HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION PROGRAM
APRIL 21, 2008 — 7:00 p.m.
Rochester Reformed Church
Notes from Public Program, in lieu of formal Minutes of regular monthly meeting of the HPC.
Approximately 35 members of the public were in attendance.
Program organized by Commission member Ward Mintz:
Representatives from the Town of New Paltz (John Orfitelli, David Gillmour, and consultant Neil Larson) were invited to discuss with us their experiences with Historic Preservation, establishment of Local Law for Historic Preservation, Certified Local Government, landmarking of individual properties, and formation of local historic districts.
The following notes were taken at the meeting from remarks made by the three gentlemen who came to share their experiences with historic preservation in New Paltz:
Reconnaissance Survey on the architectural assets and history of the town has been done and entered on a spread sheet which can be sorted in a number of useful ways. Maps have been developed for a visual presentation of the information. Also photographs. 2000+ properties are included.
They are exploring the potential of designating rural historic districts to protect agricultural assets and open space.
Local historic districts in three hamlets.
National Register eligibility – three levels of significance — local, state and national. Spreadsheet information can be used in determining eligibility and degree of threat to an asset. Post World War II structures are an important category.
Certified Local Government status provides eligibility for grants of state money. They have used grants to develop 1) a public outreach brochure, 2) an inventory of historic open space and rural properties, 3) documentation for significant properties, 4) designation of a commercial historic district, and, 5) public workshops for historic preservation.
“We need to celebrate our history. There is so much to lose.”
Local Preservation Law preserves and protects the heart and soul of the community — special features, heritage — agriculture, tourism. Sustain our economy. Inform and educate the public. So many diverse stories. Businesses can be encouraged to invest in our heritage and culture, choose to be landmarked, feature the historical significance of the building or establishment. Need to coordinate the HPC and other boards and commissions and private owners. Outreach, communication, education, Internet site.
Local landmarking can be compulsory for property owners (imposed by the HPC/Town Board) — this is allowed by the New Paltz Local Law, but is not compulsory for a CLG. New Paltz has learned from bad experience that it is very desireable to work with the property owner to achieve consensus rather than impose the landmark designation “from above”.
What are the benefits of landmarking and historic districts? Promotion of physical development consistent with history and culture and setting of the area. Maintains value, provides personal satisfaction, pride. HPC does not require property owner to do work, but guides you if you want to do work on your structures. Consensus based approach is best. Flexible and practical solutions to preservation of community assets.
(Notes by Alice Cross.)