In addition to the purpose established for this overall code in Section 1123.01, it is the purpose of this chapter to promote and protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public as a matter of public policy through:
(a) The protection, enhancement and use of structures, sites and areas that are reminders of past eras and events and persons important in local, state, or national history;
(b) The development and maintenance of appropriate settings and general environment of the aforementioned structures, sites, and areas.
(c) The preservation and encouragement of a city of varied architectural styles, reflecting the distinct phases of Oxford's history. In addition, this chapter is intended to maintain and enhance the scale and basic character of Oxford's historic structures, sites, and areas through:
(d) Protecting and preserving the basic characteristics and salient architectural details of structures, insofar as the characteristics and details are compatible with the basic characteristics of Oxford's historic areas;
(e) Affording the widest possible scope of continuing vitality through private renewal and architectural creativity, within appropriate controls and standards. It is intended to foster a climate in which Oxford's historic areas may continue to exist as living, changing commercial and residential areas, not static museums;
(f) Encouraging development of vacant and incompatibly developed properties in accordance with character of the area; and
(g) Encouraging maximum use by and convenience to pedestrians.
(h) Fostering civic pride; and
(i) The provision of preservation information and advice to property owners and the general public. (Ord. 3530. Passed 6-4-19.)