Res 2026-017 Approving the City of San Marcos Historic Preservation Plan

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CITY STAFF & RESOURCES FINDINGS 4 1. Historic preservation work is primarily carried out by the City Historic Preservation Officer (HPO). 2. Implementing the recommendations of this plan will require increasing demands on City staff time to manage the historic preservation program. 3. City funding available for historic preservation programs is unpredictable. SOLUTIONS 1. Consider drafting a hiring plan to address the need to carry out the goals of the Historic Preservation Plan. The hiring plan should consider the need for additional City staff positions, like a City Archaeologist. 2. Consider retaining a qualified cultural resources firm or group of firms with staff through an indefinite deliverable contract, so the HPO can outsource certain services on an on -call basis, including archaeology. 4. Data regarding the volume and types 3. Consider allocating funding in the City budget of permits granted relating to historic to the historic preservation program that can be preservation is not readily available to used for surveys, educational programs, events, the public. and other initiatives. 5. "Value as a visible or archaeological reminder" of heritage and "significant archaeological value" are criteria for local designation, but the City is not currently equipped to evaluate archaeological significance. 6. Many organizations and individuals are not fully aware of available preservation programs or need additional guidance. 4. Offer a seasonal internship to Texas State students interested in archaeology, architecture, history, and cultural studies to contribute to the City's initiatives. 5. Evaluate the number of COAs and building permits (demolitions, relocations, etc.) for historic -age buildings processed by the City and the HPC each year and analyze for trends (e.g. whether they are primarily residential or commercial or are concentrated in certain neighborhoods.) 6. Establish a proactive communication process between the City and other governmental entities when they are considering disposal of surplus property that may have historic value. 7. Explore adding archaeological review to the predevelopment process for projects located in areas with known or high potential for archaeological resources. 8. Offer preservation program orientation sessions or small workshops in the community's languages to help organizations and individuals learn key preservation terms, align projects with City goals, and prepare strong applications. 120 SAN MARCOS HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN (2026)