A.
The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 established the national historic preservation program, which operates as a decentralized partnership between the federal government and the state. The 1980 amendments to the National Historic Preservation Act authorized the Certified Local Government (CLG) program, a federal-state-local preservation partnership. Under this program, the Secretary of the Interior certifies local governments as CLGs if they meet several requirements developed by the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
B.
To maintain CLG status, the City must adhere to requirements which include maintenance of a local historic preservation commission with the power to designate or recommend designation of historic properties; provide historic preservation guidance; and approve or disapprove demolition, relocation, new construction, or exterior alteration affecting designated properties within its jurisdiction.
C.
Based on the above authority, and inasmuch as the City of Newburgh has many significant historic, architectural and cultural resources which constitute its heritage, this section is intended to establish an Architectural Review Commission to:
(1)
Foster public knowledge, understanding, and appreciation in the beauty and character of the City of Newburgh, and in the accomplishments of its past;
(2)
Ensure the harmonious, orderly, and efficient growth and development of the City;
(3)
Enhance the visual character of the City by encouraging new design and construction that complements the City's historic buildings;
(4)
Protect and promote the economic benefits of historic preservation to the City, its inhabitants and visitors;
(5)
Protect property values in the City;
(6)
Promote and encourage continued private ownership and stewardship of historic structures;
(7)
Identify as early as possible and resolve conflicts between the preservation of historic landmarks/districts and alternative land uses; and
(8)
Conserve valuable material and energy resources by ongoing use and maintenance of the existing built environment.
D.
Scope. In 1977 the Newburgh City Council designated the East End Historic District. In 1985 the district was enlarged and added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Colonial Terraces was added and Design Guidelines adopted by City Council in 2005.