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Skagway HDC warns slow ‘‘creep’’ of noncompliant signage risks National Historic Landmark status; urges ordinance 2501
Summary
Commissioners discussed the risk that cumulative alterations could jeopardize the Skagway And White Pass National Historic Landmark designation, urged better enforcement of signage rules and recommended adding historic-district notices to property title reports; Chair said he will draft a letter to the assembly supporting ordinance 2501.
Commissioners at the Skagway Historic District Commission meeting on April 28 discussed the long-term risk that incremental changes to storefronts, signage and alterations could erode the integrity of the Skagway And White Pass National Historic Landmark and, over time, trigger a reevaluation of the designation.
Commissioner Heights summarized guidance from the National Park Service regional architectural historian in Anchorage, noting that a landmark can be withdrawn if the qualities that conveyed its significance are lost. Heights said the regional office monitors designated properties and may initiate reevaluation when integrity is compromised.
Commissioner Pomeroy, reflecting on enforcement challenges, warned against the "slow creep" of nonconforming signs and said the commission must seek alternatives for businesses to market themselves without undermining the historic streetscape: "We don't see it when it's just one little sign here and maybe another there... We don't realize what a big deal it is until this looks like a giant neon fest," Pomeroy said.
Several commissioners said that some businesses have installed signs or window graphics without prior HDC approval. Chair Steve Heitz and others recommended giving the commission stronger enforcement tools. Heitz said ordinance 2501 would provide the municipality with enforcement "teeth" so the permitting office could escalate to fines when unauthorized signage persists after notice. Heitz said he would draft a two-paragraph letter for the assembly packet and encouraged HDC members to attend the assembly meeting where 2501 will be read for second reading.
Commissioner Rosemary Liebert said property buyers sometimes do not know when a building is designated historic and suggested adding a notice to title reports so prospective purchasers are aware of restrictions and potential repair obligations. Heitz supported asking the city attorney and assembly to consider such a change to title documentation.
The commission also reviewed examples from other places where the National Park Service placed landmarks on endangered lists or considered withdrawal when cumulative changes or erosion undermined integrity; commissioners emphasized that monitoring and enforcement are necessary to retain the landmark designation and preserve Skagway’s tourism character.
No formal motion was recorded to change title reporting; the commission recorded intent to seek assembly action and Heitz said he would prepare a short letter to include with the assembly packet for the May 1 meeting so HDC members can make public comment at the second-reading hearing.
