§ 62-3. Purpose and intent.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to identify, evaluate, recognize, preserve and protect significant historic and archaeological resources by:

(1)

Creating a historic preservation board with the power and duty to effectively administer this chapter.

(2)

Empowering the historic preservation board to certify designation of individual properties (including buildings, structures, sites and objects) and groups of properties (districts) as historically significant using the criteria established in this chapter.

(3)

Protecting the integrity of historic resources by requiring the issuance of certificates of appropriateness and certificates to excavate before allowing alterations, removal or disturbance of designated resources.

(4)

Encouraging historic preservation by providing technical assistance and incentives.

(5)

Managing the historic resources owned and/or operated by the county in a manner consistent with the county comprehensive plan and policy maintained by the Florida department of state, division of historical resources.

(b)

Intent. The intent of this chapter is to promote the general health, safety and welfare of the public by:

(1)

Stabilizing and improving property values through the rehabilitation of individual properties and the revitalization of older residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.

(2)

Creating and implementing cultural and educational programs that will foster a better understanding of the county's heritage.

(3)

Promoting the county's historic resources for enjoyment of the citizens of the county and as an attraction to tourists and visitors which in turn will have a positive impact on the economy.

(4)

Providing to the scientific community intact resources in which to study past human behavior and lifestyles.

(5)

Obtaining certified local government status pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, 16 USC 470.

(Ord. No. 91-34, § II, 12-19-91)