Historic Preservation Commission approves 2025-26 work plan; adds survey language

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its 2025-26 work plan on a voice vote at a March 10 meeting, resolving to align the plan with the city fiscal year and to add specific language committing the commission to seek grant funding and conduct property surveys.

Chair Nate Myers opened the discussion by noting the plan needed small edits to reflect the fiscal year and to codify that the commission will both seek funding and perform surveys. Commissioner (speaker 4) moved to adopt the plan "as presented," and a colleague seconded the motion; the commission voted in favor and the chair declared the work plan approved.

The decision formalizes steps the commission has already been pursuing, including landmarking properties, updating surveys, and exploring district designations, commissioners said. Staff told commissioners that the work plan now coordinates with the city's budget cycle (fiscal year ends June 30) so staff can seek needed resources in time for implementation.

Gary Leitniss, the new senior planner who will serve as the commission's liaison, confirmed the city has budgeted funds for FY26 and that the ongoing budget process will determine allocations. "Those monies have already been put into the budget for fiscal year 26," Leitniss said, and added that he will present commission priorities to city council in April.

Commissioners said they preferred taking the time to do work correctly rather than rush to meet the current fiscal-year deadline. The commission will continue prioritizing properties for survey and may use a mix of commissioner-led initial surveys and consultant contracts for full assessments.

The commission's next meeting is scheduled for April 14 at 4 p.m., when members plan to continue discussion of landmark candidates and ordinance language.