(a) Purpose. In order to promote the economic and general welfare of the people of the City of Painesville and of the public generally, and to ensure the harmonious, orderly and efficient growth and development of the municipality, it is deemed essential by the City Council that the qualities relating to the history of the City and a harmonious outward appearance of structures which preserve property values and attract tourists and residents alike be preserved. Qualities related to the above-stated purpose include:
(1) To encourage the continued existence and preservation, and rehabilitation of historic areas and buildings;
(2) To ensure the continued construction of buildings in historic styles with a general harmony as to style, form, proportion, texture and material between buildings of historic design and those of more modern design;
(3) To recognize the importance of the preservation and protection of the old historic or architecturally worthy structures and quaint neighborhoods which impart a distinct aspect to the City and which serve as visible reminders of the historical and cultural heritage of the City, the state and the nation.
(4) To avoid demolition of historic structures.
(5) To ensure compatible additions to historic structures.
(b) Intent. It is the intent of these guidelines to promote and protect the public health, safety and welfare through:
(1) The preservation and encouragement of varied architectural styles within the City, reflecting the distinct phases of the City's history. In addition, this chapter is intended to maintain and enhance the scale and basic character of the Historic Preservation District through:
A. Ensuring compatibility between new, renovated and old structures.
B. Promoting the improvement and upgrading of properties in a manner which will benefit property in the area.
C. Improving and promoting amenities for the pedestrian.
D. Encouraging the development of vacant and incompatibly developed properties in accordance with the character of the area.
E. Affording the widest possible scope of continuing vitality through private renovation and architectural creativity, within appropriate control and standards.
F. Encouraging the protection, enhancement, perpetuation and use of structures, sites and areas that are reminders of past eras, events and persons important in local, state or national history, or which provide for this and future generations, examples of the physical surroundings in which past generations lived.
(2) Supporting the economic, recreational, cultural and educational development of the City by:
A. Stimulating business by making the City a more attractive location.
B. Protecting and enhancing attractions to residents, tourists and visitors.
C. Maintaining a high character of community development.
D. Protecting real estate from impairment or destruction of value.
E. Preserving, protecting, and improving the value, appearance and use of property.
F. Improving the quality of life by enhancing the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interest of the City.
G. Promoting the use and preservation of historical locations, architecturally significant structures and other notable objects and sites for the educational enrichment and general welfare of the people of the City and the state.
(Ord. 16-19. Passed 9-16-19.)