Historic Preservation Advisory Committee

The Ashland Historic Committee was established in the early 1970s to survey and recommend to the City Council, areas or properties of significant historical value and interest to be designated historical properties; to draft and recommend ordinances and other measures designed to protect and foster interest in the improvement of designated historical properties; to review literature and sources of funding concerning the protection and improvement of designated historic properties; to review and make recommendations concerning the improvement of designated historic properties in connection with the issuance of building permits, zone changes, conditional use permits, variances, sign permits and site reviews; to review and recommend project applications for funding; to promote public support in the preservation of Ashland's historic past; and to advise citizens on aesthetic standards for historic areas.

The purpose of historic districts is to maintain the City's links with the past and encourage the restoration and rehabilitation of the City's old homes and commercial structures. These old buildings represent the aspirations and attainments of past eras. These material links with the City's history preserve the character of the City and avoid the sameness and standardization that can contribute to a feeling of rootlessness and a lack of sense of place in many cities.