HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-06-13 Historic Resources Board Agenda PacketHISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD
Regular Meeting
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Council Chambers & Hybrid
8:30 AM
Historic Resources Board meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend
by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while still
maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate
from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the
meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in
person. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o n
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media
Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas are
available at https://bitly.com/paloaltoHRB.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/96800197512)
Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an
amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes
after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to
hrb@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Board and available for inspection on the
City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject
line.
Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified as
present at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up to
fifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking members
agree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes for
all combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak on Study Sessions and
Actions Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.
PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only
by email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,
the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong
cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not
accepted.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,
posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not
create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when
displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or
passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
The Chair or Commission majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
ACTION ITEMS
Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Ten (10) minutes, plus ten (10) minutes rebuttal. All others: Three
(3) minutes per speaker.
2.Review and Approve Changes to the Historic Resources Board Bylaws for Consistency
with Amendments to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 2.27, Historic Resources Board.
3.Recommendation on Tailored Mills Act Program
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
4.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of April 11, 2024
BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30,
Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, download the Zoom application onto your
phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below.
Please follow the instructions above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Board.
You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to
the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
1 Regular Meeting June 13, 2024
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARDRegular MeetingThursday, June 13, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid8:30 AMHistoric Resources Board meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attendby teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas areavailable at https://bitly.com/paloaltoHRB. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/96800197512)Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance tohrb@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Board and available for inspection on theCity’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subjectline.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak on Study Sessions andActions Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strongcybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are notaccepted.
Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,
posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not
create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when
displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or
passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT
Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
The Chair or Commission majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
ACTION ITEMS
Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Ten (10) minutes, plus ten (10) minutes rebuttal. All others: Three
(3) minutes per speaker.
2.Review and Approve Changes to the Historic Resources Board Bylaws for Consistency
with Amendments to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 2.27, Historic Resources Board.
3.Recommendation on Tailored Mills Act Program
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
4.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of April 11, 2024
BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND
AGENDAS
Members of the public may not speak to the item(s).
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30,
Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, download the Zoom application onto your
phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below.
Please follow the instructions above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Board.
You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to
the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
2 Regular Meeting June 13, 2024
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARDRegular MeetingThursday, June 13, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid8:30 AMHistoric Resources Board meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attendby teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while stillmaintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participatefrom home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in themeeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending inperson. T h e m e e t i n g w i l l b e b r o a d c a s t o n C a b l e T V C h a n n e l 2 6 , l i v e o nYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas areavailable at https://bitly.com/paloaltoHRB. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/96800197512)Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance tohrb@cityofpaloalto.org and will be provided to the Board and available for inspection on theCity’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subjectline.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak on Study Sessions andActions Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received,the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strongcybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are notaccepted.Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do notcreate a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated whendisplaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view orpassage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Commission majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and AssignmentsACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Ten (10) minutes, plus ten (10) minutes rebuttal. All others: Three(3) minutes per speaker.2.Review and Approve Changes to the Historic Resources Board Bylaws for Consistencywith Amendments to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 2.27, Historic Resources Board.3.Recommendation on Tailored Mills Act ProgramAPPROVAL OF MINUTESPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.4.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of April 11, 2024BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS ANDAGENDASMembers of the public may not speak to the item(s).
ADJOURNMENT
PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email,
teleconference, or by phone.
1. Written public comments may be submitted by email to hrb@cityofpaloalto.org.
2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐
based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully.
You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using
your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30,
Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in
older browsers including Internet Explorer.
You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you
identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you
that it is your turn to speak.
When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will
activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they
are called to speak.
When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be
shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments.
3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted through the
teleconference meeting. To address the Board, download the Zoom application onto your
phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below.
Please follow the instructions above.
4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When
you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to
speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Board.
You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to
the agenda item and time limit allotted.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Meeting ID: 968 0019 7512 Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public
programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with
disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary
aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at
(650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or
accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or
service.
3 Regular Meeting June 13, 2024
Item No. 1. Page 1 of 2
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: June 13, 2024
Report #: 2405-3091
TITLE
Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Historic Resources Board (HRB) review and comment as appropriate.
BACKGROUND
Attached is the HRB meeting schedule and attendance record for the calendar year. This is
provided for informational purposes. Any HRB member who anticipates being absent from a
future meeting is requested to notify staff well in advance. No action is required for this item.
The City Council (on a 6-1 vote at second reading June 3, 2024) approved revisions to PAMC
Chapter 2.27 to reduce regular HRB meetings to once per month and reduce the HRB to five
members. The ordinance will be in effect as of July 4, 2024. Therefore, the July 11 HRB meeting
will only require a quorum of the three HRB members whose terms did not expire in April 2024.
However, two HRB members can continue to serve until Council appoints their replacements.
Staff requests their attendance at the July and August meetings, to enable a five member HRB.
The City Clerk received five applications, including one from a sitting HRB member, and
anticipates scheduling interviews of all candidates August 5, 2024 (after the summer break).
Council may schedule the HRB appointments on the Council August 12th or 19th agendas,
though this is not assured.
On the attached meeting schedule, the dates for all upcoming meetings on second Thursdays of
each month are shown, and the dates of the fourth Thursdays are indicated as deleted. The
publication of these regular HRB dates does not limit the ability of the HRB to set special
meetings as needed, such as on the fourth Thursdays or quarterly evening outreach meetings if
desired. Special HRB meetings require agenda publication at least 72 hours in advance. The
HRB may wish to consider either exchanging the August 8 regular meeting date for a special
Item 1
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 4
Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2
meeting date of August 22, or simply adding August 22 as a special meeting to welcome new
board members if Council schedules the appointments before that date.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: 2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Amy French, Chief Planning Official
Item 1
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 5
Historic Resources Board
2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments
2024 Meeting Schedule
Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences
1/11/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
1/25/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
2/8/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
2/22/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
2/23/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Community Meeting
3/14/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
3/28/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
4/11/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular Wimmer
4/25/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
5/9/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular Pease
5/23/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
6/13/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
6/27/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
7/11/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
7/25/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
8/8/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
8/22/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
9/12/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
9/26/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
10/10/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
10/24/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
11/14/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
11/28/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
12/12/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
12/26/2024 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
2024 Subcommittee Assignments
January February March April May June
July August September October November December
Item 1
Attachment A - 2024 HRB
Meeting Schedule &
Assignments
Packet Pg. 6
Item No. 2. Page 1 of 3
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: June 13, 2024
Report #: 2404-2957
TITLE
Review and Approve Changes to the Historic Resources Board Bylaws for Consistency with
Amendments to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 2.27, Historic Resources Board.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Historic Resources Board adopt the proposed revisions to its Bylaws
for consistency with amendments to Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 2.27, Historic Resources
Board.
BACKGROUND
The Historic Resources Board (HRB) has three main guiding documents: PAMC Chapter 2.27, the
HRB Bylaws, and the HRB’s Procedural Rules. Additionally, the City Boards, Commissions, and
Committees (BCC) Handbook is a reference guide that also applies to advisory and regulatory
bodies such as the HRB.
On May 13, 2024, the City Council approved the first reading of an Ordinance modifying Palo Alto
Municipal Code (PAMC) Chapter 2.27, Sections 2.27.010 and 2.27.030 (Attachment B)1.
On June 3, 2024, the City Council approved the second reading of said Ordinance2.
The report is to provide revisions to the HRB Bylaws (Attachment A) to better align with the
amendments to PAMC Chapter 2.27.
The City Clerk’s office would initiate changes to the BCC Handbook for consistency with the
amendments to PAMC Chapter 2.27 at a later date.
1 City Council Meeting May 13, 2024, Agenda Item 9:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14261
2 City Council Meeting June 3, 2024, Agenda Item 15:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14299
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 7
Item No. 2. Page 2 of 3
The City Clerk's office has often needed to pursue multiple recruitments for HRB positions and
the HRB recently experienced members who had served multiple terms who then ‘termed out’.
There are currently three HRB members whose terms did not end March 31, 2024. Four
members are currently serving past their terms that ended March 31, 2024. Three of the four
are now serving into the six-month timeframe prescribed in the City’s rules, until Council
appoints their successors. The fourth member does not plan to continue their term.
In response, staff prepared an Ordinance modifying PAMC Chapter 2.27, Sections 2.27.010 and
2.27.030 to minimally meet Certified Local Government (CLG) requirements. Said Ordinance
was brought to the attention of the HRB at the May 9, 2024, meeting.
On May 13, 2024, the City Council approved the first reading of the Ordinance. Council’s second
reading of the ordinance is scheduled for June 3, 20243.
ANALYSIS
The HRB Bylaws were last updated in March of 2023.
Staff recommends revising Sections 5.0 and 6.0 of the HRB Bylaws for consistency with the
amendments to PAMC Sections 2.27.010 and 2.27.030, as detailed below:
1. Board Composition
Amendments to PAMC Section 2.27.010 reduced the required HRB board members from seven
to five, reduced the required number of professionals from three to two, removed the
requirement for a member to own or occupy a Category 1 or 2 resource or property within a
historic district, and expanded the professional fields consistent with CLG requirements for
Historic Resources Boards. Staff revised Section 5.0 of the HRB Bylaws to align with these
amendments (Attachment A).
2. Meeting Frequency
Amendments to PAMC Section 2.27.030 (a) and (b) reduced regular meetings to once per month
and reduced the size of the local quorum to three members. Staff revised Section 5.0 and Section
6.0 of the HRB Bylaws to align with these amendments (Attachment A).
Consistent with CLG guidelines, the ordinance includes that there would be no fewer than four
HRB meetings per year.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: HRB Bylaws with proposed changes
Attachment B: Ordinance modifying PAMC Chapter 2.27 Sections 2.27.010 and 2.27
3 Link to June 3, 2024 Council Agenda – see Item 15 on consent calendar
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14299
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 8
Item No. 2. Page 3 of 3
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Amy French, Chief Planning Official
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 9
DRAFT
011415 cs 0131565 1 Rev. June 13, 2024
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1
1
RULES AND REGULATIONS AND BY-LAWS OF THE
PALO ALTO HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD
ARTICLE I
Name
Section 1.0 The name of this board shall be the PALO ALTO HISTORIC RESOURCES
BOARD (HRB)
ARTICLE II
Section 2.0 This board shall perform any duties imposed upon it by Ordinances of the City of
Palo Alto and by applicable State and Federal law, or as requested by the City
Council of the City of Palo Alto.
ARTICLE III
Officers
Section 3.0 The officers of the Board Shall consist of a Chairperson, a Vice Chairperson, and a
Secretary who shall be a non-voting member.
Section 3.1 The offices of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be elected from among the
appointed members of the Board, and the person so elected shall serve for a term of
one year or until a successor is elected. Elections shall be held at the first meeting in
April that has full member attendance each year or following the first meeting with
newly appointed Board members in attendance, when this occurs after the first April
meeting.
Section 3.2 The Director of Planning and Community Environment of the City of Palo Alto or
his/her designated representative shall be the Secretary of the Board.
Section 3.3 The duties of the offices of the HRB shall be as follows:
Section 3.31 It shall be the duty of the Chairperson to preside over all meeting of the Board, to
appoint committees and to serve as an ex-officio member of the committees so
appointed, to call special meetings of the Board and to designate the time and place
of such meeting, to set the date and time for the public hearing held by the Board, to
sign documents and correspondence in the name of the Board, and to represent the
Board before the City Council, its commissions and committees, and such other
groups and organizations as may be appropriate. The Chairperson may designate the
Vice Chairperson, or in the Vice Chairperson’s absence, another member of the
Board to act in his/her stead.
Section 3.32 It shall be the duty of the Vice Chairperson to assist the Chairperson and to act in
his/her stead during his/her absence.
Item 2
Attachment A HRB Bylaws
with proposed changes
Packet Pg. 10
DRAFT
011415 cs 0131565 2 Rev. June 13, 2024
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7
1
1
Section 3.33 It shall be the duty of the Secretary to keep a record of all meeting of the Board, to
accept in the name of the Board documents and correspondence addressed to it, to
present such correspondence to the Board, and perform other staff functions as
deemed necessary by the Board. The Secretary will determine the agenda for all
public meeting of the Board, based upon an assessment of the applications made to
the City requiring historic architectural review, and based also upon the desirability
of hearing such other matters as may be deemed, by the Chairperson or by the
Secretary, to be of concern to the Board.
ARTICLE IV
Committees
Section 4.0 The Chairperson shall appoint special committees as they be desired or required.
ARCTICLE V
Quorums and Voting
Section 5.0 Four Three members of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the purposes of
conducting business.
Section 5.1 All actions taken must be by affirmative vote of majority of those Board members
present, except to adjourn or continue for lack of a quorum.
A tie vote constitutes a denial of an item, except that a member of the Board may
then move that the item be reconsidered or continued to another meeting. A
majority of the Board may then vote to reconsider or continue the item to another
meeting.
ARTICLE VI
Meetings
Section 6.0 Regular meetings of the HRB shall be held twice a monthly or at the pleasure of the
Chairperson, but no fewer than four meetings per year. The Chairperson shall
establish the dates of the meetings. Meetings shall be held on Thursday at 8:30
A.M. in the Palo Alto City Hall. HRB regular meetings shall occur on alternate
Thursdays from ARB regular meetings. Regular meetings may be adjourned and
reconvened upon a majority vote of the members present.
Section 6.1 Special meetings may be called at any time by the Chairperson, or at the request of
three members, by a written or oral notice given to each member at least 48 hours
before the time specified for the proposed meeting.
Item 2
Attachment A HRB Bylaws
with proposed changes
Packet Pg. 11
DRAFT
011415 cs 0131565 3 Rev. June 13, 2024
4
7
1
1
Section 6.2 Boardmembers may attend remotely to the extent permitted by State law.
ARTICLE VII
Rules
Section 7.0 All meetings of the Board shall be conducted in accordance with a modified
Robert’s Rules of Order.
THE FOREGOING BY-LAWS WERE ADOPTED BY A MAJORITY VOTE OF THE PALO
ALTO HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD THE 4TH DAY OF FEBRUARY 2015.
Amended: January 6, 2017
March 9, 2023
June 13, 2023
Item 2
Attachment A HRB Bylaws
with proposed changes
Packet Pg. 12
NOT YET APPROVED
1
0160142_20240430_ay16
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending
Chapter 2.27 (Historic Resources Board) of the Palo Alto Municipal
Code (PAMC) to Reduce the Number of Historic Resources Board
Members from Seven to Five
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations.
A. The City of Palo Alto is a Certified Local Government (CLG) with obligations to maintain a
historic resources board of at least five members with at least two members in
professions set forth by the State Office of Historic Preservation.
B. Recent recruitment for the Historic Resources Board have not yielded sufficient
candidates to fill all open seats or sufficient open seats to maintain a four-member
quorum of the Board.
SECTION 2. Section 2.27.010 (Historic Resources Board) of Chapter 2.27 (Historic
Resources Board) of Title 2 (Administrative Code) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) is
amended to read as follows (additions underlined and deletions struck-through):
2.27.010 Historic Resources Board.
The Historic Resources Board shall be composed of seven five members appointed by
the city council and serving without pay. Members shall have demonstrated interest in and
knowledge of history, architecture, or historic preservation. One member shall be an
owner/occupant of a category 1 or 2 historic structure, or of a structure in a historic district;
three Two members shall be professionals in the disciplines of architecture, architectural
history, planning, landscape architecture, or related disciplines, or pre-historic and historic
archeology, folklore, cultural anthropology, curation, or conservation architects, landscape
architects, building designers or other design professionals and at least one member shall
possess academic education or practical experience in history or a related field such as
American studies, American civilization, or cultural geography. The Palo Alto Historical
Association shall be given notice of vacancies on the board and shall be encouraged to have its
members submit applications.
SECTION 3. Section 2.27.030 (Organization) of Chapter 2.27 (Historic Resources Board)
of Title 2 (Administrative Code) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) is amended to read as
follows (additions underlined and deletions struck-through):
2.27.030 Organization.
(a) The Board shall hold meetings twice monthly or at the pleasure of the chairperson, but
no fewer than four meetings per year.
(b) and The Board shall establish such rules as may be appropriate and necessary for the
orderly conduct of its business, consistent with City Council guidelines for boards and
commissions.
(c) The Board shall elect a chairperson and a vice chairperson from its membership who shall
serve in such capacity for terms of one year each, or until a successor is elected. The
Item 2
Attachment B: Ordinance
modifying PAMC Chapter
2.27 Sections 2.27.010
and 2.27
Packet Pg. 13
NOT YET APPROVED
2
0160142_20240430_ay16
chairperson shall preside over meetings of the board, and in the absence or disability of the
chairperson, the vice chairperson shall perform the duties of the chairperson.
(bd) Four Three members shall constitute a quorum and decisions of the board shall be
determined by majority vote of those members present at the meeting. Action minutes shall be
kept by the Board.
SECTION 4. Any provision of the Palo Alto Municipal Code or appendices thereto
inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no
further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to effect the provisions of this
Ordinance.
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is
for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent
jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and each
and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or
unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the ordinance would be
subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6. The Council finds that the adoption of this ordinance is exempt from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guideline Section
15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in
question may have a significant effect on the environment.
//
//
//
//
//
//
//
Item 2
Attachment B: Ordinance
modifying PAMC Chapter
2.27 Sections 2.27.010
and 2.27
Packet Pg. 14
NOT YET APPROVED
3
0160142_20240430_ay16
SECTION 7. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first date after the date of its
adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
NOT PARTICIPATING:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Planning & Development
Services
Item 2
Attachment B: Ordinance
modifying PAMC Chapter
2.27 Sections 2.27.010
and 2.27
Packet Pg. 15
Item No. 3. Page 1 of 3
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: June 13, 2024
Report #: 2405-3020
TITLE
Recommendation on Tailored Mills Act Program
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Historic Resources Board (HRB):
1. Resume its discussion regarding the Mills Act Tailored Program Outline (Attachment A).
2. Discuss an approach/recommendation to present a Mills Act preservation incentive
proposal to City Council including the review of the submitted letter with
recommendations to City Council (Attachment B).
BACKGROUND
At the May 9, 2024, HRB meeting staff presented a report recommending the HRB discuss an
approach/recommendation to present a Mills Act preservation incentive proposal to City
Council.1 The HRB voted to continue the discussion to the June 13, 2024, meeting. Previously,
the HRB ad hoc committee prepared a Mills Act Tailored Program Outline that was last updated
in January of 2018 (Attachment A).
As the name suggests, the program outline was tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of
the community in Palo Alto. Other Tailored Mills Act programs have been successfully adopted
by cities such as Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, Saratoga, Los Altos, San Jose and Campbell to
address the specific needs of their communities. Some of these cities also experience similar
complications of high property values and school districts supported by basic aid. The cities that
have both basic aid school districts and a Mills Act program include Beverley Hills, Campbell, Los
Altos and Saratoga.
1 May 9, 2024, HRB Meeting Agenda Item 3, Tailored Mills Act Program Recommendation to City Council:
Packet_2024050316292674.pdf (cityofpaloalto.org)
Item 3
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 16
Item No. 3. Page 2 of 3
Staff consulted with the Historic Preservation staff at some of these jurisdictions to confirm the
following information in the table below to aid in the discussion.
TAILORED MILLS ACT PROGRAMS
City Basic
Aid
Number of
Contracts
Program
Start Date
City Revenue Loss
Limits
School District
Revenue Loss Limits
Beverley Hills Yes 6 2011 $500,000 per yr.
($5,000,000 for 10 yrs.)
$400,000 per yr.
($4,000,000 for 10 yrs.)
Campbell Yes 11 2011
No set limit (City
receives >15% of
property taxes with
adjustment for special
districts)
-
Oakland No 89 2006
$25,000 per contract
(Increases subject to
City Council Approval)
-
Saratoga Yes 17 2003
No set limit (No more
than 3 contracts allowed
in a calendar year)
-
RESOURCE IMPACTS
Because a Mills Act contract results in a tax relief incentive for the property owner, it also
results in a reduction in the annual revenue for the Palo Alto Unified School District and a small
reduction in City General Fund revenue. The proposed Mills Act Tailored Program Outline
includes tax redirection limitations ($150,000/year, to be adjusted annually in amount
equivalent to the percent change of the overall assessed valuation) and property valuation
limitations ($5,000,000 or less for residential and $10,000,000 or less for commercial) to
combat potential fiscal impacts.
It is worth nothing that the City Council may choose to further limit potential fiscal impacts
through other various approaches. In other jurisdictions with similar basic aid school districts,
potential revenue loss has been combated through limiting the number of contracts allowed in
a given calendar year such as in Saratoga or by setting limits on the total revenue loss such as in
Beverley Hills. The City of Campbell does not have any revenue loss limits, but a recent audit of
its Mills Act program revealed homeowners spent $413,578 more than their County tax
benefits and spent $646,325 more than the City tax benefits.2 On a cumulative basis, the City of
Campbell homeowners’ expenditures for the improvement, maintenance, and restoration of
their homes far exceed any tax benefits provided to them by virtue of the Mills Act.
2 April 23, 2024, City of Campbell City Council Staff Report:
https://ca-campbell.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/22450/Historic-Preservation-Ordinance-Update-April-
2023-Council-Meeting
Item 3
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 17
Item No. 3. Page 3 of 3
The Draft HRB letter of Recommendations to City Council (Attachment B) requests a pilot
program to be considered that incorporates some of these approaches utilized by other
jurisdictions. Namely, the consideration of no more than three properties to be under contract
and adherence with the previously prepared Mills Act Tailored Program Outline with tax
revenue and property valuation limitations.
NEXT STEPS
Should the HRB concur with the submitted letter providing the HRB’s recommendations to City
Council, staff recommends scheduling an introductory Council study session. The session goal
would include establishing clear upfront expectations for homeowners considering a contract
and reduce the subjectivity of application reviews. The study session would include a primer
detailing the current incentives and regulations for historic resources in Palo Alto. Combining
these efforts provides for a more efficient use of staff time and may improve the community’s
support for historic preservation.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Mills Act Tailored Program Outline
Attachment B: Draft HRB Letter of Recommendations to City Council
AUTHORS:
Amy French, Chief Planning Official
Steven Switzer, Historic Preservation Planner
Item 3
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 18
MILLS ACT
TAILORED PROGRAM OUTLINE
January
2018 Prepared by the City of Palo Alto & the Historic Resources Board
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 19
1
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................2
Tailored Program Summary......................................................................................................................2
Role of the Applicant................................................................................................................................3
Role of Planning Department....................................................................................................................3
Role of Historic Resources Board..............................................................................................................3
Role of Santa Clara County Assessor’s Office............................................................................................3
Role of California Office of Historic Preservation.....................................................................................3
Mills Act State Policy ....................................................................................................................................4
State Criteria for Eligibility........................................................................................................................4
State Contract Requirements ...................................................................................................................4
Proposed Local Mills Act Policy ...................................................................................................................5
Local Mills Act Criteria for Eligibility .........................................................................................................5
Local Mills Act Program Regulations.........................................................................................................5
Term Limitations.................................................................................................................................5
Tax Redirection Limitations.................................................................................................................5
Property Value Limitations..................................................................................................................5
Ranking System...................................................................................................................................6
Cancellation Penalty............................................................................................................................6
Fees.....................................................................................................................................................6
Submittal Date....................................................................................................................................6
Local Mills Act Contract Requirements.....................................................................................................7
HRB Review.........................................................................................................................................7
Rehabilitation and Maintenance Plan.................................................................................................7
Eligible Work..................................................................................................................................7
Ineligible Work...............................................................................................................................8
Tax Redirection...................................................................................................................................8
Property Inspection.............................................................................................................................8
Application Checklist ....................................................................................................................................9
Figure 1. Mills Act Contract Timeline............................................................................................................6
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 20
2
INTRODUCTION
Enacted by the State of California in 1972, the Mills Act grants participating local governments
the authority to enter into contracts with owners of qualified historic properties who actively
participate in the restoration and maintenance of their historic properties while receiving
property tax relief (CGC 12.50280-50290, CRTC 1.9.439-439.4). It is the “single most important
economic incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of qualified
historic buildings by private property owners.”1
An important feature of the Mills Act program is its flexibility. Although the State has certain
requirements that must be included in all individual Mills Act policies, the program allows
jurisdictions to develop additional requirements to insure that unique local goals and needs are
met. By implementing a tailored Mills Act program in Palo Alto, with finely tuned eligibility
criteria and contract requirements, the City can both incentive the thoughtful preservation of
our shared heritage and wisely address the community’s priorities and needs. Tailored
programs have been successfully adopted in other California cities that have similar
complications like high property values and schools supported by Basic Aid.2
Tailored Program Summary
The Tailored Mills Act Program for Palo Alto will be program, where all tax relief received by a
property owner will be reinvested in the rehabilitation, preservation or restoration of the
historic property. Work will be reviewed and approved by the Historic Resources Board (HRB)
and will comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards (Standards). Mills Act contracts
will be open to all property types but will be limited in length, the maximum being 15 years. For
educational purposes, property owners will be required to fund, with tax redirection, and
display an interpretive panel along the public right of way that is visible to the public. The Mills
Act program is voluntary and requires owner consent.
COMMUNITY P RIORITIES AND NEEDS ADDRESSED BY THE TAILORED MILLS ACT PROGRAM
1. contributes to Affordable Housing
3. safeguards a Sense of Place
5. fosters Civic Pride
7. protects Palo Alto’s History
9. provides Preservation Incentive
2. encourages Seismic Safety
4. promotes Heritage Tourism
6. preserves Neighborhood Character
8. supports Environmentally Conscious
Development
1 California Office of Historic Preservation, “Mills Act Program,” http://www.ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21412.
2 Other nearby communities with successful Mills Act programs includes Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, Saratoga, Los Altos,
San Jose and Campbell. Cities that have both basic aid school districts and Mills Act program include Beverley Hills, Campbell,
Los Altos and Saratoga.
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 21
3
Role of the Applicant
The Applicant is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the property during the
duration of the Mills Act contract and must follow the approved Rehabilitation and
Maintenance plan. The Applicant is responsible for obtaining appropriate documents,
signatures and recordation attachments as well as associated fees prior to work and successful
contract recordation.
Role of the Planning Department
The Planning Department oversees all Mills Act applications and monitors existing Mills Act
properties. The Historic Preservation Planner will work with property owners to complete their
applications and develop rehabilitation and maintenance plans that are specific to each
property. The Planning Department will keep the applicant(s) informed throughout the year, as
the application moves forward through HRB review, City Council and the Assessor’s Office.
Once a Mills Act contract is entered into, all subsequent work on the property during the
duration of the contract will require staff approval which includes compliance with the
Standards.
Role of the Historic Resources Board
The HRB will first hold a hearing to consider a recommendation to City Council whether to
approve, modify or deny the initial Mills Act application. Once a Mills Act contract is entered
into, all subsequent work on the property during the duration of the contract will require staff
approval. If staff determines proposed work does not comply with the Standards, staff will
refer the application to the HRB.
Role of Santa Clara County Assessor’s Office
The role of the Assessor’s Office is to locate and accurately assess all taxable property Palo Alto
and also serve as the county’s official record-keeper of documents such as deeds, liens, maps
and property contracts. In a Mills Act Historical Property contract, the Assessor’s Office assesses
qualified properties based on a state prescribed approach and records the fully executed
contract. All Mills Act properties will receive an initial valuation during the application process
and will be assessed annually by the January 1st lien date and in subsequent years, as required
by state law. The State Board of Equalization has strict guidelines the assessor must follow in
order to value Mills Act properties (Revenue and Taxation Code Section 439.2).
Role of the California Office of Historic Preservation
OHP provides Mills Act information to local governments and uses information provided by
local governments to maintain a list of communities participating in the Mills Act program as
well as copies of Mills Act ordinances, resolutions, and contracts that have been adopted. OHP
does not participate in the contract negotiations, is not a signatory to the contract and has no
authority over the administration of the Mills Act program.
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 22
4
MILLS ACT STATE POLICY
Effective March 7, 1973, Chapter 1442 of the Statutes of 1972 (also known as the Mills Act)
added sections 50280 through 50289 to the Government Code to allow an owner of qualified
historical property to enter into a preservation contract with local government. When property
is placed under such a contract, the owner agrees to restore the property if necessary, maintain
its historic character, and use it in a manner compatible with its historic characteristics.
State Criteria for Eligibility
As set forth in California’s Government Code 50280.1, a property is eligible for the Mills Act as
follows: “Qualified historical property” for purposes of this article, means privately owned
property which is not exempt from property taxation and which meets either of the following:
(a) Listed in the National Register of Historic Places or located in a registered historic
district, as defined in Section 1.191-2 (b) of Title 26 of the Code of Federal
Regulations.
(b) Listed in any state, city, county or city and county official register of historical or
architecturally significant sites, places or landmarks.
State Contract Requirements
As set forth by California Government code 50281, the following requirements must be
included in the language of any Mills Act contract:
(a) The term of the contract shall be for a minimum period of 10 years.
(b) Where applicable, the contract shall provide the following:
(1) For the preservation of the qualified historical property and, when necessary,
to restore and rehabilitate the property to conform to the rules and
regulations of the Office of Historic Preservation of the Department of Parks
and Recreation, the United States Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for
Rehabilitation, and the State Historical Building Code.
(2) For the periodic examinations of the interior and exterior of the premises by
the assessor, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and the State Board
of Equalization as may be necessary to determine the owner’s compliance
with the contract.
(3) For it to be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of all successors in interest
of the owner. A successor in interest shall have the same rights and
obligations under the contract as the original owner who entered into the
contract.
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 23
5
PROPOSED LOCAL MILLS ACT POLICY
The proposed Tailored Mills Act Program must include all the State contract requirements
above. In addition, staff is proposing to include the following more restrictive criteria to balance
historic preservation with the significant competing goals of the community, which is allowed
under the State’s Mills Act program.
Local Mills Act Criteria for Eligibility
As allowed by the State, staff proposes the following local modifications of the term “qualified
historical property” which will be defined as any property that meets any of the following:
(a) Listed in the National Register of Historic Places or located in a registered historic
district, as defined in Section 1.191-2 (b) of Title 26 of the Code of Federal
Regulations;
(b) Listed in the California Register of Historical Resources;
(c) Listed on the City’s Historic Inventory as Category 1 through 4, as defined in Section
16.49.020 of PAMC (b); or
(d) Contributing to a Local Historic District, as defined in Section 16.49.020 of PAMC (c).
Local Mills Act Program Regulations
As allowed by the State, staff proposes the following local regulations, which do not invalidate
State requirements:
(a) Term Limitations: Mills Act Contracts will have a minimum term of ten years and a
maximum term of 15 years. This is accomplished by the City issuing a notice of
nonrenewal in the 5th year of the agreement, after which the remaining 10-year
term of the contract occurs before the agreement formally terminates. During the
10 year phase-out period, the property tax benefits enjoyed by the Mills Act
property gradually decrease until they reach the full regularly assessed value of the
property at the end of the final year (Figure 1).
(b) Tax Redirection Limitations: A limit will be set on the total tax redirection that can be
associated with Mills Act properties. Program impact on City revenues will be
limited to $150,000/year, to be adjusted annually in amount equivalent to the
percent change of the overall assessed valuation of the City for the previous year,
excluding those properties that have been issued a notice of nonrenewal.
(c) Property Value Limitations: A limit will be set on total property value that would be
eligible for Mills Act contract. Pre-contract assessed valuation limits will be
$5,000,000 or less for residential and $10,000,000 or less for commercial.3
3 To be adjusted for inflation
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 24
6
Figure 1. Mills Act Contract Timeline
(c) Ranking System: A ranking system will be employed by the HRB when reviewing Mills
Act applications that is based on community priorities and needs and utilizes the
criteria listed below. Staff considers that the scope of the required rehabilitation
plan will ensure that all applications for a Mills Act will bestow a major public benefit
on the community by extensively rehabilitating and maintaining historic properties.
Public access to private homes is not a requirement. A higher ranking will be given
to those applications that demonstrate that entering into a Mills Act contract:
▪Will result in more affordable housing units;
▪Will substantially reduce the threat to the historic property of demolition,
deterioration, abandonment and/or general neglect;
▪Will result in the greatest number of improvements to the historic property,
resulting in the greatest benefit to the public.
(d) Cancellation Penalty: Noncompliance with the provisions of a Mills Act contract will
result in either legal action against the owner or contract cancellation. A contract
may be cancelled if the City determines that the owner has breached any of the
conditions of the contract or has allowed the property to deteriorate to the point
that it no longer meets the standards for a qualified historical property. The contract
may also be canceled it is determined that the owner has failed to restore or
rehabilitate the property in the manner specified in the contract. No contract shall
be canceled until property owner has been properly noticed and a public hearing is
held. If the contract is cancelled, the owner must pay a penalty of 12.5% of the
market value of the property at the time of cancellation, per state law.4 The
cancellation fee shall be paid to the City Tax Collector at such time and in such
manner as the City shall prescribe.
(e) Fees: Initial permit and planning fees will be waived for Mills Act participants. There
will be no application fee for submitting a Mills Act contract application but a one-
time activation fee of $250 will be required if the contract is selected and initiated.
4 California Government Code, Article 12, Section 50286
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 25
7
(f) Submittal Date: Applications will only be accepted and approved during the month
of June in any given year in order to allow sufficient time for the City and Assessor’s
Office to determine the cumulative financial impact, to record contracts prior to
January 1st in any given year and to reduce the cost of processing applications.
Local Mills Act Contract Requirements
As allowed by the State, staff proposes the following local additions to the State’s contract
requirements:
(a)HRB Review: All Mills Act applications, including rehabilitation and maintenance
plans and subsequent work, will be reviewed and approved by the Historic
Resources Board.
(b)Rehabilitation and Maintenance Plans: A rehabilitation and maintenance plan will
be required to be submitted for attachment to the Mills Act contract. All work
performed must conform to the rules and regulations of the California Office of
Historic Preservation, including compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s
Standards and the State Historic Building Code. The rehabilitation plan must include
restoration of the identified character defining features of the property and the
removal or compatible replacement of incompatible alterations. The rehabilitation
plan can include exterior and interior work that has been pre-approved. Qualified
rehabilitation and restoration work that commenced up to two years before the
establishment of the contract may be indicated on the ten-year rehabilitation plan.
An annual report detailing the rehabilitation and restoration work performed during
the past year along with the overall cost of the work performed will also be
required. In general, work that is directly related to the repair or improvement of
structural and architectural features of the historic building will qualify. Examples of
eligible and ineligible work include but are not limited to:
Eligible Work
▪Seismic upgrading
▪Foundation repair
▪Re-roofing and downspout restoration
▪Exterior siding and trim repair and restoration
▪Historic windows repair and restoration
▪Paint exterior
▪Removal of inappropriate additions and construction
▪Plumbing system upgrades
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 26
8
▪Electrical system upgrades
▪Original door, hardware and other features restoration
▪Front iron fencing restoration
▪Chimney stabilization
▪Consulting/Professional fees (limit this?)
▪Repair and restoration of original interior features (like original built-ins
and woodwork) must get HRB approval to be considered eligible
▪HVAC systems (heating, ventilation and air conditioning)
▪Solar panels must be essential to the operation or maintenance of the
rehabilitated historic building and must get HRB approval to be
considered eligible5
Ineligible Work
▪New construction and additions
▪Landscaping
▪Homeowner labor
▪Acquisition/furnishing costs
▪Parking lot
(c)Tax Redirection: All tax savings must be redirected into rehabilitation work for the
property and the anticipated construction must be equal to or greater than tax
savings.
(d)Property Inspection: The property will be inspected annually/ every two years/
dependent on work proposed by the Historic Preservation Planner (accompanied by
the Building Official if necessary) to determine compliance with the Mills Act
contract and approved Rehabilitation and Maintenance plan.
(e)Educational Component: For educational purposes, property owners will be required
to fund, with tax redirection, and display an interpretive panel along the public right
of way that is visible to the community. The panel will include information on the
history and architectural merit of the home for the public to enjoy. The property will
also be used for exterior home tours at the discretion of the City and other
promotional material with proper notification.
5 See National Park Service, Historic Tax Credit Qualified Expenses explanation on solar panels. Generally, HVAC
features are included as eligible cost so the function and purpose of a renewable energy system will determine if
it is an eligible expense. Systems that produce electricity to back feed the power grid may not qualify
(https://www.nps.gov/tps/tax-incentives/before-apply/qualified-expenses.htm).
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 27
9
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
Item 3
Attachment A Mills Act
Tailored Program Outline
Packet Pg. 28
Esteemed City Council Members,
Through the process of updating the local inventory during the 2024 workplan year, the HRB
heard repeatedly that Palo Alto homeowners would be much more inclined to support historical
designations for their properties if improved benefits for such listing were provided by the city
and state. The HRB will continue to work with community members to create local incentives
and public awareness of the benefits of listing on the local inventory in the 2025 workplan. That
said, the HRB would be remiss not to revisit the most significant historic preservation incentive
the state of California provides: The Mills Act.
THE MILLS ACT:
The Mills Act is an economic incentive program for owners of historic buildings that are listed on
the National Register of Historic Places, or a state, county, or local register. These registers
include the California Register of Historical Resources and the Palo Alto Historic Inventory. The
Mills Act is the single most important economic incentive program for private property owners in
California. Though Palo Alto does not have an official Mills Act process, the city holds one
contract currently. The Squire House, at 900 University Avenue, entered into the Mills Act
contract with the city in 1999. The contract has been continuously renewed.
BACKGROUND ON PALO ALTO’S MILLS ACT DISCUSSION:
The attached Tailored Mills Act program was originally drafted by the HRB in 2018 with the
assistance of former historic preservation planners. An ad hoc committee refined and revised
the program during the 2021-2022 workplan year. The document attached includes revisions
made during this time. After updating the local inventory during the 2023-2024 workplan year,
the HRB now turns to resuming work on the Mills Act program.
In 1997, City Council withheld a Mills Act contract for another property, citing concerns over the
deferment of tax dollars away from PAUSD. Today, Palo Alto’s schools benefit from a
voter-approved parcel tax that provides over $15 million per year in locally controlled funding
that cannot be seized by the state. As of October 2023, PAUSD Chief Business Officer Carolyn
Chow indicated that the school district was operating with a balanced budget.
REQUEST OF COUNCIL:
With this in mind, the HRB again approaches Council to consider a “pilot” program for a Palo
Alto Mills Act program. Program highlights and safeguards for this pilot include:
● Prioritization of properties that are threatened by development, have immediate
rehabilitation needs, provide an element of public use, contribute to affordable or denser
housing, or are considered the most significant to Palo Alto’s identity.
● Stipulations that the program will promote heritage tourism, encourage seismic safety,
foster civic pride, and safeguard a sense of place.
● Proposed Mills Act contracts will be vetted and approved by Council, including all
monetary projections of tax diversions.
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● Contracts will only be granted to properties whose significance has been verified by
expert authority.
● Each contract will include an enforceable plan for public benefit and educational
purposes.
● Each contract will include the state contract requirements for such agreements.
The pilot program would identify properties that meet the qualifications above and would include
no more than three properties. Owners would be approached to gauge interest in participating in
the pilot program. The HRB expects that participation in the pilot program, as well as any future
Mills Act Contracts, will be both a lengthy and involved process for property owners. The
requirements and involvement in this process ensure that properties with the greatest needs,
and few other resources for preservation, will receive the most benefit.
We are asking for Council’s approval to move forward with a Mills Act Pilot Program, which will
follow the tailored program summary as attached.
Sincerely,
DRAFT
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Item No. 4. Page 1 of 1
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: May 9, 2024
Report #: 2404-2961
TITLE
Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of April 11, 2024
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Historic Resources Board (HRB) adopt the attached meeting minutes.
BACKGROUND
Attached are minutes for the following meeting:
•April 11, 2024
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: HRB 4.11 Minutes
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Amy French, Chief Planning Official
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Call to Order/Roll Call
Present: Chair Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz; Vice Chair Samantha Rohman; Board Members Christian
Pease and Caroline Willis
Absent: Board Members Gogo Heinrich, Michael Makinen and Margaret Wimmer
Public Comment
Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions
City Official Reports
1. Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
Chief Planning Official Amy French reported the absence of Board Members Heinrich and Wimmer. The
decision for monthly meetings, at the Chair’s discretion, was affirmed as per the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
No quarterly Historic Resources Board (HRB) meetings are currently scheduled, with a potential meeting in
July. Ms. French is preparing a report for the City Council to propose modifications to the HRB composition
and member count. While drafting the Certified Local Government (CLG) Annual Report, she discovered
that the CLG requires a minimum of five members, including at least two professionals from a diverse range
of professions. She is working on an ordinance change to align with this requirement, suggesting a
reduction of two professionals who could be architects or from other professions. Ms. French presented the
proposed changes to the draft language and advised that they would be posted online as a proposal to
Council in May, followed by a recruitment process for an additional candidate.
Board Member Willis inquired about the omission of the April 25, 2024, meeting from the schedule.
Ms. French clarified that the Board has adopted a monthly meeting schedule, at the Chair’s and Staff’s
convenience. With a Historic Planner joining the staff in May, the team anticipates increased capacity to
support quarterly meetings. The frequency of meetings may be reassessed by the next Chair. The upcoming
meeting is scheduled for May.
Board Member Willis requested Ms. French to email the proposed ordinance changes.
Ms. French agreed to the request.
Action Items
2. PUBLIC HEARING/QUASI-JUDICIAL. 411 Kipling Street [24PLN‐00032]: Request for
Historic Designation Reclassification, From a Local Historic Resource Category 4 to a
Category 2. Environmental Assessment: No project under California Environmental Quality
Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. Zone District: CD‐C (P) ‐ Downtown
Commercial with Pedestrian Shopping Combining District. For More Information Contact
Kristina Paulauskaite at Kristina.Paulauskaite@CityofPaloAlto.org.
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD MEETING
DRAFT MINUTES, April 11, 2024
Council Chamber & Virtual Zoom
8:30 A.M.
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Associate Planner Kristina Paulauskaite advised that she was assisting Ms. French with the Historic Program
with the City of Palo Alto (City). She presented an overview of the request to reclassify 411 Kipling Street
from Category 4 to Category 2. This building, located in the Commercial Downtown with the Pedestrian
Shopping Combining District zone, offers a contrast to the larger commercial scale and higher density of
University Avenue. The building’s history was discussed. Constructed in 1902 as a one-and-a-half story
home by George Wilbert Mosher, a prolific contractor and craftsman, the building remained largely
unchanged until the late 1980s. Mr. Mosher, who constructed hundreds of buildings during the late 19th
and early 20th centuries, made 411 Kipling Street a prime example of the early Palo Alto “Square Cottage”
building type, featuring stylistic elements of Colonial Revival and Queen Anne Free Classic. In 1985, the
building was surveyed for the Historic Resources Inventory and added to the local register as a Category 4
building, a classification for good examples of architectural styles that relate to the character of a
neighborhood grouping in scale, materials, proportion, or other factors. It is not within the National Register
of Historic District boundaries. In November 2023, Page & Turnbull prepared a Historic Resource Evaluation
(HRE) for the City at the applicant’s expense. The HRE found the subject property individually eligible for
listing in the City’s Historic Resources Inventory under Criterion 2, 5, and 6. In February 2024, Mark Sterns,
on behalf of Hayes Group Architects, submitted a Major Historic Resources Board Review. The applicant
requested a reclassification of the one-story commercial building from a “Contributing Building” Category 4
resource to a “Major Building” Category 2 resource on the Palo Alto Historic Inventory. The staff concurred
with the findings of the Page & Turnball evaluation and supported the upgrade from a Category 4 to a
Category 2. The Historic Resources Board (HRB) was requested to recommend the reclassification from
Category 4 to Category 2 to the City Council for approval, disapproval, or modification. In addition to the
recommended action, the HRB may continue or deny the reclassification.
Ken Hayes, applicant, informed that 411 Kipling Street was originally built as a residential rental property.
He highlighted that the immediate vicinity is an early 20th-century residential block, where every building,
except the former Apple building, is locally listed as a Category 2, 3, or 4 historic structure. According to
the Sanborn maps, 411 Kipling appears to be the first structure erected on that specific property. Mr. Hayes
presented pictures of the building to showcase its stylistic elements and echoed Ms. Paulauskaite’s
comments about the building’s classification process. He urged the Board to endorse the efforts to
memorialize the building and support the Staff’s recommendation.
John Shenk, applicant, expressed his gratitude to the Board and shared his anticipation for the processing
of this matter. He considered Kipling as one of the most unique streets in Downtown. He voiced his
enthusiasm to aid in preserving the building and enhancing its significance to the community. He observed
that the public was largely unaware of these historic buildings that deserved more recognition
Board Member Willis inquired if Mr. Shenk had thought about a Historic District on Kipling Street.
Mr. Shenk confirmed that he had, although he was unsure of its implications. He noted that almost the
entire block, with each of the homes in their various states of categorization, could be considered. He
suggested collaborating with Mr. Hayes to explore this possibility.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz invited further discussion from the Board.
Board Member Willis proposed that the Board should consider aligning the rest of the inventory with the
City’s current standards at some point.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz agreed that the request was reasonable and asked for a motion.
MOTION
Motion by Board Member Willis that the HRB recommend the City Council reclassify the building at 411
Kipling Street from a ‘Contributing Building’ Category 4 resource to a ‘Major Building’ Category 2 resource
on the Palo Alto Historic Resources Inventory. Seconded by Board Member Pease, the motion passed (4-
0-0-3) by roll call vote.
3. PUBLIC HEARING/QUASI-JUDICIAL. 271 University Avenue [24PLN‐00039]: Request for
Historic Designation Reclassification, From a Local Historic Resource Category 3 to a
Category 2. Environmental Assessment: No project under California Environmental Quality
Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. Zone District: CD‐C (GF)(P) ‐Downtown
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Commercial with Ground Floor and Pedestrian Shopping Combining District. For More
Information Contact Kristina Paulauskaite at Kristina.Paulauskaite@CityofPaloAlto.org.
Ms. Paulauskaite presented a proposal to the Staff for the reclassification of 271 University Avenue from
Category 3 to Category 2. This property, located in the Downtown North neighborhood, is prominently
positioned along the commercial corridor of University Avenue. The building, a fine example of the Art Deco
style, was constructed in 1930. From its inception until the 1940s, only a handful of modifications were
made. In 1946, a fabric awning was added, and in 1965, the original storefront system was replaced with
a new aluminum roll-up and swing glass storefront door system. From then until 2015, various other
changes were implemented, but no major alterations have been made since. The building is a notable work
of Carl I. Warnecke, a respected Bay Area architect who left a significant legacy in the architectural field,
particularly in the East Bay. He primarily worked in Oakland and Piedmont through his partnership with
Chester H. Miller, an Oakland native who gained his architectural knowledge through vocational training
rather than formal education. Ms. Paulauskaite emphasized the building’s Art Deco style, its historical
significance, and the timeline of its construction and modifications. The Staff agreed with her findings and
supported the proposal to upgrade 271 University Avenue from a Category 3 to a Category 2 resource. The
building is recognized as an exceptional work of Carl I Warneke and an outstanding representation of the
Art Deco Zig-Zag Moderne style. The Historic Review Board (HRB) is being asked to recommend this
reclassification from Category 4 to Category 2 to the City Council for their consideration and potential
approval, disapproval, or modification. The HRB also has the option to continue or deny the reclassification
process.
Ken Hayes, applicant, expressed his gratitude to the staff for their assistance in advancing the application.
He voiced his support for the project at 437 Kipling, which is currently under consideration for recognition
as a Category 2 resource. He drew attention to the building’s Art Deco style, its historical significance, and
the modifications it has undergone over time. The building is currently designated as a Category 3 resource,
indicating local significance. The city engaged the services of Page & Turnbull, funded by the applicant, to
evaluate the building’s eligibility for elevation to Category 2. The Historic Resources Evaluation (HRE)
determined that the property qualifies for listing in the City’s Historic Resources Inventory under Criteria 2,
5, and 6. Mr. Hayes urged the Board to endorse this unique Palo Alto building and support the staff’s
recommendation to elevate it from Category 2 to Category 3
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz opened the floor for discussion among the Board Members.
Board Member Willis expressed her admiration for the building, describing it as one of her favorites in town.
She recalled witnessing its construction in the 1980s and advocating for more extensive restoration of the
first floor. Despite the fact that the interior of the building is not entirely original, Board Member Willis
appreciated the preservation of much of the original detailing. She felt the building was on the verge of
qualifying for Category 1, but believed the first-floor façade could be a potential obstacle.
Vice Chair Rohman reflected on the city’s rich architectural diversity, expressing her appreciation for the
care and effort invested in preserving these buildings and enhancing their status to ensure their continued
preservation.
MOTION
Motion by Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz that the HRB recommends the elevation of 271 University Avenue to
a Category 2 on the Palo Alto Historic Resources Inventory for consideration by Council. Seconded by Vice
Chair Rohman, the motion passed (4-0-0-3) by roll call vote.
Board Member Willis communicated to Mr. Hayes and Mr. Shenk that the Board is looking for an additional
member. She said that any suggestions from them would be highly appreciated.
[The HRB adjourned for a brief intermission at 9:08 a.m. and reconvened at 9:14 a.m.]
4. Historic Resources Board Discussion of Work Plan for 2024-25 and Review of Certified Local
Government (CLG) Annual Report
Ms. French presented the staff report, discussing both the Work Plan and the CLG Annual Report. On March
28, the HRB initiated discussions on the achievements from 2023-24 and potential objectives for the 2024-
25 work plan. The proposed goals encompassed a limited modification to PAMC 16.49 and clarifications
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about the HRB’s role (Goal 1), enhancement of preservation outreach including improved communication
methods for community accessibility (Goal 2), training on the State’s historic building code (Goal 3), and
additional preservation incentives, incorporating ideas from the 2023 reconnaissance survey/inventory
update (Goal 4). Ms. French proposed extending the current work plan until the end of June, enabling the
Board to complete the Mills Act Program in May and June. She noted that the topics were organized into
three draft goals, with the State Historic Building Code training included in Goal 2. She explained that Goal
1 would necessitate Council direction and accommodation in the PDS department work plan. Given the
City’s CLG status, any changes to the historic ordinance would need State office of historic preservation
approval before adoption. The implementation of draft work plan Goal 1 could commence in July, pending
Council direction. The HRB is scheduled to present the nominations to the Council on April 22, 2024. The
HRB will deliberate on language clarifications regarding its role on three potential topics: the nomination
process, the impact of HRB recommendations on exterior modifications, and the downgrading or removal
of a locally listed Category 1 or Category 2. Ms. French emphasized clarifications concerning Goal 1
nominations, HRB suggestions/recommendations, and category downgrading. Goal 2 aims to discover
innovative methods to promote preservation, including the application of existing zoning code incentives
and the State historic building code. The goal also involves enhancing communication methods to provide
the community with accessible information, such as using videos to help property owners understand local
and State preservation incentives and codes. Additionally, it includes enabling the HRB staff liaison(s), the
City’s historic preservation consultant, and the Chief Building Official to conduct ongoing training for the
HRB, staff, and the community on the use of the State’s historic building code. Goal 3 pertains to additional
incentives, requiring Council direction and accommodation in the PDS department work plan. The goal
seeks to extend the community engagement initiated during the 2023 reconnaissance survey/inventory
update.
Board Member Willis expressed her preference to remove the topic of “removal or downgrading of a locally
listed Category 1 or Category 2.” She acknowledged the necessity of addressing this issue, but suggested
prioritizing other tasks. Her recommendation was to focus on updating the current inventory.
Ms. French pointed out that task was already included under Goal 1 (c) as a related activity, which involves
conducting a survey of all existing 1970s/1980s HRI properties listed in the inventory.
Board Member Willis inquired about the presence of any 1970s/1980s properties in the inventory.
Ms. French clarified that these properties were identified and listed during that period, not necessarily built.
She further emphasized the importance of this activity and predicted the need for an HRB subcommittee
and additional resources due to potential outreach requirements. She also mentioned the involvement of a
qualified consultant for form preparation and anticipated that the work might extend beyond the current
work plan timeframe. However, she expressed optimism about the upcoming addition of a new staff
member to assist with these tasks.
Board Member Willis understood Ms. French’s points but emphasized the need for the Board to lobby the
Council more actively. She suggested exploring more efficient techniques for addressing these issues.
Ms. French proposed modifying Goal 1 (c) to align more closely with the related activity.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz suggested renaming Goal 1 (c) to “category changes.”
Ms. French agreed that would cover potential changes such as the removal of demolished properties from
the inventory.
Vice Chair Rohman concurred with the proposed classification of Goal 1 (c) as “category changes” and
expressed her support for the discussed modifications.
Ms. French stated that Goal 1 (c) would involve conducting a survey of all existing properties to determine
any necessary category changes.
Vice Chair Rohman sought clarification, asking if they would be reviewing all items currently on the
inventory, including those confirmed in the meeting held on April 22, 2024.
Ms. French clarified that the focus would be on properties surveyed during the 1970s and 1980s, as the
ones confirmed recently would not be included.
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Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz added that would involve both upgrades and downgrades for consistency, as
well as removals for any properties no longer in.
Board Member Willis suggested modifying the report to refer to “inventory properties” for clarity, as the
term “existing 1970s/1980s properties” could be confusing.
Ms. French hoped that in the report it says Category 1 and Category 2 but acknowledged needing to make
changes to the work plan to state, “historic resources inventory properties prior to April 22, 2024.”
Vice Chair Rohman asked whether they should consider everything prior to when the current Board was
seated.
Ms. French said she could state “prior to the 2023 survey.” She asked for clarification regarding whether
she should change Goal 1 (c) to Goal 1 (a).
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz felt that keeping it as Goal 1 (c) was appropriate.
Ms. French explained that Goal 1 in its entirety was to modify Chapter 16.49, and the current discussion
did not pertain to this modification. She proposed having four goals and suggested extending the current
term to the end of June. If the Mills Act is addressed now, it could replace the placeholder for Goal 4.
Board Member Pease inquired if this would reorder or eliminate the Mills Act.
Ms. French proposed that if the term of the work plan is extended to the end of June with the current
Board, and the Mills Act is addressed now, it could be removed from the next year’s work plan and replaced
by the current discussion as Goal 4.
Board Member Willis asked Ms. French about the Council’s potential commitment to the Mills Act and its
impact on more than three properties.
Ms. French responded that she did not have a clear sense of it, but based on past experiences, the support
has been minimal. The Board would complete their part, prepare a report, and see what could be done.
Board Member Pease asked if it was appropriate to discuss the scope of the Mills Act review at this point
or if they would need to wait.
Ms. French welcomed the discussion and mentioned that there would be room on the agenda of the next
meeting to tackle the Mills Act.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz invited discussion regarding Goal 2 from the Board.
Vice Chair Rohman thought this was an important goal and did not feel it should be Goal 2. It is stated that
the Commission is to identify, evaluate, register, and preserve historic properties, and she thought that
should be prioritized first. She felt incentives were more important than communication/promotion.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz said she would be supportive of that as well.
Ms. French sought clarification on whether the goal of communication/promotion was being changed to
incentives.
Board Member Willis clarified that the discussion was about reordering the goals.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz believed the discussion was about reordering and prioritizing the current Goal 3
over the current Goal 2.
Board Member Pease said he agreed with reordering but wanted to emphasize the need to distinguish
between general public outreach and addressing specific complaints about confusion and
misunderstanding. He suggested that this change in order could help drive the other goals.
Vice Chair Rohman suggested rewording Goal 2 to make it clear that the goal is education.
Ms. French asked if the title of Goal 2 should be changed to “Education.”
Board Member Pease suggested renaming it to “User Support,” emphasizing the need to provide easy and
quick learning resources for those trying to understand the process.
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Board Member Willis proposed renaming the goal to “Communication/Education.” She shared her struggle
with creating a chart for incentives and expressed the need to make the code easier to understand.
Ms. French felt the challenge faced was that people like Mr. Hayes and others who do this kind of work
knows the codes in and out, but homeowners who are new to the process are unfamiliar with the codes.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz acknowledged the complexity of the code and the limitations it places on
simplifying the presentation of various incentives, options, and classifications.
Ms. French pointed out the complexity of the review process and the difficulty of explaining it, especially
for projects subject to CEQA. She emphasized the importance of Board discussions in this context.
Vice Chair Rohman suggested replacing the word “promote” in Goal 2 with “education” to reflect the goal
of creating user-friendly, educational resources.
Ms. French noted down “new user-friendly resources” and asked if this would become Goal 1.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz clarified that it would become Goal 3. She recapped the goals as follows: Goal
1 is to modify the ordinance, Goal 2 is to implement preservation incentives, Goal 3 is to focus on education,
and Goal 4 pertains to properties surveyed in the 1970s and 1980s.
Board Member Willis sought clarification on whether Goal 2 would remain as it is.
Ms. French pointed out that it was moved to Goal 3. She reiterated the goals: Goal 1 involves Chapter
16.49 modifications, Goal 2 focuses on additional preservation incentives, Goal 3 is about education and
creating user-friendly resources, and Goal 4 is to conduct a survey of all existing inventory properties before
the action on April 22, 2024, excluding those in the 2023 inventory update.
Vice Chair Rohman suggested upgrading Goal 4, which involves re-examining the 70s/80s inventory, to one
of the top three goals.
Board Member Willis proposed moving incentives to Goal 4, allowing the Board to apply learnings from
Goals 2 and 3.
Board Member Pease expressed openness to reordering but emphasized that discussing incentives was the
quickest way to address the Mills Act. He suggested presenting a comparison of incentives between
commercial and residential properties and any Board suggestions for Council, rather than rewriting the Mills
Act drafts.
Ms. French advised that the adopted workplan would be discussed on April 22, 2024. She planned to
repackage and send out information stating that the Mills Act and other incentives had been discussed. She
explained that incentives to the zoning code would require Planning Commission review and would not go
to Council in Q1 of the fiscal year. She felt that having incentives as Goal 4 made sense timeline-wise, and
a subcommittee could continue discussing incentives
Board Member Pease expressed confidence in Ms. French’s judgement. He questioned the impact of
transferable development rights on three downtown properties, all represented by the same professional.
He voiced concern about the lopsided situation in residential areas and the risk to more buildings in town
than anything downtown or commercial. He expressed worry about houses being replaced by cookie-cutter
mansions and advocated for opportunities for property owners to consider preserving them fairly.
Ms. French clarified that assigning a number to a goal does not prevent work from commencing. Once
designated as Goal 4, it is on the Board’s radar to seek permission to allocate resources. Meanwhile, a
subcommittee could collaborate with staff to discuss previously heard matters and work on this table.
Board Member Pease expressed his understanding of the sensitivity and including it in the work plans.
However, he emphasized the importance of the Board establishing a credible framework, without which he
saw no need for staff work.
Ms. French proposed taking a vote.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz responded that she would prefer not to vote on the order if the Board could
agree that all items are important and will be addressed.
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Ms. French suggested removing the numbers entirely, listing the items in order of appearance with bullet
points
Board Member Willis felt that numbers would be useful for reference purposes.
Ms. French highlighted that the work plan specifies the quarter to initiate each goal. She explained that if
it is a Category 4, she could still refer to it along the lines of “begin quarter 1 with subcommittee meeting
with staff…” and leading up to more extensive work.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz agreed with this approach
Ms. French initiated a discussion on the CLG Report, covering October 2022 through September 2023.
During this period, there were thirteen HRB meetings, with eight HRB members serving due to a member’s
departure and a replacement joining. HRB members and staff attended various trainings, which were
individually reported. She mentioned that she would attach a list of properties previously deemed
‘potentially eligible’ that were professionally evaluated for eligibility for the California Register during the
reporting period. The report, found on page 39 of the packet, includes these details. She also mentioned
that the Office of Historic Preservation would provide feedback on any draft changes to the historic
ordinance.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz noted that all of her trainings were through the California Association of
Museums Annual Conference. The Palo Alto Art Center was a moderator for one of the panel discussions,
but it was all through the Annual Conference.
Ms. French acknowledged this and agreed to make the necessary adjustment.
Vice Chair Rohman mentioned her participation in the Secretary of Interior Standards Bootcamp organized
by the California Preservation Foundation.
Ms. French replied requested the details and agreed to make the appropriate adjustments.
Vice Chair Rohman agreed to provide the information via email and inquired about including her degree
courses.
Ms. French welcomed this addition.
Board Member Willis suggested an edit on page 142 of the membership section to include professional
titles, such as “H. Caroline Willis, Architect” and the same for Board Member Heinrich.
Ms. French agreed to the adjustment and confirmed that she would initiate contact with Board Member
Heinrich.
Board Member Questions, Comments, Announcements or Future Meetings and Agendas
Ms. French informed the Board of an upcoming meeting scheduled for April 22, 2024, and assured them
that she would forward the details once they were published.
Board Member Willis shared that the Palo Alto Stanford Heritage (PAST) will resume tours starting in May.
Some of the scheduled tours include Stanford’s Palo Alto on May 11th, Upper College Terrace on May 18th,
University Avenue on May 25th, and Greenmeadow on June 1st.
Ms. French mentioned that the PAST website can be accessed via the City website.
Adjournment
MOTION
Motion by Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz to adjourn. Seconded by Board Member Pease, the motion carried
unanimously by voice vote.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:57 a.m.
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