(A) The purpose of this chapter is to foster the preservation of historic structures and places within the township by enabling owners to voluntarily seek the creation of historic districts for their properties under applicable laws of the state. The purpose is also to safeguard property rights by requiring approval of a proposed historic district from each of the property owners within the proposed historic district.
(B) Historic preservation is hereby declared to be a public purpose and the Board of Trustees of the township may hereby regulate, in compliance with this chapter the construction, addition, alteration, repair, moving, excavation and demolition of resources in historic districts within the township limits.
(C) The intent of this chapter is to:
(1) Safeguard the heritage of the township by preserving districts which reflect elements of its history, architecture, archaeology, engineering or culture;
(2) Stabilize and improve property values in each district and the surrounding areas;
(3) Foster civic beauty;
(4) Strengthen the local economy; and
(5) Promote the use of historic districts for the education, pleasure and welfare of the citizens of the township and of the state.
(D) The Board of Trustees may by ordinance establish one or more historic districts. All historic districts shall be administered by the Historic District Commission pursuant to this chapter.
(Ord. 1016, Amendment 23, passed 4-23-2019)