(A) The demolition or relocation of a structure may only be considered if the CHRC finds that the following conditions prevail:
(1) There is no viable economic use of the structure as it exists; and
(2) A written report by a contractor acceptable to the CHRC demonstrates it is not feasible to restore the structure.
(B) The CHRC may also take into consideration the following criteria when making their decision:
(1) The historic, scenic, cultural, aesthetic or architectural significance of the building, structure, site or object;
(2) The importance of the historic structure, building, site or object to the ambiance of a district;
(3) The difficulty or the impossibility of reproducing such a structure, building, site or object because of its design, texture, material, detail or unique location;
(4) Whether the historic structure, building, site or object is one of the last remaining examples of its kind in the city;
(5) Whether there are definite plans for reuse of the property if the proposed demolition is carried out, and what the effect of those plans on the character of the surrounding area would be;
(6) Whether the structure would be more appropriate in the proposed new location;
(7) Whether the property owner has listed the property for sale to attempt to save the structure;
(8) Whether reasonable measures can be taken to save the historic structure, building, site or object from collapse; and
(9) Whether the historic structure, building, site or object is capable of earning reasonable economic return on its value.
(C) Issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition must be followed by a demolition permit, as outlined within the Piqua Development Code - Title XV - Article 7 (Administration). Demolition adjacent to sensitive historic structures must present liability insurance sufficient to cover unintentional damage to adjacent historic structures. A plan must be submitted to demonstrate how loss of adjacent historic property will be prevented.
(Ord. 3-24, passed 5-21-24)