In order to promote the educational, cultural and general welfare of the citizens of the city and to ensure the harmonious and orderly growth and development of the municipality; to maintain established residential neighborhoods in danger of having their distinctiveness destroyed; to enhance property values and attract new residents; to ensure the viability of the traditional downtown area and to enhance tourism within the city, it is deemed essential by the city that qualities relating to its history and harmonious outward appearance of its structures be preserved. This purpose is advanced through the restoration and preservation of historic areas and buildings, the construction of compatible new buildings where appropriate, and the maintenance and insurance of compatibility in regards to style, form, proportion, texture and material between historic buildings and those of contemporary design. It is the intention of the city through this chapter to preserve and protect historic and architecturally worthy buildings, structures, sites, monuments, streetscapes and neighborhoods which impart a distinct aesthetic quality to the city and serve as visible reminders of its historic heritage.
(Ord. 10-12, passed 7-12-2010)