(A) Creation. To execute the purpose of this chapter, the Cheboygan Historic Resources Commission is created.
(B) Membership and terms. The Commission consists of seven members who are residents of the city. The term of office is three years and the terms shall be staggered. The Mayor, subject to the approval of the Council, shall make appointments. Of the members first appointed, two shall be appointed for one year, two shall be appointed for two years, and three shall be appointed for three years. A member shall hold office until a successor is appointed. A member may be reappointed. Terms shall expire on March 31st. The Mayor, subject to Council approval within 60 days of the vacancy, shall fill a vacancy for the unexpired term. Members of the Commission serve without compensation, and shall be removable for cause by the Council.
(C) Qualifications. A majority of the members shall have demonstrated interest, competence, or knowledge of historic preservation.
(D) Rules.
(1) The Commission shall elect from its membership a Chair, Vice-Chair and Secretary at the first meeting each year. The Chair shall preside over the Commission and have the right to vote. The Vice-Chair shall preside in the absence of the Chair. The Secretary, or his or her delegate, shall keep an accurate record of the proceedings of the Commission.
(2) The Commission shall meet at the call of the Chair, Secretary or two members of the Commission.
(3) A majority of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of its business. The Commission shall adopt rules for the transaction of its business that shall provide for the time and place of holding meetings. All meetings of the Commission shall be public, and any person shall be entitled to appear and be heard on any matter being considered by the Commission.
(4) The Commission shall keep a record, which shall be open to the public for view, of its resolutions, proceedings, and actions. The concurring affirmative vote of four members shall constitute approval of plans before it for review, or for the adoption of any resolution, motion or other action of the Commission. The Commission shall submit an annual report of its activities to the Council.
(5) No member of the Commission shall vote on any matter that may directly affect the property, income, or business interest of that member.
(E) Staff. The Commission may be provided with reasonable staff assistance, upon the request of the Commission. The Commission may delegate to the staff such responsibility and authority as it determines will be appropriate to carry out routine activities. The Commission also may utilize the services of volunteer consultants and paid consultants, within the limits of available funding.
(F) Budget. There may be appropriated in the city's annual budget a sum of money for historic preservation for or in connection with:
(1) The preparation of surveys.
(2) The preservation of historic resources.
(3) The acquisition by purchase or condemnation of property(s), structure(s), easement(s) or other rights. The Commission shall make recommendations to the Council concerning such acquisitions.
(4) Staff support.
(5) Training for all staff and public officials responsible for the implementation of this chapter, especially to provide technical knowledge of the principles, practicality and cost of historic preservation.
(6) Programs of assistance to property owners, including but not limited to education, consultation, research assistance and assistance in locating contractors offering unique services required in historic preservation work.
(7) Programs to recognize property owners' historic preservation achievements, including but not limited to the award of certificates or plaques for display by property owners.
(8) Other activities taken in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. passed 3-12-02)