(A) The oldest and most historic part of the city contains, in addition to the original town plan, important open spaces and numerous structures of historic value and outstanding architectural design. This area is of great importance to the social, economic, and general welfare of the city and should be protected.
(B) It is the purpose of this chapter to safeguard the heritage of the city by establishing a historic district. The chapter shall establish the means of protecting the district's natural and man-made heritage while providing guidelines for compatible new architectural development. It is the intent of the chapter to stabilize and improve property values within the district, to foster civic beauty and improvements, to strengthen the local economy, and to promote the use of the historic district for the education, pleasure, and welfare of the citizens of the city, state, and nation in accordance with the regulations set forth herein.
(Ord. 1982-12, passed 7-31-82; Am. Ord. 1987-12-B, passed 7-21-87)