Historic Preservation Commission
Regular MeetingBuena Vista, CO · May 5, 2022
Minutes
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
TOWN OF BUENA VISTA, COLORADO
May 5, 2022 3:00 PM
In-person Meeting was held at the Buena Vista Airport with alternate zoom link availability
for the public to also attend virtually.
I. CALL TO ORDER
John O’Brien called the meeting to order at 3:04 pm, and thanked everyone for
attending, and especially Joseph Teipel for his support.
II. ROLL CALL
Vic Kuklin, John O’Brien, Jo Reese, Nancy Locke, Suzy Kelly, Melanie Roth, and
Katy Welter attended in person. Joseph Teipel Planning Director attended in
person.
III. AGENDA ADOPTION
Melanie moved to approve the agenda and Suzy seconded. The motion carried
unanimously.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – March 3, 2022
Melanie noted the following errors: In item 4, should be Suzy moved and John
seconded. Item C, “invitation” spelling should be corrected.
Vic moved and Nancy second a motion to approve the minutes as amended for
the above errors. The motion carried unanimously.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
Katy gave public comment that she was looking to submit 410 E Main St for local
landmarking and asked when the best meeting date for that would be. Joseph
suggested submitting the application and that we could review most likely in July and
August.
VI. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Architectural Design Guidelines
Joseph led the discussion about the proposed ADG and Chapter 19
changes, which were recommended by Planning and Zoning for approval
by the full Board of Trustees.
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
1. Trustee Meeting
The meeting will be on Tuesday, May 24 at 6 pm. All HPC members are
encouraged to attend in support.
2. Proposed Chapter 19 changes
The group reviewed the proposed changes together and recommended no
changes.
3. Flow chart and review checklist discussion
Joseph walked through the process of “Mandatory Review” and the group
discussed the importance of flexibility in setting up the pre-application
meeting—i.e., that 2 HPC members would meet rather than the full HPC, if
requested. The group also discussed the importance of the checklist
guiding an objective review of plans, and John offered to make the
checklist more comprehensive.
B. Local landmark plaque ceremonies – Courthouse and Book Nook
The Courthouse ceremony is scheduled for May 20 at 3 pm and Suzy will
write an article for the paper. John will check with the Book Nook owners
about dates.
C. Saving Places Conference Recap
Melanie shared that the CPI webinars will be available until September
now. Jo and Nancy said they wanted to share updates from Saving Places
but would hold off since we will be leaving early for Mark Doering’s going
away party.
D. Historic Preservation Month
Mary Therese gave an update on Historic Preservation Month. She will
provide an updated list of the schedule of volunteers, and everyone
reported having done their drop-offs and asking for business contributions.
E. Historic Inventory Grant - Tabled
F. Updates from related organizations and general discussion
Suzy Kelly updated that BV Heritage elevator is working again, they have
updated several exhibits, and that they are working with an architecture
student on a garden design.
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
Katy Welter shared that as part of McGinnis Gym project, they will be
updating the 1974 National Register Nomination.
G. Next meeting date and location: June 2, 2022 at 3 pm
VII. STAFF UPDATES
None, although the group commended Joseph on www.my-bv.com
VIII. ADJOURNMENT. John adjourned the meeting at 5:00.
Respectfully Submitted
John O’Brien
Chair
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
Agenda
AGENDA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
TOWN OF BUENA VISTA, COLORADO
May 5, 2022 3:00 PM
In-person Meeting will be held at the Buena Vista Airport’s 2nd floor conference room with
alternate zoom link availability for the public to also attend virtually. To participate in Public
Comment and/or Public Hearings you must attend in-person or use the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81327370379?pwd=NkpteWFxNmRYU2U4TkVBVGRGTG94QT09
Meeting ID: 813 2737 0379
Passcode: BuenaVista
Listen via phone at: +1 346 248 7799
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
III. AGENDA ADOPTION
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 7, 2022
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
VI. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Architectural Design Guidelines
Trustee meeting
Proposed Chapter 19 changes
Flow Chart and Review Checklist discussion
B. Local landmark plaque ceremonies – Courthouse and Book Nook
C. Saving Places Conference Recap
D. Historic preservation month discussion
E. Historic Inventory Grant
F. Updates from related organizations and general discussion
G. Next meeting date and location:
VII. STAFF UPDATES
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
Complies
Does not
Item Stated Goal with Comments
comply
stated goal
Chapter 3 General Design Guidelines
3.1 Accessibility Gently sloping an exterior sidewalk
3.1 Town Grid Orient building walls parallel to the lot lines
3.2 Views attempt to preserve views of the surrounding area
3.3 Color consider returning to the original color scheme
Colors should be muted
3.4 Energy Conservation Minimize the visual impact of solar collectors
3.1 Accessory Structures subordinate in scale both height and width
Chapter 4 Historic Structures and Sites
4.5 C Treatment of Historic Features maintain character-defining features.
repair those features that are deteriorated.
replace only those features that are beyond repair.
Don’t try to change its style
Preserve original doors, windows, and porches in their original condition
preserve original wall and siding materials in their original condition
asbestos, vinyl and aluminum siding are not acceptable
4.5 F Additions to Historic Buildings addition should not affect the perceived character of the building
should not obscure significant features
should be compatible in size and scale with the main building
4.5 H Architectural Detailing Preserve original architectural detailing
Repair damaged details
Simplified modifications may be appropriate where historic elements have already
been lost
4.5 I Materials retaining original materials is preferred
Some replacement may occur
Wood windows are encouraged on new additions to structures. Restoration of wood
4.5 J Window Treatment windows on all structures is encouraged
4.1 Design Guidelines for the Alteration of
Historic Commercial Structures Maintain the original size and shape of the store front opening
Maintain recessed entries
Maintain the kick plate
Preserve the transom
Preserve the size and shape of upper story windows
Preserve original ornament and detail of the facade
Chapter 5 New Construction
Develop the site for a new building in a manner similar to that used on Historic East
5 A. Site Plan Main.
5 B. Building Orientation Orient the building containing the primary use toward the street
5 C. Architectural Character Contemporary interpretations of traditional details are encouraged
New construction should appear similar in scale to historic structures found
5 D. Mass and Scale traditionally on Historic East Main
Traditional materials are preferred, primarily brick, wood horizontal bevel or
5 E. Materials clapboard siding
Windows on the first floor are to be large storefront windows with upper
5 F. Windows and Doors transoms and wood, metal, or brick kick plates
Windows on the second floor should be oriented vertically
Roofs should be similar to those used historically as alternative designs tend to
5 G Roof Design detract from the character of existing historic structures
Gable and flat roofs with false front parapets are appropriate.
Buena Vista, Colorado, Municipal Code
CHAPTER 19 Historic Preservation
CHAPTER 19
Historic Preservation
ARTICLE I General Provisions
Sec. 19-1. Purpose and intent.
(a) In order to foster civic pride in the beauty and accomplishments of the past, and in order to create eligibility
for state or federal grant funds for the restoration, stabilization, and preservation of landmarks within the
Town of Buena Vista that reflect outstanding elements of the Town's cultural, artistic, social, economic,
political, architectural, historic or other heritage, a procedure for designating historic local landmarks within
the Town is needed.
(b) The intent of this Chapter is to create a reasonable balance between private property rights and the public
interest in preserving the Town's unique historic character and culture. The intent is to provide incentives to
preserve historic and architecturally significant sites, buildings, structures, neighborhoods and districts by
providing guidelines for the appropriate use of land and the moving, demolition, reconstruction, restoration,
or alteration of such buildings, sites, and structures that comply with state and federal historic preservation
laws, thereby making certain tax credits available to private property owners and making other benefits and
incentives available for preservation projects.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-2. Definitions.
Unless specifically defined below, words and phrases in this Chapter shall be interpreted so as to give them
the same meaning as they have in common usage and so as to give this Chapter its most reasonable application.
Alteration means any act or process that changes exterior architectural features of a structure; the physical
features of a site or district; additions to a structure or site; or rehabilitation, restoration or remodeling which
impacts the exterior of the structure, but does not include demolition or partial demolition of the structure or site.
Certificate of historic appropriateness means a certificate issued by the Town showing approval of plans for
alteration of any designated structure or site or of any structure in a designated district.
Commission means the Town of Buena Vista Historic Preservation Commission.
Compatible shall mean consistent with, harmonious with and/or enhances the mixture of complementary
architectural styles either of the architecture of an individual structure or the character of the surrounding
structures.
Contributing structures means those structures or physical features within a site or district that help to
define the historic significance of that site or district.
Cultural landscape means a geographic area (including both cultural and natural resources and the wildlife or
domestic animals therein) associated with a historic event, activity, or person or exhibiting other cultural or
aesthetic values.
Demolition means any act or process which destroys, in part or in whole, any exterior features of a structure.
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Designated structure, site or district means a structure, site or district designated pursuant to this Chapter.
Exterior architectural feature means the architectural style and general arrangement of the exterior of the
structure including type and texture of the building materials and including all windows, doors, siding, roofs, lights,
signs, and other fixtures appurtenant thereto, if such physical component is visible from a public way or adjoining
properties.
Historic designation means the formal recognition of a historic structure, site, or district by the Town
pursuant to this Chapter.
Historic district means a geographically definable area including a concentration, linkage, or continuity of
subsurface sites, cultural landscapes, buildings, structures, or objects. A district is related by a pattern of either
physical elements or social activities. The term district may include, but is not limited to, neighborhoods,
agricultural, or commercial districts.
Historic significance means having a special historic or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development,
heritage, cultural, or historic character of the town, region, state, or nation.
Historic site means a location of a significant event, historic occupation or activity where the location itself
maintains historical, cultural or architectural value and significance to the community regardless of the value of
any existing building or structure, and which may be eligible for designation pursuant to this Chapter.
Historic structure means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires permanent or near
permanent location on or in the ground, or attachment to something having permanent location on the ground
and which is at least fifty (50) years old.
Maintenance and repair means any work, for which a building permit is not required by law, where the
purpose and effect of such work is to correct any deterioration of, decay of, or damage to a structure or any
architecturally significant part thereof, and to restore or replace, as nearly as may be practicable, to its condition
prior to the occurrence of such deterioration, decay, or damage, and which work does not effect a significant
change in the external appearance of the structure.
Overwhelming historical significance means either possessing such unusual or uncommon significance that
any structure's potential demolition or major alteration would diminish the character and sense of place in town;
or possessing superior or outstanding examples of the architectural, social, or geographic historic significance
criteria outlined in the standards and criteria set forth in this Chapter. The term superior shall mean excellence of
its kind, and the term outstanding shall mean marked by eminence and distinction.
Preservation means the act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity,
and materials of a designated structure or site.
Reconstruction means the act or process of depicting, by means of new construction, the form, features, and
detailing of a non-surviving site, landscape, building, structure, or object for the purpose of replicating its
appearance at a specific period of time and in its historic location.
Rehabilitation means the act or process of making a compatible use for a structure or site through repair,
and additions, while preserving those portions or features that convey its historic, cultural, or architectural values.
Restoration means the act or process of making a compatible use for a structure or site through repair, and
additions, while preserving those portions or features that convey its historic, cultural, or architectural values.
Significant change means an alteration in the external appearance that has or is likely to have influence or
effect on the historic or architectural merit of a structure or site, including but not limited to all activities for which
a building permit is required.
Site means a location of a significant event, historic occupation or activity where the location itself maintains
historical or architectural value and significance to the community regardless of the value of any existing building
or structure.
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Structure means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires permanent or near permanent
location on or in the ground, or attachment to something having permanent location on the ground.
(Ord. 13 , § 1, 2019; Ord. 2 , § 1, 2, 2021)
Sec. 19-3. Historic preservation commission.
(a) There is hereby created a Historic Preservation Commission, which shall have the principal responsibility for
matters involving historic structures, sites and districts as set forth in this Chapter.
(b) The Commission shall consist of seven (7) regular members and two (2) alternates appointed by the Board of
Trustees. To stagger the terms of membership, the initial terms of membership shall consist of four (4)
members to serve four (4) year terms and three (3) members and the alternates to serve two (2) year terms.
After the initial terms have expired, all members shall serve four (4) year terms. The Commission shall be
composed of both professional and lay members, and at least two (2) members shall be professionals in
preservation-related disciplines, such as architecture, landscape architecture, architectural history,
archaeology, history, planning, or related disciplines such as building trades, real estate, law, cultural
geography, or cultural anthropology. If the required number of professional members cannot be found to
serve on the Commission, this requirement may be waived until the next vacancy occurs, at which time the
Town shall again diligently seek professional representation. In the case of a lack of professional appointees,
the Commission may, with Board approval, be allowed to retain professional consultants to advise the
Commission as necessary to fulfill its duties. Commission members shall be residents of Chaffee County or
property owners within Town of Buena Vista town limits.
(c) At its first meeting of each calendar year, the Commission shall elect one (1) Commissioner to serve as chair
to preside over the meetings, and one (1) Commissioner to serve as vice-chair. The Commissioners so
designated shall serve in these capacities for terms of one (1) year, and may serve successive terms.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016; Ord. 8 §1, 2017)
Sec. 19-4. Meetings of the commission.
(a) The Commission shall meet at least quarterly, unless applications or other requests for action are pending, in
which case the Commission shall meet at least monthly.
(b) A majority of the number of currently appointed regular board members shall constitute a quorum. An
alternate may substitute for a regular board member to create a quorum. If a quorum is not present, then
the chair of the Commission may set a new date for a special hearing, or the matters scheduled for that
hearing shall be heard on the next regularly scheduled hearing date.
(c) The Commission shall act only at properly noticed meetings.
(d) No Commissioner shall vote on any matter that may materially or apparently affect the property, income, or
business interest of that Commissioner.
(e) The chair, and in his absence the vice-chair, may administer oaths and compel the attendance of witnesses.
(f) All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public. Minutes shall be kept of all Commission
proceedings, and sent to the State Historic Preservation Office upon approval.
(g) The Commission may adopt bylaws and other administrative guidelines to govern the conduct of its
meetings, which shall be made available to the public.
(h) At least one (1) Commission member must attend a History Colorado approved educational or training event
each year.
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( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-5. Powers of historic preservation commission.
(a) (a) To propose for adoption criteria for review of development activities within the MU-MS Zone District.
(b) To conduct formal reviews of exterior alterations to existing buildings, alterations affecting a party wall
between units in an existing building or between existing buildings, changes in use of an existing building, or
new construction within the MU-MS Zone Districtof historic resources and for review of proposals to alter,
demolish, or move designated resources, that are in addition to and consistent with the criteria set forth in
this Chapter.
(b) To review structures, sites and districts nominated for designation and make recommendations to the Board
of Trustees regarding historic designation.
(c) To advise and assist owners of designated structures or sites on physical and financial aspects of
preservation, renovation, rehabilitation, and restoration, including nomination to the National Register of
Historic Places and State Register of Historic Properties.
(d) To develop and assist in public education programs, including but not limited to school programs, walking
tours, brochures, a marker program for historic properties, interpretive sites and programs, lectures, and
conferences about the history of the local and regional community, the value of preserving historic
properties, and the materials and methods of preservation.
(e) To determine applications for certificates of historic appropriateness pursuant to this Chapter.
(f) To conduct surveys of historic structures, sites and district in order to define those of historic significance, for
the purpose of creating a preservation plan of historic properties and districts.
(g) To pursue financial assistance for preservation and history-related programs.
(h) To maintain records and files on all board actions and provide documentation as necessary to History
Colorado, Colorado's State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
(i) To identify and implement other incentives for owners of historic properties.
(j) To authorize and implement such steps as it deems desirable to recognize the merit of and to encourage the
protection, enhancement, perpetuation, and use of any historic structure, site or historic district by, without
limitation, issuing certificates of recognition and authorizing plaques to be affixed to the exteriors of such
structures.
(k) To fulfill any other duties required by state and federal law in order to qualify the Town as a Certified Local
Government (CLG).
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-6. Mandatory Review by the Historic Preservation Commission.
(a) Exterior alterations to an existing building, alterations affecting a party wall between units in an existing
building or between existing buildings, a change in use of an existing building, or new construction in the
MU-MS district shall be subject to a mandatory review by the Commission.
(b) Any Commission review may happen concurrently with other review procedures as defined in Chapter 16 of
this code.
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(c) Unless otherwise noted herein, the Commission shall use the Architectural Design Guidelines as adopted
and amended by the Board of Trustees as a basis for its review of applicable applications.
(d) All development applications for work as defined in Section 19-6(a) above shall require the applicant to hold
a pre-application meeting with the Commission.
(e) Upon submission and acceptance by staff of the relevant application, staff will determine whether
Commission review will be required. Changes of Use which do not seek to alter the building at all, or only
propose interior modifications may have staff review only.
(f) Should staff refer the application to the Commission for review, the Commission shall within 45 days, at a
properly noticed public meeting, consider the application and staff report. In this meeting, the Commission
will provide feedback to the applicant based on the Architectural Design Guidelines. The Commission
feedback will be provided to the applicant within 10 days following the meeting. Any comments or
recommendations from the Commission are not binding on the property owner.
Sec. 19-76. Procedures for designation of historic structures, sites and historic districts.
(a) Nominations for designations shall be made to the Town on forms provided by the Town and may be
submitted by the Commission or a citizen. Nominations for historic structures or sites must contain the
written approval of all current owners of record. Nominations for historic districts shall have written
approval of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of property owners within the proposed boundaries of the
district.
(b) Once the nomination is deemed completed by Town staff, the Commission shall hold a public hearing on the
proposal no more than sixty (60) days after the determination of completeness.
(c) Notice of the public hearing before the Commission shall be published and posted on the property subject to
the nomination fifteen (15) days prior to the public hearing. Posting for a historic district nomination shall be
at street intersections within the boundaries of the proposed district. Further, for district nominations,
written notice shall be sent by first class mail at least fifteen (15) days prior to the hearing to all property
owners whose property is contained within the proposed district.
(d) The Commission may continue the hearing from time to time as necessary to gather all relevant evidence to
make its recommendation. The Commission shall consider the subject property's conformance with the
purposes, standards, and criteria of this Chapter.
(e) Within thirty (30) days after the conclusion of the public hearing, the Commission shall either recommend
approval, modification and approval, or denial of the nomination to the Board of Trustees.
(f) Within sixty (60) days after the date of the recommendation from the Commission, the Board of Trustees
shall hold a public hearing on the nomination. Notice of the public hearing shall be provided as set forth in
Section 19-6(c).
(g) The Board of Trustees shall, by resolution, approve, modify and approve, or deny the proposed designation,
and shall issue written findings in accordance with and after considering the criteria as set forth in this
Chapter. Such resolution shall include a description of the characteristics of the site, structure, or district that
justify its designation and a description of the features that should be preserved or enhanced, and shall
include a legal description of the location and boundaries of the property where the structure is located, site
or district. The resolution may also indicate alterations that would have a significant impact upon, or be
potentially detrimental to, the historic structure, site or district. The owner or owners of the property
nominated or included in the district shall be notified of the Board of Trustees' decision.
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(h) The resolution shall be recorded with the Chaffee County Clerk and Recorder no sooner than thirty (30) days
from the effective date of the resolution. As soon as possible, the staff shall send a copy of the recorded
resolution to all property owners in a designated district or the owner of the designated structure or site.
(i) A structure or site designated as historic or a structure located within a historic district shall retain that
designation in perpetuity, unless the structure or site has lost its historic character or the designation has
been otherwise revoked pursuant this Chapter.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-87. Criteria for designation—Structures and sites.
(a) The Commission and Board of Trustees will consider the following criteria in reviewing nominations of
structures and sites for historic designation:
(1) Properties receiving historic designations shall be at least fifty (50) years old, except as otherwise
provided herein, and possess architectural, social, or geographical/environmental importance by
meeting at least one (1) or more of the following:
a. Exemplifies specific elements of an architectural style or period;
b. Is an example of the work of an architect or builder who is recognized for expertise nationally,
statewide, regionally, or locally;
c. Demonstrates superior craftsmanship or high artistic value;
d. Represents an innovation in construction, materials, or design;
e. Represents a style particularly associated with the Buena Vista/Chaffee County area;
f. Represents a built environment of a group of people in an era of history;
g. Represents a pattern or grouping of elements representing at least one (1) of the above criteria;
h. Is the site of a historic event that had an effect upon society;
i. Exemplifies cultural, political, economic, or social heritage of the community;
j. Represents an association with a notable person or the work of a notable person;
k. Represents a typical example/association with a particular ethnic group;
l. Represents a unique example of an event in Buena Vista's history;
m. Enhances sense of identity of the community;
n. Is an established and familiar natural setting or visual feature of the community;
o. Properties that have yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in history or
prehistory; or
p. If the property is less than fifty (50) years old, must demonstrate overwhelming historic
significance.
(b) Any site listed on the state or national register of historic places shall be deemed to qualify for local
designation under this Chapter, but shall not be locally designated until an application for nomination is filed
and processed pursuant to this Chapter.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
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Sec. 19-98. Criteria for designation—Districts.
(a) Historic districts must comply with the criteria in Section 19-7 and be related by a pattern of either physical
elements or social activities. Significance is determined by applying criteria in this Chapter to the patterns
and unifying elements.
(b) Properties that do not contribute to the significance of the historic district may be included within the
boundaries, as long as the noncontributing elements do not noticeably detract from the district's sense of
time, place, and historic development. Noncontributing elements will be evaluated for their magnitude of
impact by considering their size, scale, design, location, or information potential.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-109. Revocation of designation.
(a) If a designated structure or physical feature on a designated site is destroyed or demolished through no fault
of the owner or in compliance with this Chapter, the owner may apply to the Town for revocation of
designation. The Commission shall recommend revocation of a historic designation if it determines that,
without the demolished structure or physical feature, the structure or site as a whole no longer meets the
purposes and criteria of this Chapter and if the public benefits of alteration, removal, or demolition of the
structure or physical feature outweigh the public benefits of maintaining the designation.
(b) Upon the Commission's recommendation, the application scheduled for consideration by the Board of
Trustees. The Board of Trustees shall, by resolution, approve, modify and approve, or deny the application.
The resolution, if it approves or modifies and approves the revocation, it shall be recorded with the Chaffee
County Clerk and Recorder no sooner than thirty (30) days after the decision.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-110. Duties and obligations of owners of historic properties.
(a) It shall be unlawful for the owners of designated structures, site or contributing structures in a designated
district to allow the deterioration of the property, its character defining features, or its surrounding
environment. Landscaping must be maintained and the property kept free from any hazardous or unsafe
conditions.
(b) Before an owner is cited for failure to maintain the designated site or structure, or contributing structure in a
designated district, the Commission shall notify the property owner, lessee, or occupant of the need to repair
or maintain, shall assist the owner, lessee, or occupant in determining how to preserve the property, and
shall give the owner a reasonable time to perform such work, which time shall not exceed one hundred
twenty (120) days. The Commission may grant extensions of the time period for good cause.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016; Ord. 2 , § 3, 2021)
Sec. 19-121. Certificate of historic appropriateness.
(a) A certificate of historic appropriateness is required for alteration, other than maintenance and repair, on a
designated structure or site. It shall be unlawful for any person to undertake any alteration, other than
maintenance and repair, without having first obtained a certificate of historic appropriateness.
(b) The Commission shall review any application for a certificate of historic appropriateness to determine
whether the application meets the criteria in this Chapter.
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(c) All proposals for certificates of historic appropriateness shall be reviewed in accordance with the U.S.
Secretary of the Interior's Guidelines for Rehabilitation and any design guidelines approved by the Town
Board of Trustees.
(d) The following criteria shall apply to all alterations or changes:
(1) All proposed alterations must be consistent with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the
Treatment of Historic Properties and any design guidelines approved by the Board of Trustees.
(2) Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that
characterize a property shall be preserved.
(3) The removal or alteration of any historical material or distinctive features shall be avoided when
possible.
(4) Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced when possible. When the severity
of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old in
design, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing
features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.
(5) Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic materials shall not
be used. The surface cleaning of structures, if appropriate, shall be undertaken using the gentlest
means possible.
(6) Significant archaeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and preserved. If such
resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures shall be undertaken.
(7) Alterations shall not destroy historic materials that characterize the property and shall be undertaken
in such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic
landmark and its environment would be unimpaired. The new work shall be differentiated from the old
and shall be compatible with the massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the historic
integrity of the property and its environment.
(8) All historic or contributing buildings, structures, and sites shall be recognized as products of their own
time and place. Changes that may have taken place in the course of time are evidence of the history
and development of a building, structure, site, or environment. These changes may have acquired
significance in their own right, and every consideration should be made for their retention and
preservation. If they are not to be retained, the applicant must present a reasonable argument for their
removal that restores the structure to a significant historical period in the structure's history.
Alterations that have no historical basis and which seek to create an earlier or nonlocal appearance
shall be discouraged.
(e) The Commission shall approve, modify and approve or deny the application. Any decision of the Commission
approving or disapproving an application for a certificate of historic appropriateness. The Town shall issue a
certificate of historic appropriateness for any proposed work on a designated historical structure or site only
if the Commission can determine that the proposed work would not detrimentally alter, destroy, or
adversely affect any feature that was found by the Board of Trustees in the original designation to contribute
to the designation of the structure or site.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016; Ord. 2 , § 4, 5, 2021)
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Sec. 19-132. Hardship exemption.
(a) The Commission may exempt a structure or site from the requirement of obtaining a certificate of historic
appropriateness or certificate of demolition if the Commission finds that the property owner has shown that
the obtaining of a certificate creates or would create an undue hardship.
(b) An exemption based on noneconomic hardship may be found by the Commission when requirement to
obtain a certificate creates a situation substantially inadequate to meet the applicant's needs because of
specific health or safety issues.
(c) An exemption based on economic hardship may be found by the Commission applying the following
standards:
(1) The applicant's knowledge of the designation at the time of acquisition, or whether the property was
designated subsequent to acquisition;
(2) The current level of economic return on the property as considered in relation to the following:
a. The marketability of the property for sale or lease, considered in relation to any listing of the
property for sale or lease, and price asked and offers received, if any, within the previous two (2)
years.
b. The infeasibility or feasibility of alternative uses that can earn a reasonable economic return for
the property.
c. Economic incentives or funding available to the applicant through federal, state, town, or private
programs.
(3) Economic hardship does not include self-created hardships, willful or negligent acts by the owner,
purchase of the property for substantially more than the market value, failure to perform normal
maintenance and repairs, failure to diligently solicit and retain tenants, or failure to provide normal
tenant improvements.
(d) The Commission shall hold a public hearing as soon as practical, after the notice prescribed in Section 19-
6(c), to take final action on the application.
(1) If after reviewing all of the evidence, the Commission finds that the application of the standards set
forth in subsection (c) of this section results in economic hardship, then the commission shall issue a
certificate of economic hardship, allowing the proposed alteration, or a certificate of demolition.
(2) If the Commission finds that the application of the standards set forth in subsection (c) of this section
does not result in economic hardship, then the certificate of demolition shall be denied.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016; Ord. 13 , § 2, 2019; Ord. 2 , § 6, 2021)
Sec. 19-143. Certificate of demolition.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any designated structure or site or contributing structure in a historic district to be
demolished without having first obtained a certificate for demolition. If a certificate for demolition is
requested on any basis other than that of an imminent hazard or economic hardship, a certificate of
demolition will not be issued until all criteria in subsection (b) of this Section are met.
(b) Applicants requesting a certificate of demolition must provide data to clearly demonstrate that the situation
meets all of the following criteria:
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(1) The structure proposed for demolition is not structurally sound despite evidence of the owner's efforts
to properly maintain the structure. An architect or engineer with extensive historic building experience
will be required to submit a report with sufficient evidence related to the building's structural integrity.
(2) The structure cannot be rehabilitated or reused on-site to provide for any reasonable beneficial use of
the property.
(3) The structure cannot be practically moved to another site.
(4) The applicant demonstrates that the proposal mitigates to the greatest extent practical the following:
a. Any impacts that occur to the visual character of the neighborhood where demolition is proposed
to occur;
b. Any impact on the historic importance of the remaining structures located on the property and
adjacent properties; and
c. Any impact to the architectural integrity of the remaining structures located on the property and
adjacent properties.
(c) In the case of archaeological sites, consideration will be given to whether information can be recovered as
part of the demolition process.
(d) Review criteria for partial demolition:
(1) The partial demolition is required for the renovation, restoration, or rehabilitation of the structure; and
(2) The applicant must mitigate, to the greatest extent possible:
a. Impacts on the historic importance or character defining features of the structures located on the
property.
b. Impacts on the architectural integrity of the structures located on the property.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016; Ord. 2 , § 7, 2021)
Sec. 19-154. Alteration, demolition or relocation of non-designated structures.
(a) No person shall alter, demolish, or relocate any structure over fifty (50) years old, or any portion thereof,
without first applying for and receiving a certificate from the Planning Department.
(b) Within thirty (30) days of receipt of an application required under this Section, the Planning Department shall
determine whether the structure is eligible for historic designation by applying the criteria for designation
set forth in Section 19-7. If the Planning Department determines the structure is ineligible for designation, a
certificate shall be issued. If the Planning Department determines the structure is eligible for designation, the
Planning Department shall next determine whether the proposal will impact the historic importance or
character-defining features of the structure. If not, the Planning Department shall issue the certificate. If the
proposal will impact the historic importance or character-defining features of the structure, the application
shall be forwarded to the Commission for determination of its eligibility for designation under the criteria for
designation set forth in Section 19-7. Failure to meet the thirty (30) day deadline shall result in immediate
issuance of a certificate if all other applicable requirements have been met.
(c) If the application is forwarded to the Commission, the Commission shall hold a public hearing within sixty
(60) days after Planning Department referral. If the Commission fails to hold a public hearing within such 60-
day period, the certificate shall be issued if all other applicable requirements have been met.
(d) If the Commission determines that the non-designated structure qualifies for designation under the criteria
in this Chapter, the application for a certificate to alter, demolish, or relocate the structure shall be
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suspended for a period of up to one hundred eighty (180) days. The Commission may include a nonbinding
recommendation for the duration of the suspension in its determination. During the period of suspension,
the Town Administrator may take any action the Town Administrator deems necessary and consistent with
the purposes and intent of this Chapter to preserve the structure, including, without limitation, consulting
with civic groups, public agencies, and interested citizens; recommending acquisition of the property by
private or public bodies or agencies; exploring the possibility of moving buildings that would otherwise be
demolished; salvaging building materials, and looking for alternatives to the proposed action which will not
have any adverse impact on the historic significance of the structure. The Town Administrator shall work
with the owner to preserve the historic nature of the structure. If the owner still desires to demolish or
relocate the structure after expiration of the 180-day suspension period or upon determination by the Town
Administrator that all actions authorized hereunder have been satisfactorily pursued, whichever occurs first,
the certificate shall be issued if all other applicable requirements have been met.
(e) The Town may require the preservation or salvage of specific architectural elements of the structure and the
opportunity to document the building photographically prior to alteration, demolition, or relocation of the
structure.
(Ord. 13 , § 3, 2019)
Editor's note(s)—Ord. 13 , § 3, adopted Nov. 12, 2019, changed the title of § 19-14 from "Demoliton or relocation
of non-designated buildings" to read as herein set out.
Sec. 19-165. Unsafe or dangerous conditions exempted.
Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to prevent any measures of construction, alteration, removal, or
demolition necessary to correct the unsafe or dangerous condition of any structure, other feature, or parts
thereof, where such condition is declared unsafe or dangerous by the Town and where the proposed measures
have been declared necessary by the chief building official to correct the condition, as long as only such work that
is necessary to correct the condition is performed. Any temporary measures may be taken without first obtaining a
certificate of historic appropriateness under this Chapter, but a certificate is required for permanent alteration,
removal, or demolition.
Sec. 19-176. Appeals.
(a) Any person aggrieved by a Historic Preservation Commission decision may appeal the decision to the Board
of Trustees by following the procedures set forth in this Section.
(b) A formal notice of appeal shall be filed with the Town no later than fifteen (15) working days from the date
of decision. The notice shall conform with the requirements of this Section, along with the applicable filing
fee.
(c) Upon receipt of the appeal, the Town Clerk shall schedule the appeal for the next regularly scheduled
meeting of the Board of Trustees that allows for publication and posting required per Section 19-6(c).
(d) Appeals shall be reviewed on the basis of the record before the Commission to determine the following:
(1) If the Design Guidelines were adhered to, if guidelines have been adopted by the Town; and
(2) If the Code was interpreted or applied erroneously.
(e) A perfected appeal shall operate as a stay of the decision unless determined otherwise by the Board of
Trustees.
(f) Once scheduled, an appeal may only be postponed by the aggrieved party upon a showing of good cause.
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(g) The Board of Trustees shall have the power to affirm, reverse, modify or remand for additional review the
action under appeal. The hearing shall be limited to matters raised on appeal. No new evidence shall be
admitted at a public hearing.
(h) The failure to appeal within the fifteen-day period shall be deemed to be a waiver of the right to appeal for
failure to exhaust administrative remedies.
(i) The appeal filing fee shall be per the published fee schedule as determined by the Board of Trustees. Failure
to pay the fee according to the published fee schedule shall be deemed to be a waiver of the right to appeal.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-187. Enforcement and penalties.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to violate a provision of this Chapter or the terms of a certificate of
historic appropriateness. Any person, either as owner, lessee, occupant, or otherwise, who violates any of
the provisions of this Chapter or any amendment thereof, or who interferes in any manner with any person
in the performance of a right or duty granted or imposed upon him by the provisions of this Chapter, shall be
subject to penalties in Section 1-72 of the Municipal Code.
(b) In addition to the remedies in Section 19-17(a) above, if a designated structure is altered or demolished in
violation of this Chapter, the violation shall be grounds for the Town to deny any permit required under the
Municipal Code related to the use of the property or building on the property for a period of five (5) years
from the Town's discovery of the violation or the Town may seek order from the Municipal Court or other
court of competent jurisdiction an order from the court requiring the owner to cease the alteration or
demolition or requiring the owner to return the structure to its condition prior to the unlawful alteration or
demolition, including reconstruction of the structure in a manner that replicates as closely as possible the
original structure. An owner subject to the remedies in this subsection may file for an appropriate permit
under this Chapter seeking approval from the Town for the alteration or demolition. Such permit application
shall be accompanied by the payment of an amount that is equal to double the current application fee. If the
Town approves the application, then the five (5) year moratorium on permits shall be lifted and the owner
may seek vacation of any court order.
(c) The remedies in this Section shall be deemed cumulative.
( Ord. 14 §1 , 2016)
Sec. 19-198. New construction.
Property owners undertaking construction of a new structure within MU-MS Mixed Use Main Street Zone
District may shall seek guidance and recommendations from the Commission on the project as per Section 19-6 of
this Chapter. Any guidance or recommendations from the Commission are not binding on the property owner.
(Ord. 2 , § 8, 2021)
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MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
TOWN OF BUENA VISTA, COLORADO
April 7, 2022 3:00 PM
In-person Meeting was held at the Buena Vista Airport with alternate zoom link availability
for the public to also attend virtually.
I. CALL TO ORDER
John O’Brien called the meeting to order at 3:04 pm.
II. ROLL CALL
Melanie Roth and Katy Welter attended via Zoom. Vic Kuklin, John O’Brien, Jo Reese, Suzy Kelly,
and Mary Therese Anstey attended in person. Joseph Teipel Planning Director attended in
person.
III. AGENDA ADOPTION
Melanie moved to approve the agenda and Suzy seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – March 3, 2022
Suzy moved and John seconds a motion to approve the minutes as amended for typographical
errors. The motion carried unanimously.
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment.
VI. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Mandatory HPC review work discussion:
• Proposed UDC Changes –April 20th with P&Z
• Architectural Design Guidelines edits
Joseph shared that the framework that came out of the last Trustee work
session, using the flow chart in the packet. The Trustee work session resulted in
direction in two areas: to propose mandatory review of projects for compliance
with the guidelines in the short-term; and to work on a regulatory framework in
the mid-term.
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
A public hearing has been set for April 20th before P&Z Commission to propose a
change to the UDC incorporating the ADG’s into any site plan review process.
Joseph walked through the proposed changes to the UDC.
Nancy made a motion and Jo seconded to approve the UDC changes as
proposed. The motion carried unanimously.
Next, Joseph reviewed the proposed changes to the ADG’s. The group
discussed some possible changes prior to May 5th, and any additional changes
will be shared with Joseph by the end of next week.
B. Dr. Lindsey Flewelling visit in August
John noted that Lindsey will be attending our August meeting and the
commissioners discussed the possible subjects that Lindsey could teach a class
on. The commissioners agreed on a discussion on how to implement ADG
design reviews by a HPC.
C. Local landmark plaque ceremony
John advised the commissioners the invination to Governor Jarret Polis for the
BV Courthouse plaque ceremony was declined by the Governor’s office. It was
agreed to have the Courthouse ceremony on May 20th with the time to be
determined. The date for the Book Nook will be discussed at our next meeting.
D. my-BV.com website
Joseph reviewed the progress on the HPC section of the website. It was agreed
to post some sample articles of Suzy Kelley’s along with photos to the story
section of the website and leave the map section for landmarked property and
property’s with historical surveys.
E. Historic preservation month discussion
Mary Therese presented the proposed awesome coloring contest image of the
Courthouse and the rules for the contest. There will be 4 age categories, voting
for winners and prizes. The drawings will be displayed at the library. Everyone
thought it was great and Mary Therese will distribute the document for comments
and a signup sheet for volunteers for both the contest and for soliciting business
donations for prizes.
F. Updates from related organizations and general discussion
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
Vick noted that the elevator at the Courthouse was broken again but a plan for
repair was in place.
G. Next meeting date and location: May 5, 2020 at the airport.
VII. STAFF UPDATES - none
VIII. ADJOURNMENT. John adjourned the meeting at 5:00.
This Agenda may be Amended
Posted at Buena Vista Town Hall and www.buenavistaco.gov
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