of the first week in August, staff will have made all necessary refinements, allowing the launch of the sign to occur in early fall. 4. Status Update: White City Historic Sign Kiosk at White City Park Kori Benton provided a quick update on the White City Historic Sign Kiosk. He refreshed the board on efforts related to the White City sign kiosks intended for placement in White City Park. Due to various reasons, including the extensive timeline for the reconstruction of Midway Road, this project was deprioritized. However, staff aims to bring it back with hopes of an early 2025, or possibly late 2024, initiative. Mr. Benton also spoke about the steps for the written proposal and the potential need to send an appeal letter to the Lions Club, noting any contributions. He highlighted the current involvement of the White City Improvement Club, which is becoming increasingly active in the community. Mr. Benton expressed a desire to discuss the potential boundaries and to make this a future discussion item, potentially inviting the White City Improvement Club to the meeting to also discuss the final content of the sign 5. Historic Preservation Trust Fund Balance Update Kori Benton provided a brief overview and update on the Historic Preservation Trust Fund balance. Mr. Benton advised that the Clerk of the Circuit Court of St. Lucie County, acting as clerk and auditor to the Board of County Commissioners, is authorized and directed to establish a St. Lucie County Historic Preservation Trust Fund in the accounts of the Board of County Commissioners. The Clerk shall deposit any funds donated or otherwise contributed to the County for historic and archaeological preservation into the St. Lucie County Historic Preservation Trust Fund. The Board of County Commissioners shall distribute the funds, plus accrued interest, to undertake a historic and archaeological preservation strategy or acquisition as determined by the Board. Chair McAfoos noted that he has been in contact with the Deputy County Administrator, Mayte Santamaria, regarding the Historic Preservation Trust Fund to help alleviate some of the workload from Mr. Benton. 6. Developer Contributions to Architectural & Art Improvements Kori Benton provided a brief overview of the Developer's Contributions to the Architectural and Art Improvement. He referenced the ordinances of St. Lucie County, Fort Pierce, and Port Saint Lucie. Mr. Benton explained that for capital improvement projects, such as building Lakewood Park Regional Park or similar endeavors, specific funds need to be earmarked to provide art in public places for enhancements. He stated that as projects progress to the final site plan stage, staff will seek more details and ensure that the public has access to the art designs through sidewalk easements or other access easements. Historical Commission Tuesday, July 9, 2024 4:00 PM 4 | P a g e 7. St. Lucie County Environmental Resources - Regulations Division, Tree Preservation & Environmental Lands Acquisitions Committee Update Kori Benton provided a brief update on the Environmental Resources - Regulations Division, Tree Preservation & Environmental Lands Acquisitions Committee. He gave an overview of the St. Lucie County Environmental Resources Department (ERD), highlighting that it consists of roughly 20 professionals across three divisions. These professionals work with citizens, businesses, homeowners, and other stakeholders to preserve, protect, and enhance St. Lucie County’s environmental resources through sustainable land management practices, regulations, public education, and outreach. The Department will be considering new plantings on-site, payment to the county fund at $200 per inch, or the acquisition of land with equivalent environmental assets, which would then be dedicated to St. Lucie County. B. NEW BUSINESS 1. Naming Request: Jean Ellen Wilson Library at the St. Lucie County Regional History Center Kori Benton provided insight into the naming request for the Jean Ellen Wilson Library at the St. Lucie County Regional History Center. Mr. Benton explained that there is a request to rename the library or research room within the St. Lucie County Regional History Center after Jean Ellen Wilson. Anne Sinnott filed this request in April, and the content and staff report have been evaluated, detailing the numerous contributions Jean Ellen Wilson has made to the community. Mr. Benton noted that the Regional History Center encompasses about 7,500 square feet of finished area, with the library occupying around 200 square feet. He mentioned visiting the library and noted potential initiatives to enhance and renovate it, which could assist in incorporating the naming request. Mr. Benton referenced the adopted resolutions that outline the responsibilities of the St. Lucie County Historical Commission in formulating recommendations on naming requests for county facilities and assets. He emphasized the criteria for historical significance, particularly that the name should be associated with individuals of county-wide importance in St. Lucie County's history. In summary, staff recommends that the St. Lucie County Historical Commission evaluate the request to name the library after Jean Ellen Wilson, in accordance with the St. Lucie County Public Facilities Naming Policy, and consider making a recommendation to the Board of County Applicant Presentation: Anne Sinnott expressed the positive impact that Jean Ellen Wilson had on the community by bringing people together. She highlighted how Wilson helped the community gain a better understanding of its beautiful history and contributed significantly to its enrichment. Ms. Sinnott asked for consideration to recognize Wilson’s contributions by making a positive gesture in the community, honoring all the good people who contribute to the county. Historical Commission Tuesday, July 9, 2024 4:00 PM 5 | P a g e Commission Motion: Chair McAfoo's made a motion to approve after considering the presentation during the public meeting, including staff comments, He hereby moved the Historical Commission forward and approved the recommendation for the requested library naming within the Saint Lucie County Regional history. RESULT: Approve MOVER: Ms. Starke SECONDER: Ms. Biglin AYES: Ms. Starke, Ms. King, Mr. Menard, Vice Chair Trewyn, Lynn Swartzel, Ms Biglin, Chair McAfoo's NAYS: None EXCUSED: None on: 8. MEMBER MATTERS & DISCUSSION Chair Mafoos inquired about the possibility of establishing a system to include a tab for commission meeting minutes on the county website once approved. This would promote the Commission's activities and inform the public about what’s happening behind the scenes. Mr. Benton stated that he will collaborate with the media department to explore ways to make accessing the published minutes easier. 9. ADJOURNMENT Adjournment At 4:51 PM Historical Commission Tuesday, July 9, 2024 4:00 PM 6 | P a g e