Historic Preservation Commission Chair Discusses Demolition Permits and New Interpretive Signage in Hayden
September 24, 2025 | Hayden City, Kootenai County, Idaho
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Hayden's Historic Preservation Commission is making strides in preserving the city's rich history, as highlighted in their recent quarterly report presented at the Hayden City Council meeting on September 23, 2025. The commission has introduced new measures to assess the historical significance of structures slated for demolition, ensuring that the community's architectural heritage is respected and documented.
A key development is the addition of a checkbox on demolition permits for buildings over 50 years old. This allows commission members to evaluate whether a structure holds historical value. The first application under this new rule involved a carport at 142 East Hayden Avenue, which was ultimately deemed insignificant. The commission emphasized that their role is not to obstruct development but to gather historical information that could enrich the community's narrative.
In addition to demolition oversight, the commission is advancing interpretive signage projects. They have secured funding from Farm Credit Services to create an interpretive sign at Stoddard, with the help of Eagle Scout candidate Ryan Drapo, who is constructing the sign's framework. This initiative aims to educate residents and visitors about Hayden's history, particularly its agricultural roots, with plans for additional signs featuring QR codes that link to historical information.
The commission is also nearing the completion of a book titled "Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives: A History of Hayden, Idaho." The book is in the printing phase, and the commission is ensuring that its content is accurate and respectful of the community's stories. They are preparing a disclaimer to address potential errors and invite community input to enhance the publication's integrity.
These efforts reflect the commission's commitment to preserving Hayden's history while fostering community engagement and education. As these projects progress, they promise to deepen residents' connection to their heritage and inspire future developments that honor the city's unique story.
A key development is the addition of a checkbox on demolition permits for buildings over 50 years old. This allows commission members to evaluate whether a structure holds historical value. The first application under this new rule involved a carport at 142 East Hayden Avenue, which was ultimately deemed insignificant. The commission emphasized that their role is not to obstruct development but to gather historical information that could enrich the community's narrative.
In addition to demolition oversight, the commission is advancing interpretive signage projects. They have secured funding from Farm Credit Services to create an interpretive sign at Stoddard, with the help of Eagle Scout candidate Ryan Drapo, who is constructing the sign's framework. This initiative aims to educate residents and visitors about Hayden's history, particularly its agricultural roots, with plans for additional signs featuring QR codes that link to historical information.
The commission is also nearing the completion of a book titled "Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives: A History of Hayden, Idaho." The book is in the printing phase, and the commission is ensuring that its content is accurate and respectful of the community's stories. They are preparing a disclaimer to address potential errors and invite community input to enhance the publication's integrity.
These efforts reflect the commission's commitment to preserving Hayden's history while fostering community engagement and education. As these projects progress, they promise to deepen residents' connection to their heritage and inspire future developments that honor the city's unique story.
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