The purpose of this article is to:
(a) To identify and conserve the distinctive historic and architectural characteristics and other historic resources of the City which represent elements of Conway Springs’ cultural, social, economic, political, and architectural history;
(b) To foster civic pride in the accomplishments of the past as represented in the City’s historic resources;
(c) To conserve and improve the value of property in and around designated historic properties, historic districts, and neighborhoods;
(d) To enhance the attractiveness of the City to residents, homeowners, visitors, and businesses, thereby supporting economic development; and
(e) To encourage preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of historic properties within the City.
(Ord. 1944)
(a) Composition and Qualifications
(1) The Historic Preservation Board (the “Board”) shall consist of five (5) members appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council.
(2) Board members should demonstrate knowledge, training, or interest in fields related to historic preservation, such as history, architecture, landscape architecture, archaeology, planning, engineering, law, finance, building trades, urban design, or related disciplines.
(3) At least two members shall be professionals in preservation-related fields, such as archaeology, architectural history, historic preservation planning, or historic architecture.
(b) Term of Office. Board members shall serve two (2) year terms.
(c) Ex Officio Members
(1) City Council members, or their designees, may attend all Board meetings and provide input, but shall not vote.
(2) Planning and Zoning Commission members, or their designees, may attend all Board meetings and provide input, but shall not vote.
(d) Continuing Education. The Board shall participate in continuing education as required by the City Council.
(Ord. 1944)
The Board shall have the following powers and duties, subject to City Council approval, appropriation of funds, and compliance with applicable laws:
(a) To adopt bylaws and procedures consistent with applicable state laws and city ordinances;
(b) To recommend to the City the conduct of ongoing surveys of historically and architecturally significant properties;
(c) To identify structures, sites, and districts eligible for local historic designation;
(d) To make recommendations to the City Council regarding designation of historic structures, sites, and districts;
(e) To research and recommend an appropriate system of markers for designated historic properties;
(f) To review nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and the State Register of Historic Places within the City;
(g) To promote public education regarding the City’s historic and architectural heritage;
(h) To review and make recommendations regarding applications for Certificates of Appropriateness;
(i) To recommend funding necessary to implement historic preservation activities;
(j) To recommend the retention of specialists, consultants, or advisory committees as may be necessary;
(k) To advise other boards, commissions, and departments of the City on matters affecting historic properties;
(l) To periodically recommend to the City Council measures for the protection and continued use of historic resources; and
(m) To encourage members of the Governing Body to participate in educational programs related to historic preservation.
(Ord. 1944)
All exterior alterations, additions, demolitions, or new construction within designated historic properties, sites, or districts shall require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) approved by the Board, subject to City Council review, consistent with state and local law.
(Ord. 1944)
All funds necessary to carry out the purposes of this ordinance shall be approved and appropriated by the City Council.
(Ord. 1944)