The following procedures are established to govern the processing of applications for building permits and other municipal authorizations for "landmark" historic properties or properties located in H-1 Districts:
(a) Contents of Application. In addition to meeting application requirements established in this Code, applications governed by the provisions of this Chapter shall include the following elements:
(1) Color photograph(s). Showing the subject property in the context of adjoining properties.
(2) Sketch(es). Showing the nature of any construction or exterior alterations proposed indicating design, materials, colors, type of illumination and signs.
(b) Determination of Applicability. Upon receipt of an application for a building permit or other municipal authorization, the Building Commissioner shall use the standards of Section 1943.05 to determine whether the proposed action is governed by the provisions of this Chapter. If it is determined that the action is governed by such provisions, the Building Commissioner shall promptly transmit the application to the Bedford Historic Preservation Board.
(c) Standards for Review. The Bedford Historic Preservation Board shall evaluate the proposed action with respect to the design guidelines of Section 1943.09, as applicable.
(d) Approval/Disapproval. Within thirty (30) days after acceptance of a complete application by the Building Commissioner; the Bedford Historic Preservation Board shall either approve, approve with modification or disapprove the application (unless the applicant authorizes an extension in time). However, for applications proposing the demolition or moving of buildings or structures, the Board's action shall be limited to either approval or "delayed approval" as prescribed in Section 1943.10.
(e) Approval of Nonconforming Proposals. For applications which do not conform to the guidelines of Section 1943.09, the Bedford Historic Preservation Board may grant approval if it determines that there is no reasonable conforming alternative to the proposal and that a strict application of the guidelines would deny the owner a reasonable rate of return on the subject property or account to a taking of property without just compensation. In considering such approval, the Board shall take into account the relative historic and architectural significance of the subject property.
(f) Notifications. The Bedford Historic Preservation Board shall notify the applicant in writing of the time and location of its meeting. Subsequent to that meeting, the Board shall notify the applicant in writing of its determination, stating reasons for a determination of disapproval.
(Ord. 7139-99. Passed 7-6-99.)