A proposal to form an Historic Preservation Commission for Eagle River was presented recently by the city's Historical Society to the city council which requested they return with specific ordinance language and locations for possible historic designation.
While letters of support were presented from various civic groups such as the Chamber of Commerce and Main Street program, the letters specified their support was as long “there would be no impact on private property rights” and “as long as they were not required to meet storefront design standards.”
While Trees for Tomorrow was identified as having historic designation, "Trees" Director Robin Ginner said there are implications for personal property rights and they did not support an Historic Commission at this time.
City Administrator Joe Laux said a landmarks commission can include property after a public hearing and the only way to reverse it would be by petition to the city council. Several council members felt it would be another layer of government and requested the Historical Society come back with specific ordinance language.
