LPC Watch

The Hip Roof rating system evaluates decisions made by the LPC for being consistent, fair and transparent.  Scores are given on a 1-10 scale for each of the following criteria:

1. Did they follow city code?
2. Did they discuss relevant information pertaining to the house?
3. How “true” were the facts discussed?
4. Did they take into account needs of the homeowners?
5. Did they make any needless threats to the homeowners?

Suggestions to improve transparency and consistency:

1. Have a checklist to evaluate whether a home is eligible for landmark status.  The standards are broad, making it possible for virtually any property over 50 years old “eligible.”  Instead, rank each standard on a 1-10 scale, so homeowners know why the decision was made.  If a proposed project makes the home no longer eligible, this should also be explained and ranked.

• Make this immediately available to homeowners

Clarify the “neighborhood input” need.

• How much “support” is necessary?  Should people not be able to build because their neighbors don’t like them?  Should every project require a petition to pass?
• How many complaints and of what sort would lead to a reasonable delay of a project?
• What should be done to mediate problems?

Make the board more balanced.

• Someone with a landmarked home should be on the board.
• Someone representing homeowners interests should be on the board.

Is there an “approved aesthetic” for old homes?  Are second story additions “never allowed?”  Can you not….

1. These decisions should be written down as much as possible to avoid homeowner confusion.

Can non-landmarked homes be treated as if they were?