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2013-07-17 Architectural Design Board Minutes (2)Architectural Design Board Interviews of Potential Candidates July 17, 2013 The Board interviewed Eric Livingston and Brian Borofka, both candidates for the vacant Architectural Design Board position. Mr. Borofka indicated that has been a resident of Edmonds since 2011. He is currently retired, but in his prior professional experience of more than 30 years, he has worked as an employee of state government, a consultant, and in private industry. In all positions, he was actively involved professionally in both national and regional issues. He said he recently lived in North Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which has very similar characteristics to the City of Edmonds. While there, he participated in the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use planning processes. He said he has been involved in numerous professional organizations on both the state and national levels, as well. Mr. Borofka said he has always been actively involved in the communities in which he has lived, and he wants to give his time, talents, energy and experience to the citizens of Edmonds by serving on the Architectural Design Board. Chair Gootee asked if Mr. Borofka had ever served on a design review board. Mr. Borofka answered that he has never served on a design review board. However, in his professional career he has had significant experience working with design review boards at the community, state and national level to get projects approved. He has also had experience as an applicant for both his own projects and company projects. He said that, while living in Wisconsin, he was involved in creating guidelines and criteria to govern the redevelopment of "brownfields," which are properties where the reuse may be complicated by the presence of hazardous materials. Chair Gootee noted that some Board meetings can become somewhat tense, but the Board tries to remain cool and rear all comments within reasonable parameters. He asked if Mr. Borofka had experience with meetings that get heated. Mr. Borofka said he has been in said he has been in these situations, and he has always tried to take an open-minded, collaborative approach. He said he reviewed the Board's past agendas and minutes, and it appears they have dealt with some large issues that required them to review a significant amount of materials and history. Chair Gootee observed that design review is not all about how a project looks. It is important to balance practicality and support the vision of Edmonds. The Board does not try to push rules that are unfeasible or impractical for developers to implement. Board Member Guenther asked Mr. Borofka what he sees as some of the design issues in Edmonds. Mr. Borofka said there appears to be a desire on one hand to retain the uniqueness of Edmonds and to keep it the way it is. On the other hand, there are proponents of change who support redevelopment. While discussions can get somewhat tense, it is important to consider code requirements, input from staff, and public comments to come up with solutions that meet the needs of all parties as much as possible. Chair Gootee pointed out that height is raised as a significant concern in about 70% of the projects that come before the Board. Height is something the Board must always be sensitive about. Board Member Walker commented that, when dealing with environmental issues, it is important to balance what they would like to see against what is actually practical. Mr. Borofka said he has had enough experience to know that sometimes goals must be balanced against what is realistic given existing code requirements, science, and site characteristics. He observed that "sustainable" can mean many different things. It is important to strive to achieve something better without being overly unrealistic. Eric Livingston said he has been a resident of Edmonds for the past 10 years, and has been involved in the Alliance for Citizens of Edmonds (ACE) for a few years. He said he has worked in Edmonds as a restaurant manager and executive chef. He has been in the arts for virtually his entire life, and he has an art degree with a focus in sculpture. He said he was an assistant director at a theater in Connecticut, as well as a stock broker. Currently, he is a freelance web designer. He has also written several articles regarding architecture for myedmondsnews.com. Chair Gootee asked Mr. Livingston what he would like to see different in Edmonds architecturally. Mr. Livingston said he believes one of the most elegant buildings in Edmonds is the condominium development on Bell Street, but one of his favorite buildings is the Beeson Building on Main Street. Although the two buildings have conflicting architectural styles, he likes them both. He said he is still unclear about what Edmonds future vision will be, but he appreciates the historic buildings. While he is not saying that all new buildings should be built consistent in design with the historic buildings, he does not see any benefit to buildings that are basically concrete sheets placed over a frame. He said he is not married to any particular vision for Edmonds, and he understands the City is currently in the process of developing a vision through their Strategic Planning process. Chair Gootee asked if Mr. Livingston has attended any Architectural Design Board meetings. Mr. Livingston answered affirmatively. He said he has also reviewed the minutes from past Board meetings and found their meetings to be relaxed. Board Member Guenther asked what Mr. Livingston sees as the design issues in Edmonds. He noted that several developments have raised particular public concern in recent months. Mr. Livingston expressed concern about the overall vagaries in the design standards, which talk about patterns and modulation. While some more vague language is fine, the design standards are not particularly clear to developers. Board Member Guenther clarified that the design guidelines are not intended to codify what design should look like. While this may be confusing for developers, architects do not want to be nailed down to any one design type. Mr. Livingston said he understands the need for a certain level of flexibility. The Board discussed the two candidates for the vacant ADB position, and each Board Member indicated his preference as follows: • Board Member Guenther recommended Mr. Borofka to fill the vacant Board position. He felt his background and accomplishments were appropriate to fill the position. • Vice Chair O'Neill reminded the Board that the vacant position is for a lay person. Therefore, he supports the appointment of Mr. Livingston, a non -technical person who has lived in Edmonds for a longer period of time. Living in the City for 10 years has likely allowed him to feel more a part of the community. • Chair Gootee said he also supports the appointment of Mr. Borofka. He felt Mr. Borofka was focused and had a wealth of experience in his background and degree. He also felt Mr. Borofka was more pragmatic and would provide a good balance for what the Board does. • Board Member Walker said he prefers that Mr. Borofka be selected to serve on the Board, as well. He felt his experience in environmental and engineering issues would be helpful to the Board. Although he has only lived in Edmonds for a short time, he has been involved in communities where he previously lived. This is a good sign of someone who cares for the City and wants to contribute. His experience will be beneficial to the Board. Chair Gootee agreed to inform staff that three Board Members support the appointment of Mr. Borofka and one Board Member supports the appointment of Eric Livingston. Mr. Lien agreed to forward the Board's comments to the Mayor, who would also interview the candidates and make a recommendation to the City Council. The City Council would make the final decision.