Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6B

Minutes of Regular ANC Meeting

February 12, 2008

 

Commissioners Present: Julie Olson, Chair; Ken Jarboe, Vice-Chair; Will Hill, Kirsten Oldenburg, Francis Campbell, Neil Glick, David Garrison, Mary Wright, Carol Green, Michael Patterson, and Executive Director, Bert Randolph.

 

Commissioners Absent: None

 

Chairperson Julie Olson chaired the meeting and the Commissioners introduced themselves.

 

There was a quorum for conducting business.

 

Adoption of Agenda

 

Commissioner Jarboe requested that under Planning and Zoning Committee the addition of a Resolution on the Planning for the Future of Hines Site. 

 

Commissioner Hill made the motion to adopt the agenda as amended.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wright.  The vote to adopt the agenda as amended was unanimous (10-0).

 

Community Speakout

 

Chuck Burger stated that he wanted the Commission and Ward 6 residents to be aware of the Office of Boards and Commissioners.  This office handles appointment to city boards and offers an opportunity for persons interested in participating in city government. 

 

Community and Commission Announcements

 

Commissioner Jarboe announced that on February 19th at Mount Mariah Baptist Church, which is located at 17th and East Capitol, there will be a community meeting to discuss Reservation 13 (Hill East Waterfront) at which the Office of the Deputy Mayor will be presenting the latest plans.  The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m.  Those interested should plan to attend.

 

Presentations

 

Office of the State Superintendent of Education – Grant Program

 

Unfortunately, no one was present to make the presentation.

 

Planning and Zoning Committee

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Campbell, Chair of the P&Z Committee to make his report.

 

HPA # 08-131, 1107 D Street SE – Rear Addition

 

Jim Schneider, Owner; Herb Grevious, Architect - Owner Jim Schneider proposes to add a two-story rear addition to his building at 1107 D St SE. Site plan submitted shows a first and second floor addition with a rear deck on both the first and second floor additions. Per the applicant, the lot coverage with the additions will be 57%, which will make this a matter of right addition.

 

Of some concern to the Committee is the applicant’s desire to remove the front yard retaining wall and steps. The Committee urges the applicant to restore the retaining wall and steps to an appearance more in keeping with the historic character of Capitol Hill.

 

Included with the applicant’s submission is a letter of support from Linda Duquette-Petersen, who is an abutting neighbor residing at 1109 D St. SE.

 

Also is noted an email letter in opposition from Frances Plunkett, the other abutting neighbor who resides at 1105 D St SE, stating “I am unable to make any comments about the proposed modifications and additions to 1107 until I see the plans.”

 

The Committee recommends approval of this project so long as the neighbor in opposition is given an opportunity to review the plans and comment on the proposed addition prior to the full Commission meeting and assuming her comments do not raise new issues.

 

The Chair asked if there was any new information from the applicant.

 

Ms. Frances Plunkett who lives at 1105 D Street, SE, stated that she was delighted when she learned last year that the property at 1107 D Street, SE, had finally been sold to someone who was proposing the rehab it.  Ms. Plunkett stated that the building had been gutted by fire some five years ago, so it is great that something was being done about the structure.  

 

Ms. Plunkett stated that she meet with the owner and architect to show them her property and to be involved in the design of the rehab process.  Unfortunately, of late she does not believe the owner has been prepared to cooperate with her on his design.  Ms. Plunkett stated that in spite of the promise by the owner and architect to show her the plan back in January, she only received a copy the plans yesterday.

 

Commissioner Campbell asked Ms. Plunkett to allow him to review the copy of the plans that she had to determine if they were different from the ones that had been provided to the Commission during the Planning and Zoning Committee meeting.  After reviewing the plans it was determined that Ms. Plunkett’s copy was of the revised plans that had been requested of the owner and architect at the P&Z Committee meeting.

 

Ms. Plunkett voiced her concerns about the proposed project extension will mean that when she is on her sun porch she will be forced to see a two-story structure.  Additionally she was concerned that the owner was planning on taking out the front sidewalk retaining wall, which they had originally agreed that both of them would rebuild because it really needs to be fixed or replaced.

 

Commissioner Campbell reviewed the newly revised plans with Ms. Plunkett to resolve some issues he had regarding the wall separating her property, especially her sun room, and the applicant’s property.

 

Eric Peterson, who lives at 1109 D Street, SE, stated that both he and his wife positively support the applicant in his request and they believes that project is for the betterment of the block.  Additionally, he stated that the house had been vacant for more than 7 years and he was glad to see that something was being done to improve it.

 

Herb Grevious, the architect, stated that the owner, Jim Schneider, had been detained due to the weather and he would attempt to answer any questions.  Mr. Grevious stated that the owner realizes that the addition will be blocking some of the neighbor’s sunlight in the sunroom, although it would only affect the morning sun.  Mr. Grevious stated that their original plan was for the addition to go out farther in the back, which they would be allowed to do, but they decided to pull it back some to accommodate Ms. Plunkett.

 

Commissioner Garrison asked Mr. Grevious if he could address Ms. Plunkett’s concern regarding the lack of communications between her and Mr. Schneider in that she was only provided copies of the plans yesterday.  Mr. Grevious responded that Ms. Plunkett was out of town until yesterday, which was the first opportunity they had to provide the plans to her.  Prior to that the plans were still in the process of being finalized and were not completed until last week.

 

The Chair stated that this application is a by-right addition.  The application before the ANC is an historic preservation case, not a zoning case.

 

The Chair stated that this case comes as a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Committee and therefore no motion or second is required.  The Chair asked those in favor of supporting the recommendation to raise their hands.  The vote was 9-1 and the motion passed.

 

BZA 3 17734, 326 D Street. SE – Variance from lot occupancy and side yard requirements to allow a two-story rear addition to an existing one-family semi-detached dwelling

 

Patrick Roman, Owner;  Joel Heisey, Architect - The owner is applying for variances from lot occupancy and side yard requirements in order to build a two-story addition to an existing single family dwelling.

 

Since this is a semi-detached dwelling, the applicant is limited to 40% lot occupancy under section 403.2, section 406.1 the provision that limits side court dimensions. The addition is permitted under section 223.1, 223.2 and 223.4 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations that allows up to 70% lot occupancy.

 

The applicant’s submission notes that, with the addition, their lot occupancy would be 63%.  The owners have also noted in their submission that there is a non-conforming 3ft. wide side yard on the eastern side of the property, which has remained unchanged since the building was erected in the late 1800’s. The existence of a similar 3ft. side yard is also noted in the adjacent property. The applicant’s proposed addition would continue the building line of the existing structure as is normally preferred by the Historic Preservation Review Board.

 

The applicant proposes to continue to use the property as a single family dwelling. The request is consistent with the terms allowed for attached row house structures, which are allowed 60% lot coverage by right and up to 70% by special exception.

 

Noting the numerous letters of support from neighbors, including both adjacent property owners, as well as the applicant’s justification for requesting the variance, the Committee recommends this project for approval to the full ANC.

 

Commissioner Campbell asked the applicant, Patrick Roman, if there was any new information to report.   Mr. Roman stated that only thing new was that they had updated the plans as requested by the Committee and he had distributed copies to the neighbors and received a few new letters of support regarding the updated plans, which he provide to Commissioner Campbell.

 

Commissioner Campbell stated that the P&Z Committee Report stipulates that his lot occupancy would be 63%.  The Commission will need to make an amendment to its recommendation stating that the new plans show a balcony, which will bring the lot occupancy up to 75% of lot occupancy.

 

Commissioner Olson commented that the lot occupancy issue was because of the side yard counting against his lot occupancy.  Mr. Roman responded that she was correct, which is the reason they are asking for a variance from that requirement.

 

Commissioner Jarboe asked whether the uniqueness test for the variance had to do with the fact that he was required by HPRB to maintain the side yard, and the only way he could accomplish this is by going over the 70% lot occupancy.  Mr. Roman responded that he was correct.

 

The Chair asked all in favor of amending the P&Z Committee Report to indicate that the lot occupancy has been changed from 63% to 75% to raise their hands.  The vote was unanimous (10-0)

 

The Chair then stated that this case comes as a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Committee and therefore no motion or second is required.  The Chair asked those in favor of supporting the recommendation to raise their hands.  The vote was unanimous (10-0). 

 

Resolution on Planning for Hines Junior High School Site

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Jarboe to discuss the resolution.

 

Commissioner Jarboe stated that as most are aware, the City has finally decided it will close Hines Junior High School and consolidate it with Elliot.  Since the site is zoned R-4, the Commission will have a say about what eventually happens at the site, even if the change is in the use from a school to an office building.  However, Commissioner Jarboe stated that he believes it is important that the Commission attempt to get a head start on anything that may happen at the site.  Therefore he is proposing a resolution on the future of the site.  Commissioner Jarboe added that the resolution does not address the specifics of what the Commission believes should go on the site.  The purpose of the resolution is to start the conversation and to lay down a marker to say that the Commission expects there to be community input into whatever happens at this site.

 

Planning for future use of the site of Hine Junior High School

ANC 6B

 

Whereas the District government has made the decision to close Hine Junior High School and

 

Whereas the Hine site is a key location at the heart of the Capitol Hill neighborhood,

 

Therefore be it resolved that ANC 6B calls on the District government to begin a community planning process to determine the future use of the Hine site;

 

Be it further resolved that any future use of the site match the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood.

 

Commissioner Jarboe moved the resolution.  It was seconded by Commissioner Wright. 

 

Ms. Judy Jacobs stated she supported Commissioner Jarboe’s resolution especially in making sure the site matches the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood.  Ms. Jacobs also suggested that all neighbors who live in the immediate neighborhood be notified of meetings pertaining to this issue.

 

The Chair responded to Ms. Jacobs by stating that every effort will be taken to ensure that the surrounding neighbors will be kept informed regarding this issue.

 

The Commissioner Glick stated he would like to see a few things added to the resolution such as requesting community amenities, promoting positive economic development, and having the site be sold at fair market value.  Commissioner Glick then offered a friendly amendment to state “and community amenities.”

 

Commissioner Jarboe responded by stating that selling the land at far market value is not an issue because the city has decided it would not be selling the land.  On the next issue of promoting economic development, he was hesitant to put this phrase in without a number of clarifications.  He stated that the phrase could be construed as the same as “best and highest use,” which could result in an overdevelopment of the site.  For example, it could result in a large standard block structure, which is not what is desired.  Regarding the addition of a community amenities, he stated that would be acceptable.  Commissioner Jarboe went on to say that he believes there are 3 characteristics the city will insist upon, as they have become standard characteristics in city project.  The first is that any building on the site will be “green.”  Second, any residential housing being placed on the site will need to include a certain percentage for affordable housing.   Third, there will be a requirement for some “public use.”  He state that he likes the language of “community amenities” better because a community amenity could be something the community would like to see there, such as underground parking, which does not necessary fit the description of public use.  Therefore he would be willing to accept community amenities as a friendly amendment.  Commissioner Jarboe stated that he would like to see the phrase added after the wording “surrounding neighborhood”, which was agreed to.

 

Commissioner Campbell asked Commissioner Jarboe if he was correct in stating that the site is zoned R-4?  Commissioner Jarboe responded that he was correct.  Commissioner Campbell stated the reason he raised the issue was because the Commission had had the same issue with the former Comstock Development.  He was concerned that the city might want to come in and change zoning to an R-5 zone because of the Pennsylvania Avenue aspect of this to get a higher building along Pennsylvania Avenue, and he wants to try to keep this an R-4 site.

 

Commissioner Jarboe responded that he did not know what the city is going to attempt to do with the site, but any action would likely involve a zoning change, which will need to come before the Commission.  Commissioner Jarboe added that the resolution states that any development “match the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood.”  Thus, the Commission would have grounds to oppose any changes not in keeping with this concept.

 

Commissioner Garrison then asked Commissioner Jarboe if he viewed this language “match the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood” as meaning that the redevelopment of the site would need to have single-family row houses on Pennsylvania Avenue, which is what an R-4 would require?

 

Commissioner Jarboe responded he did not take that view.  He uses the word “neighborhood” to include all of the neighborhood, including Pennsylvania Avenue.  Thus the 600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue is a neighboring commercial area.  A redevelopment plan that has the Pennsylvania Avenue side of the Hine site play off of the nearby commercial area would be “in character with the surrounding neighborhood”.  However, he does not want to see something that size wrapping all the way around and up 8th Street.  A situation like this would mean you would have a building like 660 Pennsylvania Avenue sitting across from townhouses on 8th Street, an undesirable result.  Rather, the 8th Street side of the site should match the scale and character of the townhouses on 8th Street.  Therefore, his reading of the phrase “scale and character of the neighborhood” encompasses the entire 4 sides of the neighborhood, including the Pennsylvania Avenue side.

 

Commissioner Garrison said he raised this concern because he wanted to make sure the Commission recognized that the site sits on top of a transit stop and that its redevelopment was an opportunity for some smart, well designed transit oriented development that makes sense and fits into the rest of the neighborhood.

 

Commissioner Jarboe once again noted that the only thing that can be put on this site by a matter-of-right are townhouses.  Any other proposal will require zoning approval.

 

The Chair asked all in favor of the resolution as amended by the friendly amendment to raise their hands.  The vote was unanimous (10-0).

 

ABC Committee

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Mary Wright, Chair ABC Committee, to make the Committee Report.

 

Mahmoud Abdalla, owner of Pacific Café, is seeking a substantial change to his existing liquor license and requests ANC support for an entertainment endorsement.

 

The entertainment endorsement would include “a performance by actual person, poetry reading, disc jockey, comedy show, people speaking via a microphone, fashion show, art show, and occasional dancing.”  Hours of entertainment would be Sunday-Thursday 6:00 p.m.-2 a.m., Friday-Saturday 6:00 p.m. – 3 a.m. and there could be a cover charge.

 

Section 400.1 of the DC Municipal Regulations contains the appropriateness test required to approve a license:

 

“(a) The establishment will not interfere with the peace, order, and quiet of the relevant area, considering such elements as noise, rowdiness, loitering, litter, and criminal activity;

(b) The establishment will not have an adverse impact on residential parking needs, considering available public and private parking and any arrangements made to secure such parking for the clientele of the establishment; and

(c) The flow of traffic to be generated by the establishment will be of such pattern and volume as to neither increase the likelihood of vehicular accidents nor put pedestrians at an unreasonable risk of harm from vehicles.

(e) The establishment will not have an adverse impact on real property values in the locality, section, or portion of the District of Columbia where it is to be located.”

 

At the ABC Committee meeting on February 7, 2008, several affected neighbors spoke in strong opposition to the proposed entertainment endorsement citing the inappropriateness of such activities at this location.  Pacific Café and Grill is currently licensed to serve alcohol in the basement, first, and second floor.  The second floor has been used primarily for occasional special events.  At the Committee meeting, the applicants described a number of “special events” that have taken place using the second floor space already in 2008.  Neighbors noted that the restaurant activities are generally not disruptive.  However, in the past, there have been separate business entities operating on the second floor—namely nightclubs—using the restaurant’s liquor license.   

 

When the second floor has been used in this manner, neighbors have expressed concerns about the noise and trash, lack of parking, and late night “disturbances” from extended hours.  The neighbors believe that granting the proposed entertainment endorsement, including dancing and a cover charge, should be construed as the creation of a nightclub ambiance with all of the concomitant problems associated with past such activities at this site.

 

Neighbors also cited the above activities as evidence of past violations of the ABC license and the ANC voluntary agreement and as evidence of the inability of the owner to run an establishment appropriate to the neighborhood.  The ANC has already filed a protest asserting that Pacific Café is in violation of its cooperative agreement and has participated in several mediation sessions on this case with ABRA.  Pacific Café’s cooperative agreement with ANC 6B, dated January 28, 2003, remains in effect.  It states that “Applicant will not operate or advertise the Premises in any way as a nightclub or dance club and, recognizing the fact that Applicant is seeking a single license, shall not as any time advertise the lounge area independent of the restaurant area.” It has recently come to the ANC’s attention that there is an advertisement, dated January 10, 2008, listing Red Door Gallery and Lounge with the address 1129 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE—the same address as Pacific Café. 

 

The Committee has serious concerns over Pacific Café’s request for an entertainment endorsement.  In the view of the Committee, the application for an entertainment endorsement does not meet the appropriateness test.  Specifically, based on past behavior, the Committee believes that the entertainment endorsement, if granted, would lead to activities that interfere with the peace, order, and quiet of the relevant area.  The Committee is also concerned about the negative impact on residential parking.

 

The Committee also has serious concerns about the nature of the “special events” currently ongoing in the second floor space.  While some use of the space for special events directly connected to the restaurant (i.e. banquets) is allowed, independent operations—such as Red Door activities—are clearly prohibited.  The Committee would note that Section 401.1 states that ABC Board “may deny a license to an applicant if evidence shows that the applicant has permitted at the establishment conduct which is in violation of this title.” The Committee is concerned that past and ongoing “Red Door” activities constitute such a violation.

 

Based on its own analysis and community response to the request for an entertainment endorsement, the Committee recommends that the ANC oppose Pacific Café’s application.

 

The Chair asked if Mr. Abdalla was present.  He was not.  The Chair then asked if there were any neighbors present who did not have an opportunity to speak at the ABC Committee meeting last week or who may have any new information pertain to the application. 

 

Sheila Fleishell stated she owned the property immediately facing the Pacific Café.   Ms. Fleishell submitted a flyer to the Commission she had obtained regarding the applicant.  She said that she does not believe Mr. Abdalla shares the concerns the neighbors in the community in that he continues to operate the Red Door Gallery and Lounge even after the meeting with the ABC Committee on the 7th of February.  Ms. Fleishell further stated that on February 9th, Mr. Abdalla did have the lounge open again while the restaurant was closed.

 

The Chair stated that after her conversation with Commissioner Wright about a website called reddoordc.com, which states that it is under construction, it was very clear to her that the website referred to Pacific Café.

 

Another neighbor, whose name was not auditable on the tape, rose and stated that she had spoken with most of the neighbors on the street and most of them are in opposition to this application.  Additionally, she stated the approval of the establishment’s application would have a negative impact on the value of the property in the area.

 

Ms. Judy Jacobs expressed her concern that if the entertainment endorsement was granted the establishment would eventually be turned into another nightclub like the old Heart and Soul establishment that was a real problem for the neighborhood.

 

Ms. Joanne Timmons (sp), who lives at 1120 G Street, stated she supports the denial of this application for the entertainment endorsement.  She also stated that her neighbor who lives as 1108 G Street was not able to attend the meeting is also in opposition to this application.

 

Commissioner Jarboe stated he wanted to make an amendment to the Committee Report based upon the community’s input to include the concern regarding the adverse impact on property values. 

 

Chuck Burger offered a number of comments regarding the rules and regulations on the procedures for pulling liquor licenses based upon community and other complaints and strongly suggested that ABRA be made aware of all complaints the ANC and community has about an establishment’s operations.

 

The Chair stated that one of the options other than taking away the applicant’s license was to shut down the second floor because Pacific Café’s restaurant operates on the first floor without presenting a problem to the neighborhood.  However, the Chair said that she is still not sure how and why there is not a separate license for the crape café because it appears that Mr. Abdalla is running the second floor operations out of the separate cafe. Mr. Abdalla is operating all the establishments under one license and by closing down the second floor it would basically put the nightclub portion out of business.

 

Commissioner Wright commented that this was part of the Voluntary Agreement, which Mr. Abdalla is not abiding by, so mediation is over and the case will go to a protest hearing. 

 

The Chair stated there was an amendment to add “adverse impact to property values” to the Committee Report.  The Chair then asked all in favor of the amendment to raise their hands.  The vote was 8-0-1.  The Chair then stated the Commission would vote on the ABC Committee Report.  The Chair asked all in favor of the committee’s recommendation to raise their hands.  The vote was 9-0-1.

 

Commissioner Jarboe commented that the Commission does not require a formal vote in order to forward information off to the ABC Board for Show Cause.

 

Commissioner Hill informed the Commission that the representatives from Casey Trees had arrived a little late because of the bad weather and would like to have a few minutes to speak.

 

Casey Trees of Washington, DC

 

Ms. Buffie Brownstein, Coordinator Special Project with Case Trees Endowment of Washington, DC, stated she had several programs that she wanted to share some information on with the Commission and community.  In Ward 6 there are two community tree plantings that are happening.  The first is at Carrollsburg Square, which is located at M & 4th Street, SW, on April 20th from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.  The other is at 13th Street Community Garden, which is located at 13th and C Street, SE on May 3rd from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.  Ms. Brownstein also spoke about and provided flyers about their High School Youth Leadership Summer 2008 Program, Growing a Healthier DC – Green Parking Lots, and Helping Your Neighborhood Trees and encouraged everyone interested to join in the efforts.

 

Commissioner Jarboe asked Ms. Brownstein if the trees Casey provides are available for planting on both private and public spaces.  Ms. Brownstein responded that they were and that they are mainly provided by the Urban Forestry Administration, which does the public space.  Ms. Brownstein stated that for private space they have a Request for Planting Program and people can put together a proposal with their community and Casey Trees will provide training, the trees, and the requirement of the community is that they provide the stewardship (watering of the trees for the 1st years of the tree’s life).

 

Commissioner Jarboe asked Ms. Brownstein if she would make sure to leave her contact information because from time to time the Commission has issues regarding trees in community and it would be great to have someone like her to contact to help resolve the issue.  Ms. Brownstein stated she would be more than happy to do so, but the Urban Forestry Administration would be the ones the Commission should contact regarding tree issues in the district, but to feel free to contact her with any questions.

 

Ratify Action of Executive Committee on Parking

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Garrison.

 

Commissioner Garrison stated that each Commissioner had a copy of the Resolution by the Executive Committee that was submitted to the DC Council Committee that held the Public Works Committee Hearing as part of his testimony.  Commissioner Garrison stated that since the

Resolution was approved by the Executive Committee it was appropriate for the full Commission to ratify the Resolution.  Commissioner Garrison added that there are already signs going up in the neighborhood that say “Pay to Park” with arrows in various directions and the meters will be installed in a few days.  Commissioner Garrison stated that this first set of actions by DDOT is in an area that goes as far north as Pennsylvania Avenue and east as 6th Street, SE. The longer term plan is to move these boundaries north of Pennsylvania Avenue several blocks and over east of Barracks Row to 9th Street, SE.  Commissioner Garrison stated that he was not exactly sure when the second step would take place, but they are trying to get it done this year if they can.  Commissioner Garrison added that this will be an on-going process and community input will be welcomed in order to resolve issues as they arise.

 

ANC 6B

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

January 29, 2008

 

Resolution on Councilman Wells’ Performance Parking Plan

 

 

Whereas DC City Councilman Tommy Wells has proposed legislation to create the “Performance Parking Pilot Zone Act of 2008” (B17-580), a bill that would establish a revised and expanded management program for curbside parking on a pilot basis for an area of Ward 6 that would include a substantial portion of ANC 6B as well as most of Near Southeast and Southwest;

 

Whereas the residential areas of ANC 6B are and will continue to be under significant stress as to the availability of on-street parking for residents and their guests, especially in sections near commercial areas, concentrations of employment such as the US Congress and its agencies, near the new stadium, close to churches, and adjacent to indoor sports facilities and outdoor recreation areas;

 

Whereas the opening of the 2008 baseball season at the end of March will bring many new visitors to the ANC 6B area seeking free, on-street parking on evenings and weekends;

 

Whereas the current level of enforcement by the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) of the Residential Parking Permit (RPP) system in the ANC 6B area is well below the level necessary to discourage illegal parking on our residential blocks by non-Zone 6 registered cars;

 

Whereas the proposed new curbside parking management program would extend the hours of the RPP system later in the evening and include for the first time Saturdays and Sundays, limit one side of many residential blocks to Zone 6 RPP sticker parking only, enable each residence to have a guest park near their house, and install multi-space meters on many residential blocks;

 

Whereas Councilmember Wells and his staff, as well as staff from the DDOT, have met extensively with the Commission and individual ANC 6B Commissioners, and have held a number of meetings with business, religious and other leaders along with the public to discuss the proposed pilot parking program;

 

Now therefore be it resolved that the Executive Committee of ANC 6B communicate to Councilmember Tommy Wells and the DC Council’s Committee on Public Works its support for the principles embodied in the proposed “Performance Parking Pilot Zone Act of 2008” with the following comments:

 

·                          The success of the proposed new parking plan depends to a considerable extent upon there being a significant increase in the level of enforcement of the revised RPP rules on a permanent, ongoing basis (not just related to baseball game days and evenings), an augmentation that will require the commitment of additional resources and new technologies;

·                          The provision of a permanent guest pass or some similar system for allowing a guest to park when visiting a residence is essential to the success of the program;

·                          A satisfactory procedure must be in place that permits area churches to conduct their activities without resort to measures that unreasonably restrict the ability of residents to park near their homes; and

·                          The City Council and the Mayor through the Department of Transportation must be committed through the language of the bill to (a) conduct a careful, thorough evaluation of the pilot area and the blocks adjacent to the pilot area from the day the new program begins, and (b) to work closely with the affected neighborhoods and their ANCs to refine and modify the terms and geography of this pilot program based upon how well the initial plan works;

 

Be it further resolved that ANC 6B01 Commissioner David Garrison is authorized to convey the sense of this resolution and the position of the ANC 6B Executive Committee to the City Council on behalf of ANC 6B including through testimony before the DC Council Committee on Public Works.

 

Commissioner Garrison made the motion that the Commission endorses the Resolution that the Executive Commission approved at it January 29, 2008, meeting.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Olson.

 

The Chair asked all in favor of motion to raise their hands.  The vote was unanimous (10-0).

 

Eastern Market Committee

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Jarboe, Chair of the EMCAC Committee for his report.

 

Commissioner Jarboe made the following report.

 

The Project for Public Spaces report is due in early February, including the draft RFP for a unified market manager.  The role of the ANC will be to comment on the draft RFP, to make sure that the RFP covers all community issues and concerns.  The ANC will not be involved directly, however, in the selection process (as that is an administrative procurement function).  The ANC will be involved indirectly through EMCAC. 

 

The South Hall roof trusses are up and work will begin shortly on the roof.  Work will also begin on the windows, with model windows put in place in the North Hall.  After final approval is given by HPO staff on the window designs, work will begin on the South Hall.

 

Note:  Once the windows are in place, the art work will be put back over them, to protect the windows during the remainder of the construction.

 

The North Hall has been vacated to allow for the work there. Work on the North Hall roof and windows will mean additional displacement of vendors (those currently next to the North Hall and in the North Plaza).  These vendors will likely be accommodated on 7th Street or the Aquatic Center plaza.

 

A project coordination process has been set up to keep the residents and the local businesses informed.  Commission Wright will be part of that process.

 

OPM is working on a solution to the summer temperature control problem in the East Hall, which may include a new roof covering to block the sun.  Estimated cost of such a covering is $10,000.

 

Art work on the East Hall (temporary building) will be installed in March.

 

Cultural tourism DC will be sponsoring Eastern Market Walking Tours on April 26 and 27 as part of their city-wide spring edition of walking tours.  This is the first time Eastern Market has been included on these walking tours.

 

Commissioner Jarboe stated an issue that will need everyone’s attention will be the draft report from the Project for Public Spaces and the draft RFP, but does not believe the draft documents are at a stage where they are ready for the Commission’s comments.  However, to keep the process going Commissioner Jarboe suggested that the Commission bring this matter up at the next Executive Committee meeting, which would allow everyone an opportunity to thoroughly review the draft documents to make any desired comments and would allow Commissioners to get comments to him prior to the next EMCAC meeting.

 

Commissioner Jarboe recommended that if any Commissioners were planning on submitting or joining a bid to respond to the RFP, they should recuse themselves at this point in the process.  Recusal should prevent the appearance of a conflict of interest in this matter.  Commissioner Jarboe added that Commissioners needing to recuse should not even read to RFP to avoid any potential conflict of interest issues.

 

Commissioner Garrison voiced his desire to expand the Executive Committee meeting to include the public in a public session so that their input and feedback could be heard on the issue.  Additionally, he expressed concerns as to when the documents would become available to the public.  If the documents aren’t made available soon, it would not be possible to get public input on the matter.  Commissioner Jarboe stated that he was not exactly sure when the documents will be available to the public, but would check and let the other Commissioners know.  Commissioner Garrison then asked that if the documents were available to the public by the next Executive Committee would it be possible to invite the community to come and comment n the documents.  The Chair responded that the Executive Committee meetings are open to the public and it would not be a problem.  Commissioner Garrison suggested that the Commission publish and notify the public that this matter will be discussed during the Executive Committee meeting and the public is invited to provide input and feedback.

 

Quarterly Financial Report

 

The Chair turned the meeting over to Commissioner Carol Green, Treasurer, to make the report.

 

Commissioner Green stated that the 1st quarter of FY’08 had some unusual expenditures.  The beginning balance was $63,288.16, receipts of $7,728.75, and expenditures of $8,996.31, which included a bonus for the Executive Director, business cards for Commissioners, and a new printer drum.  The ending balance is $62,020.60.  Commissioner Green made the motion to accept the report.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Wright.

 

The Chair asked all in favor of the motion to raise their hands.  The vote was unanimous (10-0).

 

Appointment of Committee Chairs and Vice Chairs

 

The Chair stated she was appointing Commissioners to the following positions:

 

Planning and Zoning Committee

 

Commissioner Francis Campbell – Chair

Commissioner David Garrison – Vice Chair

 

ABC Committee

 

Commissioner Mary Wright – Chair

Commissioner Michael Patterson – Vice Chair

 

Eastern Market Committee

 

Commissioner Ken Jarboe – Chair and EMCAC Representative

Commissioner Mary Wright – Vice Chair

 

Adjournment

 

There was no further business and Commissioner Hill made the motion that the meeting be adjourned until its next meeting date of March 11, 2008.  The motion was seconded, and the vote was 10 to 0.

 

Meeting Adjourned.

 

Prepared by Bert Randolph

 

Attested: