(A) Establishment and purpose. The Historic Preservation Commission is established to preserve, promote, encourage and support the maintenance, use and reuse of historic buildings in the city. The purpose of the Commission is to foster civic beauty, stabilize and increase property values, strengthen the local economy, maintain and enhance the distinctive character, safeguard the city's heritage, and facilitate reinvestment and revitalization through historic preservation.
(B) Composition and appointment. The Commission shall consist of not less than five nor more than seven members appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by a majority of the members of Council and shall have all the powers and duties provided in the charter, the state statutes, and the planning and zoning-related codes. Members must be residents of the city, with at least two members residing east of Main Street, at least two members residing west of Main Street, and one member who owns a downtown building or a downtown business. All members must have demonstrated a special interest, experience, or knowledge in history, architecture, historic preservation, or related disciplines. At least two members must be preservation related professionals to the extent such professionals are available in the city. This shall include the professions of architecture, architectural history, history, archaeology, planning, or related discipline. Members' terms shall be four years. The initial terms shall be established so the terms overlap: two members' terms shall terminate in two years; two members' terms in three years; and one member's term in four years.
(C) Organization. The Commission shall elect its own chairperson, secretary, and such other officers as it deems advisable. The Commission shall have full power to organize itself and to determine its own rules, regulations, bylaws and meeting schedule. The Commission shall not meet less than four times per year.
(Ord. 8714, passed 10-15-2018; Am. Ord. 8878, passed 3-15-2021)