Sandusky OKs change to Landmarks Commission to allow up to two nonresidents with local ties

The Sandusky City Commission voted June 23 to amend the city's landmark ordinance to allow up to two members of the Sandusky Landmarks Commission to live outside the city if they demonstrate a substantial connection to Sandusky, such as owning property or a business.

The change was adopted under suspension of the rules; the commission recorded a majority vote in favor. Supporters, including staff and planning commissioners, said the amendment responds to difficulty finding residents with historic-preservation expertise. Opponents urged the city to first pursue stronger local recruitment and training.

Aaron Blair, the city's chief planner, told the commission that historic preservation is a strategic priority and that the Landmarks Commission has struggled to recruit members with niche expertise. "Historic preservation is popular and supported across the community," Blair said, adding that the proposed change would allow "up to 2 members of the board to sit and be residents outside the city if they also still have a significant connection to the city." Blair said examples of qualifying connections include owning property or a business in Sandusky.

At the public hearing several speakers urged caution. A resident who identified themself as West Pool said the claim that the change was necessary to maintain the city's status as a certified local government (CLG) through the State Historic Preservation Office was inaccurate and recommended the commission delay action to study why locals are not applying to serve. Blair and others said the proposed language follows SHPO guidance that required disciplines be represented "as available in the community."

Commission debate focused on two issues: whether residency requirements were preventing boards from getting needed expertise (notably architecture) and whether the city should first increase outreach and training to recruit local volunteers. Commissioner Scribe said he was conflicted and preferred a compromise, while Commissioner Pujali and others noted the Planning Commission had voted 5-1 in favor of the change.

The ordinance's draft language specifies that up to two nonresident members would qualify if they "provide historic preservation expertise and have a substantial connection to the city by owning property or a business in Sandusky or other substantial connection as defined by the city commission when appointed." The commission noted that any nominee still must be appointed by the commission, providing an additional check on eligibility.

The ordinance was adopted after roll-call voting. Commissioners recorded yes and no votes during the carried motion; the measure passed and will take effect in accordance with the city charter.

Commissioners and staff also discussed pursuing a broader review of boards and commissions to address volunteer recruitment and attendance; the law director was asked to begin that process for the commission's consideration.

The city clerk recorded the ordinance as passed June 23; any specific appointments under the amended language will come before the commission for approval.