Historic Preservation Commission Agenda and Packet 2018 08 20

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Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page7of9 Trice replied that it was not complicated in implementation, but it was complicated in outreach for people who were looking to buy a landmarked property or getting involved in the program. Dickinson agreed that the marketing and simplifying of the message was crucial, but the rules were in place for a reason. Trice asked if it would be helpful to have alternative options for the second question — coming back with ways to simplify the process. The Commission agreed that this would be helpful. Cyndi Thomas stated that eliminating the focused and flexible grants might be helpful. Dickinson stated the $1000 incentive was inconsequential and strange to receive as someone on the other side of the grant process. He suggested it would be easier to explain to the public a process where commissioners and staff could say, "If you landmark, you can get $50,000. Here's how." That would be easier to explain instead of having so many different amounts as you reach and apply for different benchmarks. Cyndi Thomas asked about the intent of question three. Trice stated that the question addressed the new construction grant amounts for commercial grants. The alteration certificate and the new construction grant conflict with each other based on what materials the structures are supposed to be used. Cyndi Thomas replied that the issue should be easy to resolve and the Commission should stick to the Secretary of the Interior requirements. Chuck Thomas concurred. Trice summarized next steps for staff: (1) Come back with an option for a simpler process for participating in the fund. (2) Survey recent grant recipients to evaluate the total costs of their projects and the percent covered by the City. (3) Look into changing the language on new construction grants. She asked what the Commission thought about the HSA amounts. Cyndi Thomas replied that the process seemed fine, but the amounts should be increased. Haley concurred. Trice asked about commercial grant amounts. The Commission agreed that the amounts were generous. Chuck Thomas added that the process could be simplified. Chuck Thomas moved to adjourn for a break due to the hailstorm. Dickinson seconded. Adjourned at 7:35 PM. Call back to order at 7:48 PM.