The design guidelines listed below shall also be used when reviewing applications for a Certificate of Appropriateness.
(a) Existing Structures and Premises. Reconstruction or rehabilitation within the Historic District shall conform to the distinguishing, original exterior qualities or character of the structure, its site, and its environment, which convey its historical, cultural or architectural value.
(b) New Construction. The design of new structures and of additions to existing structures, including new site improvements, shall take into account the architectural style, general design, arrangement, texture, material, color, or other structures and premises within the District.
(c) Materials.
(1) All new structures and all reconstruction or remodeling of existing structures within the Historic District shall utilize natural traditional exterior materials such as brick, stone, masonry, glass and wood.
(2) The use of contemporary materials, such as aluminum, other metals, fiberglass and plastics for exterior surfaces on architecturally significant structures shall be prohibited, unless the use of such materials would contribute to preservation or enhancement of existing traditional materials and the overall integrity and longevity of a structure.
(d) Color. Traditional colors and combinations of those colors that are both identified with the origin or the era in which the structure of property was built, shall be used for exteriors for all new structures to be built, and reconstruction, remodeling and exterior maintenance of existing structures within the Historic District.
(e) Signs. All signs within the Historic District shall conform to color and material standards of this section and, be of such a style or design that reflects the era during which the structure was built. Sign size and shape shall also not be permitted to cover, "blank-out" or close existing window and doorway openings or otherwise hide important architectural features.
(f) Guidelines. The standards and design guidelines established in this chapter, or any design guidelines, design diagrams, or color guidelines later adopted by ordinance, are to be used in evaluating applications, unless the Board determines that a deviation from such provisions will not be contrary to the public interest and is warranted by special circumstances. In granting a deviation, the Board may prescribe appropriate conditions and safeguards to maintain the spirit and intent of this chapter. (Ord. 17-08. Passed 9-22-08.)