PC 030911 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Dolan stated that this is one of the key policies for evaluating the DiDonato project recently considered by the Commission. He indicated that this was the essence of the argument; however, one should not be hard and fast about this rule and understand that there are situations where this does not work. He noted that there are exceptions, and one of them allows for the demolition and replacement of such homes which are specifically found by the City to demonstrate minimal redeeming historic and/or architectural significance. Mr. Dolan stated that staff hired an expert to evaluate the project, and the house qualified for that exception. Commissioner Pearce inquired who determines which type of significance is going to be evaluated. She inquired if the DiDonato project was evaluated more for the historical significance of someone significant who lived there or a significant period in time that the house was associated with, rather than for the architectural elements of the house. Mr. Dolan said it was evaluated relative to the State criteria which includes both. 8. Relocation of Historic Homes within the Downtown. This relates to the relocation of historic homes to the Downtown area, which does not come up that much. 9. Staff Representatives to Review Applications Relating to Historic Resources. This presents instruction on the implementation of reviews by specific individuals from Building, Planning, and Fire people who have actually had exposure in historic preservation training. Mr. Dolan indicated that Planning staff has done this, and when it gets to complicated matters, Building staff has been involved. He noted that no one from Fire is specifically assigned to this. He added that the City is committed to doing more to the extent that the budget allows staff training. 10. Public Information on Application Submittal Requirements. This section requires that staff prepare public information documents for applications to modify historic buildings, including submittal requirements, review process, and historic preservation incentive programs. Mr. Dolan noted that this is something the City has not done to date. He indicated that the City needs to be more public about the rules so that people who go into neighborhoods like Second and Third Streets and love the great urban design and older homes in the neighborhood, then find a small house and decide to have their dream house there, are made aware of City policies for historic buildings. He stated that this is something staff needs to address, which might provide relief for people interested in historic areas. Mr. Dolan then referred to page 69 noted that this is something staff has not addressed. He pointed out item 11.B., which provides for the establishment of a National Register Historic District (NRHD) in the PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MINUTES, March 9, 2011 Page 9 of 24