- Historic Resources Board
Historic Resources Board - November 14, 2024
Palo Alto’s historic board outlined tentative May 2026 preservation awards and heard of a label change that could affect about 1,500 parcel reports.
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Board outlines tentative May 2026 preservation awards
The Historic Resources Board agreed on a general framework for developing a preservation awards program but took no formal vote. Under the tentative plan, the city would explore recognizing eligible projects completed through the end of 2025, with awards presented in May 2026 during National Preservation Month.
Several details remain unresolved, including the initial eligibility period, award categories and criteria, and how to avoid duplicating an existing local preservation organization’s awards. The board discussed a possible five-year cycle that could be staggered with Architectural Review Board design awards, while staff suggested considering projects completed during the previous 10 to 20 years for the first round.
Caroline Willis supported using 2025 for study and outreach and called for early coordination with the preservation organization. The board formed a two-member ad hoc committee consisting of Willis and Samantha Rohman to handle that coordination and report back at the first meeting in January.
Staff and the board will continue developing eligibility rules, timing, recognition formats, website content and a potential bylaw amendment. Options discussed included City Council proclamations, a City Hall lobby display and online recognition.
Palo Alto may remove potentially eligible label from 1,500 parcel reports
MacArthur Park, Palo Alto, CA
Staff told the board that approximately 1,500 unevaluated properties could have the potentially eligible historic-status label removed from their parcel reports. The City Council had received a report on the change, which is expected to come forward in the new year; the Historic Resources Board took no action on it.
The label originated with surveys conducted between 1998 and 2000. Staff said the change would not affect designated properties, previously evaluated category 1 through 4 properties, properties in preservation districts or contributing structures.
Board Chair Alisa Eagleston-Cieslewicz sought clarification about which properties would be affected and expressed concern that the board had not received advance notice of the City Council report. Staff clarified the proposal’s scope and said the report would be distributed after the meeting.
Primary sources
Watch the meeting on YouTube · Read the official meeting packet