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Historic Preservation
In 1989, the City adopted its Historic Preservation Code to support Historic Neighborhoods (PDF) that contain architecturally significant structures. The City also established a Landmark Historic District, which encompasses the most significant structures, regardless of location.
The Commission will work with property owners to balance the guidelines for historic preservation with the desires of the owner to try to find a solution that enhances both the property and the overall district. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation are the basis for the local historic ordinance and the Historic District Commission's review. Generally, modern materials, such as vinyl, are prohibited.
The Commission meets once a month and the law requires that an official public hearing is held, therefore, applications must be made at least one month in advance.
Construction in a Historic District
New construction or alterations of existing structures are not prohibited in Historic Neighborhoods (PDF), however, the construction or alteration is expected to be done in a historically appropriate manner. Applicants are encouraged to direct any construction to the rear of a structure, not visible from a public street. Additionally, materials used for new construction should be compatible with existing, historic materials.Construction Approval
Generally, any work on the exterior of a structure requires approval from the Historic District Commission through the submission and approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness Application (PDF).The Commission will work with property owners to balance the guidelines for historic preservation with the desires of the owner to try to find a solution that enhances both the property and the overall district. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation are the basis for the local historic ordinance and the Historic District Commission's review. Generally, modern materials, such as vinyl, are prohibited.
The Commission meets once a month and the law requires that an official public hearing is held, therefore, applications must be made at least one month in advance.