Town of Emmitsburg
300A S. Seton Ave Emmitsburg, Maryland
21727
301-600-6300

Resolution 2012-04R

A Resolution to Adopt
Architectural Guidelines
in Emmitsburg's Historic District
 

  

WHEREAS, the architectural integrity of Emmitsburg is one of the foundations of its community character, and a reflection of its history; and

WHEREAS, on March 10, 1992, Emmitsburg’s Historic District was published on the National Register of Historic Places by the United State Department of the Interior; and

WHEREAS, the 2009 Emmitsburg Comprehensive Plan update states that “the historic structures and the nature of Main Street are the most important elements in the town center character”; and

WHEREAS, the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area Management Plan is incorporated, by reference, in the 2009 Emmitsburg Comprehensive Plan, and one of the goals for the Heritage Area is to “encourage stewardship of historic sites and buildings and efforts to retain the historical character of the towns…as the region prospers.”  Further, the Plan describes Emmitsburg’s downtown as “made up of intact historic buildings.  Overall, the collective effect is that of a cohesive nineteenth century village with walkable streets.”  And

WHEREAS, there exists a document entitled “Town of Emmitsburg Architectural Guidelines,” prepared by a local retired architect, which describes the architectural character of Emmitsburg primarily within the National Historic district, and how to maintain the important features that contribute to that character; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners desires to provide guidance to historic building owners, the Town Planning Commission, and potential new businesses regarding the importance of maintaining the integrity of Main Street and the historic district in Emmitsburg; and

WHEREAS, the Board desires to provide guidance to potential new construction, outside of the Historic District, regarding compatible architectural style, and provide information for the Planning Commission to utilize in reviewing projects; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the Architectural Guidelines document and this resolution at a meeting on February 27, 2012, and recommended adoption of the resolution.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Emmitsburg that on the 19th day of March, 2012, after providing an opportunity for public input, that the “Town of Emmitsburg Architectural Guidelines” be adopted as a document to help guide new development, renovation, and repairs within the Historic District, as well as in other areas of the town.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect on the date on which the Mayor approves the Resolution after passing by the Board of Commissioners or on the date on which the Board of Commissioners pass the Resolution over the veto of the Mayor.

ADOPTED this 19th day of March, 2012, by a vote of 4 for, 1 against, 0 absent, and 0 abstain.

ATTEST:                                                       

Vickie Felix, Recording Secretary

Christopher Staiger, President

Emmitsburg Board of Commissioners

Donald N. Briggs, Mayor