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Residents urge repair of South Historic District gas lamps; commissioners note need for public input and historic‑board review
Summary
Public commenters urged the commission to fund repair and relighting of historic gas lamps in the South Historic District; staff said options (gas vs. solar) are being researched and that historic‑preservation review is required.
During public comment on April 24, residents urged the commission to fund repair and relighting of gas lamps in the South Historic District to preserve historic character and spur heritage tourism.
Pam Harris, who said she has long lived in several Palatka historic districts, asked the commission to fund repair and relighting of gas lamps and argued the existing gas lines should be used. “This is an invaluable enhancement to the historic character of the city. The gas lines are there and why wouldn't you use them?” Harris said.
Residents and commissioners discussed alternatives such as solar lighting; staff cautioned that solar lights have different performance, maintenance and placement considerations. The CRA coordinator and staff said the proposal has not been finalized, that community input and research are ongoing, and that the project will require review by the Historic Preservation Board before any work proceeds.
Commissioners and staff asked for community canvassing and noted that choices about power source, design and funding would be part of a future CRA and Historic Preservation Board process. No appropriation or formal action was taken at the meeting.
