Salinas Historical Resource Board reviews preservation strategies for city landmarks

The Salinas Historic Resources Board (HRB) meeting on July 7, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for stronger preservation measures for historical buildings in the city. A key discussion point was the concept of "demolition by neglect," where properties are allowed to deteriorate to the point of being unusable. Board members expressed concern over the lack of protections for such buildings, emphasizing the importance of adapting Monterey County's regulations to Salinas.

One board member highlighted a past case involving a Victorian house in Watsonville, which was stabilized through community fundraising but ultimately vanished. This incident underscored the necessity for a robust framework to prevent similar losses in Salinas. The board is considering implementing fees for those who violate preservation laws, aiming to deter the demolition of historical structures.

The HRB also discussed the process for designating buildings as historic resources. Currently, properties must be nationally or state registered or voluntarily designated at the local level. This means that the city can only designate city-owned properties as historic, leaving privately owned buildings vulnerable unless they are already on the list. The board acknowledged that without this designation, they have limited power to intervene in potential demolitions.

A significant point raised was the need for an updated survey of historical buildings, the first since 1989. This survey is expected to identify many significant structures that could be recommended for landmark status. Board members noted that many cities have established landmark processes, and Salinas should consider adopting a similar approach to protect its historical heritage.

In conclusion, the HRB's discussions highlighted a critical moment for Salinas as it seeks to enhance its preservation efforts. The anticipated survey and potential regulatory changes could pave the way for a more proactive stance on safeguarding the city's historical assets, ensuring that Salinas' rich architectural legacy is not lost to neglect or demolition.