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HomeMy WebLinkAboutoct22014 KAUAI COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION REVIEW COMMISSION Li-hu ` e Civic Center, Mo ' ikeha Building, Meeting Room 2A/213 MINUTES A regular meeting of the Kauai County Historic Preservation Commission (KHPRC) was held on October 2, 2014 in the Lihu` e Civic Center, Mo ' ikeha Building, Meeting Room 2A/2B . The following Commissioners were present: Chairperson Stephen Long, Danita Aiu, Althea Arinaga, Pat Griffin, Kuuleialoha Santos, Anne Schneider The following staff members were present: Planning Department — Ka' aina Hull, Shanlee Jimenez; Office of Boards and Commissions — Cherisse Zaima; Deputy County Attorney Ian Jung CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 3 :00 p.m. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA Pat Griffin moved to approve the agenda, Althea Arinaga seconded the motion. No vote was taken on this item. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES Danita Aiu moved to approve the September 4, 2014 meeting minutes, Anne Schneider seconded the motion. No vote was taken on this item. ANNOUNCEMENTS AND GENERAL BUSINESS MATTERS (None) Ms . Griffin noted that there used to be a standing item for the CLG update, and feels that putting that back routinely on the agenda would give the Commission leeway to discuss items related to the Commission. Pat Griffin moved to include a line item on each monthly agenda for the CLG update, Danita Ain seconded the motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. Ms . Aiu announced that the .East Kaua` i General Plan update will be open for public review on Saturday at Kapa` a Middle School, at the Coconut Festival, and at the First Saturday event. COMMUNICATIONS October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 4 was any timeline issue with the field trip being taken in January to which Mr. Hunnemmann replied no. Ms. Arinaga asked to clarify that the Opaekaa Bridge construction had no funds allocated at this time, therefore there are no current plans to build it to which Mr. Hunnemann replied yes. Mr. Long asked if that would be the same with Puuopae to which (unidentified speaker) replied in 2008 the County spent a half a million dollars in fixing Opaekaa Bridge, so it is in very good shape. Mr. Long asked if the field trip would interfere with that schedule or unnecessarily extend it to which (unidentified speaker) stated no, January would be fine for the field trip . Attorney Jung asked whether the Department of Public Works is on a specific timetable of completion to which Pat Griffin moved that KHPRC accompanied by the Department of Public Works, and appropriate consulting historical architects or engineers have a field trip to the Kapahi, Puuopae, and Opaekaa historic bridges that are currently in the process of restoration, to be taken in January on a regularly scheduled KHPRC meeting day. Althea Arinaga seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote: 5 Ayes (Ain, Arinaga, Griffin, Long Schneider) ; 1 Silent (Santos) In terms of the update on the bridges for 2017 and 2018 Ms . Griffin acknowledges they stabilized Opaekaa Bridge in 2008 , but asked about general maintenance and prevention of further rusting and deterioration. (Unidentified speaker) stated regular inspections of all bridges is done, and they have just completed their bi-annual bridge inspection. Opaekaa Bridge is in pretty good shape except the trusses ; Kapahi Bridge and Puuopae Bridge must be replaced as soon as possible. She noted the rusting of Opaekaa Bridge, noting she understands that from an engineering standpoint everything is fine, but from a preservation standpoint there are some concerns. (Unidentified speaker) stated he does agree, and if everyone is in agreement, he suggested the trusses can be cut and kept in a controlled environment at one of the base yards. Ms. Griffin stated that is something she feels they should discuss between now and January. Mr. Hunnemann added the cutting and storing of the trusses is a conceptual idea at this point. The Commission received public testimony from Rayne Regush. Ms . Regush stated she wanted to ask about the Kapahi Bridge, for which she has copies of the State Environmental Notice from April and June of 2014. The April notice lists Kapahi Bridge rehabilitation, but the June notice lists Kapahi bridge replacement. She noted those two terms are significantly different, and would like clarification as to why that occurred, and whether there was a significant change that deemed the change from rehabilitation to replacement. She also noted. the notice did not indicate this bridge was a one-lane bridge . Ms. Regush also wished to address the minutes of the last meeting, and asked if the public has an opportunity to comment on those minutes prior to approval by the Commission, or does she October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 2 UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) NEW BUSINESS Letter (9/16/14) from Michael Hunnemann, KAl Hawaii, Inc . request to present an update of design of Kapahi, Puuopae, and Opaekaa Bridges; request design variation to Opaekaa Bridge (steel girders in lieu of concrete); and an update on site visit to Opaekaa Bridge by consulting engineer, historic architect, and SHPD representative. Michael Hunnemann of KAI Hawaii provided an update on the progress of the three bridges : Kapahi Bridge — 100 percent design has been submitted, and final FONSI for the environmental assessment has been published. Construction is anticipated to begin in FY 2015 . — Puuopae Bridge — 60 percent design has been submitted, and are at the pre-draft environmental assessment stage. State DOT and the County are in the process of reviewing the draft EA. Construction funding has not yet been allocated. Opaekaa Bridge — They are currently in the preliminary design stage as well as the preliminary stage of the environmental assessment. Construction funding has not yet been allocated . Mr. Hunnemann provided drawings of the Opaekaa Bridge, stating that previous presentations to the Commission included a concrete deck supported by concrete planks, reusing the existing steel trusses. He noted that during one of the presentations, it was asked whether steel girders could be used instead of the concrete planks, at which time Mr. Hunnemann had said no; however, he was mistaken. He clarified that steel can be used in lieu of concrete, which is what he is proposing today. Mr. Hunnemann pointed out and explained each of the different cross-sections of the bridge shown in the drawings. (On file) Mr. Long asked for clarification on the timing and schedule of the Opaekaa Bridge construction, noting his understanding that funds have not yet been allocated, therefore they are not on a very strict timeline to present this project. Ms . Griffin provided a brief history of the bridge and its importance. The three bridges have come before the Commission several times, and though she feels the drawings provided are great, she requested a field trip given the level of importance of this bridge — it is the only known British made truss bridge in the United States of America. She pointed out that during a previous presentation it was mentioned there was going to be inspection of what of the steel trusses could be retained, and which ones would need to be replaced or patched . She feels it would really help them to get a review from Mr. Hunnemann, and also take a look at the Puuopae and Kapahi bridges to obtain an understanding of what exactly is going on with all the bridges, and what the elements are. October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 3 Mr. Long asked who the Commission would want accompanying them on the field trip, and suggested the Kaua` i archaeologist. Mr. Hunnemann stated that an inspection such as requested by Ms. Griffin was done that morning, and if the Commission wished him to participate in a field trip with them he would be more than happy to do so . Mr. Long stated he believes that is what is being proposed. Ms . Arinaga asked if the field trip would be allowable for all of the Commission members to attend to which Deputy County Attorney Ian Jung stated yes, but it would have to be noticed within 6 days prior to the actual field trip . Additionally, the parties the Commission would like to request participate in the field trip need to be notified. Attorney Jung also noted that the Commission would first need to meet at a designated place, such as this conference room, go on record to open the meeting, call a recess to go on the field trip, and then return bringing the meeting back to order at which time discussion can commence. In response to Ms . Arinaga, Attorney Jung stated commission members may ask questions of the consultants during the field trip, but cannot engage with one another until they reconvene the meeting. Ms . Griffin stated she feels it would be important to have some engineers, and historical architects present during the field trip . Mr. Long asked whether a quorum was required to take the field trip to which Attorney Jung replied yes. In response to Ms . Arinaga, Attorney Jung clarified that the Commission would need to meet at a designated place first, call the meeting to order, recess the meeting to go on the field trip, and then return to the designated meeting place to call the meeting back to order. In the past, they have met either at this conference room, or at a nearby neighborhood center where members of the commission, as well as members of the public, would be able to park safely and board a bus that had been provided by the Department to go out to the site. There must be an identified meeting place to allow the public the opportunity to attend, and present testimony. Mr. Long proposed the Commission meet at Moikeha 2A/13 on the day of a regularly scheduled KHPRC meeting, but taking place earlier in the day. Mr. Hunnemann asked whether the opinion on the steel girders would be delayed until after the field trip to which Chair Long replied yes ; part of the purpose for going on the field trip would be to clarify the use of those materials . Ms . Griffin asked if there was a time issue . (Unidentified speaker, possibly from the Engineering Division) stated construction on the Kapahi Bridge will begin next year. Ms . Griffin pointed out this opinion was related to Opaekaa to which (unidentified speaker) stated the estimated time of construction will be 2017 or 2018 . Ms. Griffin asked Mr. Hunnemann if there October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 5 have the opportunity to do so after the fact. Attorney Jung asked if her concern was with commentary she, herself, provided to which Ms. Regush stated no, she was not present at that meeting, but she has relevant, or related information to what is contained in the minutes . Ms. Regush stated it would not necessarily require a change to the minutes, but she would like to comment to round out the commissioners ' understanding of an issue. Ms . Regush stated the one-lane historic bridges are significant sites that are not noted on the Kawaihau district planning area heritage resources map that is being examined by the Citizens Advisory Committee for the East Kaua` i Community Plan update. She read the conversation about that issue in the minutes, adding that the update began in 2006, and the process will be coming to a close. The heritage resource map is not dated, and it is unclear whether it dates back to the 2000 general plan update; however, this is the time she would really urge the commissioners to review that leap to ensure that appropriate sites are recorded instead of waiting several years for the General Plan update to occur. Ms . Regush noted the heritage maps contain registered archaeological sites, excluding burials and lava tubes, it shows heiau sites, registered historic buildings and structures, and other important historic building structures, and also natural , historic, cultural, and scenic features. It really is something she feels this body should weigh in on before comments come to a close on the development plan update, especially since there will be such a gap before the General Plan is updated . Ms . Regush made an administrative suggestion that the minutes reflect the names of the commissioners that are absent or excused so they can see at a glance who is serving. Ms. Aiu pointed out a document on the three historic bridges , noting it states "Kaua` i Historic Preservation Review Commission Rehabilitation/Repair" She feels there may have been a choice of terms . Ms . Regush replied yes, in the final document it says replacement. Mr. Hunnemann explained Hawaii DOT requested that it be changed to "Replacement" as it is essentially what it is. The Office of Environmental Quality Control was consulted to determine whether they could change the name, which they agreed was fine as long as the reason for the change was included in the submittal letter, which has been done. COMMISSION EDUCATION Presentation to the Commission Regarding Effective Meeting Management Attorney Jung requested this item be deferred to the next meeting as he was losing his voice. The Commission agreed to a deferral. SELECTION OF NEXT MEETING DATE AND AGENDA TOPICS Ms. Griffin asked if there was a way to address Ms. Regush' s concern about the heritage map for the East Side Community Plan to which Attorney Jung replied that if it will be a possible October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 6 agenda item for the next meeting, the Commission could ask for clarification on what Ms. Regush would like . Ms . Griffin asked for clarification on both how soon the public comment period ends as well as whether the Commission could request the review of the heritage map be an agenda item. Attorney Jung stated it is up to Ms. Griffin if she would like to request that be placed on the agenda, asking for clarification that it would be an update on the East Kaua` i Community Plan to which Ms . Griffin stated yes, specifically the heritage map, assuming public comment is still in progress. The Commission received additional 'testimony from Rayne Regush. Ms. Regush stated she serves on the Citizens Advisory Committee for the East Kauai Community Plan, and wanted to remind the commissioners that there is also a chapter on Historic Kapa` a Town. That would certainly be worth their while to review as well, in addition to the heritage resources map. Putting that on the agenda sounds excellent. Ms . Griffin stated that one of the topics in their law that describes their duties talks about encouragement and assistance placing things on the national register. She noted the Piikoi Building and the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall will be celebrating their 50th birthdays `this month, and would like to request an agenda item to see how KETRC can assist in placing these particular County buildings on the National Register. Mr. Long agreed. The Commission again received additional testimony from Rayne Regush. Ms. Regush referenced the minutes of the last meeting, and the Commission Education portion of this meeting that will be deferred. She asked for a point of clarification using the example of if the Wailua/Kapa` a Neighborhood Association submits a letter of comments or concerns to the Commission on a matter discussed today, would that letter appear under the Communications portion of the next meeting agenda. Attorney Jung explained when communications come in, it is up to the Chair to include it on the agenda; ordinarily everything gets put on. Ms . Regush stated unlike the Planning Commission correspondence, which is not necessarily put on the agenda. Ms . Regush asked if she were to submit a letter based on today's discussion, can that communication appear on the next agenda. Attorney Jung replied ordinarily it would if it directly relates to an agenda item for a project up for review, but the Chair has the authority to determine whether or not to 'include something on the agenda. Mr. Long stated this Commission is interested in all public comment pertaining to historical work. Ms. Regush stated she feels it is very important if the community takes the time to write or share additional information that they might not have had the opportunity to communicate, she would like those comments to be heard by the whole body and opened up for discussion or additional public input; it' s about transparency and education. Ms. Regush stated the minutes she October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 7 read made it apparent that some things don't always make it onto the Communications portion of the agenda. Ms . Griffin reminded Ms. Regush that it would have to be submitted before the required deadline prior to posting the agenda. The Commission received comment from Anna Broverman of the State Historic Preservation Division. She informed the Commission that Mike Gushard moved to the Oregon Historic Preservation Office, and she is now the new CLG coordinator for the State of Hawaii. She informed the Commission that she will be holding a big training on the Kona side of the Big Island with the National Alliance of Preservation Commissioners . Three trainers will be coming to teach a bunch of different things. Ms. Broverman distributed draft agendas for the training, and a small invitation. She noted she has budgeted for four people to attend the training; flights, hotel, per diems, transportation will be completely paid for. She would really like for the commission members to attend. The training will be held on December 3rd and 41h, and she would also like to invite a Commission staff member, whose trip will also be fully paid for. Attorney Jung asked when a response is needed by, and whether the invitation was to four commissioners per island or statewide to which Ms. Broverman stated it is four commissioners per island. Ms. Broverman stated there is no deadline for a response as of now, but as soon as she knows how many people are coming, she can plan a bit better. Ms. Santos stated the Christmas holidays are always difficult, and she will be unable to attend. Ms. Schneider pointed out the 4th would be KHPRC ' s regular meeting day. Ms. Aiu stated she would be very interested in attending, and asked if they were able to obtain other funding, would they be able to bring more people to which Ms. Broverman stated definitely. Attorney Jung suggested the commissioners begin thinking about who wants to attend given the timeframe, and notify Shanlee who will then notify SHPD . Ms. Griffin asked if they will plan to reschedule the December meeting to the second Thursday to which the commission and staff discussed and agreed to hold the meeting on December 11 , 2014, Mr. Long asked which of the commissioners would be interested in attending the training session in December to which Ms . Aiu and Ms . Griffin stated they would. Ms . Arinaga and Ms. Schneider stated they were unsure, but it was a possibility. Mr. Long stated he was available. Attorney Jung stated if there is an additional person wanting to attend beyond the 4, the Planning Department will look into available funding. Ms . Griffin stated she would like to ask Jane (Gray) and Patsy (Sheehan) as well. Attorney Jung stated Shanlee could generate an email to all commissioners with the agenda and information; however they should make their decision as soon as possible. Ms. Broverman added if she is given enough notice, she could see if there is any funding left of their federal grant monies to try and pay for additional people. She clarified it is currently October 2„ 2014 K.H.P. R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 8 at 4 commission members and 1 staff member that will be fully funded to attend. Mr. Long stated he feels it would be important for a staff person to attend particularly since the CLG is an integral part of the Commission' s work. Attorney Jung stated it will likely be Myles or Ka' aina. The Commission received testimony from Elsie (last name unintelligible). Elsie asked what the process was to bring their historic bridge before the Commission, noting they have tried several times, but received misinformation. Mr. Long asked to clarify which bridge she was referencing to which Elsie replied the Hanapepe 1911 bridge. Attorney Jung asked in what context would she like the bridge reviewed. Elsie stated they tried to get on the agenda, at that time Mr. Wichman was here and told them to come the following month. They did so, but they were not on the agenda, and Mr. Wichman was not present. After that, they were told to meet at the historic society building where they could receive help, but no one showed up so they were given information on how to apply for the national register. They subsequently asked how they can appear before the Commission and were told because they already went to the State Historic Society, the Commission couldn't receive them. Attorney Jung asked what she would like to present to the Commission. Elsie stated she has been here three times for the Puuopae, Opaekaa, and Kapahi bridges, noting the Hanapepe Bridge has never been before the Commission. There have been community meetings with Public Works, which were not satisfactory. Ms. Aiu asked to speak on behalf of Elsie, noting she had been to the Commission meetings many times, and is trying to get the Hanepepe Bridge on the historical register. Elsie stated yes, adding that Mike Gushard and some other people had been down to look at the bridge and the town. In response to Ms. Aiu Elsie stated she is unsure where they are in the process because they were told it was being handled, but nothing has happened . Ms. Aiu stated that Mr. Gushard ' s replacement is here today, and she could speak with her. Mr. Long apologized for any miscommunications she had. Ms. Santos stated they will not gain anything from being on the historic register, there is no point to being on that list. Elsie stated she thought they were on the list, noting they have submitted the history of the bridge to the State Historic Division. Attorney Jung stated they could do a Commission Education session on the historic designation process, and the consequence and benefits of being on the historic register. Ms. Griffin informed Elsie that in the meantime, Anna Broverman is Mike Gushard' s replacement, and would be open to speaking with her. Ms . Griffin is unsure what is happening with the bridge, but stated it may be possible to include an agenda item in the future for Elsie to educate the Commission on the history of the bridge and what the current issues are, and have someone from Public Works talk about funding, and what they are planning on doing. She suggested after Elsie talks to Anna, to speak with Shanlee on possibly getting something on the agenda. October 2„ 2014 K.H.P.R.C. Meeting Minutes Page 9 The Commission received additional testimony from Rayne Regush regarding Hanapepe Bridge. She asked for clarification on whether it was ever an agenda item based on the fact that Public Works had plans for that bridge. Attorney Jung stated he does recall Hanapepe Bridge, but noted there are two bridges out there, and there may have been some confusion as to which one was being affected. Ms. Griffin pointed out there is the State bridge, which is on Kaumuali` i Highway, and the County bridge, which is mauka by the town. Attorney Jung noted the State came before the Commission regarding improvements to the State bridge within the last few years. Ms. Regush stated for a County repair, one would hope that it would come before this Commission as it is a historic bridge to which Attorney Jung stated it would. Mr. Long stated in recent meetings, the public and individuals have been encouraged to place structures on the national register, and just today the public and commission has commented on two projects . He feels it is important for the public and the Commission to fully understand the process, and would appreciate an educational item on that at the next meeting. Mr. Long noted the next meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2014, ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3 : 50 p .m. Respectfully Submitted, Cherisse Zaima Commission Support Clerk Date: