City Council Minutes 2006 03 21 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes March 21, 2006 Page 6 of 15 PRESENTATION - HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT Mayor Sisk requested a Staff presentation. Community Facilitator Muth reviewed the Historic Preservation Commission's Annual Report, which highlights the Commission's work during the course of the year. The Annual Report included a Demolition Spreadsheet; Preservation Map, and an Economics, Sustainability and Historic Preservation Speech. Past Chairperson Michael Koertje presented the 2005 Annual Report. He reported the adoption of the Ordinance No. 1463, Series 2005, provided the City with a certified local government status, pursuant to the rules of the State Historic Society and the United States Department of the Interior. This allows the City to compete for State Historic Funds for structures in Louisville. In 2005 the Commission also adopted Rules of Procedures and a Preservation Hand Book. He stated the Commission was gratified when the City Landmarked five Louisville properties, including the three museum buildings, the Arts Center and the Austin-Niehoff House. Chairperson Heather Lewis outlined the Historic Preservation Commission's 2006 goals. She addressed demolitions requests received by the Historic Commission, and noted the Commission did not put any stays any of those requests. As a result, the demolitions are having an impact on the City. One of the Commission's goals would be to provide incentives to owners to restore their historic properties. Another goal is public education programs and outreach to the community. She suggested architectural design reviews for buildings in Old Town Louisville be a discussion item for a future Council Study Session. Council member Sackett objected to the reports' addition of a letter written by Donavan D. Rypkema. He requested approval of the report with the omission of the letter. Community Facilitator Muth explained the letter was added for educational purposes. Council member Muckle addressed a home located at 1116 Lincoln, where a partial demolition was proposed. He explained the home was not restored or renovated, but totally demolished. He asked what the consequences are for such actions and what the City could do to discourage such practices. Community Facilitator Muth stated the Commission was aware the home was to be partially demolished. However, the contractor determined the house would not structurally withstand what the property owners wished to accomplish, and therefore demolished the rest of the home.