DRAFT Ordinance 23-168: Chapter 23, Article 7- Overlay District, Division 3- Historic Overlay District

Amendments proposed to the Historic Overlay District are relatively minor. Most of the amendments are meant to simply clean up language, remove vagueness and to add capitalization where needed to be consistent with other Code sections. Staff has also modified reference to providing incentives for the upkeep and rehabilitation of older structures as a purpose and function of the Historic Overlay District, adding option to “encourage” rehabilitation efforts through alternative means in Sect. 23-7.3.1(b)(3). During review, staff noted that the Zoning Administrator has been identified throughout the Historic Overlay District as chief point of contact involving Historic District applications as well as for the maintenance of an inventory of buildings and structures within the overlay district. Traditionally within Spotsylvania County this has been a function of the Planning Department and the Planning Director who also coordinates Historic Overlay District reviews with the Historic Preservation Commission.  As a result, staff has drafted an amendment to redirect Historic Overlay District review and processes to the Planning Director. Virginia Code reference is proposed to be corrected in Sect. 23-7.3.2 and added to Sect. 23-7.3.5.