Piqua Considers a New Historic Preservation Ordinance

The Piqua Historic Preservation Ordinance is introduced to the City Commission

A Proposed Ordinance is Introduced

On April 16th, the City Commission in Piqua held their first reading of Ordinance No. O-3-24, titled "Piqua Historic Preservation Ordinance”. The ordinance was presented to the Commission by the City’s Community Services Director, Kyle Hinkelman, and was followed by a few questions were offered by the City Commission.

The ordinance is a comprehensive legislative effort aimed at protecting and preserving the historical integrity of the city by establishing a new chapter, Chapter 99, of the city's municipal code. This proposed chapter outlines the parameters for historic preservation and sets forth a regulatory framework to manage historic sites and landmarks within the city.

Last night’s first reading of the ordinance was the formal introduction of the legislation to the Commission. The Commission did not vote on the legislation, and the new ordinance will have two other readings; the earliest the ordinance could be approved would be May 21st. The Commission seems serious to ensure that there is public input on this matter before a final vote is taken.

The ordinance's primary objective is to safeguard Piqua's historical character and enhance its eligibility to become a Certified Local Government (CLG). This designation would enable Piqua to receive federal and state preservation funds and assistance, thus fostering better preservation practices within the city. The historical backdrop of Piqua, including its early establishment and industrial significance, underscores the city’s rich heritage worth preserving.

Key Provisions of the Ordinance

1. Establishment of Historic Districts and the Historic Registry:

   • The new ordinance delineates two historic districts—Piqua-Caldwell and Downtown Piqua—and establishes a historic registry for locally designated landmarks. Properties within the district are subject to the regulations of the new chapter. However, the registry allows other historic buildings not in the district to fall under the regulations of the chapter. This structured approach allows for a clear definition of what areas and landmarks are under protection and the standards they must adhere to.

2. Commission Powers and Process:

   • The newly created City Historic Review Commission (CHRC) is vested with the authority to oversee and enforce the historic preservation standards. This includes the ability to issue Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for any alterations, demolitions, or constructions within historic districts to ensure compatibility with historic preservation goals. The CHRC will take the historic preservation decisions away from the City’s Planning Commission, where they are currently made.

3. Design and Construction Guidelines:

   • The ordinance specifies that any new construction, alteration, or demolition must maintain the aesthetic and historical integrity of the district. This involves adhering to design guidelines that are sympathetic to the historical context and using materials that are either historically accurate or compatible.

4. Criteria for Demolition or Relocation of a Structure:

   • Demolition can only be considered if there is no viable economical use of the structure or if restoration is demonstrably unfeasible. This provision is crucial for preventing the loss of historical assets unless absolutely necessary.

5. Demolition by Neglect and Accidental Damage:

   • The ordinance prohibits "demolition by neglect," holding property owners accountable for maintaining their properties to prevent decay that could lead to demolition. It also requires property owners to carry sufficient insurance to cover damages to preserve the property’s historical value.

6. Enforcement and Penalties:

   • Penalties for non-compliance include fines and the requirement to restore altered or demolished parts of buildings in violation of the ordinance. These stringent measures are intended to ensure adherence to the preservation rules.

7. Public Participation and Appeals:

   • The ordinance allows for public input and participation in the preservation process, a point that is not codified in other historic preservation ordinances in other communities. This proposed chapter also includes a structured appeal process through the City of Piqua Board of Zoning Appeals. This ensures that the community has a voice in the preservation of their local heritage.

Implications and Expected Outcomes

Adopting this ordinance is expected to enhance Piqua's historical districts, contributing to the city’s cultural and aesthetic value, and potentially boosting tourism and local civic pride. It sets a structured regulatory environment that encourages the preservation of historical sites while allowing for modern use and adaptations under controlled conditions.

In conclusion, Ordinance No. O-3-24 represents a proactive and structured approach to historic preservation in Piqua. By establishing clear guidelines and a more streamlined regulatory framework, it appears the city is attempting to both protect its heritage while accommodating growth and modernization in a fiscally responsible manner. From what has been presented, this ordinance is a significant step towards preserving the historical essence of the community for future generations, enhancing both community identity and historical continuity.

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