HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-03-13 Historic Resources Board Agenda PacketHISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD
Regular Meeting
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
8:30 AM
Board member Geddes Ulinskas Remote Call‐In Location:1800 Thayer Ave., Los Angeles, CA
90025
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 Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
STUDY SESSION
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
2.Study Session for Historic Resources Board Awards
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
3.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of February 13, 2025
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 March 13, 2025
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARDRegular MeetingThursday, March 13, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid8:30 AMBoard member Geddes Ulinskas Remote Call‐In Location:1800 Thayer Ave., Los Angeles, CA90025Historic 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 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 Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
STUDY SESSION
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
2.Study Session for Historic Resources Board Awards
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
3.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of February 13, 2025
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 March 13, 2025
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARDRegular MeetingThursday, March 13, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid8:30 AMBoard member Geddes Ulinskas Remote Call‐In Location:1800 Thayer Ave., Los Angeles, CA90025Historic 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 Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.
CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS
1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
STUDY SESSION
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
2.Study Session for Historic Resources Board Awards
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Public Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.
3.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of February 13, 2025
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.
3 Regular Meeting March 13, 2025
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARDRegular MeetingThursday, March 13, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid8:30 AMBoard member Geddes Ulinskas Remote Call‐In Location:1800 Thayer Ave., Los Angeles, CA90025Historic 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 Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and AssignmentsSTUDY SESSIONPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.2.Study Session for Historic Resources Board AwardsAPPROVAL OF MINUTESPublic Comment is Permitted. Three (3) minutes per speaker.3.Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of February 13, 2025BOARD 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.
4 Regular Meeting March 13, 2025
Item No. 1. Page 1 of 1
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: March 13, 2025
Report #: 2503-4244
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. If individual Boardmembers anticipate being absent from
a future meeting, it is requested that it be brought to staff‘s attention when considering this
item.
No action is required by the HRB for this item.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: 2025 HRB Meeting Schedule & Assignments
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Steven Switzer, Historic Preservation Planner
Item 1
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 5
Historic Resources Board
2025 Meeting Schedule & Assignments
7
1
7
6
2025 Meeting Schedule
Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences
1/9/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Canceled
2/13/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
3/13/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
4/10/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
5/8/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
6/12/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
7/10/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
8/14/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
9/11/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
10/9/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular Pease
11/13/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
12/11/2025 8:30 AM Hybrid Regular
2025 Subcommittee Assignments
January February March April May June
Workplan Goal 1:
Eagleston-Cieslewicz
Workplan Goal 2:
Pease
Workplan Goal 3:
Rohman
Workplan Goal 4:
Pease & Ulinskas
Workplan Goal 5:
Rohman & Willis
July August September October November December
Item 1
Attachment A: 2025 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: March 13, 2025
Report #: 2503-4299
TITLE
Study Session for Historic Resources Board Awards
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that Historic Resources Board (HRB):
1. Discuss the 2025 HRB Awards Program including: timeline; awards categories;
evaluation criteria and process; and how the public can be involved.
2. Review the attached list of 53 projects reviewed by the HRB since 2015 (10 Years).
BACKGROUND
On August 8, 2024, at the HRB retreat, Goal #5 was added to the HRB Work Plan to establish a
HRB Awards Program.1 On October 21, 2024, City Council approved the HRB 24/25 Work Plan.2
Following this, the HRB held meetings on November 14, 2024,3 and February 13, 2025,4 to
discuss how to implement a HRB Awards Program.
On February 13, 2025, the HRB directed staff to bring forward amended language to the HRB
By-Laws and prepare a list of potential eligible projects that have been reviewed in the past 10
years.
Comprehensive Plan Policy L-7.6
The HRB Awards Program would implement 2030 Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan Policy L-7.6,
1 August 8, 2024, HRB Meeting Agenda Item 2:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14031
2 HRB 24/25 Work Plan is available online: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/2/agendas-
minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/historic-resources-board/council-approved-hrb-work-plan-fy-24-25.pdf
3 November 14, 2024, HRB Meeting Agenda Item 3:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=14073
4 February 13, 2025, HRB Meeting Agenda Item 3:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=15762
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 7
Item No. 2. Page 2 of 3
which states, “Promote awards programs and other forms of public recognition for exemplary
Historic Preservation projects.”
Purpose
The HRB Awards Program would recognize and express appreciation for the efforts to preserve
and protect Palo Alto’s culturally, historically, and architecturally significant places that create a
vibrant and sustainable community that fully reflects Palo Alto’s diverse past.
DISCUSSION
Timing and Frequency of Awards
In 1973, Senator Henry M. Jackson introduced a resolution designating May 6 through 12 as
National Preservation Week, which was later signed into law by President Nixon. In 2005, the
National Trust for Historic Preservation expanded the celebration to the entire month of May.
The majority of the HRB expressed interest in holding the HRB Awards during the month of
May. The HRB discussed at the February 2025 meeting that awards could occur every 5 years,
with the exception of the 2025 HRB Awards being held in 2026.
Evaluation Criteria and Process
In preparation for the 2025 HRB Awards, staff compiled a list of addresses for the HRB’s
consideration from the past 10 years (Attachment A). This list includes 53 potential projects to
consider and details projects that involved historic review by the HRB. Some of these projects
were part of larger development proposals subject to Architectural Review Board (ARB)
approval.
The HRB may want to model the award program after the ARB Design Awards. The ARB utilizes
the following flexible language for criteria and number of awards, “Criteria and number of
awards shall be determined by the awarding board.”
HRB By-Laws
To set forth the rules and regulations for the HRB Awards Program, an amendment to the HRB
By-Laws is recommended. The amendment should include an Article detailing the purpose,
criteria, frequency, and location of award ceremony. Staff has prepared draft language in
Attachment B, based on the ARB By-Laws. This amendment will need to return as an action
item at a subsequent meeting.
NEXT STEPS
Staff will finalize the list of qualifying projects, based on feedback received at this meeting. The
finalized project list will then be provided to the HRB based on the process determined for the
2025 awards. At the next scheduled HRB meeting, the board will have the opportunity to
review the updated project list. To effectively evaluate potential projects, the board should
establish a clear process, including, but not limited to:
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 8
Item No. 2. Page 3 of 3
1. Amend HRB By-Laws: At the next scheduled meeting, the HRB can choose to take action
to amend its By-Laws with an Article on the HRB Awards Program.
2. Divide the Project List: The five board members can each choose a set number of
properties from the list, conduct site or “drive by” visits before the next time this item is
scheduled for an HRB retreat/meeting. Boardmembers should take photos to help staff
compile a presentation for discussion.
3. Define Award Categories: The HRB should consider potential award categories (e.g.,
Best Design, Public Project, Commercial, Small Project, etc.) and the number of projects
to be awarded. Setting a specific limit for each category or establishing a total number
of awards that should not be exceeded across all categories could be helpful to
consider.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: HRB Reviewed Projects Since 2015
Attachment B: Draft Revised HRB By-Laws
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Steven Switzer, Historic Preservation Planner
Item 2
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 9
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
1
HR Minor -
Board
02/25/2015 14PLN-00334 Residential 939 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request by Joyce Wang for Historic Resources Board Review of additions (100
sf on first floor and 149 sf on second floor) to an existing Category 2 home in the
R-1 zone district.
2
HR Minor -
Board
06/05/2015 14PLN-00264 Residential 575
HAWTHORNE
AV
Request by Lee Lippert for Single Family Individual Review and Historic
Resources Board Review for a second floor addition to an existing single story
category II single family residence in the R-2 zone district.
3
HR Minor -
Board
06/23/2015 15PLN-00073 Residential 427 LINCOLN AV Request by Carlos Castillo for Historic Review to allow the construction of a
2,064 sq. ft. basement, a 468 sq. ft. first floor rear addition and interior remodel
of an existing 2,966 sq. ft. two story single family home in the R-1(10000) zoning
district.
4
HR Minor -
Board
06/21/2016 15PLN-00237 Non-Residential 355 UNIVERSITY
AV
355 University Avenue [15PLN-00237]: Request by Hayes Group Architects, on
behalf of Palo Alto Masonic Temple Association, for Major Architectural Review,
Historic Review, and Seismic Rehabilitation Floor Area Bonus for a new façade
and signage, new second story with outdoor rooftop patio area, and interior
modifications at 355 University Avenue, and a new façade and site
improvements to the groundfloor and adjacent public alley at 461 Florence Street
for Design Within Reach. The project requests approval of a seismic
rehabilitation floor area bonus for the addition of the new second story. Zoning
District: Downtown Commercial (CD-C(GF)(P)). Environmental Assessment:
Categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guideline Section 15301 Existing Facilities, Section
15304 Minor Alterations to Land, and Section 15311 Accessory Structures.
5
HR Minor -
Board
08/10/2017 16PLN-00395 Non-Residential 303 PARKSIDE
DR
Request for Architectural Review and to allow for the construction of a new
1,908 square foot pool room, trash enclosure, patio, and landscaping, and to
revise the existing Conditional Use Permit for the site to allow for updated
operations. Environmental Assessment: Consistent with the Secretary of the
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and exempt from the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act per Section 15303. Zoning District: R-
1(8000)(S).
6
HR Minor -
Board
08/15/2017 16PLN-00380 Residential 400 CHANNING
AV
Request by Jing Quan, on behalf of GLWS, for Board level Architectural Review
to allow the demolition of an existing one story medical office and the
construction of two two-story homes, each with a basement and a secondary
dwelling unit above a detached two-car garage in the DHS zoning district of
SOFA I CAP. Request for subdivision of the existing parcel into two parcels
under Planning Application 16PLN-00381.
7
HR Minor -
Board
05/09/2018 17PLN-00454 Non-Residential 526 WAVERLEY
ST
Request for an Architectural Review and a Historic Review to allow for facade
restoration to an existing commercial building located at 526 Waverley Street.
Environmental Assessment: Pending. Zone District: CD-C(GF)(P) (Downtown
Commercial).
8
HR Minor -
Board
01/30/2020 18PLN-00185 Residential 840 KIPLING ST Request for Individual Review, Variance and Historic Review application, to
allow exterior modifications and construction of a 184 square foot first-story
addition and a 489 square foot second-story addition to an existing single-story
residence on a substandard parcel. The Variance is requested to allow second-
story addition on a substandard lot and to allow an approximately 6.3 foot
extension to the existing non-complying first-floor wall on the west elevation,
where the existing home is located 3.5’ from the interior side property line.
Environmental Assessment: Exempt from CEQA in Accordance with Guideline
Section 15301 (Additions to Residential). Zoning District: R-2 (Two Family
Residential District).
9
HR Minor -
Board
09/16/2022 21PLN-00209 Non-Residential 525 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for Minor Staff Architectural Review and Board Level Historic
Resources Board Review to Allow the renovation of the exterior landscape
courts. A new metal pergola structure attached to the west side of the historic
525 University Avenue main tower; and a new free standing pergola to the upper
plaza. Replacement of curtain wall at all four sides of the first three stories of
main tower building with in-kind glazing/mullion pattern and low e-glass, while
retaining the existing granite spandrel and cladding on the historic building
facade. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act per Sections 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15331 (Historic
Resources Rehabilitation). Zoning District: CS-C (P)(Commercial Service,
Community, Pedestrian Shopping)
10
HR Major -
Board
02/05/2015 14PLN-00301 Residential 251 LINCOLN AV Request by Margaret Wimmer for Historic Review and a Home Improvement
Exception to allow additions to the existing Category 4 Historic Resource
(Professorville). The requested exceptions are for additional floor area added to
the first and second floor and a new basement that would extend 4 feet into the
front setback. Zone: R-1.
HRB Awards
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 10
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
HRB Awards
11
HR Major -
Board
03/25/2015 13PLN-00267 Commerical 261 HAMILTON
AV
Request by Cody Anderson Wasney Architects for Architectural Review and
Historic Resources Board review of a Historic Rehabilitation for Category 3
Historic Resource located within the Ramona Street Historic District. The project
includes four new parking spaces in the below-grade garage and the proposed
floor area will not exceed 38,774 gross sq. ft. Zone District: CD-C(GF)(P).
Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act per Sections 15331 Historical Resource Rehabilitation and 15301 Existing
Facilities.
12
HR Major -
Board
08/04/2015 13PLN-00381 Commerical 2555 PARK BL Request by FGY Architects for major Architectural Review to allow the
construction of a new three story, 24,466 square foot office building in the
Community Commercial (CC(2)) zone district.
13
HR Major -
Board
03/05/2016 15PLN-00290 Public Project 300 HOMER AV Request by Palo Alto History Museum for Historic and Architectural Review of
the proposed historic rehabilitation of the 19,182 sq. ft. Roth Building and a 1,398
sq. ft. addition to a Category 2 historic structure. Minor exceptions are requested
to allow off-site parking and allow a front yard encroachment of three feet for the
proposed additions at the rear elevation. The application includes a request of a
Conditional Use permit to allow Community Facility use. Environmental
Assessment: Categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act
under Class 15331 - Historic Resource Restoration and Rehabilitation. Zone
District: PF (Public Facilities) in SOFA CAP I.
14
HR Major -
Board
01/24/2017 16PLN-00092 Non-Residential 450 BRYANT ST Request by Lisa Hendrickson, on behalf of Avenidas, for Major Architectural
Review and Historic Review for the proposed interior renovation of an existing
historic building (1927) at 450 Bryant Street, the demolition of an existing 2,592
square foot addition (1978) and replacement with a new 9,751 square foot
addition, and site improvements in the Public Facilities (PF) zoning district. The
net increase in floor area at the property is 7,158 square feet. The property is
owned by the City of Palo Alto.
15
HR Major -
Board
04/04/2018 18PLN-00042 Non-Residential 1451
MIDDLEFIELD
RD
Request for Architectural Review to allow for the installation of composite shingle
to the Junior Museum and Zoo. The plans propose roof material modifications
from 17PLN-00147. Environmental Assessment: Pending. Zone District: PF
(Public Facility).
16
HR Major -
Board
06/15/2018 17PLN-00147 Non-Residential 1451
MIDDLEFIELD
RD
Request by Sarah Vaccaro for an Architectural Review and Historic Review to
allow for renovations to the Junior Museum and Zoo located at 1451 Middlefield
Road. The proposed design for the Junior Museum and Zoo project includes
constructing a new 15,033 sq. ft. one-story museum and education building,
outdoor zoo with netted enclosure, and perimeter site improvements on the site
of the current facilities. The project scope also includes the reconfiguration of the
existing shared parking lot, fire access and coverage, accessible parking stalls
and pathways, storm drainage, and site lighting. Zone District: PF.
17 HR Major -
Board
07/01/2020 20PLN-00024 Non-Residential 235 HAMILTON
AV
Request by Stephanie Wansek to change the Historic Designation of the
Cardinal Hotel at 235 Hamilton Ave. Zoning District: CD-C(GF)(P).
18
HR Major -
Board
07/08/2020 19PLN-00038 Non-Residential 488 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for a Waiver from Title 18 to Allow Conversion of a Residential Use to a
Hotel Use to Accommodate 100 Guestrooms. In addition, the applicant requests
Approval of an Architectural Review and Historic Review Application for Interior
and Exterior Renovations to the Hotel President and a Parking Adjustment to
Accommodate the Conversion to a Hotel Use. The Applicant also requests a
Conditional Use Permit to Allow for Restoration and Use of a Historic Rooftop
Garden. Proposed Revisions Include Structural and Seismic Retrofit of the
Existing Structure. Zone District: Downtown Commercial District with Ground
Floor and Pedestrian Overlays (CD-C)(GF)(P). Environmental Assessment:
Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act Pursuant
to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15332 (in-fill development), 15331 (Historical
Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation), 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15302
(Replacement or Reconstruction).
19
HR Major -
Board
04/21/2022 22PLN-00083 Residential 567 HALE ST 567 Hale Street [21BLD-02531]: Request for
Historic Resources Board Review of a Building Permit
Application for Consistency with the Secretary of the Interior's
Standards. The Project Includes Exterior Modifications to a
Local Historic Resource Category II. Zone District: R-1 (10,000).
Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act per Sections 15268 (Ministerial
Projects).
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 11
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
HRB Awards
20
HR Major -
Board
06/16/2022 21PLN-00318 Non-Residential 526 WAVERLEY
ST
Board Level Historic Review and Architectural Review for Removal of existing
one-story addition at rear of building. and installation of fence and shade
structure. Replacement of existing elevator with new. Installation of new interior
stair, modifications to second floor and partitions. New front door. Relocation of
electric and gas service, upgrading of existing HVAC equipment, installation of
fire sprinklers, new lighting. New ADA restroom. New signage. Environmental
Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Sections
15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15331 (Historic Resources Rehabilitation)
21
HR Major -
Board
09/13/2022 16PLN-00238 Non-Residential 1310 BRYANT
ST
Project Description: A Request by the Castilleja School Foundation to amend an
existing Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Castilleja School to provide for
increased student enrollment and phased site improvements. The proposal
requests an increase in student enrollment (from the existing CUP cap of 415
students) to a maximum of 540 students over the course of a phased
implementation plan with increases contingent on strict transportation demand
measures. There will be no change to the amount of above-grade floor area that
exists on the campus and building coverage is proposed to be reduced on the
site. Publication of the EIR occurred in July 2019. Final EIR published July 2020.
CUP and Variance were reviewed by the Planning and Transportation
Commission in 2020. Council reviewed the EIR and project in March 2021 and
remanded the applications to the the PTC and ARB. Variance request is
associated with replacement of gross floor area on the existing campus. CUP
includes request for the establishment of on-site temporary school facilities
(modular buildings) on Spieker Field for use during the construction of Phase 4
(which is the demolition of four buildings on the current campus parcel and
replacement of the existing above-grade gross floor area, described in greater
detail in the project submittal).
22
HR Major -
Board
07/22/2024 24PLN-00032 Non-Residential 411 KIPLING ST Request for Major Historic Resource Board (HRB) Review for the proposed
upgrade of the historic designation of an existing Category 4 (“Contributing
Building”) Historic Resource in the City Inventory to Category 2 (“Major
Building”). Environmental Assessment: No project under California
Environmental Quality Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. Zoning
District: CD-C(P).
23
HR Major -
Board
07/22/2024 24PLN-00039 Non-Residential 271 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for Major Historic Resource Board (HRB) Review for the proposed
upgrade of the historic designation of an existing Category 3 (“Contributing
Building”) Historic Resource in the City Inventory to Category 2 (“Major
Building”). Environmental Assessment: No project under California
Environmental Quality Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. CD-
C(GF)(P) - Downtown Commercial District (Ground Floor) (Pedestrian
Shopping).
24
HR Major -
Board
08/21/2024 24PLN-00077 Non-Residential 261 HAMILTON
AV, STE 010
Request for Major Historic Resource Board (HRB) Review for Historic
Designation Reclassification, From a Local Historic Resource Category 3 to a
Category 1. Environmental Assessment: No project under California
Environmental Quality Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. Zone
District: CD-C (GF)(P) - Downtown Commercial with Ground Floor and
Pedestrian Shopping Combining District.
25
HR Major -
Board
10/23/2024 24PLN-00134 Non-Residential 431 KIPLING ST Request for Major Historic Resource Board (HRB) Review for the proposed
upgrade of the historic designation of an existing Category 4 (“Contributing
Building”) Historic Resource in the City Inventory to Category 2 (“Major
Building”). Environmental Assessment: No project under California
Environmental Quality Act and CEQA Guidelines per Section 21065. CD-C (P) -
Downtown Commercial District (Pedestrian Shopping).
26
HR Major -
Board
11/25/2024 24PLN-00172 Residential 1023 FOREST
AV
Request for Home Improvement Exception and Major Historic Resource Board
(HRB) Review for the rehabilitation and restoration of an existing Category 2
home. Original historic belvedere and brick chimneys. New incidental exterior
window and door replacement; introduction of new hardscape elements
including entry gates, brick paths, driveway, and wood deck; and new detached
single car garage. Environmental Assessment: Exempt per CEQA Section
15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15303 (New Construction or Conversion of Small
Structures). Zoning District: R-1 (Single Family Residential).
27
Home
Improvem
ent
Exception
02/05/2015 14PLN-00301 251 LINCOLN AV Request by Margaret Wimmer for Historic Review and a Home Improvement
Exception to allow additions to the existing Category 4 Historic Resource
(Professorville). The requested exceptions are for additional floor area added to
the first and second floor and a new basement that would extend 4 feet into the
front setback. Zone: R-1.
28
Home
Improvem
ent
Exception
06/05/2015 14PLN-00482 Residential 575
HAWTHORNE
AV
Request by Lee Lippert for a Home Improvement Exception to allow an addition
that would exceed the allowable lot coverage by 163 sf and floor area by 127 sf
for a single family home. Project is also subject to Individual Review and Historic
Review (Category 2 resource).
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 12
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
HRB Awards
29
Home
Improvem
ent
Exception
09/29/2015 15PLN-00245 Residential 308 LINCOLN AV Request by Brandon Corey for approval of an HIE and Staff level historic review
to encroach into the daylight plane. Zone District R-1
30
Home
Improvem
ent
Exception
05/16/2017 16PLN-00434 Residential 381 LINCOLN AV Request by Evan Ng for a Home Improvement Exception for a Category 4
Historic structure to allow for the increase in depth of an existing legal non-
complying wall within a side yard setback by 2' 6" to allow for a basement where
there is an existing crawl space. Other changes include the addition, removal,
and replacement of some windows and doors. Zoning District: R-1(10000).
31
General 01/06/2021 20PLN-00241 Mixed Use 488 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for Tier 1 Wireless Application to remove (3)existing antennas and
replace with (3) New antennas within existing FRP, 1 per sector, remove (3)
RRUs and replace with (3) RRU's, 1 per sector, remove (3) existing RRUS11 B5
from the rooftop platform, install (1) Vertiv Battery enclosure with (2) strings of
batteries on the rooftop. HISTORIC: Category 2. Environmental Assessment:
Exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act per
Section 15301. Zoning District: CD-C (GF)(P) (Downtown Commercial).
32
Conditiona
l Use
Permit
04/03/2015 14PLN-00473 Non-Residential 271 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request by Reza Javandel for minor staff level Architectural Review and staff
level Historic Review for facade improvements, including new signage, an
awning, paint colors, heaters, illuminated menu boxes, and sidewalk tables and
chairs. The application also includes a request for an amendment to the existing
Conditional Use Permit to allow the sale of spirits and the service of alcohol
outside the building at a single row of sidewalk tables and chairs in the CD-C
(GF)(P) zone district for new restaurant named Local Union 271.
33
Conditiona
l Use
Permit
03/05/2016 15PLN-00290 Non-Residential 300 HOMER AV Request by Palo Alto History Museum for Historic and Architectural Review of
the proposed historic rehabilitation of the 19,182 sq. ft. Roth Building and a 1,398
sq. ft. addition to a Category 2 historic structure. Minor exceptions are requested
to allow off-site parking and allow a front yard encroachment of three feet for the
proposed additions at the rear elevation. The application includes a request of a
Conditional Use permit to allow Community Facility use. Environmental
Assessment: Categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act
under Class 15331 - Historic Resource Restoration and Rehabilitation. Zone
District: PF (Public Facilities) in SOFA CAP I.
34
Conditiona
l Use
Permit
10/05/2023 23PLN-00178 Non-Residential 444 E University
Ave AV, BLDG
444
Request for Conditional Use Permit (CUP) - Alcohol Service (Wine and Beer) for
Shekoh Confections Cafe. Environmental Assessment: Pending. Zoning District:
CD-C (GF)(P). Historic Status: Category 2 (Birge Clark). For More Information
Contact the Project Planner Nishita Kandikuppa at
Nishita.Kandikuppa@CityofPaloAlto.org
35
AR Sign -
Board
01/02/2016 15PLN-00401 Non-Residential 261 HAMILTON
AV
Request by Roxy Rapp on behalf of Hamilton-Ramona Partners for Architectural
and Historic Review for a master sign program that includes three (3) new
illuminated wall signs and five (5) new projecting blade signs at the ground floor
of street-facing elevations at 261 Hamilton Avenue in the CD-C(GF)(P) District.
Blade signs require a Sign Exception for proposed placement.
36
AR Minor -
Staff
03/05/2016 15PLN-00290 Non-Residential 300 HOMER AV Request by Palo Alto History Museum for Historic and Architectural Review of
the proposed historic rehabilitation of the 19,182 sq. ft. Roth Building and a 1,398
sq. ft. addition to a Category 2 historic structure. Minor exceptions are requested
to allow off-site parking and allow a front yard encroachment of three feet for the
proposed additions at the rear elevation. The application includes a request of a
Conditional Use permit to allow Community Facility use. Environmental
Assessment: Categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act
under Class 15331 - Historic Resource Restoration and Rehabilitation. Zone
District: PF (Public Facilities) in SOFA CAP I.
37
AR Minor -
Staff
05/14/2016 15PLN-00145 Non-Residential 1305
MIDDLEFIELD
RD
Request by the City of Palo Alto Public Works Engineering Division for
Architectural Review for permission to install new HVAC mechanical equipment
and fenced enclosure at the exterior southwest corner of the existing property at
1305 Middlefield Road, the Lucie Stern Community Center. Historic Designation:
Category 1. Zone: Public Facility (PF). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from
the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per CEQA
Guidelines Sections 15301 and 15331.
38
AR Minor -
Staff
12/08/2016 16PLN-00371 Non-Residential 790 HIGH ST Request by Christienne Hadley of Wilbur Properties, on behalf of Michael Fowle,
for Minor Architectural Review to allow exterior paint on an existing Category 3
historic building in the RT-35 zoning district.
39
AR Minor -
Staff
08/03/2017 17PLN-00151 Non-Residential 475 HOMER AV Request by Mousam Adcock for an Architectural Review and Historic Review to
allow for renovation of interior and exterior site improvements to the Women's
Club of Palo Alto at 475 Homer Avenue. Zoning District: Multiple Family
Residential (RM-30). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality per CEQA Guidelines Section 15301/15331.
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 13
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
HRB Awards
40
AR Minor -
Staff
05/09/2018 17PLN-00454 Non-Residential 526 WAVERLEY
ST
Request for an Architectural Review and a Historic Review to allow for facade
restoration to an existing commercial building located at 526 Waverley Street.
Environmental Assessment: Pending. Zone District: CD-C(GF)(P) (Downtown
Commercial).
41
AR Minor -
Staff
06/19/2018 17PLN-00385 Non-Residential 535 RAMONA ST Request for an Architectural Review and a Historic Review to allow for the
relocation of electrical service equipment into a existing electrical closet at 535
Ramona Street. The project also proposes the removal of an existing planter,
the installation of new code compliant electrical closet doors, repainting the rear
of the building, and the installation of a new awning over an existing building
entrance. Environmental Assessment: Pending. Zone District: CD-C(GF)(P)
(Downtown Commercial).
42
AR Minor -
Staff
12/18/2018 18PLN-00321 Non-Residential 300 HOMER AV Request by Palo Alto History Museum for Architectural Review for an extension
of the previously approved entitlement 15PLN-00290 for the proposed historic
rehabilitation of the 19,182 sq. ft. Roth Building and a 1,398 sq. ft. addition to a
Category 2 historic structure. Minor exceptions are requested to allow off-site
parking and allow a front yard encroachment of three feet for the proposed
additions at the rear elevation. Environmental Assessment: Categorically exempt
from California Environmental Quality Act under Class 15331 - Historic Resource
Restoration and Rehabilitation. Zone District: PF (Public Facilities) in SOFA CAP
I.
43
AR Minor -
Staff
04/30/2021 21PLN-00015 Residential 819 RAMONA ST PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 819 Ramona Street [21PLN-00015]:
Request for Historic Resources Board Review of a Minor Architectural Review
Application for Consistency with the Secretary of Interior Standards. The Project
Includes the Installation of a new Ridge Skylight and Four New Windows at the
Rear Elevation at the AME Zion Church, Classified as a Local Historic Resource
Category III. Zone District: AMF (MUO). Environmental Assessment: Exempt
from the California Environmental Quality Act per Sections 15331 (Historical
Resource Rehabilitation).
44
AR Minor -
Staff
06/16/2022 21PLN-00318 Non-Residential 526 WAVERLEY
ST
Board Level Historic Review and Architectural Review for Removal of existing
one-story addition at rear of building. and installation of fence and shade
structure. Replacement of existing elevator with new. Installation of new interior
stair, modifications to second floor and partitions. New front door. Relocation of
electric and gas service, upgrading of existing HVAC equipment, installation of
fire sprinklers, new lighting. New ADA restroom. New signage. Environmental
Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Sections
15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15331 (Historic Resources Rehabilitation)
45
AR Minor -
Staff
02/28/2024 23PLN-00275 Non-Residential 321 CALIFORNIA
AV
Request for a Minor Staff Level Architectural Review for minor revisions to the
previously approved Architectural Review and Historic Resources Board Review
application (21PLN-00330). The proposed modifications include reductions to
the previously approved onsite parking in accordance with Assembly Bill 2097
allowances. In addition, the project no longer proposes the demolition of a
portion of the existing building at the rear and the previously proposed separate
trash enclosure would be incorporated into the rear of the existing building. The
outdoor patio along Birch has been revised to eliminate the covered pavilion
addition and instead proposes an open trellis over the outdoor areas. Zoning
District: CC(2)(R)(P). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with CEQA
guidelines section 15301 (existing facilities).
46
AR Minor -
Staff
12/30/2024 24PLN-00125 Non-Residential 233 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for Minor Architectural Review, Conditional Use Permit, and Design
Enhancement Exception to allow the renovation of an existing non-historic retail
and restaurant building to add a new roof deck, associated elevator, and two exit
stairs required by building code. The Design Enhancement Exception is
requested to allow for a five feet and eight inches wide and nine feet tall stair
encroachment into the required forty-five-degree plain along the southwest left
side of the building. Minor façade changes include the replacement of brick
under existing archways with glazing along University Avenue, three existing
windows along Ramona Street expanded downward and metal added over
existing wood lintels. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the provisions of
CEQA per Section 15301 (Existing Facilities). Zoning District: CD-C(GF)(P). For
more information contact the Project Planner Kristina Dobkevicius at
Kristina.Dobkevicius@CityofPaloAlto.org.
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 14
Permit
Type
Entitlement /
Review Date Permit # Development
Type Address Work Description
HRB Awards
47
AR Minor -
Board
04/22/2016 15PLN-00369 Non-Residential 700 WELCH RD Request by Joel Karr of WK Design Group, on behalf of the Board of Trustees of
the Leland Stanford Junior University, for Minor Architectural Review and
Historic Review for façade changes and site improvements, as well as review for
a Conditional Use Permit for Alcohol Sales, for Vina Enoteca Restaurant at the
Stanford Barn. Zoning District: Planned Community (PC-1992). Environmental
Assessment: Categorically exempt from the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guideline Section 15301 Existing
Facilities, Section 15304 Minor Alterations to Land, and Section 15331 Historical
Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation.
48
AR Minor -
Board
06/04/2022 21PLN-00330 Non-Residential 321 California AV Request for a Minor Board Level Architectural Review application to allow the
demolition of a 1969 addition to 321 California Ave and the construction of a new
dining pavilion, bar, and courtyard. The project also includes a reconfigured
parking lot and spaces and a new trash enclosure. Zoning District: CC(2)(R)(P).
Environmental Assessment: California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Exempt per Guidelines 15301 for Existing Structures,15302 for Reconstruction
and 15331 for Restoration of Historic Resource. For more information, contact
the Project Planner Claire Raybould at claire.raybould@cityofpaloalto.org
49
AR Major -
Board
03/25/2015 13PLN-00267 Commerical 261 HAMILTON
AV
Request by Cody Anderson Wasney Architects for Architectural Review and
Historic Resources Board review of a Historic Rehabilitation for Category 3
Historic Resource located within the Ramona Street Historic District. The project
includes four new parking spaces in the below-grade garage and the proposed
floor area will not exceed 38,774 gross sq. ft. Zone District: CD-C(GF)(P).
Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act per Sections 15331 Historical Resource Rehabilitation and 15301 Existing
Facilities.
50
AR Major -
Board
06/21/2016 15PLN-00237 Non-Residential 355 UNIVERSITY
AV
355 University Avenue [15PLN-00237]: Request by Hayes Group Architects, on
behalf of Palo Alto Masonic Temple Association, for Major Architectural Review,
Historic Review, and Seismic Rehabilitation Floor Area Bonus for a new façade
and signage, new second story with outdoor rooftop patio area, and interior
modifications at 355 University Avenue, and a new façade and site
improvements to the groundfloor and adjacent public alley at 461 Florence Street
for Design Within Reach. The project requests approval of a seismic
rehabilitation floor area bonus for the addition of the new second story. Zoning
District: Downtown Commercial (CD-C(GF)(P)). Environmental Assessment:
Categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guideline Section 15301 Existing Facilities, Section
15304 Minor Alterations to Land, and Section 15311 Accessory Structures.
51
AR Major -
Board
01/24/2017 16PLN-00092 Non-Residential 450 BRYANT ST Request by Lisa Hendrickson, on behalf of Avenidas, for Major Architectural
Review and Historic Review for the proposed interior renovation of an existing
historic building (1927) at 450 Bryant Street, the demolition of an existing 2,592
square foot addition (1978) and replacement with a new 9,751 square foot
addition, and site improvements in the Public Facilities (PF) zoning district. The
net increase in floor area at the property is 7,158 square feet. The property is
owned by the City of Palo Alto.
52
AR Major -
Board
06/15/2018 17PLN-00147 Non-Residential 1451
MIDDLEFIELD
RD
Request by Sarah Vaccaro for an Architectural Review and Historic Review to
allow for renovations to the Junior Museum and Zoo located at 1451 Middlefield
Road. The proposed design for the Junior Museum and Zoo project includes
constructing a new 15,033 sq. ft. one-story museum and education building,
outdoor zoo with netted enclosure, and perimeter site improvements on the site
of the current facilities. The project scope also includes the reconfiguration of the
existing shared parking lot, fire access and coverage, accessible parking stalls
and pathways, storm drainage, and site lighting. Zone District: PF.
53
AR Major -
Board
07/08/2020 19PLN-00038 Non-Residential 488 UNIVERSITY
AV
Request for a Waiver from Title 18 to Allow Conversion of a Residential Use to a
Hotel Use to Accommodate 100 Guestrooms. In addition, the applicant requests
Approval of an Architectural Review and Historic Review Application for Interior
and Exterior Renovations to the Hotel President and a Parking Adjustment to
Accommodate the Conversion to a Hotel Use. The Applicant also requests a
Conditional Use Permit to Allow for Restoration and Use of a Historic Rooftop
Garden. Proposed Revisions Include Structural and Seismic Retrofit of the
Existing Structure. Zone District: Downtown Commercial District with Ground
Floor and Pedestrian Overlays (CD-C)(GF)(P). Environmental Assessment:
Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act Pursuant
to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15332 (in-fill development), 15331 (Historical
Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation), 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15302
(Replacement or Reconstruction).
Item 2
Attachment A: HRB
Projects
Packet Pg. 15
011415 cs 0131565 1 Rev. June 13, 2024
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 B: DRAFT
HRB Bylaws
Packet Pg. 16
011415 cs 0131565 2 Rev. June 13, 2024
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.
ARTICLE V
Quorums and Voting
Section 5.0 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 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 B: DRAFT
HRB Bylaws
Packet Pg. 17
011415 cs 0131565 3 Rev. June 13, 2024
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.
ARTICLE VIII
Preservation Awards
Section 8.0 Preservation Awards for outstanding built projects may be awarded every 5 years
beginning in 2025. Award-winning projects shall be selected from those reviewed
by the HRB, and completed since the last awards were made.
Section 8.1 Criteria and number of awards shall be determined by the awarding board.
Section 8.2 Winning projects may be displayed in the City Hall lobby for one month following
the presentation of awards. The HRB shall request that the Mayor of the City of
Palo Alto issue an appropriate proclamation.
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, 2024
Item 2
Attachment B: DRAFT
HRB Bylaws
Packet Pg. 18
Item No. 3. Page 1 of 1
Historic Resources Board
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: March 13, 2025
Report #: 2503-4246
TITLE
Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of February 13, 2025
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Historic Resources Board (HRB) review and approve the attached
meeting minutes.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: February 13, 2025 Draft HRB Minutes
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Steven Switzer, Historic Preservation Planner
Item 3
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 19
City of Palo Alto Page 1
HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD MEETING
DRAFT MINUTES: February 13, 2025
Council Chambers & Zoom
8:30 AM
Call to Order / Roll Call
The Historic Resources Board (HRB) of the City of Palo Alto met on February 13, 2025 in Council
Chambers and virtual teleconference at 8:32 a.m.
Present: Chair Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz, Vice Chair Samantha Rohman, Boardmember Christian
Pease, Boardmember Geddes Ulinskas, and Boardmember Caroline Willis
Absent: None.
Public Comment
No requests to speak.
Agenda Changes, Additions and Deletions
No changes reported.
City Official Reports
1. Historic Resources Board Schedule of Meetings and Assignments
Steven Switzer, Historic Preservation Planner, provided a slide presentation with a schedule of all
planned meetings for the year with a request to direct planned absences to his or Veronica’s attention.
He announced new Council liaison, Councilmember Lu. He mentioned city staff’s attendance at a
community meeting with local historical organizational groups. He announced that the 2025
Preservation Conference would be in Sacramento May 6 through May 10.
Councilmember Lu introduced himself and offered his support to the HRB.
Vice Chair Rohman inquired if the City training budget would be able to support the HRB’s participation
in the Preservation Conference.
Mr. Switzer agreed to look into that and see what available budget they had.
Study Session
Item 3
Attachment A February
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City of Palo Alto Page 2
2.Historic Resources Board Discussion and Review of Certified Local Government (CLG) Annual
Report Covering the 2023-2024 Reporting Period
Mr. Switzer gave a slide presentation of the CLG Annual Report discussing the background and details.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
Vice Chair Rohman reported that she and Boardmember Willis met with Gogo Heinrich and David Bauer
a couple of weeks prior. David Bauer iterated the importance of being the CLG. Not every community in
California is a certified local government and other communities look to the Historic Resources Board as
an exemplar of historic preservation within the state. She stated it reaffirmed the trickle down of state
standards for historic preservations.
Boardmember Ulinskas queried if a training program was being scheduled for the Board members. He
wanted to know if Board members needed to submit documentation of their trainings.
Mr. Switzer replied that would be at the discretion of the state to determine the eligibility of required
program training. Board members had historically conducted their training on their own. Staff has some
capacity and budget to provide some assistance with trainings that come at a cost and those would be
reported back and detailed in the report. He clarified that as Boardmember Ulinskas was a new member
and not serving in the reporting period, it was listed on the trainings that there had been no training for
him. He indicated typically there was email correspondence directed to staff for certification of training.
Jennifer Armer, Assistant Director, added they would share when they were aware of conferences or
other trainings. She indicated there were also online trainings and a variety of options that could be
done at minimal or no cost.
Boardmember Willis thought it was critical that they adopt the guidelines as mentioned on packet page
13.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz asked for information about the guidelines.
Mr. Switzer remarked the section in question detailed whether the Board as well as staff were involved
in the reviews of any alterations to structures or historic resources. In the current municipal code, it
would be three review bodies: the ARB for commercial and multifamily which can direct their review to
the Historic Resources Board, the Historic Resources Board would capture any reviews for single family
residences and staff level review would be capturing any minor alteration that would be determined by
the director. They had yet to create any design objective standards. He offered to add further clarifying
language to that report to have it pursuant to the municipal code to clarify confusion about the
objective design guidelines.
Item 3
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Vice Chair Rohman mentioned a specific property that had not come to the HRB for review and asked
about the requirements in the code and if they were based on location and category.
Mr. Switzer answered the review of the Board would capture either the downtown area, category one
or two resources. Category three and four resources or contributor structures were not captured under
the review of the Board or subject to HRB review. Historic district structure were subject to review of
the Board and that captures all structures within those districts. There are instances going back to that
section of the review bodies where if it was a re-roof or like-for-like material, that would not be brought
before the Board but would be administered at the staff level.
3.Study Session to Discuss the HRB Awards and HRB Workplan Implementation
Mr. Switzer provided a slide presentation about the HRB awards and 24/25 workplan implementation
including workplan preparation details, workplan goals numbers 1 – 5, HRB Awards items, public
participation, frequency of the awards, selection criteria in which he noted there needed to be direction
to staff as to how far back they should consider the first award cycle, timing and HRB by-laws.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
Vice Chair Rohman proposed designating each Board member responsible for each one of the five goals.
Boardmember Willis wondered if the survey could be done with volunteers. She thought there was a lot
they could do before they needed support from staff or Council.
Ms. Armer added another example of work that could be done in advance would be the municipal code
changes. That effort would likely be folded into the comprehensive update to the zoning code and their
sections of the municipal code. If there were members of this body who wanted to go through and take
a look at the relevant sections and put together a list of changes, issues or concerns, that could feed into
the subsequent staff and consultant process as a way of moving forward without requiring staff time or
allocation of additional resources from Council.
Vice Chair Rohman invited Board members to express which goal they would be interested in owning.
Boardmember Ulinskas expressed interest in goal number 4. He queried if exploring incentives would
have to be a dialogue with the Planning Department who would have input on what sort of incentives
could be offered.
Mr. Switzer replied it would be looking at incentives or outreach to the community that they may have
or desire to see on their property.
Item 3
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Ms. Armer added it would include outreach to other communities to see what kinds of incentives they
had considered or implemented and what options or grants were available.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz was interested in goal 1.
Vice Chair Rohman remarked Boardmember Pease had interest in goal 2.
Vice Chair Rohman commented she would be happy to own project 3 and reach out to local groups who
could potentially help with that.
Boardmember Willis stated she would be number 5.
Boardmember Pease wanted to participate in the additional preservation incentives.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz stated they had ad hoc committees for 4 and 5 and 1 through 3 had point
people.
Vice Chair Rohman discussed a slide presentation including the HRB Preservation Awards proposal,
discussion items for the Board, 2025 proposal: Preservation Achievement Award, a timeline and
examples of Historic Preservation Award plaques.
Boardmember Willis preferred having the awards every five years and as a standalone effort. She stated
they were negotiating venues and it would be nice to have a budget. They hoped to negotiate with the
history museum to do it there. She indicated they were working closely with PAST. They questioned
doing joint awards every 5 or 2 years but she thought it was better to have City awards separate from
the PAST awards. She thought they needed to see where the program was going. They saw the first year
honoring the people whose shoulders they were building on. She invited input.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz preferred to not batch the awards with the ARB. She did not care if it was in
the same year but different months but wanted them separated in terms of events and content. She
was not enthusiastic about recognizing individuals.
Boardmember Willis pointed out the contributions made by the individuals that were proposed and
thought honoring their forebearers was a good way to start the awards. She thought they would do
themselves an injustice if they only saw the projects they had seen.
Boardmember Pease suggested naming the award after the mother of preservation in Palo Alto. He also
agreed it should not be constrained to projects that went there.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz agreed if they wanted to acknowledge residential projects, they may have to
look beyond what came in front of them. She stated that going forward most of their awards would be
focused on the architecture and she thought it would be strange to kick it off with an award that did not
mesh with the intended recipients of the program going forward.
Boardmember Ulinskas asked if it would be a preservation award that would be given to all sorts of
different projects or have different categories.
Item 3
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Minutes
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City of Palo Alto Page 5
Vice Chair Rohman replied the initial proposal was people, projects and properties with the discretion
every two or five years to create categories ad hoc. It was her understanding that the ARB creates
categories for their awards each year based on the projects they see.
Mr. Switzer added that they were in discussion with the ARB with determining which projects would be
award winning. That had gone through four separate hearings. There was a list of close to 100 projects
and subsequent hearings dwindled that down. They hoped to have the final iteration of that discussion
and selecting those award winning projects the following week. There was discussion for this award
Board to have five awards established and awarded out to projects. Going through those hearings took a
considerable amount of work and time so there would be quite a bit of staff as well as time from Board
members to do the research behind those items and dwindle down from that list. There was discussion
about some honorable mentions or some other types of awards beyond the scope of the Board’s duties
or reviewing these projects. It would be at the discretion of the Board to figure out what the award
program would look like for the City. He thought keeping in mind with the scope of the Board’s duties
would be prudent and having at least the majority of projects that had come before the Board or were
subject to the Historic Preservation Ordinance would be good parameters. He thought the suggestion of
potentially naming the awards after individuals rather than awarding them was favorable.
Boardmember Pease wanted to hear thoughts on the split between residential and commercial in this
regard. He thought there were big financial incentives for commercial and they were much more visible.
He would tend to look at the residential more. He did not know how to balance those two things.
Boardmember Ulinskas agreed commercial was more visible and incentivized to have their properties
profiled. He thought having categories to show residential was welcome was good. He thought part of
the awards was community outreach to let the public know they were interested in acknowledging good
preservation. He described an award program his firm went for that had different categories. They had a
category called the Reader's Choice Award that people could go online and vote for projects. Everyone
nominated for that category would do an email blast to everyone they know to raise awareness.
Boardmember Willis loved that idea. She thought it was all about engaging with the community and
raising awareness about preservation.
Vice Chair Rohman thought the reality was that if they did not feel confident about the proposed
awardees this year, the HRB would not give awards this year. They could look to 2026 or look out to
2030 if they were going on the 5-year cycle. With the two-year cycle would be quick. She was not sure
they could hold to it but there would be continuity of board members if with a two-year cycle.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz was comfortable saying they want to do a five-year cycle on the five-year but
to go off cycle in 2026 for the initial one. She thought going back beyond 10 years was too long.
Boardmember Pease asked if the idea that there would be different categories for each award cycle that
would be determined in the context of that cycle. He liked the idea of having a people’s choice but
wondered about having too many categories making them not special and about adding a multifamily.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz answered the idea was if they saw a project they thought was outstanding
they would be able to recognize them.
Item 3
Attachment A February
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City of Palo Alto Page 6
Vice Chair Rohman indicated when they consulted PAST about their award categories, they had one for
people, commercial, residential and Stanford.
Boardmember Willis thought the first step would be reviewing and bringing back the possibilities from
the last 10 years and also a list of projects that they could make a more educated judgement on if they
did extend it to preservation projects that the HRB had not reviewed.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz assumed that would likely be homes that had engaged in projects they did
not review that were subject to the Historic Preservation Ordinance and were on the local register.
Mr. Switzer agreed to look into those items. He summarized his understanding to be that the next steps
would be to come before the HRB with some amended language for the bylaws and getting that
solidified for the next hearing as well as having a running list of either projects they could pull from a
report from Accela. He was hearing a 10-year cycle and they could look back at either building permits
for categories 1 – 4 to make the list.
Vice Chair Rohman wanted to add adaptive reuse. She was also hearing there was not support for
pushing the awards through this May based on what they had proposed.
Boardmember Willis did not know if pulling out 10 years of projects and reviewing and picking them was
a 1-year project. She wanted to see them start the program at the beginning with the people that got
them there. She thought in looking at the projects they had reviewed, they would learn more about
different kinds of awards. She suggesting compiling some information and looking at it as a body of work
so they could see what the possibilities would be going ahead. She advised delayed putting the language
in the ordinance or drafting the language until they had a clear idea of what the raw materials were.
Boardmember Pease thought if they went ahead this year they should not have categories and just
concentrate on one.
Boardmember Willis commented not everyone could relate to a building or two but everyone could
relate to other humans so she thought people was a good category to start with.
Boardmember Ulinskas opined there was a finite number of founders of preservation in Palo Alto and
recognizing them in the first round would kick off the awards then it would go into a more regular look
back on projects. He thought that was a good way to do it.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz wanted to look at logistics such as having a plaque, what would need to
happen on the City administrative end and if having a venue involved was realistic.
Boardmember Pease felt those were good points.
Vice Chair Rohman stated she was awaiting further conversations with the museum pending the
discussion with the Board. It had been indicated they would get that space in kind. There was a concern
about their certificate of insurance, which would be required for events. She recalled in 2022 it was
indicated on a meeting minutes report that the ARB was interested in having a ceremony which
indicated to her that potentially there was budget from the City. She suggested asking for in-kind
donations of beverages, food and venue rental.
Item 3
Attachment A February
13, 2025 Draft HRB
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Packet Pg. 25
City of Palo Alto Page 7
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz was not sure they would be allowed to accept those donations.
Mr. Switzer thought this was realistically a large ask. It was a short timeline to get everything gathered
together and awarded. He explained why he believed 2026 was a more realistic timeline.
Vice Chair Rohman was not worried about the logistics of said award ceremony or event as she was
well-versed in putting things together quickly. She thought the contingencies on City budget, bylaws and
guidelines was a real timeline they needed to be aware of. She summarized the two issues on the docket
being support of the proposed first year awards being awarded to the people of preservation or
preservation leaders in Palo Alto and when to start the awards.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz’s preference was to do it really well in 2026 and then move to a 5-year
cadence.
Boardmember Willis’ perspective was that even if they wait it would still be practice and their first
attempt. She pointed out that a short timeframe would be a good excuse if it was not perfect. She did
not think it needed to be fancy and that they could get some minor donations. The one thing they would
like the City to do was put their seal on the awards.
Boardmember Pease opined waiting a year was reasonable.
Mr. Switzer suggested doing a straw poll of the interests of these items.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz mentioned her thoughts against awarding to people without the opportunity
for community input in the way they hoped to engage.
Vice Chair Rohman also had that thought as the community choice award was mentioned and the
names they had come up with had been in concert with PAST but perhaps not with PAHA, Stanford and
a general consensus of Palo Alto more broadly.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz asked if these folks had been recipients of past awards.
Boardmember Willis did not believe they had been recipients of past awards.
Vice Chair Rohman understood there was not a consensus from this Board on who or what they should
be awarding and that it should be done this May. She thought the Board appreciated the bias for action
but also thought it was important to have the full support of the HRB when doing these awards. She did
not feel comfortable moving forward without the consensus of the HRB.
Boardmember Willis offered to send resumes for the people that were being proposed for awards. She
felt that was a solid place for them to start and since it would not be their traditional format, they would
not be setting a precedent. She remarked that barging ahead was the best course.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz agreed there was not a consensus and wondered if it should be re-agendized.
Vice Chair Rohman was in support of re-agendizing the item. The actions she recorded were proposed
some amended language of the bylaws, recalculate for possibly starting in 2026 and examining
resources with the City planners to see what resources are available. She believed they could re-propose
Item 3
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13, 2025 Draft HRB
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City of Palo Alto Page 8
the people of preservation in addition to projects. She thought that was an ongoing discussion so they
did not have the consensus to do this in 2025.
Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz was interested in recognizing small projects as a category.
Approval of Minutes
4. Approval of Historic Resources Board Draft Minutes of November 14, 2024
MOTION: Chair Eagleston-Cieslewicz moved to approve the minutes from the November 14, 2024,
meeting. This was seconded by Boardmember Willis.
VOTE: The motion carried 5-0 by voice vote.
Announcements
Vice Chair Rohman announced Boardmember Willis and she toured the museum in early December. The
museum governing body had taken ownership of it. The opening was TBD pending an executive director
who could curate exhibits. She also announced that the Menlo Forward Group would be having a joint
Palo Alto-Menlo Park community meeting on February 22 about the project at 80 Willow Road. She
would send the flyer to Mr. Switzer to be distributed.
Boardmember Willis mentioned a book written by Bo Crane with different walking tours through Palo
Alto, pictures and historic ads.
Adjournment
Adjourned at 9:58 a.m.
Item 3
Attachment A February
13, 2025 Draft HRB
Minutes
Packet Pg. 27