Planning and Building Agency
Item # d
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Historic Resources Commission Staff Report
September 5, 2024
Topic: HPPA No. 2022-20– The Elwood (214-218 West 4th Street)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommend that the City Council authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute a Historic Property Preservation Agreement (Mills Act) with Liennette Chung, with Wild Orchid Investments, LLC, for the property located at 214-218 West Fourth Street, subject to non-substantive changes approved by the City Manager and City Attorney (Exhibit 1).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Liennette Chung is requesting approval to execute a Mills Act Agreement with the City of Santa Ana at an existing commercial building located at 214-218 W. Fourth Street that is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places, California Register of Historical Resources, and Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
DISCUSSION
Project Location and Site Description
The subject property, known as the Elwood, consists of an existing two-story Art Deco-style commercial building that is approximately 9,100 square feet in size on a 5,200-square-foot commercial lot on the south side West Fourth Street (Exhibit 2). The Elwood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property to the Downtown Historic District and was later automatically added to the California Register of Historical Resources, pursuant to State regulations. The Elwood was added to the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties (“Register”) in 2001, categorized as “Contributive.” Analysis of the Issues
Ordinance No. NS-2382 authorized the Historic Resources Commission to execute Historic Property Preservation Agreements (HPPA), commonly known as Mills Act agreements, for eligible properties. The property is listed on the Register and categorized as Contributive, making it eligible for a Mills Act Agreement. The agreement provides monetary incentives to the property owner in the form of a property tax reduction in
HPPA No. 2022-20 – The Elwood (214-218 West Fourth Street) September 5, 2024
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exchange for the owner’s voluntary commitment to maintain the property in a good state of repair as necessary to maintain its character and appearance. Once recorded, the agreement generates a different valuation method in determining the property’s assessed value, resulting in tax savings for the owner. Aside from the tax savings, the benefits include:
•Long term preservation of the property and visual improvement to the neighborhood •Allows for a mechanism to provide for property rehabilitation •Provides additional incentive for potential buyers to purchase historic structures •Discourages inappropriate alterations to the property
The Elwood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property of the Downtown Historic District and was later automatically added to the California Register of Historical Resources, pursuant to State regulations. In 2001, the Historic Resources Commission placed the Elwood on the Santa Ana Register of Historic Properties and within the “Contributive” category as an example of the rebuilding of Fourth Street in the wake of the Long Beach Earthquake of 1933. Character-defining exterior features of the Elwood that should be preserved include, but may not be limited to: exterior finishes dating from the building’s original construction in 1886 through the post- earthquake alterations completed in 1933; bay divisions, including pilasters; original and 1933 fenestration; and parapet.
In the time since the property was listed on the Register in 2001, the property has been subject to several alterations, though most of the changes were limited to the installation of mechanical and electrical improvements and reorganization of the interiors of the commercial units. Exterior changes have generally maintained the historic character of the building and included the periodic replacement and eventual removal of all wall- mounted commercial signs, replacement in-kind of the brick veneer cladding along the lower portion of the primary (north) façade, and replacement and reconfiguration of storefront doors, replacement of window panes on the ground level of the primary façade, and removal of brick ground surfacing leading to recessed doorways. More recently, the property has undergone façade improvements, which include removal of up-lighting fixtures, repair to the display windows, stucco and storefront window repair; painting of the building façade, storefront window, and storefront bulkhead; and general up keeping and maintenance of the entrance paving. These improvements can be referenced as part of the site photos provided in Exhibit 3.
As part of the future improvements (Work Plan), staff is proposing the following: continued repair and repainting of the building, replacement of any non-compatible hardware and/or fixtures, general maintenance and upkeep of rooftop mechanical equipment, replacement of storefront glazing (as needed), and upkeep of the rear façade, adjacent to the alley .
Staff will ensure that the proposed work will be done sensitively and will maintain the property’s character-defining features as part of the Mills Act Agreement for this property.
HPPA No. 2022-20 – The Elwood (214-218 West Fourth Street) September 5, 2024
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As part of the Mills Act approval process, staff will work with the applicant to ensure that a bronze plaque is installed honoring and recognizing the structure. The plaque will include the historic name, address, year built, and local historic register designation.
Lastly, the site will be subject to general maintenance and upkeep requirements including, but not limited to, replacement or restoration of damaged character-defining features, painting, etc. These improvements will be subject to review and approval by staff. Upon consideration of the application, it is recommended that the City enter into a Historic Property Preservation Agreement.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines, the project is exempt from further review pursuant to Section 15331 of the CEQA Guidelines (Class 31 – Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation) as these actions are designed to preserve historic resources. Based on this analysis, a Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review No. 2024-71, will be filed for this project.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Historic Property Preservation Agreement will reduce the Property Tax revenue account 01102002-50011 to the City by an estimated $3,121.97 annually, for a period of not less than ten years.
EXHIBIT(S)
1. Mills Act Agreement
2. Vicinity Map - 214-218 W. Fourth Street
3. Site Photos – 214-218 W. Fourth Street
4. Action Minutes HRC (214-218 W. Fourth Street)
Submitted By:
James Williams, Contract Planner
Approved By:
Minh Thai, Executive Director of Planning and Building Agency, Planning and Building Agency
RECORDING REQUESTED BY
AND WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO:
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza (M-30)
Santa Ana, CA 92702
Attn: City Clerk’s Office
FREE RECORDING PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE § 27383
_________________________________________________________________________
HISTORIC PROPERTY PRESERVATION AGREEMENT
This Historic Property Preservation Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between the City of Santa Ana, a charter city and municipal corporation duly organized and existing under the Constitution and laws of the of the State of California (hereinafter referred to as “City”), and Wild Orchid investments, LLC, a California limited liability company , (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Owner”), owner of real property located at 214-218 West Fourth Street, Santa Ana, California , in the County of Orange and listed on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
RECITALS
A. The City Council of the City of Santa Ana is authorized by California Government Code Section 50280 et seq. (known as the “Mills Act”) to enter into contracts with owners of qualified historical properties to provide for appropriate use, maintenance, rehabilitation and restoration such that these historic properties retain their historic character and integrity.
B. The Owner possess es fee title in and to that certain qualified real property together with associated structures and improvements thereon, located at 214-218 West Fourth Street , Santa Ana, CA, 92701 and more particularly described in Exhibit “A,” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference, and hereinafter referred to as the “Historic Property.”
C. The Historic Property is officially designated on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties pursuant to the requirements of Chapter 30 of th e Santa Ana Municipal Code.
D. City and Owner, for their mutual benefit, now desire to enter into this Agreement which defines and limits the use and alteration of this Historic Property in order to enhance and maintain its value as a cultural and historical resource for Owner and for the community; to prevent inappropriate alterations to the Historic Property and to ensure that repairs, additions, new building, and other changes are appropriate; and to ensure that rehabilitation and maintenance are carried out in an exemplary manner.
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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E. Owner and City intend to carry out the purposes of California Government Code, Chapter 1, Part 5 of Division 1 of Title 5, Article 12, Section 50280 et seq., which will enable the Historic Property to qualify for an assessment o f valuation as a restricted historical property pursuant to Article 1.9, Sec. 439 et seq., Chapter 3 Part 2 of Division 1 of the California Tax and Revenue Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City of Santa Ana and the Owner of the Historic Property agree as follows:
1. Effective Date and Terms of Agreement.
This Agreement shall be effective and commence on November 20 , 2024, and shall remain in effect for a term of ten (10) years thereafter. Each year, upon the anniversary of the effective date of this Agreeme nt, such initial term will automatically be extended as provided in California Government Code Sections 50280 through 50290 and in Section 2, below.
2. Renewal.
a. Each year on the anniversary of the effective date of this Agreement, a year shall automatically be added to the initial ten (10) year term of this Agreement unless written notice of nonrenewal is served as provided herein.
b. If the Owner or the City desire(s) in any year not to renew the Agreement, the Owner or City shall serve written notice of non renewal of the Agreement on the other party.
Unless such notice is served by the Owner to the City at least ninety (90) days prior to the annual renewal date, or served by the City to the Owner at least sixty (60) days prior to the annual renewal date, one (1) year shall automatically be added to the term of the Agreement as provided herein.
c. Within 30 days from receipt of City’s notice of nonrenewal, the Owner may file a written protest of City’s decision of nonrenewal. The City may, at any time prior t o the annual renewal date of the Agreement, withdraw its notice to the Owner of nonrenewal. d. If either the Owner or the City serves notice to the other of nonrenewal in any year, the Agreement shall remain in effect for the balance of the term then remaining, either from its original execution or from the last renewal of the Agreement, whichever may apply.
3. Standards and Conditions for Historic Property.
During the term of this Agreement, the Historic Property shall be subject to the following conditions, requirements and restrictions:
a. Owner shall maintain the Historic Property in a good state of repair and shall preserve, maintain, and, where necessary, restore or rehabilitate the property and its character - defining features described in the “Historica l Property Description” attached hereto, marked as Exhibit B, notably the general architectural form, style, materials, design, scale, proportions, organization of windows, doors, and other openings, textures, details, mass, roof line, porch and other aspects of the appearance of the exterior to the satisfaction of the City.
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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b. All changes to the Historic Property shall comply with applicable City plans and regulations, and conform to the rules and regulations of the Office of Historic Preservation of the State Department of Parks and Recreation, namely the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Historic Preservation Projects. These guidelines are attached hereto, marked as Exhibit C, and incorporated herein by this reference. Owner sh all continually maintain the Historic Property in the same or better condition.
c. A view corridor enabling the general public to see the Historic Property from the public right -of-way shall be maintained, and Owner shall not be permitted to block the view corridor to the property with any new structure, such as walls, fences or shrubbery, so as to prevent the viewing of the historic landmark by the public.
d. The following are prohibited: demolition of the Historic Property or destruction of character-defining features of the building or site; removal of trees and other major vegetation unless removal is approved by a rehabilitation plan approved by the Historic Resources Commission; paving of yard surface; exterior alterations or additions unless approved by the Historic Resources Commission and such alterations are in keeping with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards; deteriorating, dilapidated or unrepaired structures such as fences, roofs, doors, walls, and windows; storage of junk, trash, debris, discard ed or unused objects such as cars, appliances, or furniture; and other unsightly by decoration, structure or vegetation which is unsightly by reason of its height, condition, or inappropriate location. e. Owner shall allow reasonable periodic inspection by prior appointment, as needed or at least every five (5) years after the initial inspection, of the interior and exterior of the Historic Property by representatives of the City of Santa Ana, the County Assessor, the State Department of Parks and Recreation, and the State Board of Equalization, to determine the Owner’s compliance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement. f. Owner shall implement the rehabilitation and restoration work items as discussed in detail in Exhibit D, “ Proposed Structure Improvem ents” and the City Council Historic Property Preservation Agreement (HPPA No. 2022-20) staff report dated September 5, 2024. All work items shall be completed within the first ten y ears of the Mills Act Agreement . Proof of completion, as requested by the C ity of Santa Ana, will be required in order to satisfy and maintain the Mills Act Agreement. Staff approval is required before items are amended or removed/replaced from the improvements list.
4. Furnishing of Information.
The Owner hereby agree s to furnish the City with any and all information requested which may be necessary or advisable to determine compliance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement.
5. Cancellation.
a. The City, following a duly noticed public hearing by the City Council a s set forth in Government Code Section 50280, et. seq., may cancel this Agreement if it determines that the
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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Owner have breached any of the conditions of this Agreement, or ha s allowed the property to deteriorate to the point that it no longer meets the sta ndards for a qualified Historic Property, or if the City determines that the Owner have failed to restore or rehabilitate the property in the manner specified in Section 3 of this Agreement. If a contract is cancelled for these reasons, the Owner shall pa y a cancellation fee to the County Auditor as set forth in Government Code Section 50286. This cancellation fee shall be a percentage (currently set at twelve and one -half (12 ½) percent by Government Code Section 50286) of the current fair market value o f the property at the time of the cancellation, as determined by the county assessor, without regard to any restriction imposed pursuant to this Agreement.
b. If the Historic Property is destroyed by earthquake, fire, flood or other natural disaster such that in the opinion of the City Building Official more than sixty (60) percent of the original fabric of the structure must be replaced, this Agreement shall be canceled immediately because, in effect, the historic value of the structure will have been destro yed. No fee shall be imposed in the case of destruction by acts of God or natural disaster. c. If the Historic Property is acquired by eminent domain and the City Council determines that the acquisition frustrates the purpose of this Agreement, this Agreeme nt shall be cancelled and no fee imposed, as specified in Government Code Section 50288.
6. Enforcement of Agreement.
a. In lieu of and/or in addition to any provisions to cancel the Agreement as referenced herein, City may specifically enforce, or enjoin the breach of, the terms of the Agreement. In the event of a default, under the provisions to cancel the Agreement by Owner, the City shall give written notice to Owner by registered or certified mail, and if such a violation is not corrected to the reaso nable satisfaction of the City Manager or designee within thirty (30) days thereafter, or if not corrected within such a reasonable time as may be required to cure the breach or default, or default cannot be cured within thirty (30) days (provided that act s to cure the breach or default may be commenced within thirty (30) days and shall thereafter be diligently pursued to completion by Owner), then City may, without further notice, declare a default under the terms of this Agreement and may bring any actio n necessary to specifically enforce the obligations of Owner growing out of the terms of this Agreement, apply to any court, state or federal, for injunctive relief against any violation by Owner or apply for such relief as may be appropriate.
b. City does not waive any claim of default by the Owner if City does not enforce or cancel this Agreement. All other remedies at law or in equity which are not otherwise provided for in this Agreement or in City’s regulations governing historic properties are availab le to City to pursue in the event that there is a breach of this Agreement. No waiver by City of any breach or default under this Agreement shall be deemed to be a waiver of any other subsequent breach thereof or default hereunder.
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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7. Binding effect of Agreement.
a. Owner hereby subjects the Historic Property, located at 214-218 West Fourth Street, Assessor Parcel Number, 398-264-16, and more particularly described in Exhibit A, in the City of Santa Ana, to the covenants, conditions, and restrictions as set forth in this Agreement.
b. City and Owner hereby declare their specific intent that the covenants, conditions and restrictions as set forth herein shall be deemed covenants running with the land and shall pass to and be binding upon Owner’s successors a nd assigns in title or interest to the Historic Property. Every contract, deed, or other instrument hereinafter executed, covering or conveying the Historic Property or any portion thereof, shall conclusively be held to have been executed, delivered, and accepted subject to the tenants, restrictions, and reservations expressed in this Agreement regardless of whether such covenants, conditions and restrictions are set forth in such contract, deed, or other instrument.
c. This property is listed in the Santa A na Register of Historical Properties (Register) and is located in the Downtown Santa Ana National Register District . In any real property transaction, the owner of this property or the owner’s representative shall provide the buyer of this property with notice that the property is listed on the City’s historic Register.
8. No Compensation.
Owner shall not receive any payment from City in consideration of the obligation imposed under this Agreement, it being recognized that the consideration for the execu tion of this Agreement is the substantial public benefit to be derived therefrom and the advantage that will accrue to Owner as a result of the effect upon the assessed value of the Property on the account of the restrictions on the use and preservation of the Property.
9. Notice.
Any notice required by the terms of this Agreement shall be sent to the address of the respective parties as specified below or at other addresses that may be later specified by the parties hereto.
City: City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza (M-30)
Santa Ana, CA 92702
Attn: City Clerk’s Office
Owners: Wild Orchid Investments, LLC
Liennette Chung
214-218 West Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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10. General Provisions.
a. None of the terms, provisions, or conditio ns of this Agreement shall be deemed to create a partnership between the parties hereto and any of their heirs, successors, or assigns, nor shall such terms, provisions or conditions cause them to be considered joint ventures or members of any joint enterprise.
b. The Owner agrees to and shall indemnify and hold the City and its elected and appointed officials, officers, agents, and employees harmless from liability for damage or claims for damage for personal injuries, including death, and claims for proper ty damage which may arise from the direct or indirect use or operations of the Owner or those of his or her contractor, subcontractor, agent, employee, or other person acting on his or her behalf which relates to the use, operation, and maintenance of the Historic Property. The Owner hereby agrees to and shall defend the City and its elected and appointed officials, officers, agents, and employees with respect to any and all actions for damages caused by, or alleged to have been caused by, reason of the Owner's activities in connection with the Historic Property.
c. This hold harmless provision applies to all damages and claims for damages suffered, or alleged to have been suffered, and costs of defense incurred, by reason of the operations referred to in th is Agreement regardless of whether or not City prepared, supplied, or approved the plans, specifications or other documents for the Historic Property.
d. All of the agreements, rights, covenants, conditions, and restrictions contained in this Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties herein, their heirs, successors, legal representatives, assigns, and all persons acquiring any part or portion of the Historic Property, whether by operation of law on in any manner whatsoever.
e. In the event legal proceedings are brought by any party or parties to enforce or restrain a violation of any of the covenants, reservations, or restrictions contained herein, or to determine the rights and duties of any party hereunder, the prevailing party in such proceeding may recover all reasonable attorney’s fees to be fixed by the court, in addition to court costs and other relief ordered by the court.
f. In the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement are held to be unenforceable or inva lid by any court of competent jurisdiction, or by subsequent preemptive legislation, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions, or portions thereof, shall not be effected thereby.
g. This Agreement shall be construed and governed in accord ance with the laws of the State of California, with venue in Orange County.
11. Recordation.
No later than twenty (20) days after the parties execute and enter into this Agreement, the City shall cause this Agreement to be recorded in the office of the C ounty Recorder of the County of Orange.
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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12. Amendments.
This Agreement may be amended, in whole or in part, only by a written recorded instrument executed by the parties hereto.
13. Effective Date
This Agreement shall be effective on the day and year first written above in Section 1.
{Signature page follows}
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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ATTEST: CITY OF SANTA ANA
________________________ _________________________
JENNIFER L. HALL ALVARO NUÑEZ
City Clerk City Manager
OWNERS
Date: ______________________ _________________________
WILD ORCHID INVESTMENTS, LLC
LIENNETTE CHUNG
APPROVED AS TO FORM: RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL:
SONIA CARVALHO
City Attorney
By: _____________________ _____________________
BRANDON SALVATIERRA MINH THAI
Deputy City Attorney Executive Director
Planning and Building Agency
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 W. Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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EXHIBIT A
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
PARCEL 1:
THOSE PORTIONS OF LOTS 7 AND 10 IN BLOCK 12 OF THE TOWN OF SANTA ANA,
CITY OF SANTA ANA, COUNTY OF ORANGE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS SHOWN ON A MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 2, PAGE 51 OF MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS IN THE
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
BEGINNING AT A POINT 10 FEET AND 8 INCHES WEST OF THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 10; THE NCE WEST 51 FEET AND 4 INCHES; THENCE SOUTH 100 FEET; THENCE EAST 51 FEET AND 4 INCHES; THENCE NORTH 100 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
PARCEL 2:
A RIGHT OF ENTRY AND RIGHT OF WAY OVER 4 FEET FRONTING ON FOURTH STREET AND ADJOINING PARCEL 1 ABOVE DESCRI BED ON THE EAST, FOR A
STAIRWAY FOR THE JOINT USE OF THE BUILDING ON THE EAST AND ON THE WEST OF SAID STAIRWAY, AS CONVEYED BY DEED FROM W.H. SPURGEON TO FRANK RIVERIN, RECORDED IN BOOK 138, PAGE 346 OF DEEDS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY.
Assessor’s Parcel Number: 398-264-16
cm\historic\templates\Fourth 214 W (The Elwood)
7/23/01
N
AME The Elwood REF. NO. 152
ADDRESS 214-218 West Fourth Str eet
CITY Santa Ana ZIP 927 01 ORANGE COUNTY
YEAR BUILT 1886/1933 LOCAL REGISTER CATEGORY: Contributive HISTORIC DISTRICT Downtown Santa Ana NEIGHBORHOOD N/A
NATIONAL REGISTER CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION C NATIONAL RE GISTER STATUS CODE 1D Location: Not for Publication Unrestricted
USGS 7.5” Quad Date: T R ¼ of ¼ of Sec : B.M
.
Prehistoric Historic Both
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE: Art Deco
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND RELATED TO PERIOD ARCHITECTURE:
The Art Deco style is characterized by smooth wall surfaces, often of stucco; zig zags, chevrons, fluting, reeding, and other low-relief stylized and geometric motifs as decorative elements on the façade; accents of terra cotta, glass, or metal; polychromy; rectangular or compound forms; and a more vertical emphasis than its close stylistic relative, Streamline Moderne. Art Deco was essentially a style of decoration, and was applied to jewelry, clothing, furniture, and handicrafts as well as architecture. In style between 1920 and 1940, Art Deco was popularized by the Exposition des Arts Decoratifs held in Paris in 1925. It was most commonly utilized on commercial or public buildings.
cm\historic\templates\Fourth 214 W (The Elwood)
7/23/01
CONSTRUCTION HISTORY: (Construction data, alterations, and date of alterations)
214:
May 10, 1921. Skylights.
August 1922. Alter business room.
September 10, 1925. Alterations.
July 19,1926. Reinforce floors.
April 3, 1928. Alterations.
April 6, 1933. Repair business building.
July 13, 1939. Repairs to store building.
November 4, 1946. Remodel window space.
January 28, 1957. Alteration to store building.
May 26, 1983. Partitions.
June 20, 1984. Structural rehab.
218
:
214-216-218: April 6, 1933. Repair business building.
August 7, 1933. Alterations.
June 8, 1939. Relocate stairway.
February 3, 1944. Alterations.
November 1, 1950. Repair fire damage.
September 17, 1958. Remodel Interior store building.
September 7, 1962. Interior and exterior alterations.
June 20, 1984. Structural rehab.
March 25, 1988. Metal and glass storefront for display.
RELATED FEATURES
: (Other important features such as barns, sheds, fences, prominent or unusual trees, or landscape)
None
DESCRIPTION: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, settings, and boundaries.)
Historic photographs indicate that The Elwood (also known as the Spurgeon Annex) has undergone several transformations since its 19th century construction, although its basic building fabric and proportions remain intact. The present appearance of the upper story dates to 1933, when repairs were made following the Long Beach Earthquake. The lower story storefronts have been remodeled more recently. Two stories tall with a flat roof, the building is of brick construction and is faced with stucco. Pilasters with stepped caps divide the upper story into five bays, each containing a single, double-hung sash window. A corbel course edges the plain parapet.
Below a belt course, the street level contains three storefronts, all altered, and the entry to the upper story.
HISTORIC HIGHLIGHTS:
This building was constructed during the 1886-1888 boom and remodeled in the aftermath of the Long Beach Earthquake. Formerly used as a lodging house, the upper story was known as The Elwood from 1904 until 1929. A doorway led directly into the Spurgeon Building next door until 1929. Street level tenants included a confectionary and a bakery.
RESOURCE ATTRIBUTES: (List attributes and codes from Appendix 4 of Instructions for Recording Historical Resources, Office of Historic Preservation.)
(HP 6) 1-3 story Commercial Building
cm\historic\templates\Fourth 214 W (The Elwood)
7/23/01
RESOURCES PRESENT:
Building Structure Object Site District Element of District Other
MOVED
? No Yes Unknown Date: Original Location:
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: (Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme, period, geographic scope, and integrity.)
Santa Ana was founded by William Spurgeon in 1869 as a speculative townsite on part of the Spanish land grant known as Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana. Early growth and development was stimulated by the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1878 and the Santa Fe Railroad in 1886. By the end of the 1880s, Santa Ana’s downtown business district was defined by five city blocks of brick commercial buildings on Fourth Street, with the heart of the city at the intersection of Fourth and Main Streets (Thomas, 8:1). The early 1900s saw the construction of many new business blocks or remodels along Fourth and adjacent streets, and by the 1920s Santa Ana’s downtown had expanded in all directions to include both commercial and civic development. In 1933, the repair and rebuilding following the Long Beach Earthquake added to the number of downtown buildings displaying the fashionable Art Deco style.
The Elwood is significant as an example of the rebuilding of Fourth Street, which took place in the wake of the earthquake. The Victorian era construction is still apparent in the utilitarian southern elevation. Character-defining exterior features of the property, which should be preserved, include but may not be limited to: original and 1933 exterior finishes; bay divisions, including pilasters; original and 1933 fenestration; and parapet.
SUMMARY/CONCLUSION
:
This building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 as a contributor to the Downtown Historic District. Under the regulations implementing the California Register of Historical Resources, the building is also listed in the California Register. The property is included in the Santa Ana Register of Historical Property and has been categorized as “Contributive” for its contribution to “the overall character and history” of downtown Santa Ana and as a “good example of period architecture” that “has not been substantially altered” (Municipal Code, Section 30-2.2(2)).
OWNER AND ADDRESS:
cm\historic\templates\Fourth 214 W (The Elwood)
7/23/01
RECORDED BY: (Name, affiliation, and address)
Leslie J. Heumann
Science Applications International Corporation
35 S. Raymond Avenue, Suite 204, Pasadena, CA 91105
DATE RECORDED: July 3, 2001
SURVEY TYPE: (Intensive, reconnaissance, or other)
Intensive Survey Update
REPORT CITATION: (Cite survey report and other sources)
Les, Kathleen. “Santa Ana Historic Survey, Fi nal Resources Inventory: Downtown.” May 1980.
Thomas, Harold M. “Downtown Santa Ana Historic District” National Register nomination form, 1984.
REFERENCES: (List documents, date of publication, and page numbers. May also include oral interviews.)
Harris, Cyril M. American Architecture: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. New York, WW Norton, 1998.
McAlester, Virginia and Lee. A Field Guide to American Houses. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1984.
National Register Bulletin 16A. “How to Comple te the National Register Registration Form.” Washington DC: National Register Branch, National Park Service, US Department of the Interior, 1991.
Whiffen, Marcus. American Architecture Since 1780. Cambridge: MIT Press, 1969.
EVALUATOR: Leslie J. Heumann DATE OF EVALUATION: July 3, 2001
EXPLANATION OF CODES:
• National Register Criteria for Evaluation: (From Appendix 7 of Instructions for Recording Historical Resources, Office of Historic Preservation)
C: that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.
• National Register Status Code: (From Appendix 2 of Instructions for Recording Historical Resources, Office of Historic Preservation)
1D: Contributor to a listed district.
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 West Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
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Exhibit C
Exterior work shall be reviewed by the Historic Resources Commission and subject to the U.S.
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings, as follows:
1. Every reasonable effort shall be made to provide a compatible use for a property which requires minimal alteration of the building, structure, or site and its environment, or to use a property for its originally intended purpose.
2. The distinguishing original qualities or character of a building, structure or site and its environment shall not be destroyed. The removal or alteration of any historic material or distinctive architectural features should be avoided when possible.
3. All buildings, structures, and sites shall be recognized as products of their own time. Alterations that have no historical basis and which seek to create an earlier appearance shall be discouraged.
4. Changes which may have taken place in the course of time are evidence of the history and development of a building, structure, or site and its environment.
These changes may have acquired significance in their own right, and this significance shall be recognized and respected.
5. Distinctive stylistic features or examples of skilled craftsmanship which characterize a building, structure, or site shall be treated with sensitivity.
6. Deteriorated architectural features shall be repaired rather than replaced, whenever possible. In the event replacement is necessary, the new material should match the material being replaced in composition, design, color, texture, and other visual qualities. Repair or replacement of missing architectural features should be based on accurate duplications of features, substantiated by historic, physical, or pictorial evidence rather than on conjectural designs or the availability of different architectural elements from the other buildings or structures.
7. The surface cleaning of structures shall be undertaken with the gentlest means possible. Sandblasting and other cleaning methods that will damage the historic building materials shall not be undertaken.
8. Every reasonable effort shall be made to protect and reserve archaeological resources affected by, or adjacent to any project.
9. Contemporary design for alterations and additions to existing properties shall not be discouraged when such alterations and additions do not destroy significant historical, architectural or cultural material, and such design is compatible with
MILLS ACT AGREEMENT
214-218 West Fourth Street
Santa Ana, CA 92701
- 2 -
size, scale, color, material and character of the property, neighborhood, or environment.
10. Wherever possible, new additions or alterations to structures shall be done in such a manner that if such additions or alterations need to be removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the structure would be unimpaired. 2 2
3 5
6 Exhibit D: Proposed Structure Improvements (“Work Plan”) 214-218 West Fourth Street
Item Year Improvement
1 Ongoing Continued repair and repainting of the building and character-defining features
2 2026 Replacement of any non-compatible hardware and/or fixtures 3 Ongoing General maintenance and upkeep of rooftop mechanical equipment 4 2029 Replacement and/or repair of storefront glazing (as needed)
HPPA 2022-20
214-218 W. FOURTH STREET
THE ELWOOD
P L A N N I N G AND B U I L D I N G A G E N C Y
500’ RADIUS
SITE
EXHIBIT 2
HPPA-2022-20
The Elwood – 214-218 W. Fourth Street
EXHIBIT 3 – SITE PHOTOS
STAFF PHOTOS TAKEN IN SEPTEMBER 2022
HPPA-2022-20
The Elwood – 214-218 W. Fourth Street
EXHIBIT 3 – SITE PHOTOS
STAFF PHOTOS TAKEN IN SEPTEMBER 2022
HPPA-2022-20
The Elwood – 214-218 W. Fourth Street
EXHIBIT 3 – SITE PHOTOS
STAFF PHOTOS TAKEN IN AUGUST 2024
ACTION MINUTES OF THE
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA
ii
AUGUST 2, 2001
CALLED TO ORDER: 4: 40 P. M.
City Hall Ross Annex
Second Floor Conference Room 2002
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, California
ATTENDANCE:
COMMISSIONERS Absent:
Phillip Chinn
Blair O' Callaghan
Robert Richardson.
STAFF PRESENT: Charles View, Planning Manager
Joseph Edwards, Principal Planner
Kylee Odette, Deputy City Attorney
Maya DeRosa, Senior Planner
Laura Johnson, Acting Recording Secretary
COMMISSIONERS Present:
Rose Anne Garcia Kings, Chair
Paul Giles, Vice Chairman
Carlos Bustamante
Rita Corpin
James Gartner
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion to approve staff recommendations on the folloruing Consent Calendar items.
MOTION: Giles SECOND: Bustamante
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin, Gartner, Giles, Kings (5)
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan, Richardson ( 3)
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
A. MINUTES
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the minutes:
Regular meeting of June 7, 2001.
Adjourned regular meeting of June 14, 2001.
B. COMMISSION SECRETARY REPORT
RECOMMENDATION:
Instruct the Commission Secretary to enter into the minutes.
The Notice of Adjournment of the June 7, 2001 Regular Meeting to June 14, 2001 at 3: 00 p. m. was posted at the City Hall Council Chambers on June 8, 2001 at 2: 20 p. m.
The June 14, 2001 Agenda for the Adjourned Regular Meeting was posted at the City Hall Council Chambers on June 8, 2001 at 10: 30 a. m.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR * * *
BUSINESS CALENDAR
C. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT ( CLG) PROGtjAM
To certify the City of Santa Ana as a participant in the Certified Local Government Historic Preservation program.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend that the City Council adopt a resolution:
1. Approving the filing of an application for certification under the Certified Local Government Historic Preservation Program.
2. Appointing the Deputy City Manager of Development Services as the agent of the City to coordinate, process and execute all contracts, agreements, amendments, and ancillary documents within the scope of the attached application for certification.
Presentation of application provided by Hally Cappiello. The approval process and benefits of certification were explained.
Commissioner Giles commented that the application was very impressive.
Madam Chair Kings noted the following corrections on the application:
Current historic preservation activities performed by the local government.
1. Item 4 should be corrected to read." The City. of Santa Ana notifies all interested parties, including the Historic Resource Commission of any demolition application submitted for properties over 50 years old and reviews demolition applications for all properties on the Historic Register.
2. Item 7 should include the total number of structures in Santa Ana that are over 50 years old.
3. Correction to spelling of Assemblyman Correa's name.
Madam Chair Kings also requested that items 9 and 10 be placed on the Commission's list of objectives.
Madam Chair Kings complemented staff on the Organizational Chart that was included in the application and requested that a chart that indicates which staff provide support to the Historic Resources Commission be created.
Commissioner Bustamante noted that he has moved to Fisher Park neighborhood and is not a member of the Park Santiago Neighborhood Association and Park Patrol.
Madam Chair Kings noted that the list of Neighborhoods of Historic Character should be updated to include West Floral Park, Fisher Park, and Park Santiago. Spelling correction for Willard neighborhood also requested.
Motion to:
Recommend that the City Council adopt a resolution:
1. Approving the filing of an application for certification under the Certified Local Government Historic Preservation Program.
2. Appointing the Deputy City Manager of Development Services as the agent of the City to coordinate, process and execute all contracts, agreements, amendments, and ancillary documents within the scope of the attached application for certification.
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 2 AUGUST 2, 2001
MOTION: Bustamante SECOND:
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin, Gartner, Giles, Kings, (5)
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan, Richardson ( 3)
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
D. HISTORIC MARKER PROGRAM
RECOMMENDATION:
Continue indefinitely.
Gartner
Joseph Edwards advised the Commission that the program has not been completed and staff is requesting a continuance.
Madam Chair Kings requested that a meeting be scheduled between staff, Councilmember Franklin and herself to discuss the issue.
Motion to:
Continue indefinitely.
MOTION: Giles SECOND: Bustamante
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin, Gartner, Giles, Kings, (5)
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan, Richardson ( 3)
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
WORK STUDY SESSION
E. HISTORIC RESOURCES WEB PAGE
Presentation by Hally Cappiello. She advised the Commission that the web page should be placed on the City server on August 8. She also advised that text is scheduled to be included with photographs of historic building. Links to other agencies were noted.
Hally Cappiello discussed the proposed Phase 2 of the web page and advised what was scheduled to be included.
Madame Chair Kings requested that building and architectural styles be included in the information provided. She also mentioned that walking, tours and educational opportunities could be added. Commissioner Giles asked for expanded search criteria so that specific items and information could be retrieved from the Historic Register.
F. HISTORICAL TOURISM DISCUSSION
Presentation by Irma Hernandez. Survey was conducted to determine what other cities and counties are doing to market historic tourism was explained and results provided.
Santa Ana's current historic tourism efforts were provided. Charles View advised that the Santa Ana Historical Society had updated their material and would print as funds became available.
Joseph Edwards requested tourism and marketing input from the Commission.
Commisisoner Giles noted that freeway signage could provide high visibility and would be inexpensive.
Madam Chair Kings suggested that each neighborhood could create a walking tour that could be down loaded from the web site.
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 3 AUGUST 2, 2001
Commissioner Giles suggested that walking tours could be customized to meet individual criteria.
Commissioner Bustamante suggested that a partnership with academia could be created so that architectural schools could incorporate Santa Ana buildings in their curriculum.
Madame Chair Kings suggested a plaque program and photos could be incorporated into a walking tour. Key locations could be marketed and could possibly be tied in to neighborhood home tours.
G. HISTORICAL DISTRICT FOLLOW UP DISCUSSION
Charles View provided a report on the progress to date. He suggested aone-day working session on the Broadway District. Session would focus on setting district standards and boundaries.
Commissioner Giles noted that new construction in historic districts is significant and asked if it was possible for the Historic Resources Commission to be included in the review. Mr. View advised that he believed the direction the Planning Commission would consider would be for standards to be developed and that Planning Commission would review.
Madame Chair Kings asked if there would be an alternate selected from the Planning Commission while Mr. Richardson was out. Mr. View advised the Commissioners of the legal issues.
Mr. View requested that a date be set for the working session. Potential dates and times were discussed. The consensus of the Commission was thart the working session would be held Friday, September 7 beginning at 2: 30 p. m. The session will begin with a van tour of the district and then return to the Planning Division second floor conference room.
H. RECESS TO COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Madame Chair Kings advised the Commissioners that Commissioner Rankin had moved to another city and would be submitting a letter of resignation.
The afternoon session recessed at 5: 40 p. m.
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 4 AUGUST 2, 2001
ACTION MINUTES OF THE
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMIISSION
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
22 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA
SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA
JUNE 7, 2001
ROLL CALL 5: 58 P. M.
PROCEDURAL RULES
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1A. HISTORIC REGISTER CATEGORIZATION NO.'S 2001-62 THROUGH 64 AND 2001- 66 ( Melanie McCann)
Filed by the City of Santa Ana to categorize various structures on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
PUBLISHED IN THE REGISTER: July 20, 2001
PUBLICLY NOTICED: July 17, 2001
ADDRESS STRUCTURE NAME RECOMMENDI
CATEGORY
113- 115 East Santa Ana United Presbyterian Landmark
Boulevard ( 62) Church
501- 505 North Sycamore Street Masonic Temple Landmark
63)
202- 212 W. Fourth Street { 64) Spurgeon Building Landmark 117 W. Fourth Street ( 66) Rankin Department Landmark
Store
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-62 through 64 and 2001-66.
Melanie McCann provided the staff report.
Madame Chair Kings opened the public hearing at 6: 00 p. m.
No requests to address the Commission were made.
Madame Chair Kings closed the public hearing at 6: OD p. m.
Motion to:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-62 through 64 and 2001-66.
MOTION: Giles SECOND: Corpin
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin, Gartner, Giles, Kings, (5)
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan, Richardson ( 3)
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
D
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 5 AUGUST 2, 2001
1B. HISTORIC REGISTER CATEGORIZATION NO.'S 2Q01-65 AND 2001-67 THROUGH 70 ( Melanie McCann)
Filed by the City of Santa Ana to categorize various structures on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
1C
PUBLISHED IN THE REGISTER: July 20, 2001
PUBLICLY NOTICED: July 17, 2001
ADDRESS STRUCTURE NAME RECOMMENDED
CATEGORY
118- 120 W. Fifth Street 65 Ramona Buildin Ke
323- 325 North Broadway & Moore Building Key
222 W. 4~h Street 67
420- 424 North Broadway & 300, Knights of Pythias Hall Key 310, 312, 318, 320 & 322 W. 5~h
Street 68
517- 519 North Main Street ( 69) Hortons Furniture Key
Buildin
515 North Main ( 70) McFadden Public Key
Market
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-65 and 2001-67 through 69.
Melanie McCann provided the staff report.
Madame Chair Kings opened the public hearing at 6: 05 p. m.
No requests to address the Commission were made.
Madame Chair Kings closed the public hearing at 6: 05 p. m.
Motion to:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-65 and 2001-67 through 69.
MOTION: Bustamante
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan,
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
Gartner, Giles, Kings, (5)
Richardson ( 3)
SECOND: Giles
HISTORIC REGISTER CATEGORIZATION NO.'S 2001-71 AND 2001- 73 THROUGH 77 ( Melanie McCann)
Filed by the City of Santa Ana to categorize various structures on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
PUBLISHED IN THE REGISTER: July 20, 2001
PUBLICLY NOTICED: July 17, 2001
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 6 AUGUST 2, 2001
ADDRESS STRUCTURE Na4ME RECOMMENDED
CATEGORY
415 N. Sycamore Street Rohrs Building Contributive
71 108 W. Fourth Street ( 73) Santa Ana Hardware Co. Contributive Bld .
110 W. Fourth Street 74 Gilbert D Goods Contributive
112- 114 W. Fourth Street Hill and Cardin Company Contributive 75 116- 120 W. Fourth Street Orange County Saviings & Contributive 76 Trust
214- 218 W. Fourth Street The Elwood Contributive
77 RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-71 and 2001-73 through 77.
Melanie McCann provided the staff report.
Madame Chair Kings opened the public hearing at 6: 10 p. m.
No requests to address the Commission were made.
Madame Chair Kings closed the public hearing at 6: 10 p. m.
Motion fo:
Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.'s 2001-71 and 2001-73 through 77.
MOTION: Giles
AYES: Bustamante, Corpin, Gartner, Giles, Kings, (5)
NOES: None ( 0)
ABSENT: Chinn, O' Callaghan, Richardson ( 3)
ABSTENTION: None ( 0)
PUBLIC COMMENTS
2. Oral Comments - Comments from the Public
There were no public comments.
SECOND: Bustamante
STAFF AND COMMISSION COAI~IMENTS
3. Comments from Staff
Mr. Edwards
Announced that next month staff will provide an overview of the objectives for midyear evaluation.
Introduced Kylee Odette as the new Historic Resources Commission legal counsel.
Announced the last meeting for Christopher Norman and thanked him for all his assistance with the Commission.
4. Comments from Historic Resources Commission
All of the Commissioners indicated that they were very impressed with the web page.
Madame Chair Kinps
Requested that the Template Review Committee review the Old Woolworth Building, the consultant's recommendations, and review the terms and wording of Chapter 30. The HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 7 AUGUST 2, 2001
property has been substantially remodeled and needs to be discussed. The Committee could then make recommendations to the Commission if appropriate. The next meeting of the Template Review Committee is Friday, August 10 at 3 p. m.
Requested that the plaque wording draft be distributed immediately to all commissioners and that a meeting with staff, Councilmember Franklin, and herself be scheduled. Also advised that Commissioner Bustamante would like to attend.
Requested to meet with staff to review a draft of proposed Code changes and to get clarification on how the Districts would work from a legal planning perspective.
Complimented staff for the excellent work on the CLG application and requested that a timeline/ summary list of things that need to occur be presented at the next Commission meeting so that the Commission can adjust yearly objectives to accommodate the needs identified, particularly the Historic Preservation Element that is identified.
Requested that staff identify a strategy for training key building inspection staff that may need to be knowledgeable on the Historic Building Code.
Requested that an organization chart for Historic Resources Commission that includes staff a- mail address and phone number be provided.
Provided reminder of the meeting scheduled for August 9 at 9 a. m. to discuss Contemporary Architecture in Historic Districts.
Requested a representative from the Planning Commission be designated and that Planning Commissioner Cribb receive a Historic Resources Commission packet for the next three meetings. Clarify who will be representative to Historic Resources Commission from Planning Commission.
Congratulated staff for the APA award for the City's Housing Element.
Encouraged everyone to see the movie " Legally Blonde" which features footage of the Old County Courthouse including the interior courtroom footage.
9. Excuse of Absences
Motion by Commissioner Bustamante and seconded by Commissioner Corpin to excuse the absences of Commissioners Chinn, O' Callaghan, and Richardson and approved unanimously by a vote of 5: 0.
10. Adjournment - 6: 21 p. m. - to September 6, 2001 at 4: 30 p. m. in the City Hall Ross Annex Conference Room 2002, 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, California.
Laura Johnson
HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION MINUTES 8 AUGUST 2, 2001