Historic district commission forwards Oak Grove proposal to Fayetteville City Council

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Fayetteville Historic District Commission voted Dec. 11 to forward a proposal to establish the Oak Grove Local Historic District, sending a draft ordinance and a recommendation of approval to Fayetteville City Council after a public hearing and staff presentation.

Staff member Kylie told the commission the petition initiating the district was properly submitted and the city clerk verified 34 of 47 property-owner signatures (72%); three additional signatures were received later, bringing support to just under 79%. She also reviewed the proposed boundary, which includes the eastern portion of the Wilson Park National Register Historic District, and described the area's architectural significance, highlighting the work and influence of Noah Fields Drake in the neighborhood.

The hearing drew neighbors who spoke in favor. Wade Caldwell, who identified himself as Noah Drake’s great-grandson and lives at 501 Forest Avenue, suggested the commission consider recognizing a walnut grove on historic Drake property at a later date. Resident Steven Dean urged approval and said, “I implore you to approve the draft ordinance.” John Blakencher and Mark Shapiro also voiced support for creating the local district.

Kylie noted the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program (SHPO) sent a letter dated Oct. 28 endorsing the proposal and praising the neighborhood’s cohesive historic fabric and ties to Drake. The Planning Commission also submitted a letter, from Chair Andrew Brink after its Nov. 10 meeting, indicating support and recommending related development variances to preserve the area’s historic character.

Chair Christine Myers asked for a motion to forward the Oak Grove Historic District and the draft ordinance to City Council with a recommendation of approval. Commissioner Sherry Coley moved to forward the proposal and recommend approval; a second was made (not named in the transcript). The commission took a voice vote; the chair called for ayes, heard no opposition, and announced the item will be forwarded to City Council recommending approval.

Under state statute, the Historic District Commission has 60 days to review comments and issue a final report and recommendation to City Council on the draft ordinance, Kylie said. Staff also reported that the Parkview Apartments were approved by the State Review Board and forwarded to the Keeper of the National Register at the U.S. Department of the Interior for further consideration.

The commission confirmed it will meet again in January and adjourned at about 5:52 p.m.