Agenda - 03-03-2015 - 5a - Laserfiche WebLink

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the SHPO's evaluation that the White Cross School was worthy of consideration for local landmark designation. The HPC voted unanimously to request a joint public hearing with the BOCC, as required by Section 3.7 of the Historic Preservation Ordinance. Built in 1933, the White Cross School is one of only three brick consolidated schools to survive in rural Orange County. The property consists of the 1933 brick school, built in the Colonial Revival style, along with the cafeteria wing added in 1948. Both portions retain a high degree of architectural integrity, with most of its original historic exterior and interior features still preserved. The White Cross School played a pivotal role in the social and cultural life of lower Bingham Township until it closed in 1961. It now serves as the home for a privately- operated preschool. This is a routine joint public hearing required by state enabling legislation and the county's Historic Preservation Ordinance. Following this joint public hearing, the BOCC and the HPC will take into consideration any public comments in preparing the final ordinance. The HPC will then return the final version of the proposed ordinance back to the BOCC for the Board's consideration and adoption this spring. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this public hearing. Should the Board adopt the proposed ordinance designating the White Cross School as a Local Landmark, the owner of the property would be eligible for a 50- percent property tax deferral. A detailed breakdown will be provided with the materials for that meeting. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board: 1) open a joint public hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission to receive public comment on the draft designation ordinance for the White Cross School, 2) close the public hearing; and 3) refer the draft designation ordinance back to the Historic Preservation Commission for its final review and recommendation.