Means To Preserve Historic Buildings Are Sought By City

Carolanne Sudderth

Mirror Staff Writer

   Librarians, historians, and members of the Landmarks Commission, Architectural Review Board the Community Gardens joined residents to develop means of preserving Santa Monica’s historic structures at a Historic Preservation Workshop at the Main Street Library on Tuesday, June 27. 
   According to the City press release, "the Historic Preservation Element will demonstrate the City’s commitment to identify, appreciate, and maintain its historic and cultural resources."
   Several neighborhood groups have consistently objected to the demolition of historic structure because new owners choose to build a larger house on the site. 
   At Tuesday’s meeting, participants explored incentives to encourage preservation.
   It has been frequently alleged that it is more expensive to restore an old structure than to demolish it and start anew. Participants explored incentives that might encourage property owners to preserve rather than raze historic buildings. 
   Librarian Cynni Murphy pointed out that the Mills Act allows an owner of an historic structure a property tax reduction, if it is designated a "structure of merit" and is maintained and/or restored as such. 
   Landmarks Commissioner Ruth Ann Lehrer suggested the city hire a restoration architect who could offer free advice to people interested in restoration, and help them "shepherd it through" the process. 
   Describing herself as a realtor specializing in fixer-up properties, ARB member Alison St. Onge said it was important to realize that some historic properties are beyond saving, such as the 100-year-old "shotgun" house at 2712 Second Street. Local groups fought to save it from the wrecking ball, but now, no one seems to know quite what should be done with it. There is talk of moving it off-site, but no one has come up with a location. In the meantime, the house has been figuratively "sitting on its hands", as has its owner. who, she said, "has been in limbo for over a year." 
   It was suggested that prospective buyers of old buildings be advised of the Landmarks process before they purchase, as many of them seem surprised to learn they need the Landmark Commission’s okay before a vintage structure can be torn down. 
   After input from residents is gathered, the Historic Preservation Element will be sent to the Planning Commission, and then, the City Council. If approved, it will become part of the city’s "General Plan," the document which addresses all aspects of development in Santa Monica, from traffic to open space. 
   The third Historic Preservation Workshop will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday July 20 at the Ken Edwards Center at 1527 Fourth Street. As always, the public is encouraged to attend. Further information can be obtained by calling Donna Jerex at 458-8341.