Commission approves multiple Mitchell district adjustments, reclassifications and an inventory update

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a series of state-recommended updates to the Mitchell Historic Commercial District, including boundary decreases, reclassification of specific Main Street buildings and acceptance of the state inventory of demolished properties.

Staff presented several grouped items from the state draft and asked the commission to move through them line by line. The commission voted unanimously to accept the state’s recommended boundary decreases after discussion about specific properties and the state’s rationale for retaining some buildings.

The commission also recommended that 208 and 210 North Main Street be changed back to "contributing" status after staff and project lead Larry confirmed recent rehabilitation, with the commission moving and seconding a recommendation for approval that passed by voice vote.

Separately, staff identified three Main Street properties (including 100 North Main and Bradley’s) where changes over time have rendered them noncontributing; the commission moved to reclassify those three properties as nonconforming. One commissioner (Jen) abstained because one of the buildings is hers; the motion carried with the remaining votes in favor.

Staff reviewed the inventory of properties recorded as demolished (lots including 301, 303, 305, 307, 512 and 522). Commissioners agreed to accept the state’s inventory assessment and approved that motion by voice vote.

Commissioners recorded a separate minute entry to object to mapping that would split an existing parcel by including a parking lot; that statement will be included in the minutes and transmitted to the state alongside other recommendations.

During discussion staff emphasized that the commission and SHPO are primarily complaint-driven and that neither body always has enforcement authority to prevent permitted work; commissioners noted the limits of local enforcement but said the review process and public comment provide opportunities to register concerns.

Chair (speaker 2) also directed commissioners to review updated materials on the South Dakota open meetings law included in the meeting packet; staff summarized rules about meeting notices, roll calls for remote participation, and executive sessions.

The meeting closed after a short public comment period; a motion to adjourn passed and the commission adjourned after about 42 minutes.