City Council Plans Multilingual Brochure Distribution for Harv District Property Owners

The City of York's Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss several initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and preserving the city's architectural heritage. A key focus of the meeting was the development of a new series of informational brochures intended for property owners within the HARB District.

These brochures are designed to provide clear guidelines on the review process for renovations and restorations, ensuring that property owners understand when they need to seek approval from HARB. The proposed brochures will be simple and visually accessible, with plans to include both English and Spanish versions to cater to a diverse community. There is also consideration for adding Haitian Creole, reflecting the city's commitment to inclusivity.

The board discussed the logistics of printing and distributing these materials, with the hope that Downtown Inc. would assist in the process. This initiative aims to streamline communication and provide essential information to new property owners, helping them navigate the requirements for maintaining the historical integrity of their buildings.

In addition to the brochure project, members touched on the importance of community outreach and the need for effective communication strategies. The board is looking to finalize the brochure designs by the next meeting, scheduled for September 11, 2025, and is eager to ensure that all relevant languages are represented.

As the city continues to grow and evolve, these efforts by HARB highlight a proactive approach to preserving York's rich architectural history while fostering a welcoming environment for all residents. The board's commitment to clear communication and community involvement is a step towards ensuring that York's historical character is maintained for future generations.