Historic Commission

Tuesday, November 16, 2021 I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 7:04 p.m. Present in person: Nancy Flannery (Chair), Lisa Buchanan, Linda Moran, Bob Purdy Present virtual: Joe Szczepaniak (Vice Chair), Steph McGrath (Secretary), Emelie Engling Absent: Diane Burant Public Comments: none II. Approval of Minutes Minutes of the October 19, 2021 meeting approved as amended on a motion by Linda, seconded by Bob, and passed unanimously. III. Old Business A. GIS project: Lisa presented an overview of the map project, with visuals for in person attendees and a link so virtual attendees could also view it. Everyone was very impressed with Lisa and City staff’s work. She requested that everyone proofread it and send any suggestions to her, and copy others. B. Landmark plaque: The most recent version of landmark plaques are a different finish and design than earlier plaques. The owners of 418 S. West would like their plaque in the older design and are willing to purchase it on their own. This requires the approval of the Historic Commission and that certain criteria be met, including using a specific vendor. Lisa moved to approve a plaque from the vendor Citizen Bronze, of the same size oval shape in bronze, with the old font style and current finish color, with the draft design requiring the preapproval of the Historic Commission Chair. Linda seconded and the motion passed unanimously. C. Landmark application: Steph gave an update on her most recent research session with the property owner of 115 W. Oak. They still had some sources to check. D. Bollard signs: Joe has compiled a list of potential topics for future signs. Nancy said she wanted to put an indefinite pause on any future bollard signs being done. E. Historic Commission purpose statement: Everyone liked the final version crafted from the group’s edits to the text. F. Meeting requirements: Diane is in the process of resigning from the Commission. The City  does not have a set policy on attendance. Nancy suggested requiring attending 8 of 12 meetings a year, while allowing for extenuating circumstances. G. Memorial Park markers: The Historic Commission’s bollard for Memorial Park is no longer on display in the park. Also missing are the Wheaton Historic Preservation Council’s sign for the building and the Park District sign for the doughboy statue. Nancy contacted the Park District and they will reinstall the Historic Commission and Wheaton Historic Preservation Council signs. H. 1936 Longfellow School photo: Nancy had a scan made, and it will be printed and laminated for use at the Wheaton Public Library as a home history research resource. I. Wheaton Historic Preservation Council: Nancy said Laurie Warful recently contacted her regarding the mentions of the Wheaton Historic Preservation Council in our past minutes. Nancy said she thanked Lori for her call and will be following up on her input. Nancy declined to elaborate, but said she will fill us in at a future date. IV. New Business A. Landmark signs: In the past some property owners requested no Pride In Preservation signs be placed at their properties. All have new owners, so Nancy will contact them to see if they would like to be included during Preservation Month. B. Wheaton history hunt: The Rotary Club of Wheaton A.M. is holding a history hunt on November 6 as a fundraiser. Next year they would like to work with us on it. C. Local history: Bob Goldsborough spoke at the City Council meeting, revealing his research on the history of the Wheaton Avenue underpass at Roosevelt Road. It was originally constructed in 1932. The city had guessed it was another date. He also mentioned his upcoming talk on fires in Wheaton to be given at the Wheaton Public Library. Another talk topic he could do would be to focus on a specific year. D. Home history research: Nancy is interested in creating a home history research video. V. Commissioner Comments Nancy: November 18 at 3:30 p.m. is the ribbon cutting for Ditka’s Grill. The Mayor asked her to provide a photo and bio of Red Grange to present to Ditka’s. Linda: Checked into the Wheaton Grand Theater. It is being renovated into a performing arts venue with about a two year timeline. Bob: Attended two Leslie Goddard historical presentations and thought they were really well done. Emelie: The Friends of Wheaton Public Library’s Holiday Book & Art Sale raised $12,000. Steph: Currently working on several new requests for home history research help. VI. Adjournment Bob moved to adjourn, Lisa seconded, the motion passed unanimously; the meeting concluded at 8:35 p.m.