Historic Preservation Commission

Regular Meeting

Glen Ellyn, IL · May 15, 2025

Minutes

Village of Glen Ellyn Minutes Village of Glen Ellyn Historic Preservation Regular Meeting Commission May 15, 2025 7:00PM Glen Ellyn Civic Center Board or Historic Preservation Date: May 15, 2025 Commission: Meeting: Regular Called to 7:00 p.m. Order: Quorum: Yes Adjourned: 9:02 p.m. MEMBER ATTENDANCE: Penn French Chairman Absent Nathan Darga Commissioner Present Donna Leak Commissioner Present Barb Lemme Commissioner Present Robert Margetts Commissioner Present Jeremy Schletz Commissioner Present Zak Wilson Commissioner Present Also Present: Jordan Frahm Associate Planner Tim Loftus GE Historical Society Kelli Kalinich Village Trustee Public Present: Ian Dawson Glen Ellyn resident A. CALL TO ORDER The May 15, 2025 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Commissioner Lemme at 7:00 PM at the Glen Ellyn Civic Center. B. PUBLIC COMMENT – Ian Dawson shared that the Plan Commission is celebrating its 100th anniversary this month. Coincidentally, 100 years ago the Village bid farewell to its 14th President, Douglas Bradford Robertson. Dawson stated through his historical research, he also identified Robertson’s place of residence. He concluded his remarks by congratulating Jim Burket, the newly seated 42nd President of Glen Ellyn, who took office on Monday. Historic Preservation 2 May 15, 2025 C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM APRIL 17, 2025 HPC MEETING MOVE TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF HPC MEETING OF 4/17/2025 as amended RESULT: Motion Unanimously Carried MOVER: Commissioner Wilson SECONDER: Commissioner Schletz AYES: 7 D. NEW BUSINESS Proposed Historic Preservation Incentive Program – Eligibility Criteria and Matching Grant - Staff Liaison Frahm explained that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) received guidance from the Village Board and staff on how to proceed with the incentive program. In March, the HPC discussed eligibility requirements and a process for qualifying homes. Frahm drafted a resolution, which the Commission reviewed at the meeting. Commissioner Lemme inquired about the structure of the pilot program. Trustee Kalinich clarified that the matching grant program should operate as an 18-month pilot, allowing flexibility for future adjustments. This timeframe is intended to allow for sufficient participation and program evaluation. Dawson asked about procedures for reclaiming funds (claw backs). Trustee Kalinich noted that while timelines were considered, monitoring would be difficult, and claw backs were not included in the program. Hinsdale, which has a similar program, has not experienced issues with claw backs. Commissioner Lemme suggested revisiting this during the pilot phase. Frahm added that if funds are awarded but not used within a set timeframe, the Commission will need to determine how to reallocate those funds. The HPC also discussed the process for verifying bids. Commissioner Darga confirmed that applicants must submit bids reflecting the full project cost, and Frahm agreed to include this requirement in the resolution. Commissioner Lemme asked whether the Commission could approve any major changes to the resolution via email. Trustee Kalinich responded that such changes would require a special meeting. The Commission reviewed and suggested edits to the resolution, particularly clarifying the language around "significant" and "potentially significant" properties. The resolution allows eligibility for properties that may not be designated significant but meet age criteria. Following further discussion, the Commission approved the eligibility criteria as written. Trustee Kalinich added that the resolution will go to legal review before final approval by the Village Board. Historic Preservation 3 May 15, 2025 Commissioner Lemme asked whether the village funded the architectural surveys. Tim Loftus confirmed they were funded through both the village and grants from Landmarks Illinois. Commissioner Lemme suggested exploring future grant opportunities to update the surveys. The Commission also discussed the inclusion of eligible roof work in the program. Commissioner Darga clarified that while routine roof maintenance is not eligible; restoration work to preserve historic roofing may qualify and would be evaluated on a case by case basis. The HPC concluded its review. Commissioner Margetts motioned to approve the resolution as amended. Commissioner Leaks seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. E. OLD BUSINESS 1. Update on HPC Awards - Staff Liaison Frahm reported that yard signs for this year’s award recipients have been received. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Village Board meeting on May 27, where honorees will be formally recognized. All preparations are on track for nominees to be honored at that meeting. Commissioner Lemme raised a suggestion regarding the possibility of recognizing heritage projects completed in years prior to the award cycles. She asked whether the Commission could consider honoring such projects retroactively. The HPC is open to that consideration. Additionally, she noted the challenge in evaluating streetscape compatibility award category between new construction and existing homes. Lemme asked the Commission to consider separating the award into two categories—new builds and existing homes for future consideration. Staff Liaison Frahm responded that the current award category is primarily focused on new construction, but in years without qualifying new builds, the Commission has considered existing homes. He acknowledged that splitting the category could be a worthwhile adjustment moving forward. Commissioner Lemme also asked for feedback from the Commission on the Citizens for Glen Ellyn yard sign placements. Commissioner Leak noted that one recipient declined the sign and misunderstood it as something they had to pay for. She suggested that next year; recipients should be informed in advance that the signs are complimentary and optional. Trustee Kalinich praised the increased visibility this year, stating that the additional signs (100 more than last year) created a stronger visual impact throughout the Village. The signs remain in place for one month. Tim Loftus shared that one resident declined the sign because they felt Citizens for Glen Ellyn carried political connotations. Commissioner Leak added that recipients expressed appreciation when they were informed ahead of time, reinforcing the value of proactive communication. F. HISTORICAL SOCIETY BUSINESS – Tim Loftus from the Glen Ellyn Historical Society provided several updates. Stacey’s Tavern is currently closed for construction, with Grove Masonry scheduled to begin tuck-pointing work on the chimneys and both Historic Preservation 4 May 15, 2025 interior and exterior areas starting tomorrow. This project is funded by the Village. The replacement of skylights at the History Center is currently out for bid, and the security system will also be upgraded—both projects are also Village-funded. The Historical Society’s fiscal year ends in June, and a new membership program is being launched, featuring updated classifications and modest price increases. Membership now includes free access to programs, which typically draw between 75 to 200 attendees. Loftus encouraged non-members to consider joining, as word continues to spread about the benefits of membership. Regarding the 551 Geneva Road property, the demolition request recently went before the Zoning Board of Appeals. While the house will be demolished, the goal is to retain the garage, seeking a variance. The Village informed the Historical Society that planned utility work was removed from the project due to the upcoming Geneva roadwork project, meaning the Historical Society will only be responsible for the demolition, replatting and related drawings which are estimated at $40,000. Funding for that is currently in place. The Historical Society will determine future use of the land post- demolition and will go before the Village Board in June to seek a variation. Upcoming events include: June 14: Teddy Roosevelt Discussion, June 19: Antique Market Fundraiser, Jim Manak Auto Fest: Antique car show—attendees are encouraged to bring their vehicles and Leslie Goddard: Presentation on Route 66. G. CHAIRMAN REPORT – No report H. TRUSTEE’S REPORT – Trustee Kalinich provided several updates. First, she noted that budget requests for 2026 are due in August. She also reported that the Village Board recently passed a new mobility ordinance. The ordinance addresses the use of bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters, reinforcing existing rules that prohibit their operation on downtown sidewalks. This updated ordinance aligns with state law, which permits e- bike use for individuals aged 16 and older, and e-scooter use for those 18 and older. Individuals below those age thresholds are technically not permitted to operate these vehicles. The police department will be partnering with local schools to conduct educational outreach, and the ordinance was recently featured in the Village newsletter. Additional signage will be installed downtown, and a broader awareness campaign is being planned. Violations of the ordinance are subject to ticketing. Kalinich noted that several other communities are grappling with similar issues. She also shared that, as mentioned in a prior newsletter, the Community Development Department has transitioned to an electronic permitting system. All permit applications are now processed online, with extensive information available on the Village website. Lastly, Kalinich announced that the new Village Board was seated on Monday. The meeting included a tribute to outgoing trustees Ann Gould and Gary Fasules in recognition of their service. Historic Preservation 5 May 15, 2025 I. STAFF REPORT – Jordon Frahm commends the HPC for all their work they have done on the incentive program. He looks forward to working with them on the pilot program. Frahm will send a final draft of the resolution to the HPC. He mentioned to let him know of any additional changes they may see. Commissioner Lemme thanks Chris Wilson for all her work on Citizens for Glen Ellyn Preservation and the coordination of the signs placements in yards of historically significant homes. J. ADJOURNMENT & NEXT MEETING DATE – Commissioner Shletz motioned to adjourn the meeting and Commissioner Wilson seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m. The next HPC meeting is August 21, 2025. Submitted by Elisa Pollina, Recording Secretary Reviewed by Jordan Frahm, Staff Liaison

Agenda

Packet

Agenda Village of Glen Ellyn Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Thursday, May 15, 2025 7:00 PM Glen Ellyn Civic Center, Galligan Board Room Visitors are most welcome to attend all public meetings and can find copies of the Agenda online at www.glenellyn.org prior to the meeting. Any individual with a disability requiring reasonable accommodation in order to participate in a meeting should contact the Village of Glen Ellyn ADA Coordinator, 630-469-5000, at least five (5) business days in advance of the next scheduled meeting. A. Call to Order B. Approval of Minutes 1) Approval of Minutes from the April 17, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission C. Public Comment D. Old Business 1) Update on HPC Awards E. New Business 1) Proposed Historic Preservation Incentive Program Eligibility Criteria 2) Proposed Historic Preservation Incentive Program Matching Grant Requirements F. Chairman's Report G. Trustee's Report H. GEHS Director's Report I. Staff Report J. Adjourn Village of Glen Ellyn Page 1 of 9 Village of Glen Ellyn Minutes Village of Glen Ellyn Historic Preservation Regular Meeting Commission April 17, 2025 7:00PM Glen Ellyn Civic Center Board or Historic Preservation Date: April 17, 2025 Commission: Meeting: Regular Called to 7:00 p.m. Order: Quorum: Yes Adjourned: 8:17 p.m. MEMBER ATTENDANCE: Penn French Chairman Present Nathan Darga Commissioner Present Donna Leak Commissioner Present Barb Lemme Commissioner Present Robert Margetts Commissioner Absent Jeremy Schletz Commissioner Absent Zak Wilson Commissioner Present Also Present: Jordan Frahm Associate Planner Gary Fasules Village Trustee Jeff Anderson GE Historical Society Ian Dawson GEHS Researcher Elisa Pollina Recording Secretary Public Present: Chris Wilson 537 Phillips, GE Donna & Brian Carroll 214 Forest Avenue Matt Habeer 131 N. Park Blvd Ray Whalen P.O Box 3380, GE Leslie Beck 486 Anthony Lily O’Reilly 289 Elm Nina Hikooic 1566 Dundee Drive Colton Hart 530 Wilshire Ave Tim Loftus 296 Woodstock Ave A. CALL TO ORDER The April 17, 2025 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Chairman French at 7:00 PM at the Glen Ellyn Civic Center. Page 2 of 9 Historic Preservation 2 April 17, 2025 B. PUBLIC COMMENT – None C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM MARCH 20, 2025 HPC MEETING MOVE TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF HPC MEETING OF 3/20/2025 RESULT: Motion Unanimously Carried MOVER: Commissioner Lemme SECONDER: Commissioner Wilson AYES: 5 D. NEW BUSINESS 1. 2025 Historic Preservation Commissioner Annual Awards - Chairman French shared that the Commission received 11 nominations this year—the highest number in the 24-year history of the awards. There are four award categories: Remodel of the Year, Restoration of the Year, Streetscape Compatibility, and Architectural Details of the Year. Each category has distinct criteria, primarily focused on the home’s exterior. Chairman French explained the award process, noting that the HPC has the flexibility to move nominations between categories as appropriate. While the goal is to recognize one winner per category, co-winners or honorable mentions may also be awarded. The Commission will deliberate on the nominations and make formal recommendations and motions during this evening’s meeting. Final approval will take place at the May Village Board meeting in celebration of Preservation Month, where certificates will be presented to the award recipients. Associate Planner Frahm presented the 2025 Historic Preservation Award nominations to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). The presentation included detailed background information and before-and-after photographs for each nominated property. A total of eleven project nominations were received across three award categories: Remodel of the Year: 486 Anthony Street, 338 Cottage Avenue, 716 Crescent Boulevard, 766 Hillside Avenue Restoration of the Year: 830 Crescent Boulevard, 214 Forest Avenue, 738 May Avenue, 285 N. Main Street Streetscape Compatibility of the Year: 735 Forest Avenue, 504 Hawthorne Boulevard, 675 Revere Road The Commission reviewed each nomination and the specific criteria for each award category. As part of the review process, the HPC agreed to reassign certain properties to more appropriate categories based on the scope and nature of the work completed. They decided properties 716 Crescent Blvd. and 285 N. Main Page 3 of 9 Historic Preservation 3 April 17, 2025 should be considered for Architectural Details of the Year; and property 830 Crescent Blvd. should be considered for Streetscape Compatibility of the Year. Commissioner Lemme motioned to award the following properties: • 486 Anthony Street as Remodel of the Year, with honorable mentions to 766 Hillside Avenue and 338 Cottage Avenue • 214 Forest Avenue and 738 May Avenue as co-winners for Restoration of the Year • 504 Hawthorn Boulevard and 830 Crescent Boulevard as co-winners for Streetscape Compatibility of the Year, with honorable mentions to 675 Revere Road and 735 Forest Avenue • 716 Crescent Boulevard as Architectural Details of the Year, with an honorable mention to 285 North Main Street Commissioner Darga seconded the motion. E. OLD BUSINESS – None F. HISTORICAL SOCIETY BUSINESS – Jeff Anderson from the Glen Ellyn Historical Society provided several updates. He noted that the home at 142 Crest has been plaqued with two additional homes being plaqued next week. A McKee House fundraiser will take place on April 26. Upcoming events May 31, 2025- Leslie Goddard: Remembering Route 66 - 2:00 pm June 7, 2025 - Glen Ellyn Vintage Auto Fest 2025 at 10:00 am and Presenting... Chicago’s Historic Motor Row District 1:00 pm September 18 – The HPC is invited to hold their September meeting at the GE History Center for Fall Fest. Chris Wilson from Citizens of Glen Ellyn Preservation provided an update on the distribution of 300 yard signs to homes identified as historically significant. She is seeking volunteers to assist with the distribution effort and noted that the program originally launched in 2003. G. CHAIRMAN REPORT – Chairman French provided an update on the incentives program, noting that it is actively moving forward and timelines are currently being developed. The item will be revisited at the May meeting. Jordan will present a memorandum summarizing last month’s discussion, along with proposed cost-sharing guidelines for the HPC’s review and approval. Page 4 of 9 Historic Preservation 4 April 17, 2025 H. VILLAGE BOARD TRUSTEE REPORT – Trustee Fasules reported that the Village Board approved the community gardens at Ackerman Park during Monday's meeting. I. STAFF REPORT – Frahm announced that the Village will officially launch its new online permitting system tomorrow. Moving forward, paper applications will no longer be accepted. J. ADJOURNMENT & NEXT MEETING DATE – Commissioner Darga motioned to adjourn the meeting and Commissioner Lemme seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 p.m. The next HPC meeting is May15, 2025. Submitted by Elisa Pollina, Recording Secretary Reviewed by Jordan Frahm, Staff Liaison Page 5 of 9 Glen Ellyn Historic Meeting 5/15/2025 7:00 PM Preservation Commission Department: Community Development 535 Duane Street Department Head: Jennifer Henaghan Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Category: Report Prepared By: Jordan Frahm AGENDA ITEM (ID # 2025- DOC ID: 2025-434 434) Update on HPC Awards Statement of the Issue: At the April 17 Regular Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission, the HPC deliberated on nominations for the 2025 Historic Preservation Annual Awards. Analysis: The HPC Annual Awards continue to receive fantastic nominations, and this year the HPC was fortunate to have high community participation with 11 total nominations. In all, two properties were recognized for the Restoration of the Year Award, two properties awarded for Streetscape Compatibility, one recipient for the Remodel of the Year Award and one recipient for the Architectural Details award. 5 nominees were awarded Honorable Mentions. Yard signs have been ordered and received by the Village. Certificates will be printed and signed by the incoming Village President Jim Burket when the award winners are presented to the 2025-2026 Village Board at the May 27 Village Board Meeting. Budget Impact: Contribution to Strategic Plan Action Requested: N/A Attachments: Page 6 of 9 Glen Ellyn Historic Meeting 5/15/2025 7:00 PM Preservation Commission Department: Community Development 535 Duane Street Department Head: Jennifer Henaghan Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Category: Policy Prepared By: Jordan Frahm AGENDA ITEM (ID # 2025- DOC ID: 2025-435 435) Proposed Historic Preservation Incentive Program Eligibility Criteria Statement of the Issue: The Historic Preservation Commission has received guidance from the Village Board and Village Staff on how to proceed with their proposal for a Historic Preservation Incentive Program. At the March 20, 2025 Regular Meeting of the HPC, the Commissioners discussed eligibility and a process for qualifying eligible homes. The HPC will discuss and vote to approve this framework for eligibility and qualification. Analysis: The HPC determined that two main categories would determine Historic Preservation Incentive Program eligibility: 1. Age and Designation, and 2. Architectural and Historical Significance. Age and Designation: Homes that may be eligible under the age and designation category shall be at least 50 years old and be designated as one or more of the following: 1. Village Landmark 2. Significant or Potentially Significant Rating per the Glen Ellyn Architectural Resource Surveys. 3. Homes plaqued by the Glen Ellyn Historical Society (GEHS) Architectural and Historical Significance: Homes of at least 50 years of age that do not possess any of the above designations may be eligible under the architectural and historical significance category, and would meet one or more of the following criteria: 1. Exhibits Master Craftsmanship. 2. Displays distinct features that exhibit a historically important architectural style from a representative period. 3. Possesses local or regional cultural significance or is associated with historically significant individuals. 4. Significantly contributes to the Village as a source of Civic Pride. Page 7 of 9 Property owners must submit an application form to be considered for listing as a qualified property for the Historic Preservation Incentive Program. Village Staff will vet applicants and confirm their eligibility through a qualification process. Homes that clearly meet the requirements through designation will be approved through a voice vote as a regular function of Historic Preservation Commission meetings. Properties that do not meet the aforementioned designation criteria may be qualified by the HPC upon the presentation of all application materials and a consideration of the property's architectural and historical significance at a Historic Preservation Commission Meeting. Budget Impact: Contribution to Strategic Plan Action Requested: Review, discuss and approve this framework for Historic Preservation Incentive Program Eligibility and Qualification. Attachments: Page 8 of 9 Glen Ellyn Historic Meeting 5/15/2025 7:00 PM Preservation Commission Department: Community Development 535 Duane Street Department Head: Jennifer Henaghan Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Category: Policy Prepared By: Jordan Frahm AGENDA ITEM (ID # 2025- DOC ID: 2025-436 436) Proposed Historic Preservation Incentive Program Matching Grant Requirements Statement of the Issue: The Historic Preservation Commission has received guidance from the Village Board and Village Staff on how to proceed with their proposal for a Historic Preservation Incentive Program. At the March 20, 2025, Regular Meeting of the HPC, the Commissioners discussed the process of a proposed matching grant program, and eligible project activities. The HPC will discuss and vote to approve this framework for awarding the cost-share grants and eligible project activities. Analysis: The Historic Preservation Incentive Program Matching Grant will award up to $10,000 for an eligible project, with a cost share ratio of 1:1 (i.e. a project with a total cost of $20,000 would be eligible for a $10,000 grant, whereas a project with a total cost of $16,000 would be eligible for an $8,000 grant). Matching Grants would be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis, and each proposed project would require approval at a meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission. In the March 2025 HPC meeting it was emphasized that matching grant-eligible projects must include exterior improvements that enhance the home's appearance and contribute to improving the streetscape. Projects not eligible for incentives are to include routine or deferred maintenance projects (such as painting not as part of a restoration), landscaping, fences and other accessory structures, and driveways and other paved areas. Budget Impact: Contribution to Strategic Plan Action Requested: Review, discuss and approve a framework for the Historic Preservation Incentive Program Matching Grant program and eligible project activities. Attachments: Page 9 of 9