HPC Meeting Date: October 7, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, AICP, Interim City Planner
Title
Staff Updates.
Body
Action Requested:
Staff provide updates to the Heritage Preservation Commission.
Summary Report:
City Council & Board/Commission Updates
- The upcoming agenda items list is attached for reference.
Zoning Code Update & Redesign
- The Preliminary Recommendations Report from Houseal Lavigne regarding the zoning code update is available on the project website. Comments are appreciated.
- Zoning Code Update website is attached! Updates will be posted throughout the project.
Planning Applications & Related Updates
- See the hyperlink in the attachments for the City’s Development Map.
- 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.
Minor COA Updates
- A minor COA was approved for reconstruction of portions of the River Walk, , see attached. Of note, while in the district, the Riverwalk is not yet 50 years old, and has not been evaluated as a historic structure.
- A minor COA was approved for a projecting sign at 401 Division St. (the Rare Pair), see attached.
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 (NAPC) has webinars related to historic preservation. The city is a member and can share webinar links if there is interest.
Alternative Options:
N/A
Financial Impacts:
N/A
Tentative Timeline:
N/A