Recognizing that the historical heritage of this state is one of its most important assets, it is the intent of the legislature that the counties, cities and towns of the state shall have the power to identify, preserve, protect and enhance historic and prehistoric areas in sites lying within their respective jurisdictions as provided in this chapter. The counties, cities, and towns are empowered to spend public funds for the purpose of identifying, preserving and protecting or enhancing historical areas on site as provided in this chapter. (1998 Code § 15.20.010; amd. 2010 Code)