HomeMy WebLinkAboutHeritage Preservation - 06/16/2025Agenda
Eden Prairie Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting
7 p.m. Monday, June 16, 2025
City Center, Heritage Rooms
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
ATTENDEES
Heritage Preservation Commission Members: Steven Schumacher-Chair; Paul Thorp-Vice Chair,
George Maxwell, Robert Bowes, Rod Fisher, Andy Ludowese, Catherine Lau, Lisa Rude, Prima Sisinni
City Staff: Beth Novak-Krebs, Staff Liaison; Kristin Harley, Recording Secretary
MEETING AGENDA
I. Call the Meeting to Order / Roll Call
II. Reading of Land Acknowledgement Statement
III. Approval of Agenda
IV. Minutes
A. Heritage Preservation Commission meeting held Monday, May 19, 2025.
V. New Business
A. Public Hearing - Review and Consider Recommending the Council Approve a
Conditional Use Permit for the adaptive reuse of the Dorenkemper House as an
independent bookstore.
B. Cultural Resource Inventory
C. National Nomination for the Smith Douglas More House
D. Discuss Other Meeting Locations
VI. Old Business
VII. Reports from Subcommittees
A. Native American History / Outreach
B. New Heritage Preservation Site Designations
C. Renovation / Maintenance / Development
HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
June 16, 2025
Page 2
D. Documentation / Historical Records / Outreach
VIII. Reports from Students
IX. Reports of Commission and Staff
X. Reports on Historical Society
A. General Update (Paul/Bob)
XI. FYI Items
XII. Next Meeting
A. Monday, July 21, 2025
XIII. Adjournment
UNAPPROVED MINUTES
EDEN PRAIRIE HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 19, 2025 7:00 P.M. Meeting
Heritage Rooms, City Hall
HPC COMMISSION MEMBERS: Steve Schumacher (Chair); Paul Thorp
(Vice-Chair); Rod Fisher; George Maxwell;
Robert Bowes; Andy Ludowese; Catherine
Lau, Prima Sisinni, Lisa Rude
COMMISSION STAFF: Beth Novak-Krebs, Staff Liaison
Kristin Harley, Recording Secretary
STUDENT MEMBERS: Nico Allen, Kadie Crider, Jacob Holje,
Hardhik Kommalapati, Amuktha
Pothamsetti, Annika Rice
I. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Chair Schumacher called the meeting to order at 6:59 p.m. Commission members Lau,
Bowes, Ludowese, and Rude were absent. Student members absent were Holje,
Kommalapati, and Pothamsetti.
II. READING OF LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT
Allen read the land acknowledgement statement.
III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Fisher moved, seconded by Maxwell to approve the agenda. Motion carried
5-0.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION: Maxwell moved, seconded by Thorp to approve the minutes of the April 17,
2025 joint meeting with the EP Historical Society (amended to correct the spelling of
Gordon Stodola’s name on page 3), and the minutes for the April 21, 2025, regular
meeting. Motion carried 5-0.
V. NEW BUSINESS
A. REVIEW AND CONSIDER RECOMMENDING THE COUNCIL
APPROVE A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS TO CONSTRUCT
EDEN PRAIRIE HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 19, 2025
Page 2
AN ADDITION ONTO THE DORENKEMPER HOUSE (SEE FINDINGS
OF FACT). (MACDONALD AND MACK TO PRESENT PLANS)
Novak-Krebs introduced Todd Grover of MacDonald and Mack, who displayed a
PowerPoint and explained the addition. Novak-Krebs explained in the Ordinance
there were certain criteria to be answered required for the Certificate of
Appropriateness, which were answered by what was termed a Finding of Fact.
Grover explained the Dorenkemper House was part of a larger historic site at
Riley Lake Park, and a newer crawlspace was constructed beneath the house
when it was move to this site in 2002.
The City wished to explore the feasibility of adaptive reuse as a bookstore.
MacDonald and Mack assessed the general condition, which was good, requiring
only some maintenance. The T-shaped addition had a complicated roof. Grover
explained the location of the proposed addition and displayed several views of the
interior. The intention was to add an addition to the south side. Bookstore
shelving, reading rooms, a checkout area, an ADA-compliant restroom, and
mechanicals would be added, with the mechanicals in the crawlspace.
The furniture would be removed, the addition added, and both floors utilized for
the bookstore. Grove displayed the existing and future footprints and elevations.
A deck might be added to the front yard and toward the lake. A structural
engineer assessed the house for loading requirements and found the previous
restoration had actually shored up the second floor, to a capacity of 80 pounds per
square foot. However, the second floor would be limited to 15 people per City
Code. The first floor required extra support to accommodate 100 pounds per
square foot. These changes would be invisible.
The water and sewer have been extended to the house. The existing heating was
being assessed. If need be, it would be replaced. Packaged food might also be
sold. The intention was to use a light touch to update the site for use and all siding
and the (newer) stonework would be replicated. The roof did not need to be
repaired (having been recently replaced) but the roof of the addition would have
to be matched to the original wooden shingles.
Thorp pointed out a section of the roof that needed to be repaired. Grover replied
this had been a part of the discussion. Other addition configurations had been
explored, and this was the most viable option. The chimney would remain, but the
wood stove would probably be removed. Being there were certain Code
requirements for the restroom, it would have a tile floor and surrounds (probably a
subway tile), an ADA-compliant sink and toilet that would be appropriate, but not
“look historic.”
The stairs did not meet modern Code, and another handrail might need to be
added. It could limit the use of the second floor. Parking would be shared with the
EDEN PRAIRIE HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 19, 2025
Page 3
neighboring barn, which other options being explored in the future. The hope was
to attract residents walking around the lake. The bookstore would be open year-
round, with the owner partnering with stargazing and other outdoor activities.
The wall construction unfortunately would not be matched other than the footings.
Contemporary wood framing would be used but could be closely matched. This
was not an original part of the building. Fire suppression would not be necessary.
Thorp emphasized the need for flexibility in case the bookstore was not
successful. Grover replied this would be a low-impact use. The location of the
restroom would contribute to the site’s adaptability.
The timeline involved a summer groundbreaking. Rick Clark anticipated
construction completed by fall. The bookstore operator would like to move into
the house in January of 2026 and open that spring.
MOTION: Schumacher moved, seconded by Maxwell to recommend to the City
Council approval the COA and the addition to the Dorenkemper House as
presented by MacDonald and Mack. Motion carried 5-0.
Schumacher suggested the bookstore could debut the book being written for Eden
Prairie history.
B. STUDENTS PRESENT THEIR VIDEO OF THE SMITH, DOUGLAS,
MORE HOUSE
The student representatives presented the video, and the commission members
thanked them for their exemplary efforts. Novak-Krebs announced this would be
presented at the annual Commission Banquet on May 22, 2025 and linked on the
HPC website as well as on social media.
C. RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE FLYING RED HORSE
Novak-Krebs announced the event would be held Tuesday, June 17 at 4:00 p.m.
VI. OLD BUSINESS
VII. REPORTS OF SUBCOMMITTEES
A. NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY OUTREACH
Novak-Krebs announced the City was working on the professional services
agreement, with Paul Maravelas and Zack Mohlis. Media insurance was required
for phase two. The cost would be $17,300.00 . It is still the plan to apply for a
Legacy Grant for preparing the manuscript. The preapplication was due in July,
with the final application due in September.
EDEN PRAIRIE HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION
May 19, 2025
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B. NEW HERITAGE PRESERVATION SITE DESIGNATIONS
C. RENOVATION/MAINTENANCE DEVELOPMENT
D. DOCUMENTATION/HISTORICAL RECORDINGS/OUTREACH
IX. REPORTS OF COMMISSION AND STAFF
X. REPORTS OF HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Thorp announced Sisinni was both a new commission member and a new member of the
Historical Society. $3,400 was raised at the Vintage Sale, and the Historical Society
Annual Meeting was well attended. The video would be available online. Sisinni stated
many of the attendees at the Vintage Sale were first-time visitors to the Cummins Phipps
Grill House.
The Historical Society Picnic would be held June 4 at the Cummins Phipps Grill House at
3:30 p.m.
A Picnic on the Farm event would be held in front of the Dorenkemper House on July 16.
On July 27 the Historical Society would have a table at PeopleFest.
September 9 was the 100th anniversary of Camp Edenwood. An event is being planned at
the camp.
Thorp and Kathie Case met with the new Santa, who would begin in November.
XI. FYI ITEMS
Fisher reminded the commission members of a past suggestion of holding commission
meetings at historic locations.
IV. NEXT MEETING
The next HPC meeting will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the
Heritage Rooms, City Hall.
V. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Maxwell moved, seconded by Fisher to adjourn. Motion carried 8-0. The
meeting was adjourned at 7:51 p.m.
Heritage Prservation Commission Staff Report
Date: June 16, 2025
Location: 9090 Riley Lake Road
Subject: Conditional Use Permit for Adaptive Reuse of Dorenkemper House
From: Beth Novak-Krebs, Staff Liaison to the HPC
Applicant: Jillian Davis
ITEM DESCRIPTION
The applicant is requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the adaptive reuse of
the Dorenkemper House for an independent bookstore. In addition to selling books, the
bookstore owner/operator intends to use the house for events and activities. Outdoor events
and activities will be planned with the approval of the Parks and Recreation Department. The
proposed use is a good fit for the house.
REQUESTED ACTIONS
Move to:
• Close the public Hearing, and
• Recommend that the City Council approve the Conditional Use Permit.
BACKGROUND
The Dorenkemper house (House) is located in Riley Lake Park near the Riley Jaques Barn and
House. On December 1, 2015, the House was officially designated as a Heritage Preservation
Site. The location of the House falls within the boundaries of the Riley Jacques site. Riley Lake
Park is zoned Park and Open Space.
According to City Code § 11.41, Subdivision 1.A, a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the adaptive
use of a Heritage Preservation Site is required? for historic properties situated within the Parks
and Open Space zoning district.
In addition to approval of a CUP for the adaptive reuse, a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)
is required for the improvements being made to the structure to accommodate the adaptive
reuse as an independent bookstore. Approval of the COA will go to the City Council on June 17,
2025.
The owner/operator of the bookstore intends to create a welcoming and cozy space where
customers, including children, can relax and sit and read a book. Eventually a deck may be
added to the house so customers can sit outdoors and enjoy the view of the lake in addition to
the indoor seating. The history of the home will be acknowledged and shared with customers.
In addition to selling books, the owner/operator intends to sell non-book items which may
include tote bags, beach towels, science and/or craft kits, sunscreen, bug spray, post cards,
locally made treats, prepackaged food items, book marks, greeting cards, and book-themes
Staff Report – Dorenkemper House – Conditional Use Permit
Page 2
apparel. Since food and beverages cannot be prepared inside the structure, the
owner/operator intends to have food vendors outside of the building during special events.
The indoor events could include book club meetings, creative writing workshops, afternoon
teas, community storytelling nights, literary trivia nights, live music etc. The outdoor events
could include yoga and books, stargazing and science fiction, makers market in the field, picnics,
live music, campfires and cocoa, etc. The outdoor events must be approved by the City.
The applicant meets the criteria for approval of a CUP in City Code and is entitled to the
issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for the Property subject to the terms, conditions and
restrictions in the attached Conditional Use Permit document.
ATTACHMENTS
Conditional Use Permit Document
Location Map
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-_____
RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2025-01 FOR 9090
RILEY LAKE ROAD, EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNESOTA 55347
WHEREAS, on December 1, 2015, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20-2015
designating the Dorenkemper House as a Heritage Preservation Site pursuant to City Code Section
11.05 (now City Code Section 11.38);
WHEREAS, the Dorenkemper House is located at 9090 Riley Lake Road, which is within
Riley Lake Park and included in the City’s Parks and Open Space zoning district;
WHEREAS, pursuant to City Code § 11.41, Subdivision 1.A, a conditional use permit for
the adaptive use of a Heritage Preservation Site is allowed for historic properties situated within
the Parks and Open Space zoning district;
WHEREAS, the City has received an application from Jillian Davis (the “Applicant”) for
a conditional use permit (CUP) for the adaptive reuse of the Dorenkemper House as a retail
bookstore, which is a permitted use in the Commercial zoning district (the “CUP Application”);
WHEREAS, the property for which the CUP is requested includes only the Dorenkemper
House building, which is depicted on Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Property”). The Property is
contained within the larger property legally described as follows:
Outlots “AA” and “BB” Bearpath Addition, Hennepin County, Minnesota
together with that part of Government Lot 2 and that part of the Northwest
1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 Section 19, Township 116, Range 22 described as
follows: Beginning at the most Easterly corner of said Outlot “BB”
Bearpath Addition; Thence N 89°09'04" E 156.91 feet; Thence S 24° 43'56"
E 401.90 feet; Thence S 54°15'39" W 701.44 feet more or less to the shore
of Riley Lake; Thence Northerly along the shore 610.00 feet more or less
to the Southwest corner of Outlot “AA;” Thence N 51°45'37" E along the
Southeasterly line of Outlot “AA” and its extension to a point on the
Southerly line of Outlot “BB” 103.00 feet more or less; Thence N 71°41'24"
E 417.00 feet to the point of beginning.
WHEREAS, pursuant to City Code § 11.41, Subdivision 4.B, the City’s Heritage
Preservation Commission held a public hearing on the CUP Application on June 16, 2025 and
recommended that the Council approve the CUP Application;
WHEREAS, pursuant to City Code § 11.41, Subdivision 4.B, the City Council held a
public hearing on the CUP Application on July 15, 2025;
WHEREAS, the Council finds that the Property is conformance with the standards
contained in City Code § 11.41, Subdivision 2 and Subdivision 3.A; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that the CUP Application meets the criteria of the City
Code and the Applicant is entitled to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for the Property
subject to the terms, conditions and restrictions set forth below.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE:
1. The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein.
2. In accordance with the provisions of Eden Prairie City Code § 11.41, a Conditional
Use Permit for the adaptive reuse of the Property is hereby granted to Jillian Davis
subject to the following terms, conditions, and restrictions.
3. The Property may only be used for the following commercial/retail uses:
A. Sale of books, magazines, and other written materials;
B. Sale of non-book items customarily sold in bookstores, including, for
example, gifts, antiques, flowers, sunscreen, bug spray, post cards, locally
made and prepackaged treats, other prepackaged food or beverage items,
bookmarks, stickers, souvenirs, and art; and
C. Sale of packaged cookies, food, candy, tickets and similar items by non-
profit youth organizations.
4. The Property may be further used for the following types of social, educational,
and recreational events:
A. Events sponsored by the City of Eden Prairie or the Eden Prairie School
District; and
B. Indoor event space for community events including, for example, creative
writing workshops, book clubs, afternoon teas, community storytelling
nights, literary trivia nights, and live music concerts.
5. City park property adjacent to the Property may be used by the Applicant for
special events related to the bookstore only with the prior written approval of the
Parks and Recreation Director and as further detailed in the Lease Agreement
between the Applicant and the City.
6. The building and all uses of the Property must meet and remain in compliance with
all Building and Fire Codes, State and County health regulations, and ADA
requirements.
7. Any alterations of the building or property must conform to the Certificate of
Appropriateness issued by the Council for the Property.
8. The Applicant must execute and at all times comply with the Lease Agreement
between Applicant and the City regarding use of the Property.
9. Shared parking for the Property is provided within the adjacent park parking lot.
No parking is permitted on the grass or landscaped areas around the house.
10. Any changes to the use of the Property from those established in this resolution will
require an amended Conditional Use Permit.
11. This conditional use permit is issued to the Applicant and the Property may be used
and operated, subject to this Conditional Use Permit, by Jillian Davis or an entity
wholly or substantially owned and managed by Jillian Davis. This conditional use
permit may not be transferred or assigned to another party without an amended
CUP properly considered and approved by the City.
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Eden Prairie this 15th day of July, 2025.
____________________________________
Ronald A. Case, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
David Teigland, City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
Depiction of Property Subject to CUP
DISCLAIMER: The City of Eden Prairie does not warranty the accuracy nor the correctnessofthe information contained in this map. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracyof this information. In no event will The City of Eden Prairie be liable for any damages,including loss of business, lost profits, business interruption, loss of business informationor other pecuniary loss that might arise from the use of this map or the information itcontains. Map information is believed to be accurate but accuracy is not guaranteed.Any errors or omissions should be reported to The City of Eden Prairie.
*Any aerial photography and parcel geometry was obtained from Hennepin County and allusers are bound by the express written contract between Hennepin County and the Cityof Eden Prairie.
Scale:1:3,600 ²
Addresses
Parcels
0 300
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Conditional Use Permit - Dorenkemper
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