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February 2, 2000
Counciltables Poor Farm vote, againVariance,parking issues also tabledBy KREMENA TODOROVA Journal Staff Writer NEW ULM - The City Council on Tuesday tabled a vote on designating the Brown County Poor farm a local landmark -- a step that could save the severely damaged building from demolition. The building has been proposed for landmark status by the New Ulm Heritage Preservation Commission, which compiled a file about its historic value. The council, however, said it would not discuss the matter until the building's owner has finalized plans for its reconstruction. "I'd like to see some evidence that he would be able to proceed with his plans," said Councilor Joel Albrecht. "I think he is comfortable with this position as well." The issue was tabled Jan. 18 for the same reason. According to city sources, officials are concerned that a landmark status may complicate possible condemnation procedures, if the building remains in its current state. Local landmarks cannot be demolished without coordinating the procedure with preservationists. "The building has deteriorated to the point that it is an eye sore," said city building inspector Alan Gag. "The possibility that it remain for years to come in its dilapidated condition is a primary concern. If it is designated historically significant and the renovation does not go forward, will the designation complicate future condemnation procedures by the city?" Gag asked. City planners say the Poor Farm needs to be either rebuilt or removed. "A renovation ... would certainly be an improvement," according to Gag. According to City Attorney Hugh Nierengarten, the owner has received notices to bring the structure into line with local building standards. A failure to comply could necessitate the structure's removal. City planners also cite concerns about how the Poor Farm fits into the neighborhood. The reconstruction plans assume the current multiple residential zoning will remain in place. Planners, however, note that much of the surrounding area is zoned either "single family" or "agricultural." These zonings are "less intensive" and might be "less compatible" with apartments or hotel-room uses, said Gag. In turn, preservation activists stress that a landmark status should depend on historic merit alone. The Poor Farm is "historically significant at the local level as a representation of the county's early commitment to the poor", says a Heritage Preservation Commission report. It is eligible for designation because it has "character, interest and value as part of the development, heritage and culture of the city,: according to state preservation officer Britta Bloomberg. Constructed in 1906-1907 in the Colonial Revival, the Poor Farm has a rough-faced,raised limestone foundation that supports two stories of reinforced concrete walls veneered with brick. The hipped roof and dormers were destroyed by a 1980s fire. A porch on the main facade is also missing -- it had a flat roof supported by Tuscan columns. Original windows were one-over-one double hung sash with limestone sills. None of the sash remains. * The council also tabled a request by a local family to waive city yard regulations, citing a need to additionally consult neighbors. Kara Jorve and Kent Menzel, of 10 McIntosh Dr., asked the Council to allow them to build a garage six feet away from their property line, instead of the mandated ten feet. The owners say this would enable them to build a 24-foot garage -- which would otherwise be impossible -- and improve the value of the property. Councilors, however, stressed that rules should not be waived because of economic considerations. "It puts us in an awkward position. When setbacks are established in brand new neighborhoods, everybody expects them to be maintained," said Councilor Joel Albrecht. "It's different in 100-year-old neighborhoods (built before the regulations took force)." * The council tabled a decision on a request by Sheldon Rieke, of Rieke's Books, to establish a 30-minute parking stall in front of his downtown store. Officials said they need time to consult retail groups and parking officers about the matter.
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