(a) The Downtown Bellevue Architectural Review Design Standards hereinafter created shall serve to protect and preserve the value and appearance of property on which buildings are constructed or altered, to maintain a high character of community development, to protect the public health, safety, convenience and welfare and to protect real estate within the geographic areas zone B-1 pursuant to Chapter 1205 of the City of Bellevue Planning and Zoning Code. Such purposes shall be accomplished by adhering to accepted and recognized architectural principles, the design, use of materials, color scheme, finished grade lines, dimensions, orientation and location of all main and accessory buildings to be created, moved, altered, remodeled or repaired. Requirements set forth in the Chapter are in addition to provisions of the Zoning and Building Codes and other applicable ordinances of the City and State.
(b) Based on prior community planning, the Bellevue City Council and Planning Commission hereby find and determine that the establishment of guidelines for the construction, erection, alteration, removal, moving or demolition of buildings and structures in "Downtown Bellevue" is vital to the preservation of the educational, cultural, economic and general welfare of the community as a whole and all residents. It is further found and determined that the following purposes shall be served by the establishment of such requirements by this Chapter:
(1) Promotion of the preservation of buildings, structures and sites which reflect the cultural, social, economic, political or architectural heritage of "Downtown Bellevue" for the education and general welfare of the residents of the Municipality.
(2) Protection and enhancement of the attractiveness of "Downtown Bellevue" as it relates to residents, tourists and visitors, serving as a support and stimulant to business, and thereby strengthening the economy of the Municipality and its residents;
(3) Stabilization and increase of property values within "Downtown Bellevue;"
(4) Compatibility of any and all construction of new improvements and buildings and modifications of existing structures with the architectural character of "Downtown Bellevue";
(5) Enhancement of the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interests of "Downtown Bellevue;"
(6) Preservation and further enhancement of civic pride of the residents of the Municipality in the beauty of "Downtown Bellevue"; and
(7) Protection of the property rights of owners whose property lies within areas of "Downtown Bellevue."
(Ord. 2-15. Passed 2-23-15.)