Commission prioritizes Arts and Gateway districts, eyes federal Section 106 changes

At its June 24 meeting the Historic Preservation Commission discussed priorities for potential FY2027 projects and training and raised alarm about proposed federal changes to the Section 106 review process.

Staff presented a list of possible projects that included a historic context and survey for the Arts District, a Gateway District survey, an update to the Floydland Park National Register documentation, a Charleston Boulevard (Googie/midcentury) corridor survey and a local training "camp" for commissioners. Commissioners broadly agreed the Arts District and the Gateway District were time‑sensitive priorities and asked staff to provide maps and phased cost estimates so the commission can vote on priorities and budget at a future meeting.

Separately, Commissioner Harper and others flagged an Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) announcement on June 17 that proposed sweeping changes to the Section 106 review process (definitions of historic property, the effect standard, and public‑comment mechanics). Harper urged the commission to prepare a response and suggested an action item or a formal resolution. Jim Lewis from the city attorney's office urged caution about open‑meeting law constraints and recommended staff prepare an agenda item or a special meeting so the commission can publicly deliberate and, if desired, direct staff on a formal comment or resolution.

Next steps: staff will circulate maps and draft costs for proposed surveys and training; staff also will bring a draft agenda item on the ACHP changes so the commission can consider whether to draft a resolution or submit formal comments during the federal comment period.