City of VisaliaStaff ReportCity Council Chambers707 W. Acequia Ave.Visalia, CAFile #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.Agenda Item Wording:Discussion and direction on recommended changes to Zoning Ordinance Chapter 17.56, HistoricPreservation District Ordinance.Deadline for Action: 10/4/2021Submitting Department:Community DevelopmentContact Name and Phone Number:Walter Deissler, Chairperson, Historic Preservation Advisory CommitteeCristobal Carrillo, Associate Planner,[email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>, (559) 713-4443Paul Bernal, Community Development Director,[email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>, (559) 713-4025Department Recommendation:That the City Council receive the staff report and presentation on potential changes to Chapter 17.56Historic Preservation District Ordinance as recommended by the Historic Preservation AdvisoryCommittee, and direct City staff to conduct public outreach to receive public comment, consult withthe City of Visalia Building Advisory Committee, then begin processing a Zoning Text Amendment toimplement the changes as identified in the staff report, incorporating comments and modificationsfrom the City Council, Building Advisory Committee, and members of the public.Alternatively, the City Council can direct the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and staff toconsult with the City of Visalia Building Advisory Committee prior to conducting public outreach orprocessing a Zoning Text Amendment. Any comments and recommendations provided would then beincorporated into a report to be presented to the Visalia City Council at a future Work Session, priorto public outreach.Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and Historic Preservation District Ordinance:Background and DutiesAs one of the oldest cities in the Central Valley, Visalia hosts an impressive collection of historic sitesand structures. Numerous buildings with distinctive architectural styles are present in Visalia,concentrated in the city’s historic core. The Historic Preservation District Ordinance (ZoningOrdinance Chapter 17.56) was adopted by the City of Visalia in 1979, and updated in 2001, in effectto protect and preserve the City’s distinct collection of structures.A cornerstone of the Historic Preservation District Ordinance is the establishment of the HistoricPreservation Advisory Committee (HPAC). The HPAC was created to act as the City’s steward forCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 1 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.historic preservation causes and protector of historic structures. The Committee consists of sevenmembers and meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. The Committee is primarilyresponsible for periodically updating the Local Register of Historic Structures, nominating propertiesto Local, State, and Federal Historic Registers, and reviewing building/planning actions related tohistorically designated structures. Review of building and planning actions is the most frequent taskundertaken by the Committee, consisting of review of proposals for the exterior alteration ofhistorically designated sites and structures, and review of zoning actions (ex. Change of Zones,Conditional Use Permits, Variances, and Planned Unit Developments). HPAC reviews are conductedwith a focus on preserving the integrity of historic structures and maintaining the unified architecturalcharacter of historic neighborhoods. Reviews of exterior alterations to buildings must occur prior toissuance of a building permit. For zoning actions, the HPAC only reviews the impact of a proposedzoning action on a historic structure and provides a recommendation to the Visalia PlanningCommission. The HPAC does not have authority to approve or deny zoning actions and cannotmake determinations on what uses are allowed in which zones. That power rests solely with thePlanning Commission. All reviews by the HPAC are conducted at no expense to the applicant. Anyaction of the HPAC is appealable to the City Council. Similarly, any appeals of HPAC actions areprocessed free of charge.JurisdictionThe Historic Preservation District Ordinance created two areas of jurisdiction for which the HPAC hasreview authority. These two jurisdictional areas cover 763 properties within the City of Visalia and arenoted as follows:1.Historic District:The Historic District consists of three areas containing large groupings of historically significantstructures, often with similar architectural styles and elements. A total of 678 properties are locatedwithin the boundaries of the Historic District, containing a wide variety of uses such as single andmulti-family residences, commercial/office uses, and public buildings. The three areas that make upthe Historic District are located north of Downtown Visalia, north of Redwood High School, and withinthe geographical boundary of South Bridge Street, South Conyer Street, West Tulare Street, andState Highway 198 (see Attachment “2”).2.Local Register of Historic Structures:The Local Register consists of individual properties which have been identified by the HPAC ascontaining historically significant and unique structures. These properties can be located anywherewithin City Limits, in or outside the bounds of the Historic District, though most Local Registerstructures are concentrated within the downtown and surrounding residential areas (see Attachment“2”). At present the Local Register contains 386 properties, consisting of residential, commercial,office, and public use buildings.Structures on the Local Register are given one of three classifications, based on varying factors suchCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 2 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.as historical importance, uniqueness of architecture, and quality of construction. The classificationsfor Local Register structures are defined in the Historic Preservation Element of the 2014 VisaliaGeneral Plan as follows:Exceptional: Properties with preeminent historical significance, considered for nomination tothe National Register of Historic Places. Examples of this include the Bank of Italy building(128 East Main Street), the Hyde House (500 South Court Street), and the U.S. Post Office,Visalia Town Center Station (111 West Acequia Avenue). All three buildings are listed on theNational Register of Historic Places. There are 31 properties currently classified as“Exceptional” on the Local Register.Focus: Properties having significant value, of good to excellent quality, considered for localrecognition and protection. Examples of this include the R.H. Stevens House (617 NorthEncina Street), the Visalia Cemetery Chapel (1300 West Goshen Avenue), and the Lemuel L.Hyde House (401 West Grove Avenue). There are 160 properties currently classified as“Focus” on the Local Register.Background: Properties that may not be historically significant or unique in their construction,but which contribute positively to the “visual fabric” of the City of Visalia. Examples of this canbe found in the 800 Block of South Court Street, which contains eight “Background” LocalRegister structures exhibiting Bungalow and Mission Revival style architecture. “There arecurrently 195 “Background” classified structures on the Local Register, the most of anyclassification.The Historic Preservation District Ordinance only allows the HPAC to make recommendations onpotential structures that should be considered for Local Register designation. The decision to place astructure on the Local Register is subject to the City Council’s approval. Based on staff’s research,the most recent additions to the Local Register were approved by the City Council in 2012 inconjunction with the addition of the Homebuilders Addition subdivision to the Historic District. TheHomebuilders Addition is the neighborhood bounded by Noble Avenue to the north, Watson Street tothe east, Myrtle Avenue to the south and Conyer Street to the west (see Attachment 2). A total of 35properties were added to the Local Register at that time.The Historic Preservation District Ordinance authorizes the HPAC to review building and planningactions for all properties within the Historic District and/or on the Local Register of Historic Structures.All other properties outside the Historic District or not on the Local Register are not subject to HPACreview or the Historic Preservation District Ordinance.Caveats within the Historic Preservation District OrdinanceAs noted previously, there are 763 properties within the City of Visalia that are historically designatedin some form. There are currently 301 properties that are within the Historic District and on the LocalRegister of Historic Structures. There are an additional 377 properties subject only to the HistoricDistrict (not on the Local Register). And as shown in Attachment No. 2, there are 85 properties listedon the Local Register that are located outside the Historic District.City of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 3 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.The 85 properties subject solely to Local Register historic designation are notable in that they aresubject to one particular caveat of the Historic Preservation District Ordinance. Section 17.56.110 ofthe ordinance states;In instances where a Local Register structure is located outside the bounds ofthe Historic District, exterior alterations are only subject to HPAC review if the building is designated“Exceptional” or “Focus”, or if the structure is proposed for demolition.Of the 85 Local Registerproperties located outside of the Historic District, 15 are designated as “Exceptional”, 24 as “Focus”,and 36 as “Background”. Per Section 17.56.110 of the ordinance, the 36 Local Register “Background”properties, by virtue of being located outside the Historic District, are not subject to HPAC reviewunless a structure onsite is proposed for demolition.Another caveat present in the Historic Preservation District Ordinance is a provision which limits theauthority of the HPAC to deny a request for the demolition of a structure. Per Section 17.56.070 ofthe ordinance, the HPAC can only deny the issuance of a demolition permit when a structure is listedon the Local Register and is classified as “Exceptional”. In all other instances, the HPAC is compelledto either approve the demolition request or apply an up to six-month moratorium to the issuance of ademolition permit. During the moratorium, the Historic Preservation District Ordinance tasks theapplicant and Committee to find alternative uses for the structure and to seek alternative solutions tothe demolition or moving of the structure. If no alternatives are found by the time the moratorium hasexpired, the Committee must approve the application.These caveats came into play when modifications, and later demolition, where proposed to the Odell-Mor Building, a 1914 Bungalow style five-plex formerly located at 209 North Encina Street. Thebuilding was classified as a “Background” structure on the Local Register and was located outsidethe Historic District. Due to the above, HPAC review was only required when the building wasproposed for demolition, and the demolition request could not be denied. The HPAC applied a six-month moratorium as permitted by the ordinance and worked with the property owner to findalternatives to demolition. This included finding buyers for the site, identifying alternative uses, andlocating vacant sites for relocation of the building.. Efforts to find alternatives were unsuccessful andafter completion of the moratorium the building was demolished in April 2021. As a result of thatoutcome, coupled with direction provided by the City Council, the HPAC began to discuss potentialrevisions to the ordinance for Council’s consideration geared towards strengthening the ordinance inan effort to help preserve historic structures. The HPAC’s ordinance considerations are discussed ingreater detail under the “Proposed Historic Preservation District Ordinance Changes” section of thestaff report below.Disclosures to Potential Property BuyersThere is no official mechanism in place within the Ordinance that requires notification to a potentialbuyer, property owner, or occupant that a property is within the Historic District or on the LocalRegister of Historic Structures. In an effort to educate the public about historic preservation, theHistoric District, and the Local Register, the HPAC created and mailed an informational guide onhistoric preservation to property owners and occupants of historically designated sites (seeAttachment No. 3). The guide has been sent biannually (once in 2019 and again in 2021) and informsthe recipient that a home they own is historically designated. The guide also provides a map of theCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 4 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.Historic District and Local Register, information on the types of projects that require HPAC review,when HPAC meetings occur, and staff contacts should there be any questions. The informationalguide is sent with the goal of spreading the word on historic preservation and encouragingcompliance with the Historic Preservation District Ordinance.With regards to notification requirements for the sale of historically designated property, staff is awarethat disclosures are provided to potential buyers informing them that a site and/or structure may behistorically designated. It is left to the realtor or buyer themselves to contact the proper authorities todiscover whether a structure is historically designated. Note, that these type of disclosures areoutside the purview of City staff.Background and Summary of Work Session:On February 16, 2021, staff presented the 2020 HPAC Annual Report to the Visalia City Council. Thereport included a breakdown of HPAC activities for the 2020 calendar year, including challengesrelated to a request for the demolition of the historic Odell-Mor Building. At the conclusion of theAnnual Report presentation, members of the City Council requested the HPAC providerecommendations for how to best revise the Historic Preservation District Ordinance to address thedemolition of historic buildings. The request was reiterated at the March 1, 2021, City CouncilCommittees/Commissions Work Session and Regular Meeting, during which members of the Councilencouraged commissions and committees to be proactive and look at projects to undertake. For theHPAC, this included direction to review the Historic Preservation District Ordinance for potentialrevisions.Following direction from the City Council, the HPAC has met bi-weekly to review the contents of theHistoric Preservation District Ordinance and deliberate over potential revisions for Councilconsideration. A summary of the HPAC’s recommended revisions consist of the following:1. Local Register Structure and Demolition Review): Removal of language exempting“Background” Local Register structures located outside the Historic District from HPAC review,and addition of language that would allow the HPAC to deny a request for demolition for anyproperty within the Historic District and/or on the Local Register.2. Local Register Classifications: Add language to the Historic Preservation Ordinance definingthe “Exceptional”, “Focus” and “Background” classifications of the Local Register.3. Project Review: Changes related to project reviews, including alterations to how fencingproposals are evaluated, and removal of language allowing certain projects to occur withoutHPAC review if “like materials” are used.4.Landscaping: Changes that would limit the percentage of paving permitted in front yard areas.5.Local Register Review: Changes related to the frequency of Local Register reviews.3URSRVHG+LVWRULF3UHVHUYDWLRQ'LVWULFW2UGLQDQFH&KDQJHVThe following section is a comprehensive overview of the recommended ordinance changesproposed by the HPAC, along with information on why the HPAC is requesting the proposed changes.The items are organized in order of priority, with the Local Register Structure and Demolition ReviewCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 5 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.provisions listed first as they were the impetus for review of the ordinance and will have the mostsignificant impact on historic project reviews moving forward. The proposed changes to the HistoricPreservation District Ordinance, as recommended by the HPAC, are as follows:1.Local Register Structure and Demolition Review)a. Removal of language exempting “Background” classified Local Register structureslocated outside the Historic District from HPAC review unless proposed for demolition(VMC Section 17.56.050.C.3, et.al.)Removal of this exemption provision will authorize the HPAC to review exterior building alterationsand zoning actions (ex. Change of Zones, Conditional Use Permits, Variances, and Planned UnitDevelopments) for any property that is within the Historic District or on the Local Register, regardlessof classification. The HPAC proposes the change to prevent the negative alteration and loss ofhistoric structures due to lack of oversight and communication with applicants/property owners. Thechange, if approved, also strengthens the ability of the HPAC to pursue the purpose and intent of theHistoric Preservation District Ordinance, described in Section 17.56.010.B, asto preserve andpromote the public health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the city, and to express thecommitment of the city to assure that the city's cultural heritage, as reflected in its historic structures,sites, and features is not destroyed.This change would affect the 36 properties that are listed on the Local Register with a “Background”classification, and which are located outside the bounds of the Historic District. At present, these 36properties have not been subject to HPAC oversite. If the change is approved, the 36 propertieswould be subject to HPAC review for any exterior alteration or zoning action proposed onsite, similarto all other properties within the Historic District and/or on the Local Register. The City Council mayconsider directing staff to conduct outreach with these 36 property owners to inform them of thepotential changes that could result in HPAC review for exterior alterations. Conversely, the CityCouncil may consider directing staff to look at establishing a “grandfather” clause that would exemptthese 36 properties from the recommended ordinance change, and only require that any new additionto the Local Register with a “Background” classification, outside of the Historic District, be subject tothe new ordinance revisions.HPAC review of exterior alterations for all Local Register structures regardless of classification couldhelp ensure that exterior work carried out on a historic structure is conducted in a manner that helpspreserve the structure for future generations.Given the small number of potential properties impacted, this change is not expected to have asignificant impact on staff time.b. Removal of language that prohibits the HPAC from denying a request for demolitionunless a structure is classified as “Exceptional” on the Local Register (VMC Sec17.56.070).The Historic Preservation District Ordinance requires the HPAC to review all applications fordemolition of structures listed on the Local Register or located within the Historic District. However,City of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 6 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.the ordinance only allows the HPAC to deny a request for demolition of a historically designatedstructure if it contains a Local Register classification of “Exceptional”. The HPAC recommends theordinance be revised to provide the HPAC with the ability to deny a demolition request for any sitewithin the Historic District and/or on the Local Register, regardless of classification. The changewould provide the HPAC with another tool with which to enact the purpose and intent of the HistoricPreservation District Ordinance, which is to preserve and promote the city's cultural heritage, byensuring its historic structures, sites, and features are not destroyed.This change would affect the 355 properties that are currently on the Local Register with a “Focus”and “Background” classification as well the 377 properties that are in the Historic District but not onthe Local Register. The City Council may consider directing staff to conduct outreach with theseproperty owners informing them of the potential change. Staff would then report back on the outcomeof those discussions. Conversely, the City Council may consider the following regarding this request:b.(1) Limit the denial consideration so that it would only be applicable to Local Register structureswith a “Focus” and “Background” classification. This would result in 386 structures being subjectto the proposed revision related to demolition requests (see Attachment 4) or,b.(2) Consider a “grandfather” clause that would exempt existing “Focus” and “Background” LocalRegister properties from the recommended ordinance change, and only require that any newaddition to the Local Register with a “Focus” and “Background” classification be subject to thenew demolition provision.Please note that existing provisions which allow the HPAC to deny a demolition request for a LocalRegister structure with an “Exceptional” classification would not change as a result of the HPACrecommendations. Furthermore, the ordinance already permits the HPAC to review demolitionrequests for any site within the Historic District and/or Local Register. Staff’s research has found thatreview of demolition requests are rare, and that such requests are almost always approved. Between2011 and 2021, the HPAC only reviewed 8 demolition requests. Six of the eight requests where formain structures, such as a residence or office. In all except one instance the HPAC approved thedemolition request. The sole exception was for the Odell-Mor building, which resulted in theapplication of a six-month moratorium, after which a demolition permit was issued. Whether or notthe recommended changes are implemented, any denial of a demolition request by the HPAC issubject to appeal to the City Council.If directed to pursue the proposed change that would permit HPAC the ability to deny a demolitionrequest, the change would trigger a requirement for staff to conduct a California EnvironmentalQuality Act (CEQA) review for any demolition request submitted. The possibility that a demolitionrequest could be denied would make the proposal a discretionary matter, subject to CEQA processes.This could potentially result in fees being charged and additional processing time added to the projectfor staff to conduct a CEQA review. City fees for a CEQA review could range between $78.00 for aCategorical Exemption to $800.00 for an Initial Study/Negative Declaration. A separate $58.00 filingfee is required for filing any CEQA review determination with the County of Tulare Clerk’s Office. Thepreparation of CEQA Categorical Exemption is not expected to have a significant impact on staff timeCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 7 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.or the processing of a demolition request. However, if an Initial Study/Negative Declaration isrequired, the increased level of CEQA review could pose the potential to impact staff, processingtime, and be costly for the applicant. The preparation of an Initial Study/Negative Declaration couldalso result in the requirement that technical studies be submitted to help address issues related to thedemolition request. The cost to review technical studies would add an additional $238.00 fee perstudy to a demolition request. Staff does not have a dollar cost on what a consultant would charge toprepare any required technical study as part of this process. This level of CEQA review could result inprocessing periods between one to several months depending on the type and location of a structureproposed for demolition.2.Local Register Classificationsa. Addition of language to the Historic Preservation Ordinance defining the “Exceptional”,“Focus” and “Background” classifications of the Local Register.Section 17.56.030 (Definitions) of the Historic Preservation District Ordinance does not providedefinitions for the three Local Register structure classifications noted in the Historic PreservationElement of the 2014 Visalia General Plan. This change would revise Section 17.56.030 to include thefollowing definitions:Exceptional: Properties with preeminent historical significance, considered for nomination tothe National Register of Historic Places.Focus: Properties having significant value, of good to excellent quality, considered for localrecognition and protection.Background: Properties that may not be historically significant or unique in their construction,but which contribute positively to the “visual fabric” of the City of Visalia.3.Project Reviewa. Removal of language regarding specific fencing types, in favor of general language thatrequires consideration of fencing proposals based on compatibility with thearchitectural style and context of specific buildings on site, and with the surroundingareas (VMC Sec. 17.56.100.E).The Historic Preservation District Ordinance allows for the review of fencing proposals based on thetheory of “Walls of Continuity”, meaning that reviews of new structures such as fencing shouldattempt to promote “continuous cohesive walls of enclosures along streets”. The Historic PreservationDistrict Ordinance specifically calls out “brick walls”, “wrought iron fencing”, and “evergreenlandscapes” as acceptable types of walls of continuity. The HPAC has taken this language andestablished a longstanding precedent that materials such as chain link fencing are not appropriate forhistoric areas and do not constitute an appropriate wall of continuity.Recently, several proposals for chain link fencing have been submitted for HPAC review, with ownersarguing that the material should be permitted due to chain link being prevalent in historic areas, andbecause chain link can be a historically appropriate fencing type in certain instances. Owners haveCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 8 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.also noted the financial constraints of purchasing fencing types other than chain link. To addressthese concerns, the HPAC proposes eliminating text referring to walls of continuity and specificfencing types in favor of language that requires consideration of fencing proposals based solely oncompatibility with the architectural style and context of specific buildings onsite, and with theimmediate surrounding areas. The intent is to increase flexibility and equitability in the review offencing, allowing for chain link fencing to be approved when considered appropriate for a property.b. Removal or modification to provisions allowing for reroofing/residing/masonryrepairs/chimney repairs/HVAC repair with like materials to occur without HPAC review(VMC Sec 17.56.050.C.7).The Historic Preservation District Ordinance currently exempts certain projects from HPAC review ifthe work is conducted with “like materials”, meaning materials that are similar in appearance to whatis currently on the structure. This section applies to HVAC repairs and change outs, reroofing ofstructures, residing of structures, repair of masonry, repair of chimneys, electrical work, plumbingwork, and installation of swimming pools. Recently, the HPAC has observed that work of this naturehas resulted in significant changes to historic structures. One recent example is of a reroof permitissued for a residence at 415 West Goshen Avenue, which resulted in the loss of a roof dormer vent,a unique and significant feature that would have been reviewed by the HPAC if proposed for removal.If directed to move forward with this change, proposals for HVAC repair, reroofs, residing, masonrywork, and chimney repair will be referred to the HPAC for their review, regardless of material typesused. The intent is to ensure that oversight is provided so that significant architectural features are notremoved.4.Landscapinga. Inclusion of language requiring historically designated sites to maintain a minimum 50%of front yard areas for landscaping purposes.The Historic Preservation District Ordinance does not currently include language regarding theinclusion of landscaping in historic areas. The intent of this change is to prevent the paving of entirefront yard areas, to encourage placement of landscaping for the beautification of historic sites andneighborhoods. The 50% provision would only be applicable to front yards and would still allowsufficient space for the paving of driveways for garages and entryways.5.Local Register Reviewa. Removal or modification of language requiring the annual review of the Local Registerof Historic Structures.The Historic Preservation District Ordinance currently mandates that the Local Register be reviewedannually. Due to limitations in staff time and resources, this is not always feasible. The HPACrecommends requiring a review of the Local Register on a 5-year basis. This would be subject to anyrequirements by the State of California to conduct more frequent reviews of a local historical register.Please note that the HPAC is in the process of reviewing the Local Register of Historic Structures.The HPAC along with community volunteers is conducting surveys of the entire Local Register andCity of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 9 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.areas within Historic District, with a focus on structures listed on the Local Register but outside theHistoric District. The intent is to ensure that all Local Register sites are given the appropriateclassification. Any potential changes to the classification of Local Register structures will requirereview by the HPAC, Planning Commission, and City Council at public hearings.Next Steps:If directed by the City Council to proceed with revisions to the Historic Preservation Ordinance asoutlined above, staff will begin consultation with the Building Advisory Committee and schedulingpublic outreach meetings conducted by the HPAC to inform the public of proposed revisions to theHistoric Preservation District Ordinance. This would then be followed by publicly noticed hearingsbefore the HPAC, Planning Commission, and City Council.However, if the City Council directs the HPAC and staff to consult with the Building AdvisoryCommittee prior to taking any other actions, a joint meeting between the HPAC and Building AdvisoryCommittee will be scheduled to discuss Historic Preservation District Ordinance changesrecommended by the HPAC. Comments and recommendations would be collected and presented tothe City Council at a follow-up Work Session.In addition, senior staff notes that the proposed work program will take significant staff time tocomplete. Given the impact of current projects on staff time, it is recommended that the City Councilalso provide direction on the timeframe in which these revisions should occur. In order to have limitedimpact on the processing of current construction projects, staff recommends requesting the work tobe completed by July 1, 2022. At Council’s direction, the project can also be returned at an earlierdate; however, this will impact staff’s ability to quickly process other current construction applicationsand long-range planning projects.Fiscal Impact:None.Prior Council Action:1. At the February 16, 2021, meeting of the City Council, during presentation of the 2020 HPACAnnual Report, members of the Council directed the HPAC to provide recommendations forthe revision of the Historic Preservation District Ordinance.2. At the March 1, 2021, City Council Committee/Commission Work Session, the HPAC wasencouraged to undertake projects related to their mission. A request was made by members ofthe City Council for the HPAC to consider reviewing the Historic Preservation DistrictOrdinance for potential changes.Alternatives:The City Council, in lieu of the recommendations provided, may direct staff to consider the following:1.Direct staff to pursue different alternative language changes to the Historic PreservationDistrict Ordinance as specified by Council.2.Receive the staff report and take no further action at this time.City of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 10 of 11powered by Legistar™ File #:21-0512Agenda Date:10/4/2021Agenda #:4.Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):Recommended Motion:I move to direct City staff to initiate a Zoning Text Amendment to implementthe changes as recommended by the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and as listed in theWork Session staff report, with a recommend timeline to have the ordinance changes completed byJuly 1, 2022.Alternative Motion:I move to direct the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and City staff toconsult with the City of Visalia Building Advisory Committee, incorporate any comments andrecommendations provided, and report findings back to the Visalia City Council at a future WorkSession.Environmental Assessment Status:CEQA Review: None at this timeAttachments:ϭ͘Visalia Municipal Code Chapter 17.56 (Historic Preservation District)2. Historic District and Local Register Map3. Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Informational Mailer4. Table of Local Register Structures by Classification5. Historic Preservation Advisory Committee Members and Terms City of Visalia Printed on 10/1/2021Page 11 of 11powered by Legistar™
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District or own Structures. Currently there are 752 properties within the City of Visalia that are either in the Historic District or contain a structure on the Local Register. cultural heritage as reflected in our historic structures, sites, and features. This is accomplished through: 1. The protection and preservation of historic structures; 2. The preservation and maintenance of historic residential areas as cohesive neighborhoods; 3. The enhancement of property values in the older areas of the City of Visalia; and 4. The encouragement of the development of vacant and incompatibly developed properties in accordance with the character of the historic district. The City of Visalia recognizes the importance of historical neighborhoods and structures. In order to preserve and protect these historic structures, the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC) was created. The HPAC consists of seven volunteer members who are appointed by the Visalia City Council. The HPAC is tasked with recognizing and safeguarding historic neighborhoods or historic historic heritage. The HPAC accomplishes this through review of all proposals that seek exterior alterations to historically designated structures or sites. This informational mailer serves to inform you that certain exterior modifications to a historic structure or site require review and approval by the HPAC. Exterior alterations that require HPAC review: Changes to doors; Changes to windows; Changes in roofing materials; Changes in exterior siding materials; Changes to architectural details and trim; Signage, including alterations; Demolitions; Building additions; Building conversions; Accessory structures; New fences, including replacement fences type/style. Modifications that do not require HPAC review: Swimming pools; Interior alterations; Addition or replacement of air conditioners, HVAC, or similar units; Interior or exterior painting; General maintenance (i.e. reroofs, residing, masonry repair) with like materials, resulting in no changes in exterior materials, details, and appearance. For more information on historic preservation and how it may apply to your site and/or structure, please visit the City of Visalia Planning Division at 315 E. Acequia Avenue, Visalia CA 93291, or call Cristobal Carrillo, historic preservation staff liaison, at (559) 713-4443 or e-mail at [email protected]. For more information on Historic Districts and the Local Register, please visit the City of Visalia website at www.visalia.city.
City of Visalia Historic Preservation Advisory Committee HISTORIC SITES AND YOU: A Guide (For Informational Purposes Only) Thank you for your time and consideration!
ClassificationExceptionalFocusBackgroundTotalWithin the Historic District16 126 159 301Outside the Historic District15 34 36 85Total Per Classification31 160 195 386LOCAL REGISTER STRUCTURES BY CLASSIFICATION
1. Michael Krepsa. 1st term: 3/2019 6/2020b. 2nd term: 7/2020 6/20222. Patty Kanea. 1st term: 4/2018 6/2020b. 2nd term: 7/2020 6/20223. Tyler Davis (Vice-Chair)a. 1st term: 6/2021 6/20224. Marilynn Mitchella. 1st term: 7/2019 6/2021b. 2nd term: 8/2021 6/20235. Jay Hohlbaucha. 1st term: 7/2020 6/20226. Peggy Lamberta. 1st term: 5/5/2021 6/20227. Walter Deissler (Chair)a. 1st term: 8/2020 6/2022Late updated 8/5/2021.