6.0. SR 10-14-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City TO: FROM: DATE: MEMORANDUM Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) SUBJECT: Recommendation on Historic Significance in the Downtown Area The Heritage Preservation Commission has reviewed the areas being considered for inclusion in the Downtown Revitalization Project to make recommendations regarding their local historic significance. In their review, the HPC used the recently completed Historic Context Study of the city and Phase II Inventory information, as well as the seven standards used in determining if a property qualifies to be rezoned to Heritage Preservation Site Overlay Zoning District, found in' Section 900.10 (22) (C) of the City of Elk River Code of Ordinances. The HRA has received the final version of the Context Study and the Phase II Inventory and a copy of the Section 900.10 (22) (C) is attached to this memo. Brick Block - i. This block is of interest regarding the development of Elk River. It was the result of the turn of the century farming prosperity in the region and represents the birth of Elk River's financial district. iv. The "Brick Block" is anchored by the old First National Bank building, which was built by W.H. Houlton. Mr. Houlton is a key figure in the economic development of Elk River. In addition, the former Bank of Elk River building is located in this block. This buildings are associated with others who significantly contributed to the development of Elk River, e.g:Babcock, Castle and Dare. As the name implies, the "Brick Block" embodies a distinctive architectural treatment for the period it was built, brick. Having suffered a number of disastrous fires in the commercial areas of Elk River, this block was an attempt to reduce the hazard. VIII. As much as anywhere in Elk River, the "Brick Block" represents an established and familiar visual feature of the community and physical tie to the past. Recommendation - Although the architectural integrity of some of the buildings is' currently lacking, the HPC for the City of Elk River feels this block has local historic significance. The HPC strongly recommends that this block is left intact and revitalization take th~'~form of restoration and creative reuse. The HPC further: recommends that this block be considered for designation as a Heritage Preservation Site Overlay District (HPS).