HPC Meeting Date: January 7, 2026
To: Members of the Heritage Preservation Commission
From: Mathias Hughey, Associate City Planner
Title
Consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness for Playground Improvements at Central Park - 421 4th St. E.
Body
Action Requested:
The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) will review and approve a Certificate of Appropriateness resolution for Playground Improvements at 421 4th St. E - Central Park.
Summary Report:
The applicant, The City of Northfield Public Works Department, is seeking approval to repair and upgrade the playground and associated amenities in the north quadrant of Central Park. The project scope includes replacing deteriorated timber edging, expanding the playground footprint, adding two additional play features, adding a sidewalk connection and several picnic tables, and benches.
The project plan was developed in consultation with neighborhood stakeholders, including individuals responsible for the effort to have Central Park designated as a local heritage preservation site. The application materials are attached.
Of the seven criteria to be considered by the HPC, the required finding is met, four are not applicable, and two others are met. Of the four criteria that are not applicable, two only apply to buildings or sites in the H-O district, and comments addressing the intent of those criteria were included in the resolution for consideration.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for repairs and upgrades to the Central Park Playground.
Attached is a resolution for the HPC to review. HPC members can contact staff in advance to make edits if there are any proposed changes.
Alternative Options:
The HPC could approve the COA with conditions or deny the COA. Both options would require modifying the resolution to provide additional justification and findings.
Financial Impacts:
NA
Tentative Timelines:
January 2026 - HPC Approval
Janu...
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