To execute the purposes of this chapter, the
Township Historic District Commission is created.
There shall be appropriated in the annual budget
a sum of money for historic preservation for or in connection with:
A. The preparation of surveys.
B. The preservation of historic resources or districts.
C. The acquisition by purchase or condemnation of property,
structures, easements or other rights. The Commission shall make recommendations
to the Township Board concerning such acquisitions.
E. Training for all staff and public officials responsible
for the implementation of this chapter, especially to provide technical
knowledge of the principles, practicality and cost of historic preservation.
F. Programs of assistance to property owners, including
but not limited to education, consultation, research assistance and
assistance in locating contractors offering unique services required
in historic preservation work.
G. Programs to recognize property owners' historic preservation
achievements, including but not limited to the award of certificates
or plaques for display by property owners.
H. Other activities taken in accordance with provisions
of this chapter.
Powers and responsibilities include:
A. Review, advise, and recommend to the Township Board
properties and resources of historical and architectural value and
significance, and their relationship to the historical value of the
surrounding area.
B. Review proposed zoning amendments or applications
for zoning variances that affect proposed or designated historic resources
or districts. The Planning Department shall send applications for
zoning amendments to the Historic District Commission for comment
prior to the date of the hearing by the Planning Commission. The planning
department shall send applications for zoning variances to the Historic
District Commission for comment prior to the date of the hearing by
the Zoning Board of Appeals.
C. To collect, arrange and preserve historic material,
including books, pamphlets, maps, charts, manuscripts, papers, artwork,
and other objects and materials relating to the history of the Township
and surrounding areas.
D. To procure and preserve narratives of the early pioneers,
their exploits, perils and achievements.
E. To collect, prepare and display objects indicative
of the life, customs, dress and resources of early residents of the
Township and surrounding areas.