Conservation District/UARB Expansion Discussion Request
(Please post your comments for amendements to this letter here)
Dear Mr. Safford:
Design review was initiated under the University Area Review Board (UARB) in the University Area in 1991 within the defined “impact area.” Six years ago the University Area Commission welcomed the expansion of the UARB’s jurisdiction to include all of High Street within the area and other commercial properties within the impact area. This expansion increased to about 60%, excluding historic districts, the portion of the University Area that is covered by design review. Shortly thereafter, the UAC requested (letter attached) the further expansion of design review within the University Area to include all of the area not so included at that time. The UAC then convened an ad hoc committee to study and make recommendations regarding the best approach for the expansion. Those recommendations (attached) were made in May, 2003 but a lack of available staff in the planning division prevented the intended preparation of draft legislation that could then be reviewed by stakeholders. In October, 2006, the UAC again took action (letter attached) to reaffirm its request for the further expansion of design review in the area.
The UAC supports the recently enacted Conservation District concept and believes that this approach is a positive step for
Columbus and should be considered for application within the University Area along with other design review concepts. The UAC would support the selection of a University Area neighborhood as a Model Conservation District provided that such a selection can be compatible with an overall design review strategy for the area. The UAC feels it is important to eliminate confusion over where design review applies within the area by developing a concept that will encompass the entire University Area and protect it from inappropriate development and modifications of structures.
Therefore, the University Area Commission hereby again requests that discussions be initiated with city staff to explore the options for expansion of design review in the University Area leading to an agreed upon approach that will provide the many benefits of design review to the entire area.
Please contact Commissioner Ron Hupman to arrange discussions of this matter.
Sincerely,
University Area Commission
Ian MacConnell, President
Attachments
cc Vince Papsidero, Planning Administrator
April 1st, 2008 at 17:02
Looks good to me.
There is a meeting tonight (April 1) at Holy Name Church being held by Old North Preservation Society to discuss areas for Conservation District consideration. 7-8:00pm.