Mission

The mission of the Architectural Review Board is to preserve, protect, and enhance the character of significant historic, architectural, or cultural properties located in historic districts by ensuring the design compatibility and appropriateness of new construction and alterations therein. The board also identifies historic properties and recommends historic designation for such properties.

Responsibilities

The Architectural Review Board’s primary duty is to administer the historic district regulations adopted by City Council, particularly as pertains to the city’s historic districts (H-1, Historic District and H-2, Neighborhood Preservation District). In doing so, the Board reviews new construction, alterations and demolition of structures located within historic districts in accordance with zoning regulations and adopted architectural design guidelines, and provides architectural and design expertise to City Council, City Administration, and other City Boards.

The Board also recommends historic landmark status and historic district protection for properties of significant historic, architectural or cultural value in the city, while assisting applicants in maintaining and enhancing the contributing architectural features of historic buildings through informal workshops and individual work sessions.

Our Passion

The Architectural Review Board is a group of seven volunteer citizens who are appointed by City Council. They are people who, by virtue of their profession or experience, are interested in architecture, construction, urban planning, historic preservation, and design issues. They are neighborhood leaders, architects, planners, property owners, and others.