Historic Preservation Commission reviews Mills Act applications for unique properties

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, discussions centered around the Mills Act, a program designed to encourage the preservation of historic properties through property tax reductions. The meeting highlighted a specific project seeking a Mills Act contract, which aims to support the maintenance and rehabilitation of a historic building.

City staff explained the process for evaluating applications under the Mills Act. They assess whether the property is located within a historic district and meets the criteria outlined in the Mills Act ordinance. Key to this evaluation is the proposed maintenance and rehabilitation plan, which is essential for ensuring that the property remains preserved. Without the financial incentive provided by the Mills Act, many historic buildings would struggle to maintain their integrity.

The project in question has already received approval from the Historic Preservation Commission, confirming that it meets the Secretary of the Interior's standards for rehabilitation. However, the complexity of the project raised questions about whether the property tax reduction could apply to the entire improved property or just the historic portion. City officials clarified that the Mills Act contract could only cover the portion of the property that is historically significant.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the implications of potentially denying the application. If the request were not approved, the project could still be modified and re-presented, but any changes would require new entitlements and a fresh review process.

This discussion underscores the ongoing efforts in San Francisco to balance development with the preservation of its rich historical heritage. As the city continues to navigate these complex projects, the outcomes will significantly impact the preservation of its historic buildings and the community's cultural landscape.