May 12, 2023 |
Photo – 1962 photo of Wolf Hotel – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s Planning Commission is considering joining the preservation-based economic development program Rawlins has used to restore in its downtown area.
During Tuesday’s planning commission meeting, Chairwoman McCall Burau said she has been exploring the idea of creating a new zoning ordinance. Burau said the regulation could be a way to safeguard the appearance of the historic buildings on Bridge Street. Burau said a foundation called Main Street America may be able to help with preserving the original buildings. Burau said the City of Rawlins used the same organization to form its Downtown Development Authority.
Burau said she spoke to the Executive Director of the Rawlins DDA Pam Thayer. Burau said Thayer described the four ways Main Street America helps communities that join the program.
According to its website, Main Street America focuses on revitalizing downtown areas in ways that respect history and culture, but also support their economy and community. Burau said the organization could help the town meet some of the goals of the 2016 Comprehensive Master Plan.
Burau said if the town agrees to join the program, the community will play a role in determining what assistance Main Street America would provide. The organization would work with the public to tailor a plan meant to attract new business and preserve the character of the town.
Burau said joining Main Street America isn’t free. However, the planning commission chairwoman said membership has many benefits.
Burau said partnering with Main Street America would allow the town to grow. Planning commission member Nancy Ford said she’s personally seen how unregulated growth can erase the character of a small town.
Burau said the planning commission doesn’t have the authority to join Main Street America on its own. The chairwoman suggested updating the comprehensive master plan to include protections for the town’s historic buildings.
During the discussion, Bryan Drake, the owner of Triple D Construction, suggested the planning commission ask if Main Street America would provide funding to update the fire suppression systems in the historic buildings. Drake said the town is one errant spark away from losing the structures the planning commission is trying to protect.
