Historic Preservation Commission FAQ

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WHAT DOES THE MISHAWAKA HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION DO?

• Works with Neighborhoods to Create Historic Districts and Preservation Guidelines
• Helps Homeowners Protect and Preserve their Properties
• Provides Free Professional Advice
• Creates public enthusiasm for the protection of the unique character of the community’s past and present for the future

WHAT IS A HISTORIC DISTRICT?

A historic district is a geographically definable area with a significant concentration of buildings, structures, sites, spaces, and objects unified by past events, physical development, design, setting, materials, workmanship, a sense of cohesiveness, or related historic association.

The purpose of a historic district is to protect and preserve the historic character and value of a neighborhood or area.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A HISTORIC DISTRICT?

• Increased Property Values
• Protects Residential Character of Neighborhood
• Prevention of Unnecessary Demolition
• Guards against Intrusion of Incompatible New Construction

WHAT DOES LOCAL DESIGNATION MEAN TO ME AS A PROPERTY OWNER?

Can I make changes to my property?
Yes. As an owner of a property within a historic district, any proposed exterior changes other than regular maintenance requires a Certificate of Appropriateness. The Historic Preservation Commission reviews changes involved with the exterior of the property only.

What is a certificate of appropriateness (COA)?
A COA is an application that is available in the Mishawaka Planning Department, which requests approval for proposed exterior changes. A COA should be submitted to the Planning Department at least 10 days before the monthly meeting. Commission meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month.

When will a decision be made?
The Commission reviews COA applications at their regular monthly meeting. In some cases, a special meeting can be organized, or staff can approve some work to help expedite the process. The Commission, based on the adopted design guidelines for the district, will make its decision.

The Commission, along with the Plan Department Staff, will be happy to provide assistance as you plan for your project.

HOW DO I ESTABLISH A HISTORIC DISTRICT OR LANDMARK?

Contact any member of the Mishawaka Historic Preservation Commission or the City of Mishawaka Building, Community Development, or Planning Departments to find out more about local historic districts / landmarks and ways to begin recognizing and protecting your historic neighborhood.