REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on Historic Preservation Agreement (Mills Act Contract) for 1390 Madison Street
Report
COUNCIL PILLAR
Promote and Enhance Economic, Housing and Transportation Development
BACKGROUND
Property owner Giacomo Russo is requesting a Historical Preservation Agreement (Mills Act Contract) for the property located at 1390 Madison Street. The property is currently listed on the City's Historic Resource Inventory (HRI). The State of California enacted legislation that allows owners of historically designated properties to enter into a "Mills Act" contract with the legislative bodies of local agency jurisdictions, pursuant to Government Code Section 50280. Mills Act Contract properties then qualify for property tax reduction incentives contained in the California Revenue and Taxation Code. The purpose of a Mills Act Contract is to offer owners of historically significant properties an economic incentive to maintain and preserve the historic physical integrity of their properties, which thereby also increases the aesthetic and economic health of the surrounding neighborhood and the City. A 10-Year Restoration and Maintenance Plan is required to document specific maintenance and preservation activities proposed to be undertaken by the property owners for the duration of the Contract property in exchange for those tax savings.
The proposed Mills Act Contract was considered by the Historical and Landmarks Commission (HLC) at its meeting on October 7, 2021. The HLC reviewed the Historic Survey Resources Report (also referred to as a State Department of Parks and Recreation form, or DPR form) and proposed 10-Year Restoration and Maintenance Plan, and recommended Council approval of the requested Mills Act Contract.
DISCUSSION
Through the survey evaluation the subject property has been determined to have historical significance that would make it eligible for a Mills Act Contract as indicated by the DPR form. The property is zoned...
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