Council being mindful, during the national bicentennial, of the proud history of this City, and of the importance of a measure of beauty in the everyday lives of the residents hereby declares as a matter of public policy that the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and overall aesthetic improvement of certain areas, structures, objects and works of art within the City are matters of public necessity involving the health, safety, prosperity and welfare of the people. The purpose of this chapter is to:
(a) Maintain and enhance the distinctive character of historic preservation districts by safeguarding the architectural integrity of the various period structures within them which together create a rare panorama of Americana, and to prevent intrusions and alterations within the districts that would be incompatible with this established character;
(b) Protect, and compliment the singular historic and architectural quality of the Boneyfiddle District which is essentially devoid of a random mixture of older and contemporary structures and their modifications;
(c) Provide for the establishment of procedures whereby certain areas, structures, objects and works of art of historic, architectural or cultural importance to the City shall be safeguarded and allowed that measure of protection afforded by a thorough study of alternatives to incompatible alterations or demolition before such acts are performed;
(d) Contribute to the economic, recreational, cultural and educational development of the City by:
(1) Stimulating business and attracting industry;
(2) Protecting and enhancing attractions to residents, tourists and visitors;
(3) Stabilizing and improving property values;
(4) Improving the quality of life by enhancing the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interest of the City;
(5) Fostering civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the past;
(6) Promoting the use and preservation of historic locations, architecturally significant structures and other notable objects and sites for the education, enrichment and general welfare of the people of the City and the State.
(Ord. 1976-134. Passed 10-26-76.)