Council discusses shrinking proposed historic‑preservation district; sends matter back to HP committee

The council held an extensive discussion of a proposed Historic Preservation (HP) District map and the community feedback from a recent town hall. No ordinance was adopted at the meeting; instead, councilmembers directed the HP committee to meet again, refine boundary options and return a recommendation to the council.

City staff presented three preliminary options for the district: option 1 (facades immediately surrounding the square); option 2 (option 1 plus selected landmarks outside the square, such as the train depot and other heritage sites); and option 3 (a larger area extending along Elm and Flynn and including the heritage block). Staff noted the original public mailing had caused confusion because the initial mailed graphic appeared as a large circle instead of the actual outlined parcels.

Council members said several business owners urged starting with a smaller, successful district concentrated around the square and then expanding, while others recommended adding nearby landmark properties or extending the boundaries northward to capture turning points into the square. Concerns raised included clear communications to property owners, the possibility of owners making exterior changes before an expanded district is adopted, and whether preservation incentives and grant funding could support private rehabilitation.

Council discussion ended with direction to return map options to the HP committee and to bring an updated proposal back to the council for a subsequent public hearing and required mailings and publication. Staff confirmed that a new public hearing and mailed notice will be required once a final map is prepared.