2010-04-27 Kailua Village Design Commission Minutes

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Commissioners discussed the form and design appearance of exterior “tongue and groove” siding to be used for exterior enclosing walls, and questioned the impact of the alterations in closing off the existing walkway through the building, that is, between the parking lot above and Ali’i Drive as to pedestrian “walkability” in this part of Kailua Village. Commissioners also discussed the quality and safety of the connecting pedestrian route along the south side of the subject building which passers-through might use in lieu of the interior corridor which would be closed by the alterations, as there was some concern that this route may be partially obscured or blocked by vegetation. Ms. Newlon noted there is also an existing walkway along the north side of the building which serves as a second alternate route for passers-through, although very limited use of these pedestrian paths would be expected by persons other than those coming and going from the subject building’s businesses and its private parking area above. Applicant Peter J. Piper of Piper Designs then addressed the Commission on behalf of the property owner and building tenants and affirmed the reasons for the alterations, which included space efficiency and increasing the security and comfort of both patrons and tenant employees by remediating security problems with regard to inappropriate activities within the existing corridor. Mr. Piper also detailed various elements of the proposed design, including exterior finish materials and explained their consistency with the existing building appearance. Commissioner Herbert moved the Commission to recommend to the Planning Director the approval of the proposed project, subject to taking a look at pedestrian access on the south side of the building. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kern. A roll call vote was taken and the motion carried unanimously (Commissioner Saito absent and excused). ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS 1. Additions to the Agenda as to Administrative Matters. It was moved by Chair Coats and concurrently seconded and affirmed by voice vote voted by all other commissioners present that the following topics be added to this meeting’s agenda under “Administrative Matters:” 1.1.New Commissioner Orientation by Planning Department staff, and 1.2.Appointment of a “Vice Chair” for a forthcoming Commission meeting. 2. Approval of Minutes of the Meeting of March 9, 2010. It was moved by Chair Coats and concurrently seconded by all other Commissioners present that the minutes be approved as circulated. Motion was unanimously carried by a voice vote of all Commissioners in attendance. 2