The City Commission, being mindful of the proud history of this community and of the importance of beauty in the everyday lives of our citizens, declares as a matter of public policy that the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and overall aesthetic improvement of our community are matters of public necessity involving the health, safety, prosperity and welfare of the people. In the last decade, the importance of assisting private property owners in creating a cohesive and attractively designed downtown area has been impressed upon the public sector. The economic health of an area is reflected by the appearance of the "heart" of that area, its downtown. Therefore, the purpose of this chapter is to:
(a) Maintain and enhance the distinctive character of the Downtown by safeguarding the architectural integrity of the various period structures within it, and to prevent intrusions and alterations within this district that would be incompatible with this established character.
(b) Maintain and enhance the distinctive character of the properties in the Downtown by safeguarding the architectural integrity of the various period structures.
(c) Provide for a means of design review for other aspects of community development within the Downtown area that will be of any assistance in achieving a more pleasing environment for the residents of and visitors to the City, as well as prospective businesses and developers.
(Ord. 23-196. Passed 10-9-23.)