05/23/2016 MINUTES - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ken Kohls asked to hear from Mr. Isbell. David Isbell — Licensed professional engineering in structural, geotechnical, civil and exempted. Masters in structural engineering. West wall is leaning, pulling away. East wall is where stone fell on sidewalk. In 2010, some of the facade fell off. (This is what Ben Vaughan was referring to.) Big issue is electrical service to roof. This building has windows into the elevator shaft, which wouldn't be allowed today. Electrical service comes from pole outside barber shop. Why is this happening? The brick veneer wall was not there at time of 1916 fire; was added afterwards. Found no brick ties; no header bricks. Possible they've deteriorated/rusted away. Either it wasn't tied on or the ties have deteriorated. In my opinion, water infiltration has caused this problem most likely from a roof leak. Water from a roof leak will get into the masonry and damage it, especially a freeze /thaw process during winter. So: 1. improper tying or deterioration of ties and water infiltration; 2. veneer on south and east, water infiltration as well. Right above where the last piece fell, found a big crack at that point. Believe water over time getting into this crack and causing the separation where this piece of facade fell. Notified Owner in March that this veneer needs to come down and be replaced. Will the bracing hold? Yes, but is a temporary band -aid. Long -term is take down the west wall veneer. I'd feel comfortable with my grandchildren standing on the sidewalk under the current netting area. Do not anticipate it falling, but that's not to say it can't happen. High -wind event could cause it. West wall is an immediate danger to the public. Ken Kohls — What would cause the other 3 walls to be as dangerous? David Isbell — High wind is the largest force of danger to parapet walls. Creates a vortex over the parapet, creating a suction on the facade. 2nd would be water infiltration. Makes it heavier. Owner is ready to fix the building. Standing in the way is the scaffolding to fix it. Have to scaffold west wall. Cannot scaffold the wall over electrical service. Cannot have scaffolding within 10 feet of electrical lines. Electrical has to be moved first. Recommend turn off electrical to building during repairs. Johnny Norris — Does that electrical service cover any other buildings or just that one? David Isbell — Just that building and the cell tower. Businesses below have separate service. Ben Vaughan - Hot feed just on south side of building?