A. The village board of trustees hereby finds that excessive similarity, or dissimilarity, in design and appearance of buildings and other structures, in relation to the prevailing design and appearance of property in the vicinity thereof:
1. Adversely affects the desirability of immediate and neighboring areas and impairs the benefits of occupancy of existing property in such areas;
2. Impairs the stability and taxable value of land and buildings in such areas;
3. Prevents the most appropriate use of real estate and the most appropriate development of such areas;
4. Produces degeneration of property in such areas with attendant deterioration of conditions affecting the public health, safety, comfort, morals and well being of the citizens thereof;
5. Deprives the village of tax revenue which it otherwise could receive; and/or
6. Destroys a proper balance in relationship between the taxable value of real property in such areas and the cost of the municipal services provided therefor.
B. In order to protect the village of Lake Bluff's natural and architectural environment, to enhance property values, and to promote the health, safety, and welfare of the village and its residents, the board of trustees has established these architectural review procedures and regulations. (Ord. 2013-4, 2-25-2013)