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PROPOSAL-Historic-Skelly Preservation-4-7-22 Proposal Northampton Historic Preservation Plan Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 April 6, 2022 Table of Contents The Northampton Historic Preservation Plan ............................................................... 1 Qualifications of the Consultant ................................................................................... 2 Methodology ................................................................................................................ 3 Budget ......................................................................................................................... 6 Timeline to Complete the Project ................................................................................. 7 Scope of Work ............................................................................................................. 8 Resume ..................................................................................................................... 11 Client Reference List ................................................................................................. 14 Sample Work Products .............................................................................................. 15 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 1 The Northampton Historic Preservation Plan I am very honored to submit this proposal to complete the Northampton Historic Preservation Plan. I first visited the city of Northampton in 1991 when I was about to begin my Master of Regional Planning program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I still remember my amazement at this remarkable city. Since then, I have watched as Northampton has become a model of sustainability and livability, with a vibrant downtown, innovative development and walkable neighborhoods. As a nearby resident to Northampton, I frequently visit the city to shop, dine and visit friends. I have walked, run and bicycled the streets and bike trails of Northampton. I am deeply familiar with the rich historic resources found throughout the city and greatly appreciate the experience of the city whenever I visit. With its wealth of historic and cultural resources, the city of Northampton will be very well served by a historic preservation plan. I look forward to the opportunity to utilize my background, skills and experience to find the best ways for Northampton to grow, adapt and thrive in a changing world, all while maintaining a visible, tangible connection to the past. Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 2 Qualifications of the Consultant Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 Chris Skelly is the sole proprietor of Skelly Preservation Services. I offer over 25 years of historic preservation and planning experience. As the Director of Local Government Programs at the Massachusetts Historical Commission from 1997 to 2021, I have substantial experience with historic preservation planning in Massachusetts, including the preparation of municipal and state preservation plans. Among my responsibilities was reviewing municipal preservation plans that were receiving a matching grant from the office. At the Massachusetts Historical Commission, I provided technical assistance to the 351 cities and towns of Massachusetts on topics including planning, historic preservation, zoning, land use and state/federal regulations. As the sole proprietor of Skelly Preservation Services, I will be personally responsible for all research, analysis, interviews, meeting facilitation, presentations and plan writing. I have a proven track record of completing planning related documents on time, such as the State Historic Preservation Plans submitted to the National Park Service. My degrees include a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and Master of Regional Planning. My planning experience includes Massachusetts city, regional and state government. My resume is included within this proposal. Skelly Preservation Services Providing historic preservation planning to municipal governments, community preservation committees, local historical commissions, historic district commissions, preservation commissions, regional governments, state governments and neighborhood organizations. Services include Local Preservation Commission Training, Local Historic District Design Guidelines, Local Historic District Study Reports, Preservation Planning Summaries, Municipal Preservation Plans, Neighborhood Preservation Plans, State Historic Preservation Plans and Community Preservation Act Plans. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 3 Methodology Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 Demonstrated Understanding of the Scope of Work I have carefully reviewed the scope of work and understand the phases, tasks and deliverables expected for this project. As the plan progresses, there may be places that we acknowledge that an alternate approach would be beneficial to the city. In the interest of developing the best plan possible, my goal is to remain flexible, based on the needs of the city. Demonstrated Understanding of the Completion Deadline I anticipate project completion in about 10 months. However, I will remain flexible based on what is in the best interest of the city. Expectations of Assistance and Services from the City • A dedicated local project coordinator, assigned by the city, that will be the main conduit of communication throughout the development of the plan. • Assistance with various map production that will be suitable for fieldwork, analysis and final printing. • Assistance with the development of the stakeholder and outreach list. Methodology for the Scope of Work Phase I - Background Phase I provides a thorough understanding of the status of historic preservation in Northampton. The tasks in Phase I begin with introductory meetings with staff and commission members, reviewing sample plans, project goals, schedules and the scope of work. The development of an annotated list of preservation partners and stakeholders is meant to be expansive, covering not simply those with a defined role in preservation but those organizations and individuals that experience historic and cultural resources peripherally. Next, the development of an historic context and history of historic preservation planning will provide a deep understanding of how the city has arrived at this point in time and where a historic preservation plan in 2022 moves forward. With the identification of historic resources, the building block of all historic preservation planning, this phase analyzes the existing inventory of historic resources for its comprehensiveness and current level of information. Through reconnaissance level research and extensive field study, survey gaps and needs will be identified. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 4 A review of the current and potential listings in the National Register of Historic Places will be undertaken, based on the cultural resource inventory, MHC records and field work. This will indicate where national register districts could be expanded or established based on national register criteria. Existing local designations, such as local historic districts, will be reviewed for their effectiveness in protecting significant historic resources and how local city ordinance designations could be expanded to protect additional sites or areas of the city. Consideration will also be given to creating new local designations that acknowledge and recognize special cultural places, such as those that may not meet the criteria for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. With many city ordinances that affect historic resources, directly or indirectly, an assessment of all city ordinances will be undertaken to review their goals, impacts and effectiveness. As the owner of significant historic resources such as buildings, objects, structures, landscapes and burial grounds, the city has a distinct role in the stewardship of historic resources. An assessment of all historic city property will be undertaken that will include current and anticipated uses, maintenance schedules and capital improvement plans. Tasks in this section conclude with a review of preservation staffing levels as they relate to preservation program administration, historic preservation planning, maintenance schedules and capital improvements. Phase II - Outreach Phase II focuses on engaging with preservation partners and stakeholders, listening to their interests, concerns and goals. This section will begin in the fall, an excellent time to focus on outreach as availability is likely to be higher than summer months. Following the development of an extensive preservation partners and stakeholders list in Phase I, engagement planning will address how best to reach partners and stakeholders and hear all their voices. Outreach to city staff, boards and commissions will include phone calls, email communication and/or meeting attendance based on the requests of the staff or board. Several open public forms will be scheduled to seek input. These could be scheduled at different times of the day and at different locations of the city in order to increase availability to participants. However, while open public forums are a useful and necessary aspect of plan preparation, they often do not reach large sections of the population and do not provide a satisfactory preservation perspective. Therefore, in addition to public forums, an outreach strategy will include meeting stakeholder groups and organizations through other venues and means. Tailoring outreach to the needs and goals of each stakeholder is the most effective method of collecting viewpoints. This may mean attending and presenting at specific group and organization meetings, such as neighborhood group meetings, or providing a walk-up table at certain events. This section concludes with an analysis of the issues and challenges facing Northampton. Phase III - Recommendations 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 5 Phase III focuses on developing a comprehensive set of recommendations and who will lead their implementation. Through analysis of the historic property inventory, designations, policies, regulations, restrictions, ordinances and public outreach, the main goal of this section will be to develop a series of recommendations and actions for implementation. Recommendations will be wide- ranging, from simple to complex. As the recommendations will be expansive, it will be necessary to prioritize, reviewing with preservation partners and stakeholders what is a manageable schedule for implementation. Based on the recommendations, a 10-year action plan will be prepared with a conceptual 20-year planning horizon. For each item in the scheduled action plan, a party will be identified that will lead implementation. Distribution of the draft plan will be coordinated with public outreach and will conclude with a summary report on the feedback received. This will be utilized for discussions on revisions to the final plan. Phase IV - Integration into Sustainable Northampton Following discussions with the city on all comments received, the plan will be revised accordingly. A final version of the Northampton Historic Preservation plan will be completed and incorporated into the Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 6 Budget Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 It is understood that the budget for this project is $70,000 and that this is a performance-based contract with a fixed fee for the work. The consultant anticipates invoicing for work at the end of each phase. This will be based on the successful completion of deliverables as outlined in the Scope of Work in the Request for Proposals. Phase I $15,000 Phase II $15,000 Phase III $15,000 Phase IV $25,000 Total $70,000 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 7 Timeline to Complete the Project Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 It is understood that there is no firm deadline by the city for the completion of this project. As a consultant, I will offer flexibility on completion based on what is in the best interest of the city. I anticipate about 10 months to complete the project. If awarded the project this spring, I will take on minimal additional consultant work in order to devote ample time to complete this plan. Phase I – Background - June to August, 2022 Phase II – Outreach - September to December, 2022 Phase III – Recommendations - January to February, 2023 Phase IV – Integration into Sustainable Northampton - March, 2023 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 8 Scope of Work The scope of work included within the request for proposals offers a detailed explanation of the tasks and products expected of the consultant. The scope of work from the city is included here as part of this proposal. Phase I: Background Scope of Work Tasks: • Meet with Planning and Sustainability staff to review project goals, scope of work, schedule and protocols. • Review three (3) to five (5) recent historic preservation plans from comparable communities both in and outside Massachusetts that have advanced, progressive and successful preservation programs. • Prepare introductory text explaining why historic preservation planning is and why it is important, and what a historic preservation plan is. • Meet with the Historical Commission or its subcommittee for brainstorming and concept tests • Develop a list of all preservation partners and stakeholders with a role in historic preservation. Prepare a brief description of the role of each partner or stakeholder. • Review the historical development of the community and its neighborhoods, including settlement patterns, architecture, demography, neighborhoods, transportation, industry, housing, and commerce, and what remains extant in today’s built environment. Prepare a statement of historic contexts and major themes in the history of Northampton’s built environment and cultural landscapes that encompasses pre-contact to present day periods. The introduction shall include a description of how historic contexts can inform good preservation planning. • Review previous planning documents, including Sustainable Northampton and its open space, resiliency and transportation elements, Housing Plans, Regional Plans, Heritage Landscape Plans, Community Preservation Plan, along with other existing preservation reports, maps and recommendations (archaeological, architectural, historical and cultural). • Prepare a chronological narrative that includes plans, reports, major projects and events related to historic preservation. • Review existing historic inventory. Undertake a wide-view reconnaissance to assess inventory coverage Citywide and identify gaps. Prepare an analysis of the current status of the inventory. Preparation of new inventory forms is not part of this project, but will be utilized to inform future survey efforts • Prepare an analysis of current designations, including properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places, identified as NR-eligible as indicated in records of the Massachusetts Historical Commission, and listed in the State Register of Historic Places. The analysis should include information on which properties are protected from alteration or demolition by local designation, preservation restrictions, or other means. • Review existing Ordinances and regulations that could impact historic properties and resources, including at a minimum, zoning, building codes, incentives, design review, demolition delay, scenic roads, and wetlands. • Review the status of all historic City-owned properties, objects and sites, and those on which the City has a financial or legal interest • Assess current City capabilities and staffing as related to preservation. • Meet with Planning and Sustainability staff to review Phase I activities and products. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 9 Deliverables: • Introduction to Historic Preservation Planning • Annotated Listing of Preservation Partners and Stakeholders • Historic Context and History of Historic Preservation Planning • Historic Properties Inventory Analysis • National Register of Historic Places and Local Historic District Analysis • Municipal Ordinances and Regulations Analysis Phase II: Outreach Tasks: • Seek input from board and commission members and City staff, including but not limited to the Historical Commission, Planning Board and Central Business Architecture Committee, • Office of Planning and Sustainability, Department of Public Works and Central Services • Develop an engagement plan, informed by community context and past experience. Suggested elements of the plan could include the following, but the consultant is encouraged to propose engagement strategies that fit the community and the task: • Seek direct input from local groups and organizations such as neighborhood groups and property owners of historic residential and/or commercial buildings and properties, business associations, cultural and historic institutions. • Convene a Public Forum to seek input and discussion from residents, local groups and organizations such as neighborhood groups, institutions, historic homeowners, business and social organizations. • Prepare text explaining the overall historic preservation issues and challenges facing Northampton. Include a description of the types of historic resources currently found in Northampton, recent and potential losses, ongoing and anticipated issues and challenges to protecting and preserving the City’s historical and archaeological resources. • Meet with Planning and Sustainability staff to review Phase II activities and accomplished tasks/products. Deliverables: • Municipal Policy, Management and Capital Improvements Analysis • Public Awareness and Engagement Analysis • Overview of Historic Preservation Issues and Challenges Phase III: Recommendations Tasks: • Develop Historic Properties Inventory recommendations and National Register of Historic Places and Local Historic District recommendations, including individual properties and districts. • Develop public awareness/education recommendations. This may include suggestions to make information more easily accessible through existing means, such as the assessor’s maps, Laserfiche, or MACRIS. • Develop municipal ordinances, policy, regulations, management and capital improvements recommendations. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 10 • Develop mechanisms to protect public investment in private historic properties and mechanisms to protect/maintain city-owned historic properties. • Develop a ten-year preservation action plan that identifies each party responsible for implementation tasks and a schedule for implementation. Said action plan should consider priorities in regards to specific properties and heritage and cultural landscapes. • Prepare an illustrated Executive Summary, suitable for distribution as a stand-alone document. • Present the recommendations of the draft Historic Preservation Plan at a Public Forum. • Prepare a summary report that describes the outreach, attendees and overall discussions at the public forum, as well as written comments received on the draft Historic Preservation Plan. • Meet with Planning and Sustainability staff to review Phase III activities and products. Deliverables: • Historic Properties Inventory Recommendations • National Register and Local Historic District Recommendations • Public Awareness, Programming and Education Recommendations • Municipal Bylaws and Regulations Recommendations • Municipal Policy, Management and Capital Improvements Recommendations • Recommendations for Mechanisms to Protect Public Investment in Private Historic Properties and Stewardship of City-Owned Historic Properties and those in which the City has a legal or financial interest • Action Plan • Executive Summary • Public Forum/Comments Summary Report Phase IV: Integration into Sustainable Northampton Tasks: • Prepare a final version of the Northampton Historic Preservation Plan, incorporating it into the Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan, as outlined at the top of this RFP. Deliverables: • Northampton Historic Preservation Plan 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 11 Resume Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 The following pages include my resume. I retired from the Massachusetts Historical Commission in 2021 to pursue preservation planning consulting. Christopher Skelly 22 William Street Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 (413) 834-0678 ccskelly12@gmail.com PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Skelly Preservation Services Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts Consultant 2021-Present Community planning and preservation consultant services. Massachusetts Historical Commission Boston, Massachusetts Director of Local Government Programs 1997-2021 As part of the State Historic Preservation Office for Massachusetts, provide technical assistance to the 351 cities and towns of Massachusetts on topics including planning, historic preservation, zoning, land use and state/federal regulations. Lead adult education workshops, in person or virtually, for educating local officials, commissions, boards and citizens on historic preservation planning. Prepare technical guidebooks, reports, summary sheets and data for use by local governments. Evaluate local historic district study reports and local landmark study reports. Assess municipal grant applications. Manage approved grants for local design guidelines and municipal preservation plans. Review state policies and legislation. Prepare the five-year state historic preservation plan. Represent the agency’s interest on statewide committees and task forces. Major Accomplishments: Authored or co-authored agency guidebooks such as Preservation through Bylaws and Ordinances, the Preservation Planning Manual, A Guidebook for Historic District Commissions and Establishing Local Historic Districts. Preservation through Bylaws and Ordinances was recognized by reviewers at the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Preservation Law Reporter and the American Planning Association. Managed the production of two 45-minute DVDs entitled Local Historic Districts in Massachusetts and Local Historical Commissions in Massachusetts. Established and administered the listservs for the statewide historic preservation community and planner community. Authored the Local Preservation Update electronic newsletter distributed to over 2500 individuals. Prepared model ordinances on historic preservation topics such as demolition delay and architectural preservation districts. Summary Skelly Preservation Services Consultant 2021-Present Massachusetts Historical Commission Director of Local Government Programs 1997-2021 University of Massachusetts/Amherst Instructor 2013-2018 National Alliance of Preservation Commissions Commission Trainer 2014-Present City of Lowell, MA Neighborhood Planner 1996-1997 Metropolitan Area Planning Council Transportation Planner 1993-1995 Urban Research and Development Corporation Land Use Planner 1989-1991 University of Massachusetts/Amherst Master of Regional Planning 1993 SUNY/College of Environmental Science and Forestry Bachelor of Landscape Architecture 1989 Page 1 of 2 Christopher Skelly PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE, CONTINUED National Alliance of Preservation Commissions Virginia Beach, Virginia Local Historic Preservation Commission Trainer 2014-Present Travel nationally as an instructor to provide training to local commissions. University of Massachusetts, Amherst Amherst, Massachusetts Faculty in Master of Science and Design in Historic Preservation Program 2013-18 Instructor of Cultural Resource Management (Arch Des 697N) to graduate level students enrolled in the historic preservation program. City of Lowell, Massachusetts Lowell, Massachusetts Neighborhood Planner in Division of Planning and Development 1996-97 Worked closely with diverse neighborhood organizations and elected officials on short and long term planning projects including blighted buildings, neighborhood plans, vacant land and surplus city property. Metropolitan Area Planning Council Boston, Massachusetts Transportation Improvement Program Coordinator in a regional planning agency 1993-95 Coordinated project planning and development with municipalities, state officials and consultant engineers. Urban Research and Development Corporation Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Land Use Planner in a landscape architecture/planning office 1989-91 Prepared site engineering drawings, conceptual plans and regional site analysis maps for various clients. Page 2 of 2 LOCAL MUNICIPAL SERVICE Volunteer local board service includes the planning board, school committee, open space committee and zoning reform committee. 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 (413) 834-0678 ccskelly12@gmail.com HONORS Received a Distinguished Service Award from the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Planning Association. EDUCATION University of Massachusetts, Amherst Master of Regional Planning, 1993 Masters Project investigated the economic impact of historic preservation in the city of New Bedford, Massachusetts. Co-authored, Building Better Bicycling, a guidebook for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, New York Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, magna cum laude, 1989 Final project was an off campus semester in London, England studying changes to the landscapes of historic designed urban parks. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 14 Client Reference List Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 Regan Miner Executive Director The Norwich Historical Society 69 East Town St Norwich, CT 06360 860.886.1776 minerregan@gmail.com Regan Miner was the chairperson of the Norwich Historic District Commission and the local project coordinator for the recently completed local historic district design guidelines. Marie Snyder Program Manager National Alliance of Preservation Commissions PO Box 1011 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (757) 802-4141 marie@napcommissions.org Marie Snyder is the Program Manager for the Commission Assistance and Mentoring Program (CAMP) for which I am a national trainer. 4/6/2022 Northampton Historic Preservation Plan-Proposal 15 Sample Work Products Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation 22 William Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 www.skellypreservationservices.com ccskelly12@gmail.com 413-834-0678 Local Historic District Design Guidelines, City of Norwich, Connecticut As a consultant, local historic district design guidelines were recently completed for the two local historic districts within the city of Norwich. Excerpts from the guidelines are included as a work sample. Municipal Preservation Plans Powerpoint Slideshow As a national trainer for the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, this powerpoint presentation was most recently delivered for local preservation commissions in the state of Florida as part of the Commission Assistance and Mentoring Program (CAMP) of the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions. CAMP training for local commissions is meant to be a fun, interactive, educational and entertaining venue for local commission training. National Alliance of Preservation Commissions Newsletter Article This article, entitled Self-Help for Preservationist Advocates: Growing Grassroots Constituencies and Effective Local Advocacy, is a light-hearted look at how to navigate the challenges of local preservation. Additional Publications While the Director of Local Government Programs at the Massachusetts Historical Commission, I authored numerous publications such as: Massachusetts State Historic Preservation Plans Preservation through Bylaws and Ordinances The Preservation Planning Manual for Local Historical Commissions Establishing Local Historic Districts in Massachusetts The Guidebook for Historic District Commissions in Massachusetts Local Historic District Design Guidelines City of Norwich, Connecticut Adopted by the Norwich Historic District Commission February 16, 2022 Project Consultant Chris Skelly Skelly Preservation Services Community Planning and Preservation www.skellypreservationservices.com This publication has been made possible by an Historic Preservation Enhancement Grant administered by The State Historic Preservation Office of The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development with federal funds from the Historic Preservation Fund of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior; Grant Number P20AF00009 and Project # CT-20-10022. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of the Interior. Table of Contents Introduction……………………………………………………………………………… 1 The Architectural Significance of Norwich…………………………………………….. 1 An Overview of the Local Historic Districts……………………………………………. 2 The Benefits of Local Historic Districts………………………………………………… 2 National Register Districts and Local Historic Districts………………………….…… 2 The Benefits of Design Guidelines……………………………………………………... 4 Updates to these Guidelines……………………………………………………………. 4 Character Defining Features……………………………………………………………. 4 The Secretary of the Interior Standards……………………………………………….. 4 The History of Norwich……………………………………………………………… 7 A Long History of Human Occupation…………………………………………………. 7 History of the City of Norwich…………………………………………………………… 7 History of Historic Preservation in Norwich…………………………………………… 8 Architectural Styles Found in the Norwich Local Historic Districts…………... 9 The Design Review Process in the Local Historic Districts…………………… 14 The Historic District Commission……………………………………………………… 14 Projects Reviewed in the Local Historic Districts in Norwich………………………. 14 Maps of the Local Historic Districts…………………………………………………….16 Applications……………………………………………………………………………… 16 Public Hearings………………………………………………………………………….. 16 The Decision-making Process…………………………………………………………. 17 Certificates of Appropriateness………………………………………………………... 17 Certificate Flow Chart……………………………………………………………………17 Hardship Variance………………………………………………………………………. 18 Appeals…………………………………………………………………………………… 18 Violations and Enforcement……………………………………………………………. 18 Rules of Procedures and Regulations………………………………………………… 18 The Design Guidelines………………………………………………………………... 19 Accessibility and Architectural Barriers………………………………………………. 21 Additions…………………………………………………………………………………. 23 Architectural Materials………………………………………………………………….. 25 Awnings…………………………………………………………………………………... 27 Chimneys………………………………………………………………………………… 29 Decks…………………………………………………………………………………….. 31 Demolition, Dismantling and Relocation……………………………………………… 33 Doors and Entryways…………………………………………………………………… 35 Dormers………………………………………………………………………………….. 37 Fences and Landscaping Walls……………………………………………………….. 39 Foundations……………………………………………………………………………… 41 Garages, Sheds and Other Secondary Structures………………………………….. 43 Gutters and Downspouts……………………………………………………………….. 45 Lighting…………………………………………………………………………………… 47 Mechanical and Electrical Equipment………………………………………………… 49 New Construction……………………………………………………………………….. 51 New Construction Design Principles………………………………………………….. 52 Paint and Other Coatings………………………………………………………………. 55 Porches…………………………………………………………………………………... 57 Public Art…………………………………………………………………………………. 59 Roofs……………………………………………………………………………………… 61 Shutters…………………………………………………………………………………... 63 Signs……………………………………………………………………………………… 65 Solar Panels……………………………………………………………………………... 67 Steps, Stairs and Railings……………………………………………………………… 69 Storm and Screen Windows and Doors………………………………………………. 71 Trim and Ornamentation……………………………………………………………….. 73 Walls and Siding………………………………………………………………………… 75 Windows………………………………………………………………………………….. 77 Appendices……………………………………………………………………………... 79 The Norwich Historic District Ordinance……………………………………………… 80 Connecticut State Laws………………………………………………………………… 87 Glossary of Architectural Terms……………………………………………………….. 88 Resources for Homeowners…………………………………………………………… 90 The Joseph Carpenter Silversmith Shop and Daniel Lathrop Schoolhouse in the Norwichtown Historic District. 2/25/2022 1 Introduction This guidebook has been prepared for property owners, architects, contractors, developers and anyone else interested in the local historic districts of Norwich. The Norwich Historic District Commission hopes this document will be a useful reference for you, explaining the procedures in the local historic districts and how our districts can remain unique, architecturally significant places, while still meeting our contemporary needs. For more information about the historic district commission, visit https://www.norwichct.org/144/Historic-District-Commission The Architectural Significance of Norwich The city of Norwich has a rich human history, beginning with the Native Americans that called this area home for thousands of years. Everywhere we look, the landscape of Norwich has stories of its past to share with us. Below ground, invisible to our eyes, are the fragments of human occupation over the centuries. Above ground, buildings, structures, walls, monuments, burial grounds and even ruins share stories of a deep and rich history. Visit downtown Norwich and the maritime, commerce and industrial history of the city is very much on display. Walk around the green at Norwichtown, and be taken back to the first European settlement in Norwich, 350 years ago. The buildings and landscapes of Norwich have stories to teach students and residents alike, from pre-European settlement, the growth of the colonies, the Revolutionary War and then right into the 20th Century, with the civil rights movement and other events of the more recent past. As our historic buildings have remained but found new uses, they continue to add new layers to the history of Norwich. An Overview of the Local Historic Districts In order to protect historic resources in Norwich, the Norwichtown and Little Plain Local Historic Districts were established by city ordinance during the 1960s. Over the decades, these local historic districts have done a remarkable job at making sure that these exceptional places remain intact. Other areas of Norwich have not fared so well. Alterations, demolitions and incompatible development have meant that some areas of Norwich are hardly recognizable, from even just a few decades ago. Through a local historic district city ordinance, a municipality demonstrates its interest in protecting historic resources. Once established by the city, the local historic districts provide a method of protecting the overall character of an area by making sure changes Downtown Norwich 2/25/2022 2 are compatible with the significant historic resources present. They do not stop change nor do they freeze a period in time. Local historic districts are all about making sure that our historic buildings remain part of our daily lives, guiding proposed changes. The first local historic districts in the country were established in Charleston, South Carolina and New Orleans, Louisiana in the 1930s. In Connecticut, the first local historic district was established in Litchfield in 1959. Today, Connecticut has over 126 local historic districts in 72 cities and towns. Nearby local historic districts can be found in Groton, New London, Sterling, Ledyard and Colchester. The purpose of a local historic district is not to thwart growth, but to allow for thoughtful consideration of change by having a locally appointed historic district commission review applications. The Benefits of Local Historic Districts The overarching benefit of a local historic district is the protection of significant buildings from demolition and inappropriate alteration. Local historic districts can be credited with saving the unique character of many areas of Connecticut. Local historic districts have offered residents, homeowners and business owners the opportunity to protect their communities and neighborhoods from destruction. The buildings remain part of the community, perhaps continuing as a home, a business, or perhaps adapting to a new use. As such they improve the quality of life for those living there, providing stability, pride in the neighborhood, a visual sense of the past and peace of mind that the historic environment will remain. Additional benefits of local historic districts may be economic in nature, increased tourism, additional interest in rehabilitation or educational opportunities for schoolchildren. National Register Districts, State Register Districts and Local Historic Districts There are three kinds of historic districts in Connecticut, National Register Districts, State Register Districts and Local Historic Districts. There are substantial differences between these designations. The National Register of Historic Places is a listing of buildings, structures, sites, objects, and districts significant in our nation’s history, culture, architecture or archeology and that are worthy of preservation. It is a federal designation, from the Secretary of the Interior and the National Park Service. Listing in the National Register provides formal recognition of the property’s significance, potential tax incentives for owners of income-producing property, and very limited protection from federally funded, licensed, or assisted projects. More information on how federally involved projects are reviewed can be found on the website of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. In short, the National Register of Historic Places is essentially an honorary designation. State Register Districts are part of the State Register of Historic Places, Connecticut's official listing of structures and sites that characterize the historical development of the state. Like National Register Districts, State Register Districts are essentially an honorary designation. 2/25/2022 3 A local historic district, on the other hand, is established locally through a 2/3s affirmative vote of the property owners and a subsequent city council vote. It provides a review process for changes to exterior architectural features visible from a public way. Norwichtown and Little Plain are both local historic districts and national register districts. With the review protections of the local historic district ordinance, portions of Norwichtown and Little Plain are well protected from loss. Unfortunately, most of Norwich, even including the National Register Districts, are not well protected from alterations and demolitions. Through the local democratic process, the local historic district ordinance in Norwich can always be expanded to protect additional significant, yet vulnerable, areas of Norwich. Local Historic Districts of the City of Norwich • Little Plain Local Historic District • Norwichtown Local Historic District National Register Districts of the City of Norwich • Bean Hill Historic District • Chelsea Parade Historic District • Downtown Norwich Historic District • Greeneville Historic District • Jail Hill Historic District • Laurel Hill Historic District • Little Plain Local Historic District • Norwich State Hospital Historic District • Norwichtown Local Historic District • Taftville/Ponemah Mill Historic District • Yantic Falls Historic District Taftville is a National Register District, not a local historic district. It does not have the protections of a local historic district. Old Norwichtown Burying Ground, part of the Norwichtown Historic District 2/25/2022 4 The Benefits of Design Guidelines Local historic district design guidelines are appreciated by the historic district commission members themselves but especially by architects, developers, contractors, business owners and homeowners. Design guidelines help get everyone onto the same page, clearly explaining the types of projects that are likely to be approved in the local historic district or not approved. Anyone applying for a Certificate of Appropriateness in the Norwichtown or Little Plain Local Historic districts will benefit by familiarizing themselves with these guidelines. They are here to make the application process go smoothly and quickly. Updates to these Guidelines These guidelines are meant to be updated. It is anticipated that the Norwich Historic District Commission will review these guidelines regularly, clarifying sections, adding sections, responding to input and making sure they remain relevant and useful. The Historic District Commission always welcomes thoughts from property owners, business owners, architects, contractors and developers on these guidelines. Character Defining Features Throughout these guidelines, the term, character defining features, will be used frequently. Character defining features are those distinguishing elements of a building, structure or landscape, that convey significance. An original doorway, window or porch could be a character defining feature as could many other elements of a building. Each historic building in the districts has character defining features in the materials, craftmanship, forms and detail present. The goal of a local historic district is to provide a review process that will help to preserve the character defining features of the area. Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties The development of these guidelines began with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. These are generalized, national standards that provide a foundation for best preservation practices around the country. While there are The exceptional design of the shutters on the Joseph Carpenter Silversmith Shop are an example of character defining features on this building. 2/25/2022 5 preservation standards from the Secretary of the Interior, local historic district commissions around the country largely utilize the rehabilitation standards, not the preservation standards, in their design decision-making. This is because the rehabilitation standards provide flexibility for historic properties so that historic buildings can remain viable, adaptable parts of our communities. According to the National Park Service, the “Standards are to be applied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonable manner, taking into consideration economic and technical feasibility.” These Norwich Historic District Design Guidelines are based on the rehabilitation standards listed below. The Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation are considered a part of these Norwich Local Historic District Design Guidelines. The SOI Standards for Rehabilitation 1. A property shall be used for its intended historic purpose or be placed in a new use that requires minimal change to the defining characteristics of the building and its site and environment. 2. The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of historic materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be avoided. 3. Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken. 4. Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic significance in their own right shall be retained and preserved. 5. Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a historic property shall be preserved. General Jedidiah Huntington House, Norwichtown Historic District is an example of how historic character can be retained and preserved according to the standards. 2/25/2022 6 6. Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old in design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence. 7. 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. 8. Significant archeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and preserved. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures shall be undertaken. 9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy historic materials that characterize the property. 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. 10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired. Deteriorated features needed to be replaced on this building but they were matched based on the opposite side of the building. 9/10/2021 1 HistoricPreservation Plans Proactive Planning for the Future ofYour Community Virtual Workshop State of Florida September, 2021 Historic preservationis just reactive. Is this a correct statement?NO! Historic preservation worksbest when it is -Proactive Preservation planning is all about being proactive. Demolition takes hours. Planning takes years. Certified Local Governments A partnership between the local, state and federal government. Things We Will Cover Today 1. The 3 Steps of Historic Preservation Planning 2. Benefits of a Preservation Plan 3. Sections to Include in a Preservation Plan 4. Getting Started on a Plan 5. Types of Strategic Preservation Plans Historic Preservation Plans The 3 Steps of Historic Preservation Planning Section 1 9/10/2021 2 Identification Evaluation Protection The Three Steps of HistoricPreservation Planning Surveying and Documentation of Historic Resources Reviewing significance based on a set of criteria Utilizing Available Tools 1.2.3. Identification ofHistoric Resources The Three Steps of Historic Preservation Planning 1. Identification2. Evaluation3. Protection Each state has different survey forms Identification of Historic Resources Buildings Landscapes StructuresBurial Grounds A variety of historic resources are surveyed Such as…. Archaeological Sites Identification of Historic Resources Survey is theessential buildingblock for all historicpreservationactivities The Three Steps of Historic Preservation Planning It is impossible todo any preservationplanning unlessyou know what youhave. 9/10/2021 3 Evaluation ofHistoric Resources The Three Steps of Historic Preservation Planning 1. Identification2. Evaluation3. Protection 2. Evaluation of Historic Resources National Register of Historic Places CriteriaIs it Significant? Association with events, activities, or patterns. Association with important persons. Potential to yield important information. Distinctive physical characteristics of design, construction or form. A B C D 2. Evaluation of Historic Resources Listed on the NationalRegister of Historic Places under Criteria A and C National Registerof Historic Places Orange Center Historic District Protection ofHistoric Resources The Three Steps of Historic Preservation Planning 1. Identification2. Evaluation3. Protection 3. Protection of Historic Resources The preservation toolboxincludes a wide range ofprotectionstrategies The Three Steps of Historic Preservation Planning LocalPreservationOrdinances Outreach andEducationStrategies The foundation of apreservation plan is thisthree-step process Identification Evaluation Protection Knowing whatyou have Reviewing whatis significant Utilizing variousstrategies 9/10/2021 4 Benefits of aHistoric PreservationPlan Municipal Preservation Plans Section 2 “I know I workhere but whatdo I do?” Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan A preservation plan helps thepreservation commission answerthis question. Spinning Your Wheels as a Commission? A preservation plan gets peopletalking, listening and thinking Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan A preservation plan bringshistoric preservation into thelarger planning community Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan The future is determinedby those who show up. A preservationplan helps findcommonground Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan 9/10/2021 5 A preservation plan developsa comprehensive strategy toprotect historic resources Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan A preservation planprioritizes what canappearoverwhelming Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan Where do we ever begin? With all of the benefits,I’d say we need morepreservation plans. Benefits of a Historic Preservation Plan Sections toInclude in aPreservation Plan Preservation Plans Section 3 1. What has happened already? 2. Where are we at right now? 3. What do we need to do next? A preservation plan answers3 basic questions PreservationPlan There isn’t just one way to prepare apreservation plan. Finish Start Start by thinkingabout your goals.How will your planmeetyourgoals? 9/10/2021 6 Executive Summary Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan •About 2-5 pages•Photos and Images•Stand alone document•Easy to Distribute•Easy to Understand The Purpose ofthe Plan Why the plan isneeded, how it willbe used, thebenefits of historicpreservation Introduction Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan The Planning Processto Prepare this Plan Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan A basic overview of historicpreservation, historic preservationplanning and how the plan wasprepared. Identification Evaluation Protection Introduction Historic PreservationResources and Tools Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Non-profitOrganizations Introduction The Preservation Toolbox LocalHistoricDistricts NationalRegister Rehabilitation TaxCredits PublicOutreach Incentives ManyOthers Historic Context forthe Community How did thecommunity developand grow over time? How does the pastshape where thecommunity is today? Background Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Pre Contact to Present Day TimelinePlano, TexasFocus on a Community 9/10/2021 7 History of HistoricPreservation Planningin the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Background When was the preservationcommission formed? Examples to Include here - When was the historical society formed? When was the preservationnon-profit organization formed? When was the ordinance established? History of HistoricPreservation Planningin the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Background Is there a previouspreservation plan? Aperspectiveon what hasbeenproposed inthe past. History of HistoricPreservation Planningin the Community Master PlansComprehensive PlansUrban Renewal PlansNeighborhood PlansEconomic Development PlansOpen Space PlansCommunity Preservation Plans Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Background How do otherplanningdocumentsreferencehistoricpreservation? History of HistoricPreservation Planningin the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Background 1959 Master Plan on Downtown Randolph “Many of these stores are old and lack shopper appeal… and violate accepted shopping center principles.” History of HistoricPreservation Planningin the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Background Do those old plans concludewith recommendations thatare just as relevant today? This review of previous plans canhelp suggest different approaches. Have any of these old planssimply gathered dust on a shelf? Identification and Documentation Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan What has been surveyed in the past? How out of date are those survey forms? How incomplete are those survey forms? What was missed in previous survey efforts? The Historic Resources in the Community 9/10/2021 8 Identification and Documentation The Historic Resources in the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Community-wide Underrepresented All Types of Resources The National Register ofHistoric Places •What is currently on theNational Register? •What is eligible for theNational Register? •What needs to happennext to list additionalproperties on theNational Register? The Historic Resources in the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Local and State Designations •What is currentlydesignated? •What do thesedesignations mean? •What areas could bedesignated? Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan The Historic Resources in the Community Status of Historic Resources What significanthistoricresources arethreatened withloss throughdemolition,demolition byneglect or majoralterations. The Historic Resources in the Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan An Analysis of thePreservation Ordinance(s) Does theordinanceneed anyrevisions? Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Municipal Preservation Program Administration An Analysis ofthe PreservationOrdinances •How well are they working? •What additional localprotections are needed? •Do the ordinances needany revisions? Municipal Preservation Program Administration Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan •Demolition Delay•Local Historic Districts•Other PreservationOrdinances 9/10/2021 9 An Analysis of theLocal PreservationCommission •Effectiveness of the Commission •Accomplishments of the Commission •Challenges Facing the Commission Municipal Preservation Program Administration Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Commission Hot Seat Incentives and Benefits Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Local Tax Incentives Upzoning Incentives City Sales Tax Waiver Grants or Loans Municipal Preservation Program Administration List of Preservation Partnersand Stakeholders Develop a Comprehensive List The Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Extensive Public OutreachMadison, WisconsinFocus on a Community Non-ProfitLocalPreservationAdvocacyOrganization Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan The Community Who is the youngest person that we areincluding? The Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Are thereunderrepresentedcommunities thatwe are missing? Who have we not reached? List of PreservationPartners and Stakeholders 9/10/2021 10 Public Awareness andAttitudes The Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan How can we creatively engagewith all preservation partnersand stakeholders to hear theirstories, concerns and wishes? Public Awareness andAttitudes Hold Individual Interviews, Listening Sessions,Public Meetings, Neighborhood Meetings Ask Questions,Listen…Ask MoreQuestions The Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan And Don’t JustHold Meetings…Goto Meetings Public Awareness andAttitudes The Community Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Summarize what you heard The more thorough andhonest this section is, themore you can accomplish. MunicipalRegulations Zoning OrdinancesHealth and Safety OrdinancesSubdivision RegulationsAccessory Apartment OrdinancesMinimum Maintenance Ordinances Municipal Government Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Include the Municipal Regulationsthat aren’t exclusively historic preservation but could stillhave a major impact on historic resources. Municipal Policy,Management and CapitalImprovements Capital ImprovementsStewardship and MaintenanceSustainabilityResiliency Municipal Government Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Recommendations We have thoroughly discussed the issues,existing conditions, challenges andopportunities. Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan “Now whatcan we doabout it?” 9/10/2021 11 Recommendations Can the concerns you’ve heard bematched up with a preservation toolto make arecommendation? Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan Some recommendations can belofty but they should also includemanageable, easily achievablegoals. “We’ll never accomplish all theserecommendations. I would need tolive to be 200 years old!” Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan This is why you alsoneed an action plan. Action Plan An Action Plan prioritizes the recommendations. Sections of a Historic Preservation Plan What can we realistically accomplishin the next 12 months? In the next 5years? In the next 10 years? An Action Plan recognizes that incrementalsteps are beneficial. It helps take a realisticapproach to accomplishments. What individual, group ororganization will be the lead onaccomplishing this goal? Publicize Your Plan! Getting aPreservation PlanGoing Preservation Plans Section 4 “We don’t have $50,000 for ahistoric preservation plan?I guess we can’tdo any planning.” A well thought out 3 pagepreservation plan isbetter than no plan at all. 9/10/2021 12 Types of HistoricPreservationStrategicPlans Section 5 Historic Property Survey Plans Strategic Plans Stonewall Protection Plans Strategic Plans 1. Identification2. Evaluation3. Protection Climate Adaptation Plans Strategic Plans Not justaboutrising seas FloodingErosionHumidity Downtown Revitalization Plans Strategic Plans NeighborhoodPreservation Plans Strategic Plans 17 Historic Area PreservationPlans, completed slowlyacross the city of Indianapolis 9/10/2021 13 Strategic Plans Other Examples –Outreach and Education PlansArchaeological Protection PlansHazard Mitigation PlansEntrance Corridor Plans State HistoricPreservationPlans State HistoricPreservation Officesare required by NPSto prepare astate plan. Questions andDiscussion Historic Preservation Plans Chris SkellyNAPC CAMP Trainerccskelly12@gmail.com 3 35 Helpful Tips from NAPC-LHelpful Tips from NAPC-L Self-Help for Preservationist Advocates Trails to Freedom: The Medium and the Message Informing Owners About Their Historic Properties 234 Using Community Surveys for Preservation Planning 12 A Quarterly Journal of the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions 2021, No. 1 30 33What if We Expanded Theories as the Basis for New Practices in Preservation? State News34Tools for the On-Line Preservationist 18 Show Cause Hearings for Preservation Commissions 26 Follow us on Spotlight on a Preservation Organization CONTACT NAPC AT: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie Paul stephanie@napcommissions.org PROGRAM MANAGER Marie Snyder marie@napcommissions.org NAPC is seeking volunteers to help advance its mission of providing education and technical assistance to local preservationists, particularly those involved in the work of local preservation commissions. Volunteers may serve on a variety of committees and in other capacities that take advan- tage of their individual skills and experiences. Editorial and production work on The Alliance Review, membership recruitment and retention, resources development, education programs and technical assistance are just a few of the possibilities. Join us today to make a difference in the future of preserva- tion by contacting NAPC at 757-802-4141 or director@napcommissions.org. NAPC STAFF: COVER IMAGE Owner Brochure, City of Milwaukee. the All current NAPC members who serve as city staff to preservation commissions are encouraged to distribute articles in The Alliance Review to commission members and other staff and elected officials within your member organization. NAPC can provide additional digital copies of The Alliance Review to members of your commission. Simply email us at director@napcommissions.org with your commission member’s name and email address. 2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Updated: 5.18.21DEBORAH ANDREWS City of Portland Maine NATHAN BEVIL Ohio History Connection Ohio BETSY BRADLEY Spokane Historic Preservation Commission/Goucher College Historic Preservation Program Washington ABIGAIL CHRISTMAN City and County of Denver Colorado KATIE FRIDDLE City of Oklahoma City Oklahoma TIM FRYE New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission New York REBECCA GOODWIN Otero County Colorado BRIANA PAXTON GROSICKI PlaceEconomics Georgia APRIL JOHNSON Preservation Durham North Carolina MICHAEL KOOP Minnesota State Historic Preservation Oce Minnesota CAROLINE LABINER Harvard Heights Historic Preservation and Windsor Square Overlay Zone Boards California BHAVESH MITTAL City of Plano Texas J. TODD SCOTT King County Historic Preservation Program Washington SCOTT SLAGOR City of Ypsilanti Michigan MATT SYNATSCHK Land Use Consultant Texas PHIL THOMASON Thomason and Associates Tennessee CORY KEGERISE Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission Pennsylvania | Chair PAULA MOHR Iowa Department of Cultural Aairs Iowa | Vice Chair COLLETTE KINANE Raleigh Historic Development Commission North Carolina | Secretary MARK RODMAN Michigan Historic Preservation Network Michigan | Treasurer MINDY GULDEN CRAWFORD Preservation Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania | Assistant Treasurer The National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC) is governed by a board of directors composed of current and former members and staff of local preservation commissions and Main Street organizations, state historic preser- vation ofﬁce staff, and other preservation and planning professionals, with the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer and Chairs of the board committees serving as the Board’s Executive Committee. OFFICERS BOARD MEMBERS A quarterly journal with news, technical assistance, and case studies relevant to local historic preservation commissions and their staff. CONTACT NAPC AT: tel (757) 802-4141 director@napcommissions.org www.napcommissions.org PO Box 1011 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 In this Issue BY J. TODD SCOTT, THE ALLIANCE REVIEW EDITORIAL COMMITTEE This issue of The Alliance Review is focused on recent tips provided by users of our listserv, NAPC-L. There are often lively discussions on the listserv, and we will be including some of the topics in future issues, but we wanted to bring home some issues that everyone may be dealing with now, as we’re hopefully moving into a new state of normal, or at least spending less time quarantined in our homes working virtually. The ﬁrst article focuses on how to use what we’ve often considered permanent interpretive panels to more fully tell our histories. Erik Nelson provides us with some useful information on how Fredericksburg, Virginia has done just that, including new panels focused on the city’s African American history. Steph McDougal then dives into tips for doing community surveys, particularly as they relate to preservation planning. And Chris Skelly gives us his version of 15 Tips for an Effective Preservation Advocate. Several listserv regulars provided us with some terriﬁc brochures that you could use as an example for informing local property owners of their responsibilities if they live in a historic district. Then Boyd Maher launches into a good alternative procedure for dealing with someone who has not followed the regulations in a district. We ﬁnish the issue with some regular features – Betsy Bradley’s “What If We Thought Further About” essay, a well-used tool for the online preservationist, and a spotlight on an un- usual preservation organization. You may have noticed that we’re now organizing our issues by number rather than season, so if you’re keeping organized hard copies, make note. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions. Page 3The Alliance Review | 2021 No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions Self-Help for Preservationist Advocates: Growing Grassroots Constituencies and Eective Local Advocacy I asked the saleswoman at the bookstore where the self-help section is. She said if she told me, it would defeat the purpose. – George Carlin I asked the saleswoman at the bookstore where the historic preservation section is, she said try the self-help section. – Local Preservationist By Chris Skelly Until earlier this year, Chris Skelly was the CLG Coordinator and Director of Local Government Programs at the Massa- chusetts Historical Commission, providing guidance to over 400 local preservation commissions. Serving in that position for nearly 24 years, he now enjoys working with local governments and local commissions as an NAPC CAMP trainer and local preservation planning consultant. He can be reached at ccskelly12@gmail.com. Actually, I’ve often thought it would be good to have a self-help section at the bookstore just for preservationists. We take the demolition of historic resources personally and it hurts. When a beloved building falls, we look for solace and sympathy and that comfort isn’t always so easily found. I’ve also noticed over the years, sometimes, we preser- vationists have a hard time accepting reality. I had a very typical call recently from someone who said, “That building should never have been demolished.” It reminded me of Byron Katie, one of my favorite self-help authors and speakers. She has a lot so say on the word “should” and how it sets us back from accepting what is. One of my favorite quotes from her is “When I argue with reality, I lose, but only 100% of the time.” Of course, acceptance of reality doesn’t mean we give up our efforts to save historic resources. Acceptance of reality is not the same thing as complacency. So far, I haven’t found a self-help book for pres- ervationists but I haven’t given up giving it some thought. We could sure use one. Not accepting the reality of the local political process, feeling overwhelming anxiety over the pending loss of a 200 year old building, expressing our anger and outrage to those who do not agree with our preservation philosophy, feeling alienated from Page 18 The Alliance Review | 2021, No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions neighbors, these are the signature signs of why we might wander over to the self-help section. With that in mind, I’ve put together 15 Questions for Preservation Advocates to ask themselves. So, with research that includes no meme unturned, no daily inspirational quote left unread, and no hip- pie folk music left unsung, here they are: 15 Questions on Being an Effective Preservation Advocate 1. Do I understand the background? I am sick and tired of repeating myself. – History Before speaking out regarding a preservation concern it is important to understand the full back- ground on how the situation arose. Prior meetings, prior plans, city ordinances, state laws, federal laws, local regulations, various organizations and individuals have all brought this preserva- tion concern to the present day. Investigating the background is essential so that you can speak with a deep understanding of how best to move forward and so that you understand all the play- ers, personalities, and interests. Spending the time to investigate the how and why will be worth the effort. It may mean you are not easily dismissed as a latecomer, sounding uninformed. It may very well mean you chart a different course instead of repeating the same outcome. 2. Do I understand the decision-making process? If you deﬁne the problem correctly, you almost have the solution. – Steve Jobs Now that you’ve investigated the background it is important to understand the step-by-step pro- cess for what happens next. Who are all the organizations and individuals involved in the decision-making process from here? These might be local ofﬁcials such as elected ofﬁcials or local boards and commissions such as the historical commission, planning board, or zoning board of appeals. Will public hearings, local approvals, and permits be needed? If you understand all the steps from here on out, you’ll have a much better chance of ﬁnding a solution. 3. Did I or can I participate in the planning process? Planning takes years, demolition takes hours. The downside of planning is that it takes time. Was a relevant plan such as a master plan, downtown revitalization plan, economic develop- ment plan or community preservation plan recently prepared? Were you part of that discussion? Does the proposed project meet the goals of that plan? If there is an upcoming plan being pre- pared, are you ready to participate in the develop- ment of that plan so that your concerns, recommen- dations, and goals can be incorporated into the community’s plan. Historic preservation planning is a step by step process. It is best accomplished slowly and steadily over many, many years. 4. Am I bringing realistic solutions with me? If I’m not part of the solution, does that mean I am part of the problem? Showing up to meetings with realistic goals, ideas and compromises can go a long way to build- ing success. Bring solutions to meetings, not your sarcasm. 5. Am I being patient? Patience is not the ability to wait, but the ability to Page 19The Alliance Review | 2021, No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions keep a good attitude while waiting. Preservationists aren’t always known for being patient. After all, when a historic building is threatened, it could disappear by tomorrow. Time is short. Ideally, preservation advocates have al- ready participated in relevant planning processes, understand the background, the decision-making process and have developed a broad constitu- ency. When that is the case, it is far easier to be patient, as you are prepared. If you are trying to be a last-minute preservation advocate, it is still important to practice patience. However, recog- nize and accept that you’ve arrived late and will simply be less effective. With that in mind, it is important to be patient with yourself and what you can accomplish. 6. Am I asking questions and listening? You can observe a lot by just listening. Apparently, this is not a Yogi Berra quote, but I really want to attribute this to him. Listening is about trying to understand, not simply waiting for your turn. An effective technique is to calmly acknowledge those that do not share the same views as yourself, give them their voice, hear them out and let them know you heard what they had to say. To be an effective advocate, it is not about convincing anyone that you are right and they are wrong. By truly listening, you have the opportunity to seek common ground with a diversity of view- points. 7. Am I staying positive, respectful and enthusiastic? Simply complaining to those around you is not a winning strategy for constituency building. It is a sureﬁre way to alienate yourself from potential preservation supporters. Do you know why we are called the hysteri- cal committee? I like to think it is because we laugh, have a great sense of humor and have an all-around spectacular outlook on life. While advocating for historic resources can have many challenges along the way, staying positive and enthusiastic will encourage more people to join you. Additionally, it is important that you, as an advocate, ﬁnd within yourself ways to feel the enthusiasm, excitement and energy of building preservation momentum. This may mean coming up with some easily achievable goals, fun activi- ties and ﬁnding the humor along the way. 8. Am I making an effort to walk in their shoes? Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way when you criticize them, you are a mile away and you have their shoes. – Jack Handey Well, this certainly is a common strategy but it isn’t a winning strategy either. When listening to others are you assuming good intent with those that share different viewpoints, backgrounds, and needs than yourself? Are you reaching out, talking constructively and respectfully with those with whom you disagree? Bringing in more tax revenue through new development, keeping taxes low for senior citizens, making money, building more housing can all be laudable goals. Are there ways that you and other stakeholders can ﬁnd win-win solutions? Can developers still make lots of money in a community that regulates the protection of its historic resources? Absolutely. Can a variety of affordable housing options be offered while keeping signiﬁcant historic resources and landscapes? Deﬁnitely. Can property tax revenue Page 20 The Alliance Review | 2021, No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions go up with rehabilitating historic buildings? Yes, even more so than new construction on the edge of town. 9. Am I building relationships and bridges? People support what they help create. Be the bridge that brings together diverse view- points. Bring residents, neighbors, elected ofﬁcials and business owners together so that everyone has a voice and interest in protecting what is best about their community. 10. Do I understand the need to build a constituency comes ﬁrst? Friends, they may think it’s a movement. And that’s what it is. – Arlo Guthrie I was only 3 years old in 1969. So, I didn’t make it to Woodstock. It would be another 20 years before I even realized Alice’s Restaurant by Arlo Guthrie wasn’t actually about going to a restaurant and having a wide selection of op- tions. Nowadays, when I take a call from a local preservationist and hear how things aren’t going well with convincing their local elected ofﬁcials, Arlo often starts singing to me. Alice’s Restaurant is one song, a meandering 18 minutes long. Yet, the message has broad application. To me that is, as a preservation advocate, it is important to not address your local government ofﬁcials alone. Show up alone and you are easily dismissed, labeled the village idiot or considered the local annoyance. Always bring a group of preservation constituents with you. If you don’t have preserva- tion constituents to bring with you, focus on build- ing your grassroots preservation constituency ﬁrst. Then, go meet with your local ofﬁcials. 11. Am I targeting my outreach? What is your escalator pitch? You’ve heard of an elevator pitch, making your sales pitch in the 20 seconds you’ve got a captive audience in the elevator. Well, imagine you are on an escalator going up. Someone you know is on the opposite escalator going down. As you pass each other, they say to you, “why would you ever want to save those buildings?” By the time you have a chance to think, they are already ten feet away and now you’ve only got 2 seconds to make your pitch. What you call out to them has to be short, like 3 words or less, and it has to be so directly targeted to their interests that they leave with your words stuck in their head. You might call out “better paying jobs” or “lower taxes” or “children” or “healthy living.” By understanding the background, the organizations, the individuals involved and by already listening to all the vari- ous stakeholders, outreach can be personal and custom designed to speciﬁc needs, easily and succinctly answering the question, “what’s in it for me?” Ultimately, with all of the beneﬁts preserva- tion offers, there really is something for everyone. 12. Am I keeping my message simple? Saving this building is a no-brainer. The house includes typical Italianate trim, such as canted bay windows and paired brackets. These apertures are also embellished with robust caps, with pilas- ters ﬂanking the door. We must save this building. Preservation terminology and acronyms may make sense to you and other preservation advocates. However, the words you choose may not be well understood elsewhere. Trying to keep your com- munication simple and in plain language will achieve an effective message. Page 21The Alliance Review | 2021, No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions 13. Have I formed a preservation organization? Electricity is really just organized lightning. – George Carlin Having a local preservation advocacy non-proﬁt organization or even just a simple friends group can elevate your message. Either way, choose a name for your group that is speciﬁc enough to the issues at hand but adaptable enough to last beyond an immediate need. From there, consider a logo, electronic communication through social media, as well as stickers, magnets, pens and other methods that get your organization noticed. Effective advocacy organizations have a small group of dedicated people that do the behind the scenes work and a large group of people that are only called on occasionally when needed. 14. Can I accept setbacks and move on? Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift. This is not easy work. Setbacks in preservation are common. Keeping your thoughts focused just on today is one of the best self-help techniques out there. 15. Have I thanked others and shared the credit for success? It is amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit. – Harry Truman Share the credit for success widely. A person’s greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated. Recognize the value of each individual, even if their contribution was small. Importantly, ﬁnd ways to recognize and thank your local politicians when there is a success. So, I have ended without a quote attributed to Mark Twain. I’m not sure how that happened. The secret to getting ahead is getting started. – Mark Twain. Page 22 The Alliance Review | 2021, No. 1 | National Alliance of Preservation Commissions