Council of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, hereinafter referred to as the "City", hereby declares as a matter of policy that the preservation, protection, perpetuation and use of areas, places, buildings, structures, works of art and other objects having a special, historical, community or aesthetic interest or value is a public necessity and is required in the interest of the health, prosperity, safety and welfare of the residents of the City. The purpose of this chapter is to:
(a) Maintain and enhance the distinctive character of historic preservation districts and listed properties by safeguarding the architectural integrity of the various period structures within and about them which together create a rare panorama of Americana, and to prevent intrusions and alterations within preservation districts that would be incompatible with this established character;
(b) Protect and compliment the singular historic and architectural quality of the area hereinafter defined as the preservation 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 community shall be safeguarded as listed properties and allowed that measure of protection afforded by a thorough study of alternatives to incompatible alterations or demolition before such acts are performed; and
(d) Contribute to the economic, 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; and
(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 residents of the City and the State of Ohio.
(Ord. 1981-173. Passed 11-1-83.)