Historic Preservation Commission

Historic Preservation Commission Regular Meeting July 17, 2026, 11:00 AM Council Conference Room, La Plata Town Hall 305 Queen Anne St. La Plata MD Agenda 1. Call to Order 1.1. Attendees, please use meeting courtesy. Virtual attendees are asked to mute microphones when joining the meeting. Participants may be muted by the Town Clerk, and meetings will be recorded. In accordance with the Open Meetings Act, the public has the right to view/listen to the discussion only. At their discretion, the Finance Committee may allow participants to voice questions or provide comments on the topics under discussion. Written comments may be submitted via email to Legislative@townoflaplata.org Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 258 482 113 801 02 Passcode: K2DX3Ei7 (Calendar Year: 2026) 1.2. Pledge of Allegiance 2. Approval of Minutes 2.1. Approval of minutes from meeting on May 15, 2026. 3. Matters of Discussion 3.1. La Plata-Maryland 250 Programming (PC Work Plan Item No. 2) 3.2. Adoption of the Preservation Professionals List (PC Work Plan Item No. 3) 3.3. Introduction and Discussion of the Development of a Legacy Business Program for the Town of La Plata (PC Work Plan Item No. 6) 4. Subcommittee Appointments 4.1. Legacy Business Program Page 1 of 60 5. Subcommittee Updates 5.1. Comments from the HPC Subcommittee concerning the Maryland 250 Programs for La Plata (Work Plan Item No. 2) 5.2. Comments from the HPC Subcommittee Concerning the Promotion of the Approved Centennial Plaque Program (Completed Work Plan Item No. 3) 6. Matters of Information 6.1. Commissioner Comments 6.2. Town Council Report 6.3. Staff Report 7. Public Comment 8. Adjourn 8.1. Adjournment Page 2 of 60  TOWN OF LA PLATA Historic Preservation Commission Minutes May 15, 2026, 11:00 AM Regular Meeting Council Conference Room, La Plata Town Hall 305 Queen Anne St. La Plata MD PRESENT: Chair Rich Gilpin Vice Chair Steuart Bowling Mary Beth Chandler Jane Hobbs ABSENT: TOWN STAFF: Don Dooley, Director of Planning Shelby Pritchett, Town Clerk GUESTS: 1. Call to Order 1.1. Attendees, please use meeting courtesy. Virtual attendees are asked to mute microphones when joining the meeting. Participants may be muted by the Town Clerk, and meetings will be recorded. In accordance with the Open Meetings Act, the public has the right to view/listen to the discussion only. At their discretion, the Finance Committee may allow participants to voice questions or provide comments on the topics under discussion. Written comments may be submitted via email to Legislative@townoflaplata.org Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 258 482 113 801 02 Passcode: K2DX3Ei7 (Calendar Year: 2026) Chair Gilpin called the meeting to order at 11:03 AM. 1.2. Roll Call The Town Clerk conducted Roll Call. 1.3. Pledge of Allegiance Chair Gilpin led all assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance. 2. Approval of Minutes Vice Chair Bowling moved to amend the agenda to address items 3.2 and 6.2 in advance of the remaining agenda. Moved By: Steuart Bowling, seconded by Jane Hobbs. Ayes: Chair Gilpin, Vice Chair Bowling, Chandler, Hobbs Nays: None Page 3 of 60  Abstained: None Absent: Passed 2.1. Approval of minutes from meeting on March 20, 2026. Vice Chair Bowling moved to approve the minutes from the meeting on March 20, 2026, with amendments to item 5.2 to reflect Councilman Guttenbergs request for staff to develop meeting procedures. Moved By: Steuart Bowling, seconded by Mary Beth Chandler. Ayes: Chair Gilpin, Vice Chair Bowling, Chandler, Hobbs Nays: None Abstained: None Absent: Passed 3. Matters of Discussion 3.1. Draft of Preservation Professionals List (HPC Work Plan Item No.3) Director Dooley gave a brief overview of the Draft Preservation Professionals List (HPC Work Plan Item No.3). Director Dooley acknowledged questions and concerns from the Historic Preservation Commission and agreed to address and draft a resolution adopting the list for a future agenda. 3.2. Former Fire House Building Capital Improvement Project (CIP) for FY 2027 Councilman Guttenberg provided a brief overview of the Fire House Building Capital Improvement Project and addressed Historic Preservation Commission feedback. 3.3. Historic Preservation Commission Vacancy for Alternate Member Director Dooley gave a brief overview of the Historic Preservation Commission vacancies and the status of the staff work to address filling the vacancies. 4. Subcommittee Appointments No business was conducted on this agenda item. 5. HPC Work Plan Subcommittee Updates 5.1. Maryland 250 Programs for La Plata (Work Plan Item No. 2) Jane Hobbs provided a subcommittee overview and answered questions on the latest work within the Maryland 250 programs. Director Dooley answered Historic Preservation Commission questions regarding coordination with the Town of La Plata Event Planner. 5.2. Promotion of the Approved Centennial Plaque Program (Completed Work Plan Item No. 3) Marybeth Chandler gave a brief overview of the status of the Centennial Plaque Program. Director Dooley answered Historic Preservation Commission questions. 6. Matters of Information 6.1. Commissioners Report Page 4 of 60  The commissioners reported on activities and concerns within the Historic Preservation Commission's scope of work. 6.2. Town Council Report Councilman Guttenberg gave a brief Town Council Report and departed at 11:25 AM in advance of the remaining agenda. 6.3. Staff Report Director Dooley states he will bring the Historic Preservation Professionals List back as an HPC Resolution at the next meeting. 7. Adjourn 7.1. Adjournment Hobbs moved to adjourn the meeting at 12:27 PM. Moved By: Jane Hobbs, seconded by Steuart Bowling. Ayes: Chair Gilpin, Vice Chair Bowling, Chandler, Hobbs Nays: None Abstained: None Absent: Passed Submitted by: _____________________________________ Shelby Pritchett, Town Clerk Page 5 of 60  TOWN OF LA PLATA 305 Queen Anne Street Post Office Box 2268 La Plata, Maryland 20646 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: July 17, 2026 TO: Honorable Chair and Members of the Historic Preservation Commission FROM: Don Dooley, Director of Planning SUBJECT: Preservation Professionals List (HPC Work Plan Item No. 3) REQUEST: To approve the Preservation Professionals List (aka “Professional Trades Directory”). BACKGROUND On February 24, 2026, the Town Council adopted the Historic Preservation Commission’s (“HPC”) five-year Work Plan to facilitate the long-term development of a historic preservation plan for the Town of La Plata as required in Chapter 11, Section 11-8(A)(10), of the La Plata Municipal Code. Work Plan No. 3 identifies the need to develop of a “Preservation Professionals List” to help property owners identify potential trade professionals that may have the skills and resources necessary to help preserve, rehabilitate, or restore their vintage/historic buildings and structures. DISCUSSION Staff developed a draft preservation professionals list that is entitled, “Professional Trades Directory” (“Directory”). As identified in Attachment No. 1, it includes a variety of professional trades and resources that can be helpful to residents interested in preserving, rehabilitating or restoring their vintage or historic buildings and structures. While the Directory is by no means exhaustive, it groups together many trade resources, their contact information, and their areas of expertise for the public’s reference. Historic Preservation Commission Meeting of May 15, 2026 At the May 15, 2026, Historic Preservation Commission meeting, the Commission expressed support for the Directory. Staff recommended continuing this item to the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting on July 17, 2026, to allow the Commission members additional time to review the Directory in detail and propose any additional Page 6 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission Draft Preservation Professionals List/Professional Trades Directory July 17, 2026 businesses to supplement those identified by staff. As of this writing, staff has not received any additional suggestions from the Commission. The Town Attorney has also reviewed the Directory and its associated disclaimers and has not identified any concerns. Development of the Directory The draft Directory was developed though staff research and the consolidation of several trade lists for professionals from the Maryland Historic Trust, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Charles County Government, the City of Annapolis and other resources. Directory Limitations and Challenges One of the challenges in developing the Directory was finding trade professionals who have a demonstrated interest in working with vintage and historic resources. Particularly those who have the training, specialization, familiarity, and sensitivity to perform such work. Once the integrity of a resource is compromised, it is often too late to reverse the damage. Professionals that are familiar with applying the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines are also less common. These are the same challenges other government agencies and preservation non-profits have in creating any type of professional service reference list for the public. Nevertheless, such lists provide a starting point and an awareness of the professional resources and trades that are available for the public’s consideration. Given these challenges, staff has proposed a disclaimer on the draft Directory that states, “The La Plata Professional Trades Directory (“Directory”) has been produced solely for informational purposes only. The Directory is not an endorsement by the Town of La Plata, Maryland or a recognition of professional competency or trade quality. As a local government agency, the Town of La Plata cannot recommend the goods or services provided by anyone in this Directory as it is not possible for the Town to fully verify the experience and credentials of those listed. Therefore, this Directory should not be construed as a governmental “approval” list of any kind. Determining the suitability of the individuals and firms in this Directory is your sole responsibility. It is also your responsibility to ascertain whether the individuals and firms in this Directory have the appropriate government licensures and permits to conduct business in the Town of La Plata.” Similar disclaimers are frequently used by other agencies during staffs’ research. As noted above, the Town Attorney has reviewed the disclaimer and has not identified any issues of concern. Another challenge in assembling the Directory was identifying local trade resources that have the professional qualities and experience desired to work with vintage and historic buildings. However, to obtain a reasonable pool of trade professionals, staff has listed 2|Page Page 7 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission Draft Preservation Professionals List/Professional Trades Directory July 17, 2026 firms and individuals that may be well outside of Charles County, in Maryland or Virginia, that are within a “reasonable” driving distance to La Plata. Such trade professionals may be potentially interested in doing work in La Plata. Directory Implementation With the approval of the Directory by Historic Preservation Commission, staff will finalize the attached list and upload it to the Town’s website for public decimation. It is staff’s intent to make this a “living directory” so that any professional trade or service provider who is not listed in the Directory will have the opportunity to request the Planning Department to add them to the Directory in the future for public reference. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Historic Preservation Commission adopt the attached, draft, resolution approving the 2026 Preservation Professionals List (aka “Professional Trades Directory) to complete Work Plan Item No. 3 on the Historic Preservation Commission’s 2025-2030 Work Plan. ATTACHMENTS 1) Draft Planning Commission Resolution 2) Draft La Plata Professional Trades Directory 3|Page Page 8 of 60  DRAFT TOWN OF LA PLATA, MARYLAND HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2026-02 A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF THE TOWN OF LA PLATA, MARYLAND APPROVING THE 2026 PRESERVATION PROFESSIONALS LIST (ALSO KNOWN AS THE “PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY”). WHEREAS, on February 24, 2026, the Town Council adopted the 2025-2030 Historic Preservation Commission (“HPC”) Work Plan to guide the long-term development of a historic preservation plan for the Town of La Plata, as required in Chapter 11, Section 11-8(A)(10) of the La Plata Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, Work Plan Item No. 3 identifies the need to develop a “Preservation Professionals List” to assist property owners in locating trade professionals who offer services in preserving, rehabilitating, reconstructing and restoring vintage and historic buildings and structures in the Town of La Plata; and WHEREAS, Town staff prepared a draft Professional Trades Directory (“Directory”) consisting of professional trades, contact information, and areas of expertise compiled from multiple government and preservation resource lists, as more fully described in Attachment No. 1; and WHEREAS, the Historic Preservation Commission reviewed the draft Directory at its regularly scheduled meeting on May 15, 2026, expressed support for its purpose, and continued the item to the July 17, 2026, meeting to allow additional time for Commission members to review the Directory and suggest additional trade resources; and WHEREAS, as of July 17, 2026, staff has not received any additional recommended trade professionals from Commission members; and WHEREAS, the Town Attorney has reviewed the Directory and its associated disclaimer and has identified no legal concerns; and, WHEREAS, the Commission finds that the Directory will serve as a useful informational resource for property owners and will further the public purposes of the Town’s historic preservation program. Page 9 of 60 DRAFT Historic Preservation Commission Resolution No. 2026-02 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the La Plata Historic Preservation Commission hereby approves the 2026 Preservation Professionals List, also known as the “Professional Trades Directory,” as presented in Attachment No. 1 to this Resolution and incorporated herein by reference. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff is authorized to finalize the Directory and make it publicly available on the Town’s website, and to update the Directory as needed in the future as additional trade professionals request inclusion. PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE LA PLATA HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION on July 17, 2026, by the following vote: Yes: No: Abstain: Absent: ____________________________________________ Richard Gilpin, Historic Preservation Commission Chair Attest: _________________________________________ Don Dooley, Director of Planning Attachments: 1) Final Draft 2026 Preservation Professionals List (aka “Professional Trades Directory”) Page 10 of 60  JULY 17, 2026 DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY The Professional Trades Directory (“Directory”) has been produced solely for informational purposes only. The Directory is not an endorsement by the Town of La Plata, Maryland or a recognition of professional competency or trade quality. As a local government agency, the Town of La Plata cannot recommend the goods or services provided by anyone in this Directory as it is not possible for the Town to fully verify the experience and professional credentials of those listed. This Directory should not be construed as a governmental “approval” list of any kind. Determining the suitability of the individuals and firms in this Directory is your sole responsibility. It is also your responsibility to ascertain whether the individuals and firms in this Directory have the appropriate government licensures and permits to conduct business in the Town of La Plata. ARCHITECTS Allbright Bullock Architects 616 Old County Road Severna Park, MD 21146 410-349-8838 info@allbrightarch.com www.allbrightbullock.com Alt Breeding Schwarz Architects 209 Main Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-268-1213 info@absarchitects.com www.absarchitects.com Bell Architects, PC 1228 9th Street NW Washington, DC 20001 202-548-7570 david.bell@bellarchitects.com 1 Created 05/15/26 Page 11 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY BOB Architecture 108 North First Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-344-0060 bobsteele@BOBarchitecture.net Boggs & Partners Architects 410 Severn Avenue Annapolis, MD 21403 410-268-3797 cmorrissey@boggspartners.com www.boggspartners.com Bohl Architects 161 Prince George Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-263-2200 chip@bohlarchitects.com www.bohlarchitects.com Brennan + Company Architects 8333 Main Street, 2nd Floor Ellicott City, MD 21043 410-313-8310 info@brennanarch.com brennanarch.com Cole & Denny Architects 333 N. Fairfax St Alexandria, VA 22314 703-684-5994 jcole@coleanddenny.com coleanddenny.com 2 Page 12 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Commonwealth Architects 101 Shockoe Slip, 3rd Floor Richmond, VA 23219 804-648-5040 comarchs.com D.A. Booth Architect 4 King Charles Place Annapolis, MD 21401 443-254-1537 bootharch@earthlink.net David Gleason Associates, Inc. 520 A North Eutaw Street Baltimore, MD 21201-4513 410-728-1810 gleasonarchitects.com/contact.html Encore Sustainable Architects 31 Light Street, Suite 500 Baltimore, MD 21202 410-624-5461 ward@encoresustainablearchitects.com Fourth Street Design Studio, Inc. 421 Fourth Street Annapolis, MD 21403 410-269-5027 gary.fsds@gmail.com www.fsds.biz 3 Page 13 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Frederick Sieracki Architects 119 Monticello Avenue Annapolis, MD 21401 410-268-7907 fsieracki@gmail.com www.fsarchitects.biz Glavé & Holmes Architecture 2101 East Main Street Richmond, VA 23223 804-649-9303 sreed@glaveandholmes.com Good Architecture, P.C. 132 West Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-268-7414 wayne@goodarchitecture.com www.goodarchitecture.com Guernsey-Tingle 4350 New Town Avenue, Suite 101 Williamsburg, VA 23188 757-220-0220 skalantarians@GuernseyTingle.com Halpern Architects 2238 Bay Ridge Avenue, Suite A Annapolis, MD 21403 410-263-1909 info@halpernarchitects.com www.halpernarchitects.com 4 Page 14 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Hammond Wilson Architects, P.C. 209 West Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-267-6041 HWA@hammondwilson.com www.hammondwilson.com J. Mayer Architects, LLC 2553 Housley Road Annapolis, MD 21401 410-266-9560 webmaster@jmayerarchitects.com www.jmayerarchitects.com Janet Virginia Shenk, Architect 229 Anchorage Drive Annapolis, MD 21409 410-349-2101 janetshenk@yahoo.com Karl Riedel Architecture, PC 4 Loudoun Street Leesburg, VA 20175 703-771-3990 kriedelarchitect@aol.com R.L. Litten & Associates 300 Charles Street La Plata, MD 20646 301-934-1471 rllitten.architect@verizon.net https://www.littenarchitects.com/ 5 Page 15 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Mark J Wenger Architects 105 Thorpe's Parish Williamsburg, VA 23185 948-529-0043 swfl1951@gmail.com Mesick Cohen Wilson Baker Architects, LLC 402 W. Duke of Gloucester St, Suite 240 Williamsburg, VA 23185 518-433-9394 ekuchar@mcwb-arch.com Michael Dowling Architect 150 South Street, Suite 204 Annapolis, MD 21401 410-269-0621 mdowlingRA@gmail.com MTFA Architecture 3200 Langston Blvd Arlington, VA 22207 703-524-6616 mtfa@mtfa.net MTFA Architecture, PLLC 3200 Langston Blvd Arlington, VA 22207 703-524-6616 mtfa@mtfa.net 6 Page 16 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY RML Architecture 303 Cedar Street Richmond, VA 23223 804-269-1174 rml303@aol.com Roberts Architects, LLC 8630M Guilford Road, Suite 143 Columbia, MD 21046 410-971-6809 bcr@robertsarchitects.com www.robertsarchitects.com SOLEX Architecture 641 Main Street Danville, VA 24541 434-688-0767 contact@solexarchitecture.com Speight Studio Architects, Inc. 540 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Suite B Severna Park, MD 21146 410-647-1543 wayne@speightstudio.com www.speightstudio.com Stroud Architects + Associates PLLC 6558 Main Street, Suite 1A Gloucester, VA 23061 804-699-1015 ims@stroudarchitects.com 7 Page 17 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY T. Averill Architect, LLC 219 Chesapeake Avenue Annapolis, MD 21403 410-268-0179 arch.plan@verizon.net Teresa Todd 1037 Lake Claire Drive Annapolis, MD 21409 410-626-7877 teresa@ttarchitect.com Thomas D. Davies, Jr., AIA 16 College Avenue Annapolis, MD 21401 410-263-2831 thomas.d.davies@verizon.net WGM Architecture & Interiors 1 Annapolis Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-263-6787 emasek@wgm.com www.wgm-arch.com Welborn + Wright 3801 Carolina Avenue Richmond, VA 23222 804-329-0079 info@wellbornwright.com wellbornwright.com 8 Page 18 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY ARCHITECTURAL MATERIALS CONSERVATOR Architectural Materials Conservator John Greenwalt Lee Company PO Box 724 Annapolis, MD 21414 443.306.4334 jglee@erols.com Http://www.johngreenwaltlee.com ARCHITECTURAL SALVAGE Community Forklift 4671 Tanglewood Drive Edmonston, MD 20781 301-985-5180 info@communityforklift.org communityforklift.org Habitat for Humanity Restore 3741 Commerce Drive Baltimore, MD 21227 410-366-1250 www.habitatchesapeake.org Second Chance 1700 Ridgely Street Baltimore, MD 21230 www.secondchanceinc.org CONTRACTORS All Work, LLC. 8722 Eddington Rd Baltimore, MD 443-326-3300 http://allworkllc.com/ 9 Page 19 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Batton Builders, Inc. 3120 Paper Mill Road Phoenix, MD 21131 410-530-6299 scott@battonbuilder.net https://battonbuilder.net/ Blackthorn Builders Hagerstown, MD 301-297-3994 service@blackthornbuilders.com blackthornbuilders.com/blackthorn-builders-llc C&H Restoration and Renovation 728 Loch Raven Rd Baltimore, MD 21218 410-616-0678 office@candhrestoration.com candhrestoration.com Corners Historic Restoration Baltimore, MD 21202 443-388-9641 cornersrestoration.com Custom Build Maryland Maryland 410-984-8546 info@CustomBuildMD.com custombuildmd.com/historic-restoration Delbert Adams Construction Group 6305 Falls Road Baltimore, MD 21209 410-583-7575 info@dacgllc.com www.dacgllc.com/ Dominion Traditional Building Group 6634 Wilson Road Marshall, VA 20115 540-326-1882 info@traditionalbuilders.net dominion.builders 10 Page 20 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Dynamik Construction Co. Inc. 717 Royal Crescent Drive Richmond, VA 23236 804-640-9102 Dynamik_kj@comcast.net Habalis Construction, Inc. 1001 Tyler Street, Suite 2 Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-373-2225 team.habalis@gmail.com habalis.com Historic Carpentry Repairs Richmond, VA 804-738-9696 historiccarpentryrepairs@gmail.com Historic Structure Maryland Maryland sortado@gmail.com historicstructuresmd.com James L. Ryland, Contractor 2207 East Marshall Street Richmond, VA 23223 804-648-4525 james.ryland@verizon.net Karnage Construction 3008 1st Avenue Richmond, VA 23222 804-813-9965 info@karnageconstruction.com karnageconstruction.com Mennonite Builders / Buggy Trail Construction Roy and Mark Brubacher Buggy Trail Way Helen, MD Contact: Samuel Baldwin 240.925.1767 sbaldwin@bbmlaw.net 11 Page 21 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Peter Post Restoration 409 Beechwood Drive Richmond, VA 23229 804-673-0022 peterpostrestoration@gmail.com Prestige Construction Group 289 Turner Road Richmond, VA 23225 804-745-0000 kenjones@prestigeconstruction.com prestigeconstruction.com S.D. Lohr Incorporated Carpentry Contractor, Custom Home Framing Tina Lohr, CR 7470 Bensville Rd. Waldorf, MD 20603-4043 301-645-0821 Victor H. MacSorley Construction, Inc. St. Michaels, MD 21663 United States 410-745-5368 victormacsorley.com/ DOORS, SCREENS, AND WINDOWS RESTORATIONS Castle Windows 4700 Westport Drive, Suite 50 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 844.819.5938 castle-midatlantic.com Ferguson Historical Restorations 604 Gordon Avenue Richmond, VA 23235 804-928-8713 rod.fergusonhr@gmail.com fergusonhistoricrestorations.com 12 Page 22 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY ENGINEERING/STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS AECOM Scott Seibel 12420 Milestone Center Drive, Suite 150 Germantown, MD 301-213-7819 scott.seibel@aecom.com BL Companies 145 West Ostend Street, Suite 600 Baltimore, MD 21230 410-385-5266 mcarlson@blcompanies.com www.blcompanies.com CTL Engineering, Inc. 4140 Pleasant Valley Road Chantilly, VA 20151 614-276-8123 jbrown@ctleng.com Hamilton Structural Engineering, PLLC 2156 Shillelagh Road Chesapeake, VA 23323 757-908-2208 peter@hamiltonse.com Restoration Engineering, Inc. 10503 West Drive, Suite A Fairfax, VA 22030 703-272-7787 jhugney@rei1.com Simpson, Gumpertz, & Heger, Inc. 1625 Eye Street, NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC 20006 202-239-4199 MJDaw@sgh.com Structura Inc. 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 950 Rockville, MD 301-987-9234 info@structura-inc.com www.structura-inc.com 13 Page 23 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND HISTORIAN CONSULTANTS Aeon Preservation Services, LLC Alfonso Narvaez Lane M. Burritt Hilleary Magruder House 4703 Annapolis Road Bladensburg, MD 20710 301-563-9308 lane@aeonpreservation.com alfonso@aeonpreservation.com www.aeonpreservation.com EHT Traceries 440 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20001 202-393-1199 eht@traceries.com www.traceries.com Heritage Preservation Services 510 Pafel Road Annapolis, MD 21401 410-353-3003 kate@heritagepreserve.com www.heritagepreserve.com Marie-Therese Giguere 838 Evesham Ave Baltimore, MD 21212 443-676-2688 mimigig@me.com R. Christopher Goodwin & Assoc., Inc. 241 East Fourth Street Frederick, MD 21701 800-340-2724 frederick@rcgoodwin.com www.rcgoodwin.com Retrospect, LLC 303 Fairfield Drive Severn, Maryland 443.994.1591 retrospectllc.com 14 Page 24 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY INTERIOR FINISHING Colonial Plaster 6289 Morning Glory Road Mechanicsville, VA 23111 804-539-6223 dpollard@colonialplaster.com colonialplaster.com Evergreene Architectural Arts 3009 Kaverton Rd District Heights, MD 20747 212-244-2800 inquiries@evergreen.com evergreene.com Faux Finish Creations 335 S. Cherry Street Richmond, VA 23220 804-615-7881 fauxfinishcreations@mail.com FB: Faux Finish Creations by Elaine Lane Brothers 408 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220 804-643-6658 bryan.lane@lanebrothers.net lanebrothers.net Maeve Bristow Conservation & Restoration, LLC 1501 Dispatch Road Quinton, VA 23141 757-876-7256 maevebristow@gmail.com W.E. Bowman Construction, Inc. 3715 Belt Boulevard Richmond, VA 23234 804-291-3899 edbowman@webowman.com webowman.com 15 Page 25 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Widespread Solutions 6033 Mechanicsville Turnpike Mechanicsville, VA 23111 804-317-9392 info@widespreadsolutions.net widespreadsolutions.net MECHANCIAL (HVAC) WORK Bay Heating & Cooling 37 Hudson Street Annapolis, MD 21401 410-647-1233 info@bayheatcool.com www.bayheatcool.com Climate Care HVAC Services 2121 Baldwin Avenue Suite 25 Crofton, MD 21114 410-921-3838 steve@climatecareservices.com climatecareservices.com Grove Heating and Cooling, Inc. 2142 Priest Bridge Court Suite 6 Crofton, MD 21114 410-721-5595 andreab@grovehvac.com www.grovehvac.com MASONRY WORK 1338 Horner Road Woodbridge, VA 22191 202-368-1319 16thstreetrestorationdc@gmail.com 16thstreetrestoration.com 16 Page 26 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Atlantic Restoration & Waterproofing Beltsville, MD 20705 United States 301-843-8331 estimating@atlanticrr.com https://www.atlanticrr.com Ben Purdy Masonry, Inc. 509 Tayman Drive Annapolis, MD 21403 410-353-4284 Bricklands Inc. Washington, DC 20003 202-544-9301 brickmasonrywashingtondc.com Chimney Services, Inc. / Charley Carter Masonry 12180 Tidewater Trail Saluda, VA 23149 804-758-4400 D.W. Masonry, Inc. PO Box 577 Denton, MD 21629 410-479-0685 www.themasonryexperts.com Envirowash, Inc. 1533 Willis Road Richmond, VA 23237 804-744-2974 james@envirowashinc.com envirowashinc.com Federal Masonry Restoration 3615 Oak Lane Mount Rainier, MD 20712 443-867-6126 fedmasonry.com Federal Masonry Restoration (Chuck Spitznagel) 716 Wagner Farm Road Millersville, MD 21108 443-867-6162 17 Page 27 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Hilgartner Natural Stone Company, Inc. 2220 Severn St. Baltimore, MD 21230 410-752-4832 Point Plus Washington, DC 20002 202-812-6468 http://www.pointingplus.com/ Ray Cannetti P.O. Box 213 St. Mary’s City, MD 20686 301-862-1404 Richmond Primoid P.O. Box 6785 Richmond, VA 23230 804-644-4561 rwilliams@primoid.com primoid.com Standard Restoration & Waterproofing, Inc. 3005 Kaverton Road Forestville, MD 20747 301-735-6434 detchison@standardrestorationco.com standardrestorationco.com Vaughan Restoration Masonry Inc. 3917 Wheeler Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304 804-519-5171 info@vaughanrestoration.com vaughanrestoration.com Veusura Associates, LLC 1214 Louis Avenue Annapolis, MD 21403 410-271-5802 veusura@erols.com 18 Page 28 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Wimbish Masonry 203 Farragut Road Annapolis, MD 21401 410-230-6509 wimbishpaul@gmail.com Worcester Eisenbrandt 2100 Gable Avenue Baltimore, MD 21230 410-644-6580 info@weiconstruction.com www.weirestoration.com METAL WORK Colonial Plating Shop 9 South First Street Richmond, VA 23219 804-648-6276 ER Harvey Metalworking 8341 Black Dog Aly Easton, MD 410-822-2418 https://www.facebook.com/p/ER-Harvey-Metalworking-100063620618212/ Richmond Slate & Copper, LLC 16230 Hampton Summit Drive Chesterfield, VA 804-615-7663 Virginia Architectural Metals 10705 Stone Drive Fredericksburg, VA 22408 540-710-7701 Wayfarer Forge 3261 Afton Mountain Road Afton, VA 22920 434-465-5993 wayfarerforge.com 19 Page 29 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY PAINTERS Bay Country Painters 236 Ritchie Highway Severna Park, Maryland 21146 410-544-4400 info@baycountrypatiners.com baycountrypainters.com Boynton Paint & Design 1024 Forest Hills Avenue Annapolis, Maryland 21403 410-980-3848 hittman7@gmail.com Joseph W. Harker Painting 2110 15th Street N Arlington, VA 22201 434-845-7388 Quality Painting, Inc. 2835 Sisson St Baltimore, MD 21211 410-889-8989 The Tower Company 801 Severn Ave Annapolis, Maryland 21403 410-570-5728 thetowerco@gmail.com towercompanyannapolis.com ROOFING ATI Development 201 Davis Drive, Unit U Sterling, VA 20164 410-861-6767 20 Page 30 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Black Creek Workshop, LLC 236 Industrial Blvd, Suite B Toano, VA 23168 757-741-8872 inquiry@blackcreekworkshop.com blackcreekworkshop.com Colonial Roofing Company 1207 Sunrise Beach Road Crownsville, MD 21032 410-729-3550 Durable Slate Company 8725 Bollman Place, Suite 8 Savage, MD 20763 410-235-7500 durableslate.com Fick Bros Roofing & Exterior Remodeling Co. 1200 East 25th Street Baltimore, MD 21218 443-386-0132 jjf@fickbros.com www.fickbros.com Fichtner Services P.O. Box 115 Odenton, MD 21113 877-717-4381 info@fichtnerservices.com Historic Roofing Company 6344 Trailing Arbutus Court Lothian, MD 20711 410-741-0572 443-534-3117 historicroofs@yahoo.com www.historicroofingcompany.com Museum Resources Construction & Millwork P.O. Box 911 Williamsburg, VA 23187 804-966-1800 21 Page 31 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Richmond Slate & Copper, LLC 16230 Hampton Summit Drive Chesterfield, VA 804-615-7663 Ruff Roofers, Inc. 1420 Knecht Avenue Baltimore, MD 21227 410-242-2400 info@ruffroofers.com www.ruffroofers.com Saunders Roofing Company 129 Richmond Highway Richmond, VA 23224 804-353-9919 accounting@saundersroofing.com saundersroofing.com Wagner Roofing Company Hyattsville, MD 301-927-9030 info@wagnerroofing.com wagnerroofing.com Woodel Roof Systems 10966 Richardson Road, Suite C Ashland, VA 23002 804-489-7876 walter@woodelrs.com woodelrs.com Yoder’s Agricultural Construction, Inc. Mechanicsville, MD 301-704-1659 WINDOWS/GLASS Albert Kreis / Fairview Glass 5607 Old National Pike Frederick, MD 21702 240-529-8199 22 Page 32 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY American Cedar & Millwork 214 Najoles Road Millersville, MD 21108 410-987-6800 dbaldwin@millwork1.com Black Creek Workshop, LLC 236 Industrial Blvd, Suite B Toano, VA 23168 757-741-8872 inquiry@blackcreekworkshop.com blackcreekworkshop.com Dog Street Design 715 Ruthsburg Road Centreville, MD 21617 410-353-9418 Robert@dogstreetdesign.com E.S. Taylor Studio, LLC Richmond, VA 23227 804-230-0056 info@estaylorstudio.com estaylorstudio.com Lowen Windows of Annapolis 209 Chinquapin Round Road, Suite 500 Annapolis, MD 21401 443-831-4802 Mozer Works, Inc. 210 Hodges Lane Takoma Park, MD 240-398-7688 windowrestoration.us Museum Resources Construction & Millwork Kerry Shackelford P.O. Box 911 Williamsburg, VA 23187 804-966-1800 23 Page 33 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Old House Authority Richmond, VA 804-648-1616 info@oldhouseauthority.com oldhouseauthority.com Renew Restoration, Inc. 9150B Bursa Road Laurel, MD 20723 301-490-0969 301-466-1406 renewrestorationinc@gmail.com www.renewrestorationinc.com WOOD DATING /DENDROCHRONOLOGY Oxford Tree-Ring Laboratory 25 East Montgomery Street Baltimore, MD 21230 410-929-1520 michael@dendrochronology.com dendrochronology.com WOOD REPAIRS Preservan Wood Rot Repair Richmond, VA 804-455-8567 greg.young@preservan.com Preservan.com WOOD TRADES AND CRAFTS Adams Floor Sanding Co. Inc. 208 Clear View Road Madison Heights, VA 24572 434-929-1172 mhyba@comcast.net 24 Page 34 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY Amish Craftsman (Elmer Hertzler) Charles County, MD 240-925-6184 Call during the hours of 6:00 am to 8:00 am and 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm Colonial Wood-Wrights P.O. Box 16 Aquasco, MD 20608 301-653-7868 Jaeger & Ernst 4785 Burnley Station Lane Barboursville, VA 22923 434-973-7018 jaegerandernst.co McLain Wiesand 1013 Cathedral Street Baltimore, MD 410-539-4440 info@mclainwiesand.com http://www.mclainwiesand.com/ Mennonite Builders / Buggy Trail Construction Roy and Mark Brubacher Buggy Trail Way Helen, MD Contact: Samuel Baldwin 45030 Steerhorn Neck Rd Hollywood, MD 20636 240-925-1767 sbaldwin@bbmlaw.net Olde Virginia Moulding & Millwork, Inc. 100 West Jackson Street Franklin, VA 23851 757-516-9055 oldevamoulding@gmail.com oldevirginiamoulding.com S.D. Lohr Incorporated Carpentry Contractor, Custom Home Framing Tina Lohr, CR 7470 Bensville Rd. Waldorf, MD 20603-4043 301-645-0821 25 Page 35 of 60  DRAFT PROFESSIONAL TRADES DIRECTORY USIING THE U.S. SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Using the Standards and Guidelines for Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration & Reconstruction: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1739/secretary-standards-treatment- historic-properties.htm -END OF LIST- 26 Page 36 of 60  TOWN OF LA PLATA 305 Queen Anne Street Post Office Box 2268 La Plata, Maryland 20646 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: July 17, 2026 TO: Honorable Chair and Members of the Historic Preservation Commission FROM: Don Dooley, Director of Planning SUBJECT Proposed Legacy Business Program REQUEST: To create a Legacy Business Program for the Town of La Plata. BACKGROUND Legacy Businesses are longstanding, locally rooted, enterprises that have contributed to the cultural, social, and economic identity of a community for many years, often 20-25 years or more. These businesses may include (but are not limited to) restaurants, retail shops, service providers, and other small or mid‑sized establishments that have become place‑based institutions or mainstays in a community. They are the kinds of places that parents and grandparents remember, rely on, and continue to support. Earlier generations often introduce younger generations to these familiar, place‑based, businesses that are integral to the community. In doing so, families and friends share traditions, memories, and stories. Recognizing this value, cities and towns across the United States are increasingly developing Legacy Business Programs to acknowledge, support, and preserve these businesses as essential components of community identity and economic stability. The idea of protecting long‑standing, community‑defining businesses is connected to broader movements in historic preservation and cultural heritage protection. While traditional historic preservation in the United States has largely focused on the architectural significance of buildings, the homes of notable individuals, and sites of historic events, preservationists, planners, and community leaders are increasingly recognizing that a community’s cultural identity is also shaped by its long‑tenured businesses, their founders, and patrons. As noted above, these businesses often serve roles that extend far beyond commerce. They function as social anchors, generational gathering places, and hubs for cultural expression and local identity. For example, a local café or restaurant may qualify as a Legacy Business if it functions as a well‑known gathering place where residents meet friends, hold community Page 37 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 conversations, or host neighborhood meetings. It may also preserve ethnic or cultural traditions through long‑standing recipes, cooking methods, or holiday celebrations. Some establishments sponsor traditional community events or activities on-site or serve signature foods and drinks that have been part of local life for generations. Businesses like these contribute to the social and cultural fabric of La Plata because they are often cherished places that hold deeper meaning for residents than for visitors. Whether or not these businesses are in historic or vintage building is of less concern. Additionally, such businesses may be better known to locals than visitors. Beginning in the early 2000s, several U.S. cities began exploring ways to support older small businesses as urban redevelopment pressures, shifting demographics, rising commercial rents and increasing public regulations threatened their survival. Although these early efforts were largely informal, they laid the groundwork for later structured programs. What is Not a Legacy Business A Legacy Business is not simply any older business, nor is it recognized solely by the age or historic character of its building. A business does not qualify as a legacy business if it lacks a meaningful cultural, social, or community‑based connection to the town, even if it has operated for many years. Likewise, businesses that do not reflect or contribute to La Plata’s cultural identity, traditions, or community life are not considered Legacy Businesses. The designation is also not a marker of architectural significance, professional quality, or commercial success, nor is it an endorsement of the goods or services provided. In short, a Legacy Business must be more than long‑standing, it must play an enduring and recognizable role in the cultural fabric of a community. The Beginning of Legacy Business Programs San Francisco is widely credited with launching the nation’s first official Legacy Business Program in 2015, following growing concern about the rapid displacement of long- standing restaurants, independent retailers, arts establishments, and neighborhood- serving businesses. This program emerged after sustained advocacy from community groups, neighborhood organizations, and preservationists who sought to protect “cultural assets” that made San Francisco’s neighborhoods unique. Key aspects of San Francisco’s groundbreaking initiative included: • Creation of a “Legacy Business Registry” recognizing businesses operating for at least 30 years (later expanded to 20 years in some cases). • Development of financial incentives for both legacy businesses and their landlords. • Integration of cultural heritage preservation into economic development strategy. 2|Page Page 38 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 San Francisco’s model demonstrated that long-standing small businesses could be formally acknowledged and supported by local government in the context of broadening historic preservation philosophy with the desire to protect a community’s tangle an intangible cultural heritage and sense of place. Following San Francisco’s program, several major American cities began to see Legacy Businesses as essential components of local economic and cultural resilience. Thus far, several factors have contributed to the growth and popularity of Legacy Business Programs: 1. Urban redevelopment and rising rents Redevelopment and gentrification in many cities have led to rising commercial rents that threatened long-standing small businesses, particularly in well- established neighborhoods that maintained lower rents. Legacy Business Programs emerged as tools to counteract displacement of businesses that have been a part of older neighborhoods for generations while maintaining neighborhood character. 2. Recognition of intangible cultural heritage Traditional historic preservation policies in the United States have largely focused on protecting physical resources such as buildings and archaeological sites as well as historic landscapes within the framework of the National Register of Historic Places. Increasingly, however, communities are recognizing the value of also preserving intangible cultural heritage and traditional cultural properties, including community practices, ethnic traditions, and other forms of living culture. Examples of intangible cultural heritage include elements like storytelling, dance, music, language, rituals, ceremonies, activities, and traditional methods of ethic production. In this context, Legacy Businesses fit naturally into an expanded understanding of cultural heritage. One that places greater emphasis on people, their practices, and the cultural environments they create, use, and rely on. 3. Economic stabilization and small-business retention Communities recognize the value of supporting businesses with established customer bases, strong community ties, and proven economic resilience. Legacy Business Programs became a way to help retain and strengthen small businesses, not just recruit new ones with no historic connection to the community. This enhances a community’s sustainability and sense of place. 3|Page Page 39 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 4. Main Street and downtown revitalization trends Legacy Business initiatives, particularly when paired with Main Street programs, help strengthen traditional and historic commercial areas by supporting the businesses that give these districts authenticity and cultural meaning. 5. Community identity and placemaking The idea of “place-based economic development” has gained momentum nationally. Legacy businesses have been increasingly viewed as core components of placemaking, tourism marketing, and community branding. Public Policy Advantages of Legacy Business Programs The continuing appeal of Legacy Business initiatives across the United States comes from their ability to address several community priorities at once: • Cultural preservation: Protecting unique traditions, activities and stories embedded in longstanding businesses. • Economic resilience: Supporting stable employment and reducing commercial turnover. • Historic preservation: Enhancing the vitality and viability of operating long- standing, generational, businesses in a community. • Community pride: Strengthening residents’ connection to their town’s identity and history. • Small-business support: Offering targeted assistance to preserve iconic community businesses often excluded from traditional preservation tools like landmark designation. As communities navigate redevelopment pressures, housing growth, and generational change, Legacy Business Programs can provide a practical and culturally meaningful strategy to safeguard local community character. Sample of Cities with Legacy Business Programs Since 2015, numerous cities have adopted or piloted Legacy Business Programs, including: Large Cities Examples: • San Antonio, TX – Launched a formal Legacy Business Program recognizing “heritage businesses” important to the city’s culture. • Austin, TX – Developed a “Heritage Business Program” offering technical assistance and preservation support. 4|Page Page 40 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 • Washington, D.C. – Created a program to identify and support “longstanding community businesses” serving cultural and neighborhood needs. • Seattle, WA- Implemented a cultural space stabilization framework that supports long-standing community and cultural businesses through zoning flexibility and technical assistance. • Portland, OR - Uses cultural districts and planning tools to recognize and support culturally significant, long‑standing businesses contributing to neighborhood identity. Small Town Examples: • Leadville, CO – Utilizes a heritage-based recognition and preservation approach that supports long-standing businesses within its historic commercial district. (See Attachment No. 2) • Bisbee, AZ – Supports culturally significant long-standing businesses through historic district flexibility, heritage tourism promotion, and community-driven recognition. (See Attachment No. 2) • Eureka Springs, AR – Highlights and promotes long-established arts, cultural, and heritage businesses through its historic district framework and tourism-based recognition tools. (See Attachment No. 2) • San Elizario, TX – Uses a designated Cultural Heritage District to recognize and promote culturally rooted businesses central to the community’s traditions and identity. (See Attachment No. 2) Maryland Communities and Legacy Businesses Program Development Based on staff’s initial research, no Maryland community has developed a formal “Legacy Business Program.” However, several communities have heritage-oriented initiatives that could serve as a foundation. Smaller cities and Main Street communities have also expressed growing interest in identifying and preserving the businesses that shape their local identity. However, there are a few Maryland communities that have moved toward structured Legacy Business Programs. As of now, here’s the most accurate picture based on staff research: 1. Baltimore – Emerging Efforts (Not a formal program yet) Baltimore has explored legacy business concepts through: • Cultural district planning (e.g., Pennsylvania Avenue Black Arts District, Station North Arts District). • Efforts by the Baltimore Development Corporation to support long-standing small businesses. These initiatives recognize culturally significant businesses but do not operate a dedicated Legacy Business registry or incentive program like San Francisco. 5|Page Page 41 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 2. Montgomery County – Early Discussion Montgomery County has studied policies for retaining culturally significant small businesses, particularly in areas undergoing redevelopment (e.g., Wheaton, Silver Spring, Bethesda), but has not formally adopted a Legacy Business Program. 3. Prince George’s County – Cultural & Community Preservation Work Prince Georges County’s planning initiatives, especially around Port Towns, Route 1, and Hyattsville, include heritage and community retention goals. However, they do not yet include a formal Legacy Business registry or incentive mechanism. 4. Annapolis – Interest Through Cultural Heritage Planning While Annapolis has strong historic preservation policies and African American heritage initiatives (e.g., cultural districts and interpretive planning), it has not built a Legacy Business Program. 5. Frederick & Hagerstown – Small Business Retention via Main Street, but No Legacy Program Main Street programs in Frederick, Hagerstown, and other towns support historic and long-standing businesses, but these are revitalization programs, not true Legacy Business Programs. Developing a Legacy Business Program for La Plata There is no “one-size-fits-all” model for Legacy Business Programs. Some communities implement formal programs, while others rely on a mix of ordinances and initiatives that collectively function as a de facto Legacy Business framework. For La Plata, any Legacy Business Program should be tailored to the Town’s specific goals of recognizing and supporting businesses that best reflect its cultural identity, heritage, and sense of place. Based on staff research, small-town Legacy Business models like those in Leadville, Bisbee, Eureka Springs, and San Elizario offer the closest match to La Plata’s staffing levels, budget limitations, and administrative capacity. These communities successfully support long-standing culturally significant businesses through low-cost strategies such as heritage recognition, promotional efforts, zoning flexibility, and modest façade or stabilization incentives. Because these small-town models emphasize cultural identity, modest but meaningful support tools, and manageable program administration, they provide a realistic and sustainable template for La Plata to use in shaping its own Legacy Business Program in contrast to large, complex, communities like San Francisco and Seattle with far greater resources at their disposal. 6|Page Page 42 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 However, in developing a Legacy Business Program, staff has identified the following initial topics that need to be satisfactorily addressed by the Commission to help successfully launch and maintain a Legacy Business Program in the context of La Plata’s small-town environment. 1. Defining “Legacy Business” in a Small‑Town Context The Town must establish fair, consistent and transparent criteria for what qualifies as a Legacy Business, including factors such as years in operation, cultural significance, and contribution to community traditions. Evaluating “cultural significance” will require community input as well as guidance from the Historic Preservation Commission. Because the Historic Preservation Commission plays a central role in identifying the cultural themes that define La Plata’s identity, history, and sense of place, it is essential that the Commission help articulate the Town’s long-standing traditions, gathering spaces, and locally valued/iconic businesses. This work forms the foundation for identifying Legacy Businesses that exemplify the Town’s cultural grounding. Once these cultural anchors are defined, the Town will be able to more effectively evaluate business candidates for the Legacy Business Program and ensure the program reflects La Plata’s unique heritage and community identity. Examples of relevant cultural themes could include generational family enterprises, local foodways and gathering traditions, arts and cultural production, agricultural and rural heritage, and civic or social gathering traditions such as barbershops, community-oriented service providers, and small venues that serve as hubs of the Town’s social life. Staff is currently researching the number of businesses in Town that are at least 25 years old to determine the pool of businesses that would need to be considered in the development of a Legacy Business Program. 2. Alignment with the Current Zoning Ordinance The Town’s current Zoning Code may not offer the flexibility needed to support older or culturally significant businesses, particularly when their properties are not properly zoned. Existing nonconforming use regulations can also unintentionally burden long‑standing businesses, especially when they seek to grow or expand, because their operations pre-date current zoning requirements and standards. To ensure the Legacy Business Program has practical impact, the Town will likely need targeted zoning amendments, such as a Legacy Business Overlay or enhanced nonconforming use protections. For example, a Legacy Business with nonconforming parking or setbacks could be permitted to expand its building by a set percentage. Similarly, a Legacy Business currently classified as a nonconforming land-use could be treated as conforming land-use while in operation and allowed limited expansion based on a percentage of its existing floor area. 7|Page Page 43 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 Any amendments would need to be coordinated with the Historic Preservation Commission, Planning Commission, and Town Council, with guidance from the Town Attorney. The Historic Preservation Commission will play a critical role in recommending ways to adjust zoning regulations to support Legacy Businesses and in identifying incentives for businesses seeking Legacy Business status. 3. Identifying Legacy Business Registry Benefits that Support Economic Development With staff’s support, the Historic Preservation Commission will need to clearly articulate the conceptual benefits of being listed in the Legacy Business Program to help businesses understand the value of their participation. Based on staff research, Legacy Business Programs can provide help needed to business owners in the following ways: • Long-term stability and security Legacy businesses often rely on property stability to remain in place. Sudden rent increases or redevelopment pressures are common threats. • Support for modernization Many legacy businesses need help updating their buildings, interiors, equipment, signage, or accessibility features without incurring prohibitive costs or significant regulatory burdens. • Flexible zoning and permitting Older buildings or long-standing uses may not fit modern zoning codes. Owners often need regulatory flexibility to expand, upgrade, or adapt their business. Variance requests are often too difficult to obtain because of the strict criteria required to obtain Town approval. • Curb-side appeal assistance Refreshing older building façades, improving on-site landscaping, repaving parking areas etc. can greatly help Legacy Business owners as many cannot afford to physically reinvestment in their properties due to rising business operation costs (i.e., wages, insurance, equipment costs, etc.). • Marketing and visibility Many Legacy Business owners can benefit from programs that promote their history, cultural value, or unique services, especially as they compete with newer businesses. • Reduced administrative burden Streamlined processes, simplified paperwork, and technical assistance can help owners who may not have resources or staff to navigate complex regulations. In short, supporting Legacy Businesses in ways that sustain their operations not only preserves the Town’s cultural identity, but it also strengthens economic development 8|Page Page 44 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 and reinforces community support for the businesses that have historically contributed to the Town’s success. 4. Approval Findings for a Legacy Business The Town must identify the specific findings needed to approve Legacy Businesses in an objective and consistent way. These findings should recognize both the tangible and intangible qualities or other character‑defining attributes that demonstrate a business’s significance in supporting the cultural identity and traditions of the Town of La Plata. Legacy Business designation should not depend solely on the physical integrity of a building or site to convey cultural value. Instead, the Commission must determine which significant cultural themes the business represents and how those themes establish its cultural association with the Town. 5. Limited Financial Resources The Town Council has approved up to $1,800 dollars in grant money for a total of five designated Legacy Businesses for Fiscal Year 2027. Commission input is needed to specifically identify how this grant should be prioritized and/or used by approved Legacy Businesses. Staff believes grant money should be used anyway that will best support the needs of a designated Legacy Business. However, it is important to recognize that such re-occurring funding may not always be available in the Town’s budget. Therefore, opportunities to seek alternative and supplemental funding sources should be explored to help benefit designated Legacy Businesses. 6. Outreach It will be essential to gather direct feedback from potential Legacy Businesses to understand their common needs, challenges, and priorities in La Plata. Legacy Business Programs across the country consistently emphasize early engagement with business owners to ensure that program benefits, recognition, and support tools are meaningful and help sustain their long‑term operation in the community. Input from these businesses will guide the Town in designing a Legacy Business Program that reflects real conditions on the ground and provides value where it is most needed. Equally important is broad public outreach. Legacy Business practice recognizes that cultural significance is often defined by the community itself, particularly by residents who hold diverse cultural traditions, memories, and identities. Engaging the public ensures that businesses valued for cultural, ethnic, or historic reasons, especially those not always visible in traditional surveys or economic data, can be identified and considered. This community‑driven approach helps the Town recognize Legacy Businesses that truly embody La Plata’s cultural identity and heritage from multiple perspectives. 9|Page Page 45 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 Program Concept Strategy Outline In Attachment No. 2 of this report, staff has provided a broad, conceptual, Legacy Business Program outline that is intended to help begin and frame a discussion between Town staff and the Historic Preservation Commission on how such a program could take shape in La Plata. It is based on successful approaches used in comparable small-town communities, which offer realistic, low-cost tools that match La Plata’s scale and capacity. The outline provides an initial vision, presents potential feasible program components, and highlights potential benefits, all to support an informed dialogue on how to recognize and sustain long-standing businesses that embody the Town’s cultural identity. Its purpose is to guide the Commission’s early conversations rather than to prescribe a final program structure. Based on the Commission’s feedback, staff will continue to develop the Legacy Business Program details. CONCLUSION Legacy businesses serve as vital economic and cultural anchors in communities. They help preserve intangible heritage, reinforce the identity and authenticity of historic areas, support long-term economic stability, and advance local economic development strategies. Recognizing and supporting these businesses complements historic preservation efforts and strengthens broader revitalization initiatives such as Main Street programs. For communities seeking to protect their unique character while promoting sustainable economic growth, Legacy Business initiatives offer a meaningful and impactful tool. Staff recommends that the Historic Preservation Commission use this report and the accompanying attachments as a starting point for shaping a Legacy Business Program appropriate for La Plata’s small‑town context. Commission guidance on cultural themes, eligibility criteria, program benefits, zoning considerations, and grant prioritization will be essential in developing a framework that meaningfully supports the Town’s long‑standing and culturally significant businesses. With the Commission’s input, staff will continue refining the program so that it reflects La Plata’s heritage, administrative capacity, and community values, ultimately positioning the Town to recognize and sustain the businesses that contribute to its unique identity. Once the Historic Preservation Commission has completed the Legacy Business Program framework it will travel to the Planning Commission for their review and recommendations to the Town Council. The final version will be reviewed for action by the Town Council. 10 | P a g e Page 46 of 60 Historic Preservation Commission La Plata Legacy Business Program July 17, 2026 RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Historic Preservation Commission provide its initial feedback to staff on the development of the proposed Legacy Business Program for La Plata and appoint a subcommittee to work with staff on its development. ATTACHMENTS 1) Conceptual Legacy Business Program Outline 2) Legacy Business Program Summaries 11 | P a g e Page 47 of 60  ATTACHMENT NO. 1 CONCEPTUAL DRAFT OUTLINE LEGACY BUSINESS PROGRAM FOR LA PLATA 1. Purpose and Vision The Legacy Business Program is intended to recognize, support, and help preserve long‑standing businesses that contribute to La Plata’s unique cultural identity, community traditions, heritage, and sense of place. The program will focus on businesses that embody the Town’s history, heritage, and local character. The intent is not to provide large financial support, but instead to enable businesses to thrive through targeted zoning flexibility, cultural recognition, heritage tourism, promotional support, small‑scale stabilization tools (i.e., monetary grants). 2. Program Goals 1. Celebrate and promote long-standing businesses (not affiliated with a national or regional corporate chain) that shape and support the distinctive cultural identity, traditions or practices that have developed in the Town of La Plata. 2. Reduce barriers for long-term business retention, especially in historic or vulnerable commercial areas. 3. Support the preservation of intangible cultural heritage, including stories, traditions, and crafts. 4. Provide zoning and land-use flexibility to help legacy businesses continue to operate and thrive to provide the vital goods and services it has traditionally supplied the Town for years. 5. Encourage local pride, tourism, and economic stability through recognition and promotion of Legacy Businesses. 6. Ensure the program is manageable for a small town and financially sustainable. 7. Promote economic development and stability for long-standing businesses that have special meaning to the Town’s cultural heritage and sense of place. 3. Recommended Model Communities with Legacy Business Type Programs Based on La Plata’s size, limited budget, staffing capacity, and zoning framework, the following communities appear to be good models for establishing a nascent Legacy Page 48 of 60 CONCEPTUAL DRAFT OUTLINE LEGACY BUSINESS PROGRAM FOR LA PLATA July 17, 2026 Business Program in La Plata. These communities offer realistic, low‑cost approaches that align closely with La Plata’s opportunities and constraints based on staff’s research Primary Models (Small-Town Scalable Programs): • Leadville, Colorado – heritage‑based business recognition integrated with historic preservation. • Bisbee, Arizona – flexible signage, zoning support, and cultural storytelling for long‑standing businesses. • Eureka Springs, Arkansas – tourism‑driven recognition programs supporting local arts, traditions, and small businesses. • San Elizario, Texas – cultural district framework that recognizes culturally significant businesses with low administrative burden. Secondary Models (Selected Scalable Tools): • San Antonio, Texas – for its cultural significance criteria and celebration/recognition framework. • Seattle, Washington – for zoning flexibility and non-conforming use protections that help stabilize long-standing businesses. At this time, staff believes these communities can collectively contribute to providing the best template for La Plata because they use recognition, zoning flexibility, heritage tourism promotion, and small business grants. These are very similar tools staff believes La Plata has the capacity to deliver without requiring large budgets or complex regulatory systems. 4. Eligibility Criteria Staff believes a Legacy Business should generally align with the following criteria: • Has operated in La Plata for at least 25 years. This age requirement reflects businesses that have been established long enough to show stability and meaningful cultural value within the history of the community, while still allowing enough local businesses to qualify. The 25‑year minimum also aligns with many state and national definitions of a “legacy business.” This threshold may be adjusted based on additional staff research to determine how many La Plata businesses meet the age requirement when evaluated within the heritage and cultural themes identified by the Commission. • Contributes to recognized cultural themes established by the Commisssion. Examples may include but are not limited to local foodways, community gathering traditions, agriculture, arts/music/entertainment/crafts etc. 2 Page 49 of 60 CONCEPTUAL DRAFT OUTLINE LEGACY BUSINESS PROGRAM FOR LA PLATA July 17, 2026 • Represents a business type that anchors the community’s identity or social life. • Demonstrates the intention to remain in operation and continue to operate as it has traditional done to retain its cultural significance to the Town. • Receives approval by Town Council based on a recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission. 5. Conceptual Program Components 5.1 Business Registry A public registry listing designated Legacy Businesses, including: • Business history. • A summary of the business’ cultural significance to the community. • Years in operation. • Photos and archival material. Registered businesses would receive a certificate, Town website profile, and some promotional support. 5.2 Recognition and Promotion Tools inspired by small-town models and San Antonio include: • Website features and business spotlights. • Heritage walking maps or brochures. • Legacy Business plaques or window decals. • Promotion at Town events and festivals. • Storytelling through social media and Town newsletters. 5.3 Zoning and Regulatory Support Adapted from Seattle and small-town models: • Reduced parking requirements for Legacy Businesses. • Increased flexibility for signs, murals, and historic storefront features • Allowance of accessory uses (classes, demonstrations, small-scale production) • Protections for legacy nonconforming uses 3 Page 50 of 60 CONCEPTUAL DRAFT OUTLINE LEGACY BUSINESS PROGRAM FOR LA PLATA July 17, 2026 • Expedited review for minor improvements and façade updates 5.4 Small-Scale Financial Assistance Based on La Plata’s budget constraints the program could provide: • Up to $1,800 per business (subject to re-occurring Town Council approval) for eligible uses such as: - Façade improvements, signage, equipment purchases, ADA upgrades, safety compliance, building system improvements for code compliance or upgrades. 5.5 Business Technical Assistance • Supporting long-standing businesses through: - Zoning and permitting guidance. - Help connect with county and regional economic development resources. - Marketing and digital presence assistance through Town website and newsletter. - Coordination Chamber of Commerce 6. Administration • Program administered by Planning Department. • Maintain Legacy Business Registry, review applications, coordinate outreach, and oversee promotional efforts. • Keep application process simple and accessible to minimize burden on staff and business owners. 7. Cultural Themes/Context Framework • The Planning Commission will need to identify core cultural themes or contexts, along with clear approval findings, to guide the selection of Legacy Businesses. These themes help ensure that each designation reflects La Plata’s unique heritage and is based on objective, consistent criteria. For discussion purposes, potential cultural themes include businesses that contribute to the town’s historical identity, serve as community gathering places, demonstrate multi‑generational ownership, host well‑known community events or traditions, represent local crafts or food and drink traditions, support a specific ethnic identity, or provide long-standing essential services to La Plata. 4 Page 51 of 60 CONCEPTUAL DRAFT OUTLINE LEGACY BUSINESS PROGRAM FOR LA PLATA July 17, 2026 8. Implementation Steps • Legacy Business Milestone Steps. - Collaborate with Town staff to identify and refine the Legacy Business Program goals, concepts, criteria, program benefits etc. - Launch a public outreach campaign to help identify cultural/heritage themes for Legacy Businesses for inclusion in the draft program. - Recommend applicable amendments to the zoning ordinance to support the Legacy Business program provision concepts. - Process code amendments through the Planning Commission. - Obtain Town Council Approval of the Legacy Business Program. - Lauch program and advertise to the business community. - Conduct periodic reviews to ensure those businesses added to the Legacy Businesses Registry are still supporting the cultural heritage of the community. 9. Evaluation and Program Review • Review program effectiveness every 2–3 years and conduct periodic reviews to ensure those businesses added to the Legacy Businesses Registry are still supporting the cultural heritage of the community to retain their listing in the Registry. If not, the Legacy Business will need to be de-listed based on de-listing process to be developed in the Legacy Business program. • Track participating businesses, zoning flexibilities used, and impacts on business retention. • Adjust criteria and program components based on feedback and program experience ton help ensure the long-term success of the program. -End- 5 Page 52 of 60  ATTACHMENT NO. 2 EXAMPLES OF SMALL-TOWN LEGACY BUSINESS TYPE PROGRAMS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES EXAMPLE NO. 1 Leadville, Colorado – Heritage-Based Business Support Program Overview Leadville does not operate a formal “Legacy Business Program,” but it uses a heritage- focused recognition and stabilization framework within its National Historic Landmark District. Its approach functions as a small-town equivalent of a legacy business model, emphasizing preservation, heritage tourism, and business continuity through low-cost, planning-oriented tools. Eligibility Characteristics • Long-standing businesses (often 10–20+ years) located within or associated with the historic district • Businesses that contribute to Leadville’s mining history, mountain culture, or downtown identity • Culturally significant establishments that anchor community life or serve as longstanding gathering spaces Support Strategies 1. Heritage Recognition and Promotion • Public recognition through heritage tourism materials, walking tours, and brochures • Integration into downtown heritage branding • Visitor center promotion and storytelling features 2. Zoning and Design Flexibility • Leniency for historic signage, older building forms, and traditional storefront layouts • Support for nonconforming uses within the historic commercial core • Flexibility in permitting for small-scale expansions, improvements, and adaptive reuse 3. Business Stabilization Assistance (Low-Cost) • Small façade improvement grants through partner organizations or grant cycles 1 Page 53 of 60 • Assistance identifying state historic tax credit opportunities for tenant improvements • Coordination with Colorado Main Street Program for business support 4. Technical Assistance & Navigation • Guidance for historic building upgrades • Assistance with grant applications, building code compliance, and small business tools • Partnerships with local nonprofits for training, marketing, and succession resources Why It’s Relevant to La Plata? Leadville demonstrates a manageable, heritage-based model for small towns without large budgets. The key tools such as storytelling, zoning flexibility, and modest façade support translate to La Plata’s scale and potential capacity. 2 Page 54 of 60  EXAMPLE NO. 2 Bisbee, Arizona – Cultural & Historic Commercial Core Support Program Overview Bisbee blends historic preservation, tourism branding, and small-business support to maintain its long-standing, culturally significant businesses. This informal framework closely resembles a Legacy Business Program but is built for a small town with limited staff and financial resources. Eligibility Characteristics • Businesses located within the Historic Commercial District or adjacent cultural areas • Long-standing businesses tied to Bisbee’s mining history, arts culture, or community identity • Culturally significant establishments such as cafés, galleries, bookstores, music spaces, and social hubs Support Strategies 1. Cultural & Heritage Promotion • Inclusion in heritage tourism campaigns, brochures, and town marketing materials • Window decals or plaques signifying business heritage • Support during festivals, art walks, and tourism events • Storytelling through social media and walking-tour apps 2. Zoning and Regulatory Flexibility • Flexible signage allowances for historic, creative, or iconic signs • Reduced parking requirements in historic and downtown areas • Support for mixed-use and creative uses in older buildings • Protection for long-standing nonconforming uses 3. Small-Scale Grants and Incentives • Limited small business and façade improvement programs • Cooperative marketing assistance through local organizations • Access to county and tourism funding streams 4. Technical Assistance & Business Navigation • Helping businesses navigate historic preservation requirements • Permit and zoning support for small renovations, events, and adaptive reuse • Partnerships with arts and cultural nonprofits to promote creative enterprises 3 Page 55 of 60 Why It’s Relevant to La Plata? Bisbee’s low-cost, heritage-driven model which is focused on signage flexibility, downtown identity, cultural promotion, and technical assistance is extremely similar to what La Plata could potentially implement given its staff size and resource limits. 4 Page 56 of 60  EXAMPLE NO. 3 Eureka Springs, Arkansas – Heritage & Cultural Business Support Program Overview Eureka Springs does not operate a formal “Legacy Business Program,” but its heritage-driven downtown revitalization framework functions very similarly. The city relies on historic preservation tools, cultural tourism promotion, and recognition of long-standing businesses to protect the character and identity of its historic commercial district. Eligibility Characteristics • Long-standing businesses (often 10–20+ years) located in or closely tied to the historic district • Businesses associated with Eureka Springs’ arts culture, Victorian heritage, or tourism identity • Community gathering spaces, galleries, shops, restaurants, and creative enterprises central to local culture • Businesses occupying historic structures or contributing to the city’s distinctive architectural environment Support Strategies 1. Heritage Promotion and Business Recognition • Prominent inclusion in walking tours, visitor guides, and heritage tourism campaigns • Signage, plaques, and recognition through the Historic District Commission • Promotion through city-sponsored arts events, festivals, and tourism materials • Cultural storytelling through brochures, museum partnerships, and digital platforms 2. Zoning & Historic District Flexibility • Flexibility for historic signage, storefront design, and architectural features • Support for adaptive re-use and mixed-use operations in historic buildings • Allowances for creative arts uses and small-scale artisan production • Reduced parking or dimensional requirements in the historic core 3. Small-Scale Grants & Incentives • Modest façade improvement grants • Partnerships with the CAPC (City Advertising & Promotion Commission) for promotional support • Limited assistance for code compliance or safety improvements 4. Technical Assistance & Business Navigation • Help navigating Historic District guidelines 5 Page 57 of 60 • Assistance through the local arts council, CAPC, and downtown organizations • Guidance on marketing, business continuity, and creative enterprise development Why It’s Relevant to La Plata? Eureka Springs shows how a small town can support long-standing cultural businesses primarily through heritage promotion, zoning flexibility, and small-scale assistance, all within a historic preservation framework. This is compatible with La Plata’s goals and capacity. 6 Page 58 of 60  EXAMPLE NO. 4 San Elizario, Texas – Cultural District & Heritage Business Recognition Model Overview San Elizario uses a Cultural Heritage District framework that operates as a practical small-town Legacy Business Program. The focus is on recognizing culturally significant businesses, supporting them through tourism promotion, and providing zoning and regulatory flexibility to ensure continuity. Eligibility Characteristics • Businesses tied to San Elizario’s Hispanic, Indigenous, and border-region cultural heritage • Long-standing establishments (often 10–20+ years) within the cultural district or historic townsite • Galleries, restaurants, shops, artisans, and community-serving establishments • Businesses contributing to traditional crafts, foodways, festivals, or cultural expressions Support Strategies 1. Cultural District Branding & Promotion • Official designation within the Texas Commission on the Arts Cultural District network • Highlighting heritage businesses in tourism campaigns, brochures, and walking tours • Promotion through festivals, art crawls, and community celebrations • Cultural storytelling emphasizing San Elizario’s deep historical roots 2. Zoning & Permitting Support • Flexibility for historic building uses, signage, and storefront improvements • Streamlined approvals for cultural events, artisan markets, and galleries • Adaptive use allowances to help legacy businesses remain operational • Preservation support within the townsite and historic overlay 3. Low-Cost Infrastructure & Business Support • Small business resources coordinated through the cultural district organization • Informal technical assistance for marketing, events, and business development • Collaboration with tourism agencies to drive foot traffic and visibility 4. Community Partnerships • Strong reliance on local arts organizations and cultural nonprofits • Business participation in district events and cooperative marketing • Local leadership in preserving traditional cultural practices and commercial identity 7 Page 59 of 60 Why It’s Relevant to La Plata San Elizario offers a simple, low-cost framework that emphasizes cultural identity, recognition, and zoning flexibility. It is an ideal model for La Plata’s scale, budget constraints, and conceptual heritage conservation goals. -END- 8 Page 60 of 60