After five years in the making…. the City Council voted unanimously today for the adoption of the Stonehurst HPOZ. We would like to thank Councilmember Greuel and all those who dedicated their time and expertise to the long process leading to today’s vote.
Residents from opposite sides of the argument took their turn to speak. After listening to each point of view, our neighborhood advocate, Mary B., pointed out that we all want the same thing…our neighborhood to remain unchanged. That is the essence behind the movement for the HPOZ…to maintain the integrity of the neighborhood. With that in mind I think it is clear that we all won a great victory today.
If you would like to see the council proceedings please go to the city’s website: http://lacity.org/cdvideo_wm.htm Scroll down to “On Demand City Council Meetings”. Click on the Search Archives box & enter Stonehurst HPOZ, item 33. The link for today’s video will appear in the box below. You will find that each side was both eloquent and passionate. Congratulations neighbors.
On another note: For those of you who have voted…Thank You. And if you need more information, please leave a comment to which subject you would like explained further. Thank you for your interest.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
The Next Step.
Well neighbors, we are nearing the end of the HPOZ implementation process. The Stonehurst HPOZ is on City Council's agenda next Tuesday, August 12th. The Council session begins at 10:00 a.m. in Room 340 in City Hall.
This is the link for the Council's agenda. The HPOZ consideration is item # 33 (approximately in the middle): http://lacity.org/clk/councilagendas/clkcouncilagendas354984_08122008.pdf
If we are voted in at that point, it leaves the most important step in our hands…The Preservation Plan. We can have a say in our community and what an exhilarating feeling that will give all of us! We need to work together and decide how we want the HPOZ to support our community. There are more details regarding this plan listed below under the Preservation Plan blog or go directly to the Office of Historic Resources. Please let us know your ideas and suggestions. http://www.preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/plan
This is the link for the Council's agenda. The HPOZ consideration is item # 33 (approximately in the middle): http://lacity.org/clk/councilagendas/clkcouncilagendas354984_08122008.pdf
If we are voted in at that point, it leaves the most important step in our hands…The Preservation Plan. We can have a say in our community and what an exhilarating feeling that will give all of us! We need to work together and decide how we want the HPOZ to support our community. There are more details regarding this plan listed below under the Preservation Plan blog or go directly to the Office of Historic Resources. Please let us know your ideas and suggestions. http://www.preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/plan
Monday, July 14, 2008
Why A Blog Site?
On June 19, 2008 the Foothills Trail Neighborhood Council voted to recommend more time be given to the residents of the proposed Historic Preservation Overly Zone (HPOZ) in order for us to find out what is going on with this proposal. We all need to know the whole story. This blog site has been created in response to that recommendation. To that end it offers a central place for all our neighbors to learn, discuss, ask questions or complain while making the facts easily available to all members of the Proposed HPOZ.
It is our hope and desire that you take the time to browse this site and more importantly the other sites listed here. Wherever we provide a link we also give a brief explanation of what you will find there. Learn about the future of your community. Learn about how you can be a part of a powerful movement to maintain our way of life. Blog on….ask your questions….read the provided sites…start your own blog site…talk to your neighbors….work on your preservation plan proposal worksheet. The future is up to you.
You can bypass this site altogether and go straight for the facts. Everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision is available at these four sites. Please come back and share your assessment with the rest of us. Thank you for your time & interest…
The Office of Historic Resources:
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/
Los Angeles Conservancy:
http://www.laconservancy.org/
Federal Government site listing 10 standards of Historic Preservation: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/tax/rhb/stand.htm
This is the “Recommendation Report” for our community. This tells our story in detail: http://cityplanning.lacity.org/staffrpt/CHC/3-20-08/CHC-2007-5633.pdf
It is our hope and desire that you take the time to browse this site and more importantly the other sites listed here. Wherever we provide a link we also give a brief explanation of what you will find there. Learn about the future of your community. Learn about how you can be a part of a powerful movement to maintain our way of life. Blog on….ask your questions….read the provided sites…start your own blog site…talk to your neighbors….work on your preservation plan proposal worksheet. The future is up to you.
You can bypass this site altogether and go straight for the facts. Everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision is available at these four sites. Please come back and share your assessment with the rest of us. Thank you for your time & interest…
The Office of Historic Resources:
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/
Los Angeles Conservancy:
http://www.laconservancy.org/
Federal Government site listing 10 standards of Historic Preservation: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/tax/rhb/stand.htm
This is the “Recommendation Report” for our community. This tells our story in detail: http://cityplanning.lacity.org/staffrpt/CHC/3-20-08/CHC-2007-5633.pdf
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Who started the HPOZ?
Many of you will remember several years back when three stone houses were demolished on Sheldon Street. A parking lot replaced one and a rather large dwelling replaced one of the other two. A number of meetings ensued and the community was in an uprising. “We don’t want to lose our neighborhood” was the outcry. In order to prevent more of this razing several of us did a bit of digging. We were looking for solutions. The best and most obvious solution was an HPOZ. At least 75% of the residents in the proposed zone signed a petition that read, “We, the undersigned, support the idea of having the STONEHURST neighborhood nominated as a City of Los Angeles Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ).” That document is now public record and you can check the names for yourselves. With that petition and a few dedicated individuals (sadly, not us) doing the footwork, the process was started.
Check out this link…click on the April Newsletter...page 4 column 2
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/node/413
Check out this link…click on the April Newsletter...page 4 column 2
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/node/413
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Why an HPOZ?
The reason for starting and sticking with this long and arduous task of creating Stonehurst HPOZ is to protect our neighborhood. We strive to keep the charm and uniqueness of our special area. This community will be sought out by those who are looking for the exceptional lifestyle we share. It will also be sought out by those who would want to destroy it.
We have a distinctive way of life here in Shadow Hills. This lifestyle is a rare commodity in any city. We have large parcels of land, agricultural zoning and quaint historic homes. To some this is a rare jewel in the crown of Los Angeles. Others see our community as a bank roll…tear down those tiny, old, houses and build something big, boring and cheap. Mansionization is easy…what we have is exceptional!
Want to know about tax credits and a few other reasons why this would be a good idea for us….
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/incentives
Here are some other HPOZs. Check it out. Stonehurst will be introducing a brand new category...Stonemason Vernacular. Of course, our HPOZ will be the best!
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/neighborhood_hpoz.php4
We have a distinctive way of life here in Shadow Hills. This lifestyle is a rare commodity in any city. We have large parcels of land, agricultural zoning and quaint historic homes. To some this is a rare jewel in the crown of Los Angeles. Others see our community as a bank roll…tear down those tiny, old, houses and build something big, boring and cheap. Mansionization is easy…what we have is exceptional!
Want to know about tax credits and a few other reasons why this would be a good idea for us….
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/incentives
Here are some other HPOZs. Check it out. Stonehurst will be introducing a brand new category...Stonemason Vernacular. Of course, our HPOZ will be the best!
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/neighborhood_hpoz.php4
Friday, July 11, 2008
Who Is the Historic Preservation Board?
As a community we can make recommendations for the board members nominated by the Mayor's office, our CD2 councilmember and the Foothills Trails Neighborhood Council. Read the requirements listed below and begin your list of recommendations. The quality of this board and the work it does will depend on our participation.
The following has been taken directly from the HPOZ Ordinance
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
1. ESTABLISHMENT and COMPOSITION. There is hereby established for each Preservation Zone a Historic Preservation Board. Each Board shall have, as part of its name, words linking it to its area of administration and distinguishing it from all other boards. A Board shall be comprised of five members. At least three members shall be Renters or Owners of property in the Preservation Zone. For the purposes of this subsection, a Preservation Zone shall be considered predominantly residential when the total number of residentially zoned lots is greater than the combined total of lots in all other zone classifications. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, at least three members shall be Owners or Renters who reside in the Preservation Zone. When property is owned or rented by corporations, governments or other organizations, the Board members may be appointees of those organizations. In the event a Preservation Zone is established for an area insufficient in size to provide for a Board whose members meet the requirements of this subsection, for appointment purposes only, the area may be expanded to include the community plan area in which the Preservation Zone is located. In the event a Board still cannot be comprised of members who meet the requirements of this subsection, the Cultural Heritage Commission shall assume all the powers and duties otherwise assigned to the Board for the Preservation Zone, until a Board can be established.
2. TERM OF MEMBERSHIP. Members of the Board shall serve for a term of four years. Members of the Board whose terms have expired may continue to serve on the Board until their replacements are appointed.
3. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS. To the maximum extent practicable, members shall be appointed as follows:
A) One member having extensive real estate or construction experience shall be appointed by the Mayor.
B) One member who is a Renter or Owner of property in the Preservation zone shall be appointed by the councilmember of the district in which the Preservation Zone is located. In cases where the Preservation Zone is located in more than one council district, the appointment shall be made by the councilmember representing the greatest land area in the Preservation Zone. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owner or Renter shall also be a resident of the Preservation Zone.
C) Two members, one of which shall be an architect licensed by the State of California, shall be appointed by the Cultural Heritage Commission. In the event only one appointment under (a) or (b) above is a Renter or Owner in the Preservation Zone, then at least one of the appointees of the Cultural Heritage Commission shall be a Renter or Owner of property in the Preservation Zone. In the event neither of the appointments under (a) or (b) above is an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone, then at least one of the appointees of the Cultural Heritage Commission shall also be an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owners or Renters shall also be residents of the Preservation Zone.
D) One member, who is an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone, shall be appointed by the Board. The Board shall consider appointee suggestions from the Certified Neighborhood Council representing the district in which the Preservation Zone is located. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owners or Renters shall also be residents of the Preservation Zone. In cases where the Preservation Zone is located in an area represented by more than one Neighborhood Council, the appointee suggestions shall be made by the Neighborhood Council representing the greatest land area in the Preservation Zone. In those Preservation Zones containing no Certified Neighborhood Councils, or if, after notification of a vacancy by the Planning Department, the Certified Neighborhood Council fails to make suggestions within 30 days, or at least one Certified Neighborhood Council meeting has been held, whichever occurs first, the Board may make its appointment without delay.
All members shall have demonstrated a knowledge of, and interest in, the culture, buildings, structures, Historic architecture, history and features of the area encompassed by the Preservation Zone and, to the extent feasible, shall have experience in historic preservation. The appointing authorities are encouraged to consider the cultural diversity of the Preservation Zone in making their appointments. Appointees serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and the appointment may be rescinded at any time prior to the expiration of a member's term.
The following has been taken directly from the HPOZ Ordinance
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
1. ESTABLISHMENT and COMPOSITION. There is hereby established for each Preservation Zone a Historic Preservation Board. Each Board shall have, as part of its name, words linking it to its area of administration and distinguishing it from all other boards. A Board shall be comprised of five members. At least three members shall be Renters or Owners of property in the Preservation Zone. For the purposes of this subsection, a Preservation Zone shall be considered predominantly residential when the total number of residentially zoned lots is greater than the combined total of lots in all other zone classifications. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, at least three members shall be Owners or Renters who reside in the Preservation Zone. When property is owned or rented by corporations, governments or other organizations, the Board members may be appointees of those organizations. In the event a Preservation Zone is established for an area insufficient in size to provide for a Board whose members meet the requirements of this subsection, for appointment purposes only, the area may be expanded to include the community plan area in which the Preservation Zone is located. In the event a Board still cannot be comprised of members who meet the requirements of this subsection, the Cultural Heritage Commission shall assume all the powers and duties otherwise assigned to the Board for the Preservation Zone, until a Board can be established.
2. TERM OF MEMBERSHIP. Members of the Board shall serve for a term of four years. Members of the Board whose terms have expired may continue to serve on the Board until their replacements are appointed.
3. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS. To the maximum extent practicable, members shall be appointed as follows:
A) One member having extensive real estate or construction experience shall be appointed by the Mayor.
B) One member who is a Renter or Owner of property in the Preservation zone shall be appointed by the councilmember of the district in which the Preservation Zone is located. In cases where the Preservation Zone is located in more than one council district, the appointment shall be made by the councilmember representing the greatest land area in the Preservation Zone. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owner or Renter shall also be a resident of the Preservation Zone.
C) Two members, one of which shall be an architect licensed by the State of California, shall be appointed by the Cultural Heritage Commission. In the event only one appointment under (a) or (b) above is a Renter or Owner in the Preservation Zone, then at least one of the appointees of the Cultural Heritage Commission shall be a Renter or Owner of property in the Preservation Zone. In the event neither of the appointments under (a) or (b) above is an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone, then at least one of the appointees of the Cultural Heritage Commission shall also be an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owners or Renters shall also be residents of the Preservation Zone.
D) One member, who is an Owner of property in the Preservation Zone, shall be appointed by the Board. The Board shall consider appointee suggestions from the Certified Neighborhood Council representing the district in which the Preservation Zone is located. In predominantly residential Preservation Zones, the Owners or Renters shall also be residents of the Preservation Zone. In cases where the Preservation Zone is located in an area represented by more than one Neighborhood Council, the appointee suggestions shall be made by the Neighborhood Council representing the greatest land area in the Preservation Zone. In those Preservation Zones containing no Certified Neighborhood Councils, or if, after notification of a vacancy by the Planning Department, the Certified Neighborhood Council fails to make suggestions within 30 days, or at least one Certified Neighborhood Council meeting has been held, whichever occurs first, the Board may make its appointment without delay.
All members shall have demonstrated a knowledge of, and interest in, the culture, buildings, structures, Historic architecture, history and features of the area encompassed by the Preservation Zone and, to the extent feasible, shall have experience in historic preservation. The appointing authorities are encouraged to consider the cultural diversity of the Preservation Zone in making their appointments. Appointees serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and the appointment may be rescinded at any time prior to the expiration of a member's term.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
The Preservation Plan
This plan allows us as a community to be proactive on our own behalf. It is created as a set of design guidelines specific to the needs of our neighborhood and in cooperation with the residents and property owners in our HPOZ. The plan guides the HPOZ board in its decision-making process.
Why wait? Take the opportunity now to look at the Worksheet and jot down some notes. Once we are up and running we can start the preservation plan immediately.
The Worksheet:
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/plan
These two documents will act as the guidelines followed by the board in lieu of our Stonehurst HPOZ preservation plan. Once the plan has been created it will be the guiding document for our area.
The Federal Government site which lists the 10 standards of Historic Preservation: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/tax/rhb/stand.htm
The City of Los Angeles site for the HPOZ ordinance:
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
Why wait? Take the opportunity now to look at the Worksheet and jot down some notes. Once we are up and running we can start the preservation plan immediately.
The Worksheet:
http://www.preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/plan
These two documents will act as the guidelines followed by the board in lieu of our Stonehurst HPOZ preservation plan. Once the plan has been created it will be the guiding document for our area.
The Federal Government site which lists the 10 standards of Historic Preservation: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/tax/rhb/stand.htm
The City of Los Angeles site for the HPOZ ordinance:
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Horse Keeping & the HPOZ
First it is important to state that an HPOZ does not in any way address horse keeping rights either for or against. The existing zoning and uses will not change. The HPOZ designation is added onto the existing zoning designation. We have the K overlay already in place and it’s not likely to be eliminated any time soon.The relationship of HPOZ to horse property is an indirect one. Horse owners in Shadow Hills know all too well the history of other equestrian areas in the valley and elsewhere in LA County. Laws were not changed over night and….poof… no horses. The process was a gradual one. First developers moved in and began to purchase the wonderful old ranchos. The large land parcels were divided up; then mcmansions and multi-family units were squeezed onto these subdivisions. As the ambiance of the neighborhoods changed horse owners found themselves fighting for their way of life. In most cases they lost.
The HPOZ can not guarantee that this would never happen to us and our way of life BUT it does greatly reduce the possibility. An HPOZ makes our community an unattractive site for developers. The same little items that may or may not be a small annoyance to us (i.e. going before the board for review of plans) would be a major and costly stumbling block for developers.
We as Shadow Hills horse owners can take our future in our own hands. We have an opportunity. First…license your horses. The City of Los Angeles will make zoning /building choices based on the number of horses they have recorded in the area. Second…let’s work together to create barriers around our lifestyle. Otherwise, we can fight among ourselves while the developers rob us of it.
Don’t take my word for it ….don’t listen to those who try to spread fear with lies and nonsense…… DO Your Homework!!! What did happen to all the horse property in Sylmar? Chatsworth? El Monte? Valencia? Malibu? For that matter drive around Sun Valley & Sunland…Do you see things changing?? Our neighborhood is going to change. Either we will be the directors of that change or the developers will gladly do it for us….you decide!!
REMEMBER TO LICENSE YOUR HORSE(S)!!! APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT EAST VALLEY FEED OR ONLINE AT: http://www.laanimalservices.com/PDF/license/equinelicenses.pdf
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Busting Myths
THE FOLLOWING WAS TAKEN FROM THE OFFICE OF HISTORIC RESOURCES SITE. THIS IS ONLY HALF OF THE MYTHS LISTED.
MYTH #1: Historic Designation Will Reduce My Property Values.
FACT: Study after study across the nation has conclusively demonstrated that historic designation and the creation of historic districts actually increase property values. Why? In part, historic designation gives a neighborhood or an individual historic site a cache that sets it apart from ordinary properties. Many buyers seek out the unique qualities and ambiance of a historic property. Historic district designation gives potential homebuyers two rare and economically valuable assurances: that the very qualities that attracted them to their neighborhood will actually endure over time, and that they can safely reinvest in sensitive improvements to their home without fear that their neighbor will undermine this investment with a new “monster home” or inappropriate new development.
MYTH #2: If my property is designated as a historic site, I won’t be able to change it in any way, and I don’t want my property to become like a museum.
FACT: Owners of designated historic structures may make very significant changes to their structures. Historic preservation laws, at their essence, are not meant to prevent change, but, rather, to manage change. The tool to manage change is the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, the nationally accepted benchmark for evaluating changes to historic structures. The Standards don’t require that every element of a historic site remain intact: you need not keep every doorknob! However, the most significant, or “character-defining”, historic elements of a property should be retained. New additions to the historic property are allowed, but should be compatible with the site’s historic architecture. The Standards urge the repair of deteriorated historic features, but do allow for replacement where the severity of deterioration leaves no other option.
MYTH #3: Preservation is an un-American violation of property rights
FACT: Historic preservation laws no more infringe on property rights than do many other laws and private rules that Americans have long accepted. Though everyone likes to believe “my home is my castle and I can do whatever I want,” this statement simply doesn’t reflect reality. Zoning laws prevent you from replacing your single-family home with an apartment building or a five-story vertical mansion. We should all be happy that such laws prevent our neighbor from putting a landfill or a skyscraper behind our back fence. If you live in a condominium (or an Orange County gated community), your property rights are limited by Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC & Rs), documents that can legally prevent you from owning a pet, washing a car in your driveway, or having a basketball hoop over the garage. CC &R’s restrictions are far more onerous than historic preservation laws, yet are commonly accepted even by vocal property rights advocates.
MYTH #4: Preservation is only for the rich and elite, and for high-style buildings.
FACT: Historic preservation isn’t just about house museums anymore. Today’s preservation movement is increasingly diverse: here in Los Angeles, the two newest Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs) are in Pico-Union and Lincoln Heights, home to economically and ethnically varied populations. Preservation today also focuses not just on grandiose architectural landmarks, but on more modest sites of social and cultural significance. Just look at the small Ralph J. Bunche House in South Los Angeles, boyhood home of the pioneering African-American diplomat, and Little Tokyo’s Far East Café, a beloved gathering place for the city’s Japanese-American community – both recently restored. Or, consider a current preservation effort to save the modest Vladeck Center, a Boyle Heights building that was the center of the Jewish labor and immigrant resettlement movements of the 1930s. Such sites underscore that preservation can be about the “power of place” found at sites containing rich social and cultural meaning.
MYTH #5: Preservation is more expensive than new construction
This is certainly true at times, but, in FACT, historic preservation is typically more cost effective than new construction. Why? Historic buildings certainly do sometimes need upgrades, but these are usually less expensive than the costs of building all-new foundations, structural systems, roofs and building finishes. The National Trust for Historic Preservation reports that in Chicago, where the public school system is now spending $2.5 billion to upgrade facilities, bare-bones new construction is costing $155 per square foot -- but renovation is costing just $130. Here in Los Angeles, the State of California learned the potential savings from historic preservation in comparing the construction of two State Office Buildings: the new Ronald Reagan State Office Building on Spring Street at 3rd St., and the Junipero Serra State Office Building just two blocks away on Broadway at 4th St., in the renovated former flagship location of the Broadway Department Store. The historic renovation not only reused and reinvigorated an important landmark from 1914, but it saved taxpayers money by delivering office space at about half the cost per square foot of the all-new Reagan building just a few years before.
MYTH #1: Historic Designation Will Reduce My Property Values.
FACT: Study after study across the nation has conclusively demonstrated that historic designation and the creation of historic districts actually increase property values. Why? In part, historic designation gives a neighborhood or an individual historic site a cache that sets it apart from ordinary properties. Many buyers seek out the unique qualities and ambiance of a historic property. Historic district designation gives potential homebuyers two rare and economically valuable assurances: that the very qualities that attracted them to their neighborhood will actually endure over time, and that they can safely reinvest in sensitive improvements to their home without fear that their neighbor will undermine this investment with a new “monster home” or inappropriate new development.
MYTH #2: If my property is designated as a historic site, I won’t be able to change it in any way, and I don’t want my property to become like a museum.
FACT: Owners of designated historic structures may make very significant changes to their structures. Historic preservation laws, at their essence, are not meant to prevent change, but, rather, to manage change. The tool to manage change is the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, the nationally accepted benchmark for evaluating changes to historic structures. The Standards don’t require that every element of a historic site remain intact: you need not keep every doorknob! However, the most significant, or “character-defining”, historic elements of a property should be retained. New additions to the historic property are allowed, but should be compatible with the site’s historic architecture. The Standards urge the repair of deteriorated historic features, but do allow for replacement where the severity of deterioration leaves no other option.
MYTH #3: Preservation is an un-American violation of property rights
FACT: Historic preservation laws no more infringe on property rights than do many other laws and private rules that Americans have long accepted. Though everyone likes to believe “my home is my castle and I can do whatever I want,” this statement simply doesn’t reflect reality. Zoning laws prevent you from replacing your single-family home with an apartment building or a five-story vertical mansion. We should all be happy that such laws prevent our neighbor from putting a landfill or a skyscraper behind our back fence. If you live in a condominium (or an Orange County gated community), your property rights are limited by Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC & Rs), documents that can legally prevent you from owning a pet, washing a car in your driveway, or having a basketball hoop over the garage. CC &R’s restrictions are far more onerous than historic preservation laws, yet are commonly accepted even by vocal property rights advocates.
MYTH #4: Preservation is only for the rich and elite, and for high-style buildings.
FACT: Historic preservation isn’t just about house museums anymore. Today’s preservation movement is increasingly diverse: here in Los Angeles, the two newest Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs) are in Pico-Union and Lincoln Heights, home to economically and ethnically varied populations. Preservation today also focuses not just on grandiose architectural landmarks, but on more modest sites of social and cultural significance. Just look at the small Ralph J. Bunche House in South Los Angeles, boyhood home of the pioneering African-American diplomat, and Little Tokyo’s Far East Café, a beloved gathering place for the city’s Japanese-American community – both recently restored. Or, consider a current preservation effort to save the modest Vladeck Center, a Boyle Heights building that was the center of the Jewish labor and immigrant resettlement movements of the 1930s. Such sites underscore that preservation can be about the “power of place” found at sites containing rich social and cultural meaning.
MYTH #5: Preservation is more expensive than new construction
This is certainly true at times, but, in FACT, historic preservation is typically more cost effective than new construction. Why? Historic buildings certainly do sometimes need upgrades, but these are usually less expensive than the costs of building all-new foundations, structural systems, roofs and building finishes. The National Trust for Historic Preservation reports that in Chicago, where the public school system is now spending $2.5 billion to upgrade facilities, bare-bones new construction is costing $155 per square foot -- but renovation is costing just $130. Here in Los Angeles, the State of California learned the potential savings from historic preservation in comparing the construction of two State Office Buildings: the new Ronald Reagan State Office Building on Spring Street at 3rd St., and the Junipero Serra State Office Building just two blocks away on Broadway at 4th St., in the renovated former flagship location of the Broadway Department Store. The historic renovation not only reused and reinvigorated an important landmark from 1914, but it saved taxpayers money by delivering office space at about half the cost per square foot of the all-new Reagan building just a few years before.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Point...Counterpoint
It seemed fitting to have this blog on the Fourth of July. This day that celebrates the greatest democracy on earth. In the spirit of free speech and individual choice, we have allotted this section for someone who has serious doubts regarding the proposed HPOZ. Like some of you, he signed the original petition and now questions that decision. In his own words, he will explain his objections…. (COMING SOON)
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Many residents have asked if an HPOZ is the same as a HOA (homeowners association). They are not the same. In fact this should have been listed in myths. Here is the link to a HOA definition. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeowners
You can find the HPOZ definition below or at the Office of Historic Resources site.
These FAQs were taken directly from the Carthy Circle HPOZ site. They have only been edited where their information did not apply to us. Check it out for yourself. http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/la/carthaycircle/genpage/448409662.html
• WHAT EXACTLY IS AN HPOZ? Simply put, an HPOZ is a HISTORIC district. Technically defined, a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) is a city-designated historic district composed of a group of buildings (either an entire neighborhood or part of a neighborhood) that are related to one another historically, architecturally, and/or culturally. Individual buildings within an HPOZ need not be of “landmark” quality— the cohesiveness, uniqueness, and architectural integrity of the area as a whole serves to make it eligible for HPOZ status. The protection of Los Angeles’ historic neighborhoods is not a new phenomenon. Since 1979, when the Los Angeles City Council adopted the city’s first HPOZ Ordinance, 15 diverse and wonderful neighborhoods representing many aspects of the city’s cultural and architectural history have become HPOZs. Grassroots efforts of neighborhood residents drive the creation of these historic districts.Recently, interest in this approach to the protection and preservation of historic neighborhoods has accelerated with at least 13 new HPOZ's in the initial stages of formation.
•WHICH OTHER NEIGHBORHOODS IN THE CITY OF L.A. have an HPOZ designation? There are currently several: Angelino Heights, South Carthay, Melrose Hill, Miracle Mile North, Whitley Heights, Spaulding Square, Highland Park, Van Buren Place, Carthay Circle and Lafayette Square.
•WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO OWN A HOME IN A HPOZ? Residents and property owners are NOT required to improve or “fix up” their property, nor pay membership fees. •For some, it means assurance that what they love about their neighborhood, whether it’s the architecture or the general ambiance, will be protected from significant change. •For others, HPOZ status brings higher property values and the stabilization of the neighborhood. •For still others,it brings a sense of enhanced community. Only exterior alterations to structures within the district are subject to review by the board to insure that the changes are in keeping with the historic character of the neighborhood. As areas with historic and aesthetic significance, representative of the city’s cultural and architectural history, these districts are unique and irreplaceable assets. The destruction of communities such as Bunker Hill and Chavez Ravine, and the fragmentation of neighborhoods like Boyle Heights and Lincoln Heights, provide cautionary tales about the potential for the loss of our city’s historic communities. The Conservancy, in cooperation with the HPOZ Alliance, the HPOZ boards, and our many preservation partners, is delighted to foster the growth of this community preservation effort, one that will protect the historically built environment of our city for generations to come.
• WHAT DOES THE HPOZ DESIGNATION MEAN? The designation provides a review system for all proposed exterior work in the neighborhood. Home projects,... including repairs, improvements, additions, and significant landscape changes qualify for this review by the local HPOZ board before starting any work.
• HOW DOES THE HPOZ WORK? The review functions are administered by the Planning Department of the City of Los Angeles. Most decisions from the Planning Department are based on recommendations from the five-member, volunteer, HPOZ Board,... and in some cases, the Cultural Heritage Commission. The HPOZ board meets regularly twice per month. All meetings are public and your participation is encouraged.
• HOW WILL PROJECTS GET REVIEWED? Contact the City Planning department at (213) 485-6716, and ask to be placed on the Stonehurst HPOZ agenda for the next available meeting. You will need to provide your name, address, telephone number and a description of your project. As an alternative, you can contact an HPOZ Board Member.
• WILL MY PROPERTY VALUES OR THE SALE OF MY PROPERTY BE AFFECTED?According to a study by the National Trust for Historic Preservation,.... homes and structures within historic zones experience greater property value increases and market values than do similar structures not protected by the historic zone. Historic preservation is a good investment.
• WHAT ARE THE COSTS FOR THE HPOZ? There are no added taxes, initial fees, or annual dues for residents or owners in the HPOZ. However, certain types of larger projects may require a more extensive review called a Certificate of Appropriateness. A fee of approximately $300 is required by the City of Los Angeles for this review and completed document.
You can find the HPOZ definition below or at the Office of Historic Resources site.
These FAQs were taken directly from the Carthy Circle HPOZ site. They have only been edited where their information did not apply to us. Check it out for yourself. http://www.neighborhoodlink.com/la/carthaycircle/genpage/448409662.html
• WHAT EXACTLY IS AN HPOZ? Simply put, an HPOZ is a HISTORIC district. Technically defined, a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) is a city-designated historic district composed of a group of buildings (either an entire neighborhood or part of a neighborhood) that are related to one another historically, architecturally, and/or culturally. Individual buildings within an HPOZ need not be of “landmark” quality— the cohesiveness, uniqueness, and architectural integrity of the area as a whole serves to make it eligible for HPOZ status. The protection of Los Angeles’ historic neighborhoods is not a new phenomenon. Since 1979, when the Los Angeles City Council adopted the city’s first HPOZ Ordinance, 15 diverse and wonderful neighborhoods representing many aspects of the city’s cultural and architectural history have become HPOZs. Grassroots efforts of neighborhood residents drive the creation of these historic districts.Recently, interest in this approach to the protection and preservation of historic neighborhoods has accelerated with at least 13 new HPOZ's in the initial stages of formation.
•WHICH OTHER NEIGHBORHOODS IN THE CITY OF L.A. have an HPOZ designation? There are currently several: Angelino Heights, South Carthay, Melrose Hill, Miracle Mile North, Whitley Heights, Spaulding Square, Highland Park, Van Buren Place, Carthay Circle and Lafayette Square.
•WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO OWN A HOME IN A HPOZ? Residents and property owners are NOT required to improve or “fix up” their property, nor pay membership fees. •For some, it means assurance that what they love about their neighborhood, whether it’s the architecture or the general ambiance, will be protected from significant change. •For others, HPOZ status brings higher property values and the stabilization of the neighborhood. •For still others,it brings a sense of enhanced community. Only exterior alterations to structures within the district are subject to review by the board to insure that the changes are in keeping with the historic character of the neighborhood. As areas with historic and aesthetic significance, representative of the city’s cultural and architectural history, these districts are unique and irreplaceable assets. The destruction of communities such as Bunker Hill and Chavez Ravine, and the fragmentation of neighborhoods like Boyle Heights and Lincoln Heights, provide cautionary tales about the potential for the loss of our city’s historic communities. The Conservancy, in cooperation with the HPOZ Alliance, the HPOZ boards, and our many preservation partners, is delighted to foster the growth of this community preservation effort, one that will protect the historically built environment of our city for generations to come.
• WHAT DOES THE HPOZ DESIGNATION MEAN? The designation provides a review system for all proposed exterior work in the neighborhood. Home projects,... including repairs, improvements, additions, and significant landscape changes qualify for this review by the local HPOZ board before starting any work.
• HOW DOES THE HPOZ WORK? The review functions are administered by the Planning Department of the City of Los Angeles. Most decisions from the Planning Department are based on recommendations from the five-member, volunteer, HPOZ Board,... and in some cases, the Cultural Heritage Commission. The HPOZ board meets regularly twice per month. All meetings are public and your participation is encouraged.
• HOW WILL PROJECTS GET REVIEWED? Contact the City Planning department at (213) 485-6716, and ask to be placed on the Stonehurst HPOZ agenda for the next available meeting. You will need to provide your name, address, telephone number and a description of your project. As an alternative, you can contact an HPOZ Board Member.
• WILL MY PROPERTY VALUES OR THE SALE OF MY PROPERTY BE AFFECTED?According to a study by the National Trust for Historic Preservation,.... homes and structures within historic zones experience greater property value increases and market values than do similar structures not protected by the historic zone. Historic preservation is a good investment.
• WHAT ARE THE COSTS FOR THE HPOZ? There are no added taxes, initial fees, or annual dues for residents or owners in the HPOZ. However, certain types of larger projects may require a more extensive review called a Certificate of Appropriateness. A fee of approximately $300 is required by the City of Los Angeles for this review and completed document.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Links to Useful Information:
This is the office that has helped in the creation of our HPOZ. If you have a burning question or concern this is the place to go. The Office of Historic Resources: http://www.preservation.lacity.org/
The most comprehensive (and easy to get online) HPOZ document outlining the finer points of the HPOZ Rules & Regulations...... can be downloaded in pdf form from this L.A. Conservancy webpage link:
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
The Stonenhurst HPOZ is located in Council District 2 (CD2) and the councilmember representing this area as of today, July 1, 2008, is Wendy Greuel.
http://www.lacity.org/council/cd2/
Foothill Trails District Neighborhood Council
http://www.ftdnc.org/
Shadow Hills Property Owners Association
http://shadowhillspoa.com/
Little Landers Historical Society @Bolton Hall Museum
http://www.verdugo-online.com/clubs/boltonhall.htm
Los Angeles City Historical Society
http://www.lacityhistory.org/
Society of Architectural Historians Southern California Chapter
http://www.sahscc.org/
National Trust for Historic Preservation
http://www.preservationnation.org/
•Code Enforcement
www.cityofla.org/LADBS/index.htm
•City Planning Department - HPOZ Nominations
www.cityofla.org/PLN/index.htm
•Building and Safety Department Building Permit Review
http://www.ladbs.org/
•Just for fun
http://www.cuturela.org/
The most comprehensive (and easy to get online) HPOZ document outlining the finer points of the HPOZ Rules & Regulations...... can be downloaded in pdf form from this L.A. Conservancy webpage link:
http://www.laconservancy.org/initiatives/hpoz_ordinance2004.pdf
The Stonenhurst HPOZ is located in Council District 2 (CD2) and the councilmember representing this area as of today, July 1, 2008, is Wendy Greuel.
http://www.lacity.org/council/cd2/
Foothill Trails District Neighborhood Council
http://www.ftdnc.org/
Shadow Hills Property Owners Association
http://shadowhillspoa.com/
Little Landers Historical Society @Bolton Hall Museum
http://www.verdugo-online.com/clubs/boltonhall.htm
Los Angeles City Historical Society
http://www.lacityhistory.org/
Society of Architectural Historians Southern California Chapter
http://www.sahscc.org/
National Trust for Historic Preservation
http://www.preservationnation.org/
•Code Enforcement
www.cityofla.org/LADBS/index.htm
•City Planning Department - HPOZ Nominations
www.cityofla.org/PLN/index.htm
•Building and Safety Department Building Permit Review
http://www.ladbs.org/
•Just for fun
http://www.cuturela.org/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
