Role of Neighborhood Associations
Neighborhood associations are an important resource within Historical and Architectural Preservation Districts. Neighborhoods play an advisory role in the Design Review process, advocate for important projects in their districts, and assist in reporting unpermitted work. Some neighborhood associations have created architectural review committees (ARCs) that are authorized to act on behalf of the neighborhood association. Not all neighborhood associations have an ARC, and the role and review procedures of ARCs differ from district to district. CHAP does not regulate or oversee how these committees are formed or conduct business. Contact information for the ARCs is provided to CHAP by the neighborhood associations and is placed on the Application for Authorization to Proceed.
The role of the neighborhood association is to provide information and insight on proposed projects from the neighborhood perspective. Staff will notify the neighborhood associations and other interested parties, regarding major projects affecting City Landmarks and City-Owned buildings. Neighborhood associations play an advisory role in the review process by reviewing applications regarding exterior changes and providing written comments. Only the Commission and the CHAP staff can approve any applications. It is not necessary for an applicant to obtain approval from the neighborhood association in order to move forward with the CHAP Design Review process. The neighborhood association should apply the Design Guidelines to applications it reviews. Representatives of the neighborhood association are also encouraged to testify at public hearings.
Neighborhood association comments are an important part of the review of any application. A public hearing on an application will not be scheduled until CHAP staff has notified the neighborhood association of its project. Comments of the neighborhood association will be considered.