(a) The Downtown Development Design Review Board hereinafter created shall serve to protect and preserve the value and appearance of property on which buildings are constructed or altered, to maintain a high character of community development, to protect the public health, safety, convenience and welfare and to protect real estate within the geographic area identified as "Downtown Uhrichsville" from impairment or destruction of value. Such purposes shall be accomplished by the Board by recommending, according to accepted and recognized architectural principles, the design, use of materials, color scheme, finished grade lines, dimensions, orientation and location of all main and accessory buildings to be created, moved, altered, remodeled or repaired, subject to the provisions of the Zoning and Building Codes and other applicable ordinances of the Municipality and State. In reviewing and making recommendations on proposed building plans and alterations, the Board shall consider and take cognizance of the development of adjacent, contiguous and neighboring buildings and properties for the purpose of achieving safe, harmonious and integrated development of related properties.
(1) The purpose of such recommendation shall be to help increase property values and commerce in general.
(2) The Board shall act in an advisory capacity to any officer, board or commission of the Municipality.
(3) In order to review and make recommendations on any proposed exterior alterations to real estate within "Downtown Uhrichsville", the Board may require drawings, plans, specifications or studies to be submitted according to the provisions of this Policy for its evaluation.
(b) Council hereby finds and determines that the establishment of guidelines for the construction, erection, alteration, removal, moving or demolition of buildings and structures in
"Downtown Uhrichsville" is vital to the preservation of the educational, cultural, economic and general welfare of "Downtown Uhrichsville" and of the residents of the Municipality. Council further finds that the following purposes will be served by the establishment of such guidelines by this Policy:
(1) Promotion of the preservation of buildings, structures and sites which reflect the cultural, social, economic, political or architectural heritage of "Downtown Uhrichsville" for the education and general welfare of the residents of the Municipality.
(2) Protection and enhancement of the attractiveness of "Downtown Uhrichsville" as it relates to residents, tourists and visitors, serving as a support and stimulant to business and thereby strengthening the economy of the Municipality and its residents.
(3) Stabilization and increase of property values within "Downtown Uhrichsville."
(4) Compatibility of any and all construction of new improvements and buildings and modifications of existing structures with the architectural character of "Downtown Uhrichsville."
(5) Enhancement of the visual and aesthetic character, diversity and interests of "Downtown Uhrichsville."
(6) Preservation and further enhancement of civic pride of the residents of the Municipality in the beauty of "Downtown Uhrichsville,"
(7) Protection of the property rights of owners whose properties are located within areas of "Downtown Uhrichsville."
(Ord. 13-22. Passed 10-13-22.)