City of Santa Barbara - Government - Boards & Commissions: D - M - Historic Landmarks Commission

In 1959 the California State Legislature passed a bill enabling local communities to provide for historic districts and landmarks, and regulate their protection and enhancement. The bill inspired the passage of a resolution in September 1959 which created El Pueblo Viejo (The Old Town) historic district in the downtown and waterfront areas.

In March 1960, El Pueblo Viejo was further strengthened with City Council's adoption of an ordinance formally establishing the district and its styles of architecture, and prohibiting the demolition of any adobe structure in the district.

The Landmarks Committee was formed in May 1960 to ensure that El Pueblo Viejo would retain its unique early-California Spanish character and atmosphere through careful City planning and development. Its boundaries have been amended over the years.

A new historic structures ordinance was adopted in May 1977. It formally established the Committee's powers and duties. A Charter Amendment approved by the voters in November 1993 established the Historic Landmarks Commission with authority within landmark districts and for designated landmarks among other entities.

The Landmarks Committee first took inventory of the historic, public and private structures having architectural significance in 1961. In 1978 a comprehensive survey of the City's architectural and historic resources was initiated with grants obtained from the State.

General Functions

To conduct a continuing survey of all structures, natural features, sites and areas of the City having historic, architectural, archaeological, cultural or aesthetic significance and which may be eligible for designation as a Landmark or Structure of Merit.
To study, review and evaluate proposals for designation of Landmarks and Structures of Merit in order to determine eligibility.
To recommend to the City Council that certain structures, natural features, sites or areas having historic, architectural, archaeological, cultural or aesthetic significance be designated as a Landmark.
To designate certain structures not designated as Landmarks but having historic, architectural, archaeological, cultural or aesthetic significance as Structures of Merit.
To compile, keep current and publish a register of Landmarks and Structures of Merit.
To take appropriate steps to recognize the importance of Landmarks, Landmark Districts and Structures of Merit such as the issuance of certificates and the placing of signs or plaques, and to encourage further recognition by State and Federal government agencies.
To encourage public understanding and appreciation of the unique architectural, environmental and cultural heritage of the City of Santa Barbara through educational and interpretive programs.
To explore means for the preservation, restoration, appreciation and use of designated Landmarks, Landmark Districts and Structures of Merit.
To encourage efforts by and cooperation between individuals, private organizations and government agencies concerned with preservation of the City's architectural, environmental and cultural heritage.
To serve as an advisory resource to all agencies of the City in matters pertaining to Landmarks, Landmark Districts and Structures of Merit and to cooperate with all such agencies in order to assure preservation of the historic, architectural, archaeological, cultural and aesthetic integrity of the City of Santa Barbara.
To participate with other agencies of the City in preparation and updating of the Historic Preservation Element of the City's General Plan.
To approve, disapprove or approve with conditions, and to advise City Council concerning plans for exterior alteration, relocation or demolition of any Landmark.
To render advice and guidance, upon request of the property owner or occupant, on the restoration, alteration, decoration, landscaping or maintenance of any Landmark or Structure of Merit.
To work with the Architectural Board of Review and Division of Land Use Controls in the preparation of guidelines for interpretation and execution of architectural styles required in Landmark Districts in order to aid applicants seeking permits under the provisions of Chapter 22.22 of the Santa Barbara Municipal Code.
To approve, disapprove, or approve with conditions, and advise the City Council concerning plans for exterior alteration or construction upon any property within any designated Landmark District or Hillside Design District.
To review appeals of decisions of the Sign Committee for signs within Landmark Districts; and review appeals of decisions of Land Use Controls regarding property within Landmarks Districts.

Membership
9 Members

Qualifications
All members shall have demonstrated interest in and knowledge of the history and architecture of the City.

Five members must be qualified electors of the City.
At least 2 members must be licensed architects.
At least 1 member must be a professional architectural historian.
At least 1 member must be a licensed landscape architect.
The remaining members may represent the public at large.

Length of Term
Four years and until successors are appointed. Staggered terms expire on December 31 of the appropriate year.

Meeting Schedule
The Commission meets every other Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the David Gebhard Public Meeting Room, 630 Garden Street.

Time Involved
Approximately 8 – 10 hours per month for meetings and related activities.

Financial Disclosure Requirement
Members must file a Statement of Economic Interests upon appointment, annually and when leaving the advisory group.

Compensation
$50 per full commission meeting attended and an additional $25 for each Consent Calendar meeting completed.

Staff
Planning Division, Community Development Department, (805) 564-5507.

Reference
City Charter Sections 800 - 805, 814, and 817; Municipal Code Chapter 22.22; Resolution Nos. 98-042, 95-066, 91-028 and 79-093.