REPORT TO HISTORICAL AND LANDMARKS COMMISSION
SUBJECT
Title
Historic Preservation Ordinance Update and Expenditure of Funds
Report
BACKGROUND
The Historical and Landmarks Commission (HLC) identified updating the Historic Preservation Ordinance (HPO) as a priority and included it in their Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Work Plan. The City Council approved the HLC Work Plan in November 2025, authorizing the Commission and staff to move forward with this effort.
DISCUSSION
The purpose of this report is to request approval for the expenditure of funds from the Historical Preservation Reserve account to support updates to the City’s HPO. The Historical Preservation Reserve account currently has a balance of $96,105.
Updating the HPO will ensure that the City’s regulations continue to effectively promote the identification, protection, enhancement, and preservation of buildings, structures, and properties that reflect the community’s social, economic, historical, architectural, engineering, archaeological, cultural, natural, and aesthetic heritage. The update may include revisions to designation criteria, procedures, and permit processes to reflect current best practices and local priorities.
There are currently two primary priorities for the HPO update:
1. Clarify the differences between projects requiring a Minor versus Major Significant Property Alteration (SPA) Permit.
2. Establish a clear and implementable process for the creation of a historic district.
Upon approval of the requested funding, staff will develop a detailed scope of work for the project and issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified professional consultants with expertise in historic preservation and ordinance development. Proposals will be evaluated based on qualifications, experience, and project approach.
It is anticipated that at least one member of the HLC will participate alongside staff on the proposal review panel to assist in selecting the most qualified consultant.
Staff will return to the Commission at key milestones throughout the project to provide updates and seek direction as needed.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required at this time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Historical and Landmarks approve the expenditure of funds from the Historical Preservation Reserve account to support the update of the Historic Preservation Ordinance and authorize staff to prepare a scope of work, issue a Request for Proposals (RFP), and proceed with the consultant selection process.
Staff
Prepared by: Rebecca Bustos, Principal Planner
Approved by: Lesley Xavier, Planning Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Chapter 18.106 Historic Preservation Ordinance