HPC Meeting Date: January 7, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, Associate City Planner
Title
Staff Updates.
Body
Action Requested:
Staff provide updates to the Heritage Preservation Commission.
Summary Report:
City Council Information
- The upcoming agenda items list is attached for reference.
- Scott Wopata started as the new Community Development Director.
Zoning Code Update & Redesign
- Houseal Lavigne (HL) has been selected as the consultant for the zoning code update and redesign. Staff and the consultant, with review and input from the Zoning Code Update Subcommittee (consisting of Bill Kuhlmann, Will Schroeer and Steve Schmidt), have finalized the proposal from HL. The final contract is being reviewed by both parties, and the contract will go on to the City Council agenda for January 6, 2026.
Planning Applications & Related Updates
- See hyperlink on the City’s Development Map.
- The Archer project has been put on hold / is not moving forward at this time per the development team. Financing for the project has been the major factor holding them off from beginning construction. The city is working with the development team to continue keeping the site safe and any other ways the city can support the project coming to fruition. New banners, designed by Rocky Casillas Aguirre, have been installed on the security fencing along Division St. to improve the aesthetics.
- Staff continue to work with Post Consumer Brands on the Ames Mill Dam. The main discussion includes timeline of transferring ownership of the dam. The dam is part of our Downtown Historic District, so a certificate of appropriateness and Section 106 review will be required.
Certificates of Appropriateness for Minor Work
- Sign Permit for Well Fitness approved for 501 Division St. reused the existing Yoga Sign.
- The Rare Pair was approved to replace the fabric on their awning with a new canvas, because the materials were the same, and the frame is not being replaced, staff determined this met the definition of minor work.
- Sequoia Financial Group sign approved for the western façade of 11 Bridge Square.
- Sown of the Earth sign approved for 13 ½ Bridge Square (above the Cottage Tea Room).
- Milwaukee Road Depot ground sign approved for south side of lot at 204 3rd St. W.
- Awakened Healing projecting sign approved for 220 Division St. S. (in the rear near the parking lot).
- King Claw Land projecting sign approved for 512 Division St. S.
- The building permit for 17 Bridge Sq. was approved, and construction has started.
Training Opportunities
- The Maryland Department of Planning has free webinars on a variety of topics. Please see the link in the attachments to view and/or subscribe.
- The National Alliance for Preservation Commissions has webinars related to historic preservation. The city is a member and can share webinar links if there is interest.
Alternative Options:
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Financial Impacts:
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Tentative Timeline:
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