Objective 7.1.2. - Historical Landmarks.

Identify and protect local historically significant landmarks to:

(a)

Preserve Manatee County history;

(b)

Recognize individual historic preservation efforts;

(c)

Provide historical continuity for residents and visitors; and

(d)

Provide historical continuity for the community after a post disaster event.

Policy 7.1.2.1. Prepare and update a county historical landmarks survey and map for the Coastal Planning Area by 2012, and survey areas outside of the Coastal Planning Area as part of the ongoing survey effort.

Implementation Mechanism:

(a)

Planning Department survey and mapping of significant historical landmarks consistent with this policy.

Policy 7.1.2.2. Preserve significant historic structures located outside of historic neighborhoods as identified in Policy 7.1.2.1.

Implementation Mechanism(s):

(a)

Planning Department revision of the Historic Preservation regulations to include a voluntary program for landmarks designation.

(b)

Planning and Building Departments provide assistance to owners of historical properties identifying economically viable alternatives to demolition.

(c)

Planning and Building Departments provide timely assistance to owners to encourage stabilization of structures and appropriate transition.

Policy 7.1.2.3. Require the sensitive rehabilitation and reuse of historical landmarks as an alternative to demolition whenever possible.

Implementation Mechanism(s):

(a)

Planning and Building Departments provide assistance to owners of historical properties identifying economically viable alternatives to demolition.

(b)

Planning and Building Departments provide timely assistance to owners to encourage stabilization of structures and appropriate transition.

Policy 7.1.2.4. Assist private property owners of historically significant landmarks in applying for and utilizing State and Federal assistance programs.

Implementation Mechanism:

(a)

Planning Department and Historic Preservation Board coordination to facilitate action and to provide assistance in a manner consistent with this policy.

Policy 7.1.2.5. Develop incentives for owners of historically significant properties to encourage landmarks designation. Such incentives may include:

(1)

Favorable tax rates for rehabilitated historic structures;

(2)

Establishment of a low interest revolving loan program for maintenance, rehabilitation and repairs of historic structures; and

(3)

Special recognition programs for sensitive rehabilitation and/or reuse.

Implementation Mechanism:

(a)

Planning Department study of possible incentive mechanisms in compliance with this policy.

Policy 7.1.2.6. By 2011, adopt historic preservation tax abatement program consistent with state law to encourage preservation of historic resources.

Implementation Mechanism:

(a)

Planning Department coordination with appropriate departments and agencies to establish program.

Policy 7.1.2.7. Seek designation as a Certified Local Government (CLG) by the Florida Department of State, Division of Historic Resources.

Implementation Mechanism:

(a)

Planning Department, in coordination with the Historic Preservation Board, develop recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners.