Powers and duties. It shall be the duty of the Historic Commission
to exercise aesthetic judgment and maintain the desirable character
of landmarks and historic districts, prevent construction, reconstruction,
alteration or demolition out of harmony with existing buildings insofar
as style, materials, line and detail are concerned. The intent of
such duty is to prevent degradation of property, safeguard public
health, prevent fire, promote safety, and preserve local architectural
character. In addition to the aforementioned powers, the Historic
Commission shall have the power to:
(1) Employ professional consultants, secretaries, clerks or other such
personnel as may be necessary to assist the Commission in carrying
out its duties, provided that such expenses are authorized by the
Common Council with the approval of the Mayor or designee;
(2) Adopt rules and regulations as necessary to carry out the duties
of the Commission;
(3) Designate identified structures or resources as landmarks and historic
districts;
(4) Adopt criteria for the identification of significant historic, architectural,
and cultural landmarks and for the delineation of historic districts,
subject to approval of City Council;
(5) Conduct surveys of significant historic, architectural, and cultural
landmarks and historic districts within the City;
(6) Formulate recommendations for consideration of the Common Council
concerning the preparation of maps, brochures and historical markers
for selected historic and/or architectural sites and buildings;
(7) Increase public awareness of the value of historic, cultural and
architectural preservation by developing and participating in public
education programs;
(8) Advise owners of historic buildings on methods of preservation and
restoration;
(9) Cooperate with and advise the Common Council and other municipal
boards and agencies in matters involving historic and/or architectural
sites and buildings; and
(10)
Approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove of applications
for certificates of appropriateness pursuant to this article.