137.03 PURPOSE.

   The purpose of the Landmark Commission is to designate landmarks in the City pursuant to the procedures hereinafter described, in order to preserve, protect, and perpetuate places, buildings, structures, works of art, and other objects having a special historical, community, or aesthetic interest or value, all for the reasons described in the remainder of this section.

   (a)   To safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving sites and structures which reflect elements of the City's cultural, social, economic, political or architectural history;

   (b)   To stabilize and improve property values;

   (c)   To protect and enhance the City's attractions to residents, tourists and visitors, and serve as a support and stimulus to business;

   (d)   To enhance the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interest of the City;

   (e)   To foster civic pride in the beauty and notable accomplishments of the past;

   (f)   To promote the use and preservation of historic sites and structures for the education and general welfare of the people of the City;

   (g)   To strengthen the economy of the City; and

   (h)   To take whatever steps as may be necessary to safeguard the property rights of the owners whose property is declared to be a "landmark" or is located in an area designated as a "Landmark District".

      (Ord. 92-186. Enacted 11-23-92.)