(a) The purpose of this chapter is to provide the procedure by which the Planning Commission is to designate landmarks in the City pursuant to the procedures hereinafter described, in order to preserve, protect and perpetuate areas, sites, places, buildings, structures, works of art and other objects of a special historical, educational, community or aesthetic interest or value, all for the reasons described in the remainder of this section:
(1) To safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and structures which reflect elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political, educational or architectural history;
(2) To stabilize and improve property values
(3) To conduct a continuing survey of all areas, sites, places, buildings, structures, works of art or similar objects in the City that are culturally, socially, economically, politically, architecturally, educationally or historically significant which the Commission, on the basis of information available or presented to it, has reason to believe are or will be eligible for designation as landmarks;
(4) To protect and enhance the Citys attractions to residents, tourists and visitors, and serve as a support and stimulus to business by encouraging the location of business enterprises within the City in coordination with County and State agencies, and make such recommendations as are deemed necessary to accomplish this purpose;
(5) To enhance the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interest of the city by working with private groups, civic organizations and individuals, and to accept therefrom donations for the purposes of this chapter;
(6) To foster civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the area now known as the City;
(7) To promote the use, preservation, protection, restoration, reconstruction and rehabilitation of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the people of the City;
(8) To strengthen the economy of the City;
(9) To take whatever steps as may be necessary to safeguard the property rights of the owners whose property is declared to be a "landmark's or is located in an area designated as a "'Landmark District".
(Ord. 6707-1985. Passed 5-21-85.)