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Historic Preservation commissioners push for faster COA reviews and more owner outreach
Summary
At a study session, commissioners and staff discussed accelerating Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) timelines, creating a contact list and quarterly status updates, and a clearer process for small amendments to previously approved COAs to reduce delays that affect downtown tenants and businesses.
At a study session of the Historic Preservation Commission, members and staff discussed steps to shorten the time between COA application and decision and to improve outreach to property owners so tenants are not stalled by permitting uncertainty. The discussion focused on applicant timelines, staff capacity and notice requirements, a possible owner-contact list, and how to handle small changes to previously approved COAs.
The commission heard from staff member Sarah, who described typical lead times and administrative constraints. “My preference is generally have about 2 months,” Sarah said of the ideal timeline from pre-application through final filing; she added the fastest case she has handled was “about a month” when an applicant submitted a complete package. Sarah also noted administrative limits:…
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