HomeMy WebLinkAboutUpdated Memo Description of Project 1-22-14DB Klain Construction, LLC
2159 Glebe Street, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032
Office: 317.846.9992 Fax: 317.846.2070 E-mail: david@dbklain.com
February 22, 2024
Mr. Michael P. Hollibaugh
Director of Community Services
City of Carmel
One Civic Square
Carmel, IN 46032
Dear Mr. Hollibaugh:
DB Klain Construction Co. represent Ms. Jeral Rembusch who has placed under
contract the property and home at 410 1st Avenue NW which is in the Old Town Overlay
Zone. Mrs. Rembusch desires to build a new home on this site but wanted me to stress to
you that as a potential future resident, she is very interested in honoring the spirit and the
intent of Overlay and has the long term interests of Old Town at heart.
The design of the new home is very much in keeping with the existing design and
style of the neighborhood including the siding and exterior materials of the home, a front
and side porch (the home is on a corner), and materials consistent with the character of
other homes in the Overlay. It is very traditional but she believes that, as noted in the
Overlay Zone ordinance, the home will increase property value in Old Town, will protect
and enhance other property values, will inspire the vitality of the neighborhood with a
home that will be lived in and used and will add a resident with demographic and an
income level as noted in the Overlay ordinance.
Her plan is to invest $600,000 in the acquisition, construction, interior finishing
and furnishing of the homes.
While it may be technically possible to add a modest amount of additional square
footage, build a garage that would allow one car parking, level the floors of the existing
home, replace the mechanical system, remove the drywall from all the walls to insulate
the home properly, replace the windows and doors of the home to update and provide an
energy efficient environment, it is not what should be done. The cost would significantly
increase the cost/s.f. of the home over a new home yet the value of the home would be
much less. Ultimately, she would be replacing the roof and the siding and would end up
with total exterior replacement with a home that has less property value at a higher cost
of investment which is inconsistent with the purpose and intent of Old Town District
Overlay Zone.
DB Klain Construction, LLC
2159 Glebe Street, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032
Office: 317.846.9992 Fax: 317.846.2070 E-mail: david@dbklain.com
Mr. Michael P. Hollibaugh
Page Two
While it is possible that the home could be rehabilitated, given the drawbacks
noted above, Ms. Rembusch’s plan is better suited, a better investment in the community
and a significant upgrade to the Old Town Neighborhood.
This home has no historical significance to the neighborhood. In comparison to
the other homes has very few of architectural features noted in the ordinance, while the
proposed new home structure is small, has a narrow house front compared to the length, a
gabled roof, wood clapboard material siding, brick and traditional stonework details,
consistent setbacks from the front and side yards as in the neighborhood and a traditional
front porch with a width suitable for seating, all as noted in the ordinance.
Your consideration of her request is greatly appreciated and she looks forward to
being an active member of the Carmel Community.
Very Truly Yours,
David Klain