📋
Extracted from Consolidated Report

This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.

San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury • 2006-2007

9. Historic Preservation Preserving the Past to Enrich the Future

42 pages
View PDF View Full Original

Findings and Recommendations 4 findings

F1 Page 57
Information pertaining to the Farmers’ Alliance Building was missing from the City’s Inventory of Historic Resources, per the October 4, 2005 City Council minutes.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
Page 57
The City of Paso Robles should review and improve their documentation procedures specific to their Historic Resources Survey and Inventory. (Finding 1) 2006-2007 San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury Report Responses Page: R-57
F2 Page 57
The Grand Jury believes a thorough local historic preservation process would decrease the likelihood of situations similar to Smart & Final’s purchase of a building they later learned they were unable to use because of its historical significance.
No recommendations for this finding
F3 Page 57
Historic Preservation Committees/Commissions appear to be a key factor in assisting local governments to identify historic resources and maintain continuity of processes across historic resources and permit applicants.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
Page 57
Local governments in San Luis Obispo County that do not already have an Historic Preservation Committee/Commission should study the feasibility of creating one. Information about these committees/commissions can be obtained from the state Office of Historic Preservation (www.ohp.parks.ca.gov). (Finding 3)
F4 Page 57
The provisions of CEQA are intended to assist local governments in the proper identification and treatment of historic resources consistent with Federal regulations. A significant degree of local discretion exists, however, which allows local citizens to influence the degree of preservation in their communities through their elected representatives. The Historical Preservation Program in the City of San Luis Obispo, while it does not include all possible provisions of CEQA, can serve as a model for other communities in the county, including making information available to residents.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
Page 57
If they are not already doing so, local communities should make available to their residents a handout/brochure containing information such as the following: (Finding 4) • Does the community have an historic preservation program? • Does the community have historic districts? • How does the community identify historic properties? • What benefits and services are available to owners of historic properties? • Can historic properties be changed? If so, what is the process? • Can historic structures be demolished? If so, what is the process? • What changes can be made to an historic structure without a building permit? • How can property owners find out more about their historic properties?