The purposes of this chapter are to:
(a) Establish procedures whereby a high character of community development can be encouraged and maintained to protect and preserve property, to promote the stability of property values and to protect real estate from impairment or destruction of value, for the general community welfare, by regulating the exterior architectural characteristics of structures throughout the District. It is the further purpose of this chapter to recognize and preserve the distinctive environmental and architectural character of this community which has been greatly influenced by the architecture of an earlier period in this community's history. These purposes will be achieved by the regulation of exterior design, use of materials, landscaping and orientation of all structures hereinafter altered, constructed, reconstructed, erected, enlarged or remodeled in the District.
(b) Achieve the following objectives:
(1) Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving areas, places, sites, buildings and structures which reflect elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political or architectural heritage.
(2) Maintain and enhance the distinctive character of historic buildings and historic areas in the designated area.
(3) Afford and encourage the widest possible scope of continuing vitality through private renewal and architectural creativity within appropriate controls and standards.
(4) Seek alternatives to demolition of architecturally important buildings or incompatible alterations before such acts are performed.
(5) Safeguard the architectural integrity of the City's listed properties and historic resources within the designated District and listed properties.
(6) Encourage development of vacant properties and redevelopment of blighted or nonconforming properties within the District in accordance with the character of the designated District and listed properties.
(7) Maintain the "Village" character from which the City originated.
(c) Contribute to the economic, recreational, cultural and educational development of the City by:
(1) Promoting the use and preservation of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the people of the City.
(2) Protecting and enhancing the City's attractions to prospective residents, tourists and visitors.
(3) Facilitating the reinvestment in and revitalization of certain older buildings.
(4) Fostering civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the past.
(5) Providing support and stimulus to business and industry.
(6) Stabilizing and improving property values.
(7) Strengthening the economy of the City.
(d) Designate the Planning and Zoning Commission for the enforcement of the regulations applicable to the District.
(Ord. 94-46. Passed 7-5-94; Ord. 2000-77. Passed 8-1-00.)