(a) It is hereby declared, as a matter of public policy, that the preservation and protection of buildings and structural, architectural, cultural, educational and aesthetic merit are public necessities and are, in the interest of the health, prosperity and welfare of all the citizens of the township.
(b) The purposes of this chapter are:
(1) To identify and provide an opportunity to preserve historic buildings and structures which are important to the education, culture, traditions and economic values of all citizens of the township;
(2) To maintain or improve property values in the township;
(3) To retain and enhance historic properties which contribute to the character of the township;
(4) To assure that new construction and subdivisions of lots in the township are compatible with existing historic buildings and structures;
(5) To encourage the restoration and rehabilitation of historic buildings and structures within the township;
(6) To enhance the attractiveness of the township, thereby supporting and promoting business, commerce, industry and tourism, as well as providing economic benefit to the township;
(7) To foster civic pride in the historical, architectural, cultural and educational accomplishments of the township;
(8) To promote the use of historic buildings and structures for the education, pleasure and welfare of all citizens of the township;
(9) To encourage orderly and efficient development that recognizes the special value to the township of its fragile, non-renewable historic and cultural resources; and
(10) To encourage public participation in identifying and preserving historical, architectural and cultural resources through educational programs and general awareness campaigns.
(Ord. 829, passed 9-21-2005)