Minutes of the Special Meeting on January 21, 2008 of the Historical Preservation Board of the TOWN OF ORCHARD PARK, Municipal Center, Supervisor’s Conference Room, 4295 South Buffalo Street, Orchard Park, New York at 7:00 PM, present were the following:

MEMBERS PRESENT:                          Daniel Ransom, Chairman

Bonnie Foit-Albert

Timothy Gardner

Michael Stock

Norman Stoj

Susan Kulp via conference call

OTHERS PRESENT:                              David Kaczor, Town Board Liaison

The meeting was called to order at 7 p.m. by Chairman Ransom.

The purpose of the meeting was to formally move and recommend to the Orchard Park Town Board that the barn complex located at 7295 Jewett-Holmwood Road (better known as the Harry Yates Farm) be recognized for its historic
significance and be designated a historic landmark.

A letter from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation was received by Chairman Ransom and Supervisor Travers-Murphy and distributed to the group for review.  It stated that it is the determination of the State Historic Preservation Office that the buildings are eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places and are eligible under Criterion C as a distinct representation of c.1900 agricultural architecture.  (See letter attached)

Mike Stock noted the barn was listed on page 75 of the Erie County’s Architectural Legacy publication.  (Copy attached)

Mr. Kaczor recommended the Historical Preservation Board make a motion that the Town Board recognize the barn at 7295 Jewett-Holmwood as a historical landmark. 

Ms. Kulp made a motion, seconded by Mr. Stock, to formally move and recommend to the Orchard Park Town Board that the barn complex located at 7295 Jewett-Holmwood Road be recognized for its historic significance and be designated a historic landmark.

The following criteria was used to support the designation:

1) Has attained the age of 50 years; or

2) Because of a unique location or singular physical characteristic, represents an established and familiar visual feature of a neighborhood or locale; or

3) Is associated with the life of an individual or people or events significant in national, state or local history; or

4) Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, a period or a method of construction; or

5) Represents the work of a master architect or designer or possesses high artistic value

THE VOTE ON THE MOTION BEING:

Daniel Ransom                      AYE

Bonnie Foit-Albert                 AYE

Timothy Gardner                   AYE

Michael Stock                        AYE

Norman Stoj                           AYE

Susan Kulp                             AYE

THE MOTION WAS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED,

Comments:

Ms. Kulp mentioned that Ed Cosgrove has offered to spearhead the saving of the barn and volunteer legal actions by being the designated spokesperson of the Historical Preservation Board.  Mr. Kaczor noted he would have to check with Town Counsel first.  Chairman Ransom added he and Mr. Cosgrove would work in conjunction as spokespersons.

Councilwoman Nan Ackerman spoke with both Mr. Jerge and Mr. Johnson asking the barn be deeded to the town.  Both gentlemen noted they would be willing to discuss further and would meet with Ms. Ackerman and Ms. Kulp for an on-site visit.

Ms. Foit-Albert reminded all that the preservation of the barn would not need to be of the same standards as a home.  It could be moved and / or renovated to include new useful space.  Ms. Kulp added she will research uses for preserved barns.

A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Daniel Ransom, Chairman

Kim Bowers,

Secretary

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