(a) Whenever an application is made to the Building Department for a building permit to modify an existing landmark in any of these manners:
(1) Building to be enlarged, remodeled or constructed;
(2) Sign, wall or walk to be installed;
(3) Demolition or rehabilitation project; and/or
(4) Grading, planting or landscaping,
that application shall be promptly referred to the Historical and Architectural Protection and Preservation Commission for its review and approval under the provisions of this chapter before the permit request shall be granted. The Commission shall meet within a week and make its determination within ten days within receipt of the application. The applicant shall be notified to appear at the meeting. In its review, the Historical and Architectural Protection and Preservation Commission shall inquire into the general nature and the specific details of the application in order to determine whether the proposed request shall be appropriate within the intent of this chapter. In determining appropriateness, the Commission shall consider, in addition to other pertinent factors, the historical and architectural value and significance, architectural style, general design, texture and other visible external aspects of the other structures in immediate vicinity, in order to achieve a harmonious blend within the neighborhood. And in conducting its inquiry and review, the Commission may request from the applicant such additional information, sketches and data as it shall reasonably require. It may recommend to the applicant changes in the plans that it considers desirable, and can accept his voluntary amendment of the application to include or reflect such changes. The Commission Secretary shall keep a record of its proceedings and shall append to the application copies of information, sketches and data needed to clearly describe any amendment to it, such to be furnished by the applicant.
(b) When its review is concluded, the Commission shall determine, by vote of its members, whether the application for a permit as presented or as amended, shall be approved. If approved, the Commission shall return the application and appended material to the Building Inspector with the recommendation that the permit be issued, provided all other requirements are met. If not approved, the Commission shall return the application and appended material to the Building Inspector with the instruction that the permit not be issued because the intent and purposes of this chapter were not satisfied. When so instructed, the Building Inspector shall not issue the permit, and the applicant shall be notified of the decision and reasons for it.
(Ord. 489. Passed 9-3-74.)