Local landmark status sought to protect historic buildings near Samsung site

The Historical Landmarks Commission meeting held on July 10, 2025, in Salt Lake City focused on the local landmark designation for the Samsung building and its surrounding structures. The meeting began with a discussion about the motivation behind seeking local landmark status, which was primarily driven by concerns over potential structural damage due to nearby construction activities. The applicant emphasized that achieving local landmark status would provide essential protections for the building, particularly regarding height regulations and foundation stability.

The applicant detailed the financial implications of maintaining the buildings, noting that the costs associated with preservation efforts amounted to approximately $750,000 over eight years, which translates to about $50,000 per owner among the 14 involved. This financial burden was acknowledged as significant, especially for lower and middle-class owners.

The meeting also included a presentation of models illustrating the buildings' locations and their relationship to the surrounding urban environment. The models were created to address concerns about city development and its impact on the historic structures.

Following the presentations, the public hearing segment commenced, allowing community members to share their connections to the buildings. Cindy Cromer, a speaker with a personal history tied to the Samsung building, recounted her experiences dating back to the 1970s. She highlighted the building's historical significance and the long-standing ownership by the Sampson family, which contributed to its preservation.

The meeting concluded with a sense of community engagement and a commitment to preserving the historical integrity of the buildings. The commission will continue to evaluate the application for local landmark status, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings.