These guidelines and standards are in addition to those listed in Chapter 1135 of the Zoning Ordinance.
(a) In its consideration of whether a proposed alteration or new construction is deserving of a zoning certificate (ZC), the Commission shall consider the guidelines set forth in the Downtown Mason Design Guidelines Handbook.
(b) In its considerations of whether a proposed alteration is deserving of a ZC, the Commission may consider the cost of modifications, where costs for a particular action or inaction may be unreasonable given existing conditions of a structure, site or area.
(c) The Commission shall encourage repairs and alterations to landmark and contributing structures, not including demolition, that are compatible with their existing architectural form, design and materials. Additions to landmark and contributing buildings shall be contemporary but compatible in form, style and materials with the original structure. This work shall be guided by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, per this chapter.
(d) The Commission shall be flexible in its review of plans for alteration, repair or demolition of background and non-historic buildings, as well as other sites and areas of little historic or cultural value, except where the repair, alteration or demolition would seriously impair the historic value and character of surrounding landmark and contributing structures or of the surrounding downtown area.
(e) Alteration, additions or new construction shall not be limited to any one period or architectural style. Historic periods represented by landmark and contributing buildings in the downtown area will be respected, and new work shall be harmonious and compatible with existing character of the downtown.
(f) The requirements in this chapter and the Downtown Mason Design Guideline Handbook are minimum requirements, and under no circumstance shall they preclude an applicant and the Commission from agreeing to more extensive requirements.
(g) The Commission may modify building design guidelines of the Downtown Mason Design Guideline Handbook when a proposed addition, new construction, or project does not meet the minimum standards but is deemed to be a quality project by the majority of Commission members.
(h) The Commission may request experts to aid in its deliberations subject to financial availability as approved by City Council.
(Ord. 2005-136, passed 11-28-2005; Ord. 2014-3, passed 2-10-2014)