HomeMy WebLinkAbout01122023 Historic Preservation Meeting PacketSeward Historic Preservati
Commission A
k
January 12, 2023
Regular Meeting
City Council Chambers following worksession
n
The City of Seward, Alaska
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA 6
0
January 12. 2023
Tanguy Libbrecht
Chair
Term Expires May, 2023
Sue Ward
Vice Chair
Term Expires May, 2023
Vacant
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2023
Mary Ann Benoit
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2024
Dona Walker
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2024
Art LeMaster
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2023
Vacant
Commissioner
Term Expires May, 2022
Stephen Sowell
Assistant City Manager
Bailey Sayler
Library Museum Director
Brenda Ballou
City Clerk
Immediately Followingg Work Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OFALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
Council Chambers
4. CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT
THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLIC HEARING [Those
who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited to 3
minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.]
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA [Approval of
Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*). Consent
Agenda items are not considered separately unless a commission member so
requests. In the event of such a request, the item is returned to the Regular
Agenda]
6. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS
A. Proclamations and Awards — None
B. City Administration Report
C. Chair Report
D. Other Reports and Announcements [Reports must be submitted to the
city clerk no later than noon on the Tuesday preceding the Monday meeting
for inclusion in the packet. Five (5) minutes speaking time will be allowed for
each report.]
1. Report on Historic Preservation Facebook Page. Pg. 4
2.
E. Presentations — None
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Agenda
January 12, 2023 Page I
7. NEW BUSINESS
A. Resolutions
1. Resolution 2023-001, A Resolution Of The Seward Historic Preservation Pg 29
Commission 2023-2024 Priorities
B. Other New Business Items
* 1. Approve the November 11, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes.
Pg 32
8. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS [No Action Required]
1. 2023 Historic Preservation Priorities
2. 2023 Historic Preservation Meeting & Work Session Schedule
9. CITIZEN COMMENTS
10. COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSES TO
CITIZEN COMMENTS
It. ADJOURNMENT
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Agenda
January 12, 2023 Page 2
Facebook Page Report
January 2023 HPC Meeting
Mary Ann Benoit
Overview
The data below reflects Facebook activity from November 1 to December 20. We put out 7 posts related
to the historic walking tour signs and the benefits of historic preservation. The reach and visits were up
and engagement was down a bit since the previous 90 days. Our audience is primarily women and
people from Seward, although we have people checking our page from a variety of communities in
Alaska, especially Anchorage. Our audience includes people of all age groups, but mainly people over
the age of 35.
See the planned posts for January through April.
Additions from Commissioners?
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1,537
Facebook activity from November 22 to December 6 indicates the following.
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Planned Posts
Seward was born from the dream of a railroad. From
the earliest days when Frank Ballaine came to Seward
to start the town and build the Alaska Central
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Railway, the Seward Railroad Depot, constructed in
1917, was an essential part of that story. This building
- +
was moved to its current location following the
` - -
devastating flooding of Lowell Creek in 1928. The
Seward Depot, also known as the Seward Passenger
Depot, was initially built at what is now Adams Street
and Ballaine Boulevard to serve the railroad line that
ran downtown at that time. Lowell Creek originally
ran down what is now Jefferson Avenue. Before the
Corps of Engineers built the diversion dam in 1939,
Lowell Creek flooded two to three times each year,
carrying debris that would damage the town. This led
Otto F. Ohlson, General Manager of the Alaska
Railroad, who owned the depot, to decide to move
the depot to its present location. Many important
visitors passed through the Seward Depot, including
President Harding. On July 23, 1923, President
Harding greeted residents from the station before
proceeding to Nenana to drive the golden spike to
commemorate the Alaska Railroad's completion.
Other officials came through to inspect the
Government Railroad and coal fields. The 1964
Earthquake and tsunami destroyed Seward's railyard.
While the depot survived, it was no longer able to be
used for its original purpose. The depot later served
as the Marine Highway headquarters when the State
ferry Tustumena was homeported in Seward. The
Seward Depot is a good example of a hip -roofed,
Craftsman -style railroad depot. It remains one of
three surviving examples of eight depots built in
Alaska. The Seward Depot was listed in the National
Register of Historic Places in 1987.
Burning the remnants of houses that were destroyed by
Lowell Creek in the 1917 flood. Photo from the Lezlie
Wilfer Collection.
i
Demolition of one of the bridges crossing Lowell Creek
during the 1917 flood. Debris against the bridges caused
water to flood the main streets, and the bridges had to
be demolished. Photo from the Lezlie Wilfer Collection
February
Renovations often uncover clues about a house's history.
This property was originally owned by Frank Ballaine, a
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railroad man and one of Seward's founders. It may have
initially been a warehouse, with its unique southfacing
orientation that likely accommodated a loading dock.
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Clues found in the walls included Seward driver's license
#57 issued to Robert Manthey in 1926, and a letter the
same year to him and his brother. A tin advertisement for
The Commerce: A Gentleman's Resort included a 1907
±
calendar. This business closed in 1918 due to Alaska's
"Bone Dry Law." The Manthey family was quite well
known in Seward. Gustav "Gus" was a welcome addition
to Seward when he arrived in 1909, known as an expert
baseball player who played on the Valdez nines team
against Seward in 1908. Gus was a town marshal, a
baseball pitcher, a butcher, musician, and a pile driver,
who built the early wharf. Gus and Clara Manthey bought
the property in 1924 and lived there with their 4 sons:
Robert, Raymond, Edmund, and Guy. In 1964, Frank
Spadaro, a retired railroad yard foreman, lived here. On
March 27, Frank went to the harbor for lunch with his
friend Emil Elbe, a railroad conductor. Frank and Emil
were two of the 12 that died during the Great Alaska
Earthquake. The original cedar shakes were covered
during renovations, and the front porch was replaced
with modern materials that retain its historical look. The
original house, built entirely of red cedar, remains
standing. When the current owners bought the property,
they were told it was unstable and should be demolished.
Luckily, that wasn't necessary. Renovations resurrected
the historic character and brought the history of the
former residents to life by the clues they left behind.
Historic preservation preserves the historic, architectural,
and aesthetic character and heritage of a community and
I I
helps to provide a sense of place and continuity.
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The Resurrect Art Coffee House is a great example. It
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makes a connection as soon as you enter. It tugs at your
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heart, and give you a sense of awe and inclusion. This
building has connected with the community from when it
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was built as First Methodist Church in 1917 until now.
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it is an efficient use of resources and ultimate
WIIY ENCOURAGE IIISTORIC PRESERVATION?
recycling. Historic preservation conserves resources,
reduces waste, and saves money by repairing and
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reusing existing buildings instead of tearing them
down and building new ones. Seward's quonset huts
are a great example. Re -purposed after the war, they
are still in use as homes, businesses and for storage.
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IT IS AN EFFICIENT USE OF RESOURCES.
IT IS THE ULTIMATE RECYCLINGI
March
Historic preservation preserves old methods of
WIIY EV GE IISTORIC PRESERVATION'
Workmanship. Many modern buildings are built to last
a short time — 25 to 30 years. Workmanship and
building methods are often not as careful or durable as
methods used in the past, when buildings were
expected to last indefinitely. By working on historic
buildings, new generations of craftsmen learn the
techniques to improve modern buildings as well.
Consider all the stucco buildings that still stand by
locally renowned craftsman Gerhard "Stucco" Johnson.
The Swetmman house, considered a jewel of Seward
architecture, slid down and hill, tipped over and survived
IT PRESERVES OLD METHODS OF WORKMANSHIP
in one piece. It was built by as his residence in 1916. He
was famous for his beautiful and long-lasting exterior
stucco work during the early 1920s and 1930s.
His stucco is beautiful and has preserved the wood
underneath for many of our historic structures.
Historic preservation adds character and/or charm
Historic
`1'II1' Eti(.,[)LR1[�E HISTORIC PRESERVATION?
a community, and emphasizes its uniqueness. Our
old buildings make Seward unique, give Seward a lot
of character and attract tourists. We are one of the
few towns on the road system that still retains our
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historic character. Did you know that Brown and
Hawkins was the first bank and telegraph office in
Seward, and you can still see the bank sign and the
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safe in the store?
IT CAN ADD CHARACTER AND/OR CHARM TO A
COMMUNITY, AND EMPHASIZE ITS UNIQUENESS.
April
Brown & Hawkins is the oldest continuously operated
business in Seward. T.W. Hawkins came to Seward in
1903 and went into partnership with Charles E. Brown,
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building what would become a general store clothing
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w,I Pqstore,
and the Seward Commercial Club (now Sweet
III ®ell " it
Darling's). They provided provisions to pioneers
throughout the territory and became the first bank and
telegraph office in Seward and more. Brown and Hawkins
were also active in other ventures. Brown operated a
satellite store on a barge, the S.S. Bertha, at Ship Creek
and the Brown & Hawkins store in Anchorage. Hawkins
supported artist and author Rockwell Kent during his stay
on Fox Island. The Brown & Hawkins store is mentioned
several times in Kent's book Wilderness: AJournal of
Quiet Adventure in Alaska. Kent even painted a portrait of
Hawkins' daughter Virginia which can be seen in the
Seward Community Library and Museum. In 1946, ill
health forced Hawkins to lease the store to his son,
James. T.W. Hawkins died later that year, and James ran
the store for 10 years. In the 1920s, James had taken
lessons from the famous Dutch painter Jan van Empel,
who painted the unique Ascension painting at Saint
Peter's Episcopal Church. There are several of James'
original paintings upstairs in Brown & Hawkins. James
turned the store over to his sister Virginia in 1956 and left
Seward for San Francisco to pursue his dream of
becoming an artist. Under Virginia's leadership, the
buildings were recognized for their historic significance
and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Virginia was instrumental in establishing the Resurrection
Bay Historical Society in Seward. She hosted many high
school dances upstairs in the famous ballroom and was
always there for families in need of clothing, food, and
money. In 1989 Virginia passed the torch to son Hugh
Darling and his wife Iris, and they began a complete
renovation to preserve the building and restore it to its
original condition. Thanks to 100 years of family
stewardship, Seward has retained a unique glimpse into
the past carried on now by current artists and historians
Michelle and Jeff Cobble.
Historic preservation can provide an opportunity for
the imaginative or creative use of a building that has
stood empty because it outlived its previous use, and
at the same time solve a community problem.
For example, Old Solly's, which was vacant for many
years, was renovated to solve their pressing need for
space, and is now an office and visitor center for the
71
National Park Service. The building.
IT CAN PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR A CREATIVE USE OF
EMPTY BUILDING AND SOLVE A COMMUNITY PROBLEM
Historic buildings can be affordable for businesses to
WHVENCOURAGE II[STORICPRESERVATION?
rehabilitate because of the possibility of tax incentives,
grants, and other support for that activity.
9
They attract business simply because people are often
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fascinated by them.
Setting up a business in a historic building is a great way
to build a unique character for your business and attract
customers.
For example, Sweet Darling's in Brown and Hawkins is a
really fun place to get gelato with so many interesting
IT CAN BE A GOOD INVESTMENT
things to see in one of our oldest Seward buildings.
Sponsored by: Chair Libbrecht & Vice Chair Ward
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2023-001
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA APPROVING THE
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION PRIORITIES FROM
FEBRUARY 2023 TO FEBRUARY 2024
WHEREAS, the Historic Preservation Commission's responsibilities in Seward City
Code are:
2.30.425 - Powers and duties.
(a) It shall be the responsibility of the historic preservation commission to:
(1) Develop a local historic plan that will include provisions for identification, protection and
interpretation of the area's significant resources. Such a plan is to be compatible with the Alaska
Historic Preservation Plan and to produce information compatible with and for the Alaska Heritage
Resources Survey.
(2) Survey and inventory community historic architectural and archaeological resources within
the community.
(3) Review and comment to the state historic preservation officer on all proposed National
Register nominations for properties within the community area.
(4) Act in an advisory role to other officials and departments of local government regarding
the identification and protection of local historic and archaeological resources.
(5) Work toward the continuing education of citizens regarding local historic preservation and
community history.
(6) Support the enforcement of the Alaska Historic Preservation Act, AS 41.35.
(7) Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties identified in the
local historic preservation inventory.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA that:
Section 1. The Historic Preservation Commission hereby approves the following
priorities and goals from February 2022 through February 2023:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2023-001
REPORTING
• Quarterly reports to council
• Annual Certified Local Government (CLG) grant report to the State Historic
Preservation Office (February)
PUBLIC OUTREACH
• Coordinate efforts with Planning and Zoning regarding the identification and
protection of local historic and archaeological resources.
• Enhance understanding of the economic benefits of Heritage Tourism.
• Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month in May by proclamation.
• Award the Annual Seward Historic Preservation Award in May.
• Maintain the Seward Historic Preservation Commission online presence.
SEWARD HISTORIC STRUCTURES & SITES
• Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties identified
in the local historic preservation inventory.
• Update, review, and submit the Seward Inventory of Historic Sites to the Offices of
History and Archaeology according to the guidelines for the Alaska Heritage
Resources Survey, with annual review.
• Promote and continue to nominate structures and sites to Seward Local Register.
• Support the historic Hoben Park by assisting with planters and working towards
restoring its historic character.
• Engender the preservation and use of the Jesse Lee Home properties for Park use.
• Track and monitor the progress of the Fort Raymond Subdivision.
• Identify the Most Endangered Historic Properties in Seward.
SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
• Promulgate economic incentives, historical preservation and education.
• Develop historic preservation initiatives and projects.
• Advance the Historic Business District.
OTHER COMMISSION TASKS
• Generate ideas, set priorities, and submit an application for consideration, and take
action on CLG grant opportunities that stimulate knowledge of local history, heritage
tourism and cultural awareness.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2023-001
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Section 3. This resolution will be brought forward to City Council for approval.
PASSED AND APPROVED by the Historic Preservation Commission of the City of
Seward, Alaska, this 12th day of January, 2023.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Tanguy Libbrecht, Chair
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
VACANT:
ATTEST:
Brenda J. Ballou, MMC
City Clerk
(City Seal)
Sponsored by: Chair Seese & Vice Chair Ward
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2022-001
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA APPROVING THE
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION PRIORITIES FROM
FEBRUARY 2022 TO FEBRUARY 2023
WHEREAS, the Historic Preservation Commission's responsibilities in Seward City
Codeare:
2.30.425 - Powers and duties.
(a) It shall be the responsibility of the historic preservation commission to.
(1) Develop a local historic plan that will include provisions for identification, protection
and interpretation of the area's significant resources. Such a plan is to be compatible with the
Alaska Historic Preservation flan and to produce information compatible with and for the Alaska
Heritage resources Sure cy.
(2) Survey and inventory community historic architectural and archaeological resources
within the community.
(3) Review and comment to the state historic preservation officer on all proposed National
Register nominations for properties within the community area.
(4) Act in an advisory role to other o111cials and departments of local government regarding
the identification and protection of local historic and archaeological resources.
(5) Work toward the continuing education of citizens regarding local historic preservation
and community history.
(6) Support the enl6rccrnent of the Alaska Historic Preservation Act, AS 41.35.
(7) Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties identified in
the local historic preservation inventory.
WHEREAS, at its December 9, 2021 and January 13, 2022 mectings. the Historic
Preservation Commission reviewed and updated their priorities and x- oaIs 1`or 2022.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY T I I E IIISTORIC: kRESERVATION
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA that:
Section 1. The Historic Preservation Commission hereby approves the following
priorities and goals from February 2022 through February 2023:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2022-001
REPORTING
• Quarterly reports to council
• Annual Certified Local Govcrnmcnt (CLG) grant report to the State Historic
Preservation Office (Februtwo
• Coordinate c1l'Orts with Planning and Zoning regarding the identification and
protection of local historic and archaeological resources,
• Enhancc understanding of the economic henctits ol'Heritage Tourism.
• Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month in May by proclamation.
• Award the Annual Seward I Iistoric Preservation Award in May.
• Maintain the Seward Historic Preservation Commission online presence.
SEWARD HISTORIC STRUCTURES & SITES
• Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties identified
in the local historic preservation invcntorv.
• Update. review, and submit the Sc�� and Inventory of Historic Sites to the Offices of
History and :archaeology according to the guidelines for the Alaska Heritage
Resources Survey, with annual review.
• Promote and continue to nominate structures and sites to Seward Local Register.
• Support the historic Hoben Park b) assisting with planters and working towards
restoring its historic character.
• Engender the preservation and use of the .lesse Lee Home properties for Park use.
• Track and monitor the progress of the Fort Raymond Subdivision.
• Identify the Most Endangered I IIstoric Properties in Seward.
SEWARD HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
• Promulgate ccc�ncrn1ic Incentives, historical preservation and education.
• Develop historic prescry ahon initiatives and projects.
• Advance the Historic Business District.
OTHER COMMISSION TASKS
• Generate ideas, set priorities, and submit an application for consideration, and take
action on CLG grant ol)portLin itics that stimulate knowledge of local history, heritage
tourism and cultural awareness.
Alto i v1�IC PRESERVATIQN CQMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2022-001
Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
Section 3. This resolution will be brought forward to City Council for approval.
PASSE ❑ AN ❑ APPROVED by the Historic Preservation Commission of the City of
Seward, Alaska. this 286 day of January, 2022.
THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
Cheryl Se e, CVair
AY F S:
LeMaster, Ward, Benoit, Seese
N01E-S:
None
A B S E N "T:
Walker, Libbrecht
ABSTAIN:
VACANT:
None
One
ATTEST:
rends J. Ball u, MMC
City Clerk //•/.�....®
aai^ SE;k
••..� � erne
(City scill) at' PO
d
• SEAL
r
CIF
aaaaew Ilk
Chapter 41.35 Historic Preservation
Article 01. ALASKA HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT
Sec. 41.35.010. Declaration of policy.
It is the policy of the state to preserve and protect the historic, prehistoric, and archeological
resources of Alaska from loss, desecration, and destruction so that the scientific, historic, and
cultural heritage embodied in these resources may pass undiminished to future generations. To
this end, the legislature finds and declares that the historic, prehistoric, and archeological
resources of the state are properly the subject of concerted and coordinated efforts exercised on
behalf of the general welfare of the public in order that these resources may be located,
preserved, studied, exhibited, and evaluated.
Sec. 41.35.020. Title to historic, prehistoric, and archeological resources; local display.
(a) The state reserves to itself title to all historic, prehistoric, and archeological resources
situated on land owned or controlled by the state, including tideland and submerged land, and
reserves to itself the exclusive right of field archeology on state-owned or controlled land.
However, nothing in AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240 diminishes the cultural rights and responsibilities
of persons of aboriginal descent or infringes upon their right of possession and use of those
resources that may be considered of historic, prehistoric, or archeological value.
(b) Although title to historic, prehistoric, and archeological resources is in the state, local
cultural groups may obtain from the state, or retain, for study or display, artifacts and other items
of these resources from their respective cultures or areas if the commission created in AS
41.35.300 finds that
(1) the group has a durable building with weatherproof and fireproof construction and
humidity control and other factors necessary to serve as a museum which will assure safe
preservation of the items, (2) the item sought to be obtained is not one for which there is an
undue risk of damage during transportation, and (3) the item sought to be obtained or retained is
not one requiring special treatment or care beyond the ability or means of the group requesting it.
A group retaining such an item or obtaining one from the state shall house it in the museum
building and shall make every reasonable effort to assure its safe preservation. If the commission
finds that a local cultural group is not properly taking care of an item the group shall return it to
the department.
Sec. 41.35.030. Designation of monuments and historic sites.
Upon the recommendation of the commission, the governor may declare by public order any
particular historic, prehistoric, or archeological structure, deposit, site, or other object of
scientific or historic interest that is situated on land owned or controlled by the state to be a state
monument or historic site, and the governor may designate as a part of the monument or site as
much land as is considered necessary for the proper access, care, and management of the object
or site to be protected. When an object or site is situated on land held in private ownership, it
may be declared a state monument or historic site in the same manner, with the written consent
of the owner.
Sec. 41.35.040. Administration and financial support of monuments and historic sites.
State-owned monuments, sites, and other historic, prehistoric, or archeological properties owned
or purchased by the state are under the control of the department, and their maintenance shall be
covered in the appropriations made to the department. Privately owned state monuments or
historic sites are eligible to receive state support for their maintenance, restoration, and
rehabilitation if they are kept accessible to the general public and application for support is made
in conformity with regulations adopted by the commissioner.
Sec. 41.35.045. Fees for guided tours through historical sites. [Repealed, Sec. 3 ch 89 SLA
1987].
Repealed or Renumbered
Sec. 41.35.050. Regulations.
The commissioner shall adopt regulations to carry out the purposes of AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240.
Sec. 41.35.060. Power to acquire historic, prehistoric, or archeological properties.
(a) The department, with the recommendation of the commission, may acquire real and
personal properties that have statewide historic, prehistoric, or archeological significance by gift,
purchase, devise, or bequest. The department shall preserve and administer property so acquired.
The department may acquire property adjacent to the property having historic, prehistoric, or
archeological significance when it is determined to be necessary for the proper use and
administration of the significant property.
(b) If an historic, prehistoric, or archeological property which has been found by the
department, upon the recommendation of the commission, to be important for state ownership is
in danger of being sold or used so that its historic, prehistoric, or archeological value will be
destroyed or seriously impaired, or is otherwise in danger of destruction or serious impairment,
the department may establish the use of the property in a manner necessary to preserve its
historic, prehistoric, or archeological character or value. If the owner of the property does not
wish to follow the restrictions of the department, the department may acquire the property by
eminent domain under AS 09.55.240 - 09.55.460.
Sec. 41.35.070. Preservation of historic, prehistoric, and archeological resources threatened by
public construction.
(a) The department shall locate, identify, and preserve in suitable records information
regarding historic, prehistoric, and archeological sites, locations, and remains. The information
shall be submitted to the heads of the executive departments of the state.
(b) Before public construction or public improvement of any nature is undertaken by the
state, or by a governmental agency of the state or by a private person under contract with or
licensed by the state or governmental agency of the state, the department may survey the affected
area to determine if the area contains historic, prehistoric, or archeological values.
(c) If the department determines that historic, prehistoric, or archeological sites, locations, or
remains will be adversely affected by the public construction or improvement, the proposed
public construction or improvement may not be commenced until the department has performed
the necessary investigation, recording, and salvage of the site, location, or remains. All
investigation, recording, and salvage work shall be performed as expeditiously as possible so that
no state construction project will be unduly impaired, impeded, or delayed.
(d) If in the course of performing public construction or improvements, historic, prehistoric,
or archeological sites, locations, remains, or objects are discovered, the department shall be
notified and its concurrence shall be requested in continuing the construction or improvement.
Upon receipt of this notice, the department shall survey the area to determine whether the area
contains historic, prehistoric, or archeological data which should be preserved in the public
interest. The survey shall be conducted as expeditiously as possible. If, as a result of the survey,
it is determined that (1) this data exists in the area, (2) the data has exceptional historic,
prehistoric, or archeological significance, and should be collected and preserved in the public
interest, and (3) it is feasible to collect and preserve the data, the department shall perform the
necessary work to collect and preserve the data. This work shall be performed as expeditiously as
possible.
(e) If the concurrence of the department required under (b) and (c) of this section is not
obtained after 90 days from the filing of a request for its concurrence to proceed with the project,
the agency or person performing the construction or improvement may apply to the governor for
permission to proceed without that concurrence, and the governor may take the action the
governor considers best in overruling or sustaining the department.
(f) The costs of investigation, recording, and salvage of the site shall be reimbursed by the
agency sponsoring the construction project.
(g) Notwithstanding (a) - (f) of this section, all actions to stop any project shall first be
approved in writing by the commissioner.
Sec. 41.35.080. Permits.
The commissioner may issue a permit for the investigation, excavation, gathering, or removal
from the natural state, of any historic, prehistoric, or archeological resources of the state. A
permit may be issued only to persons or organizations qualified to make the investigations,
excavations, gatherings, or removals and only if the results of these authorized activities will be
made available to the general public through institutions and museums interested in
disseminating knowledge on the subjects involved. If the historic, prehistoric, or archeological
resource involved is one which is, or is located on a site which is, sacred, holy, or of religious
significance to a cultural group, the consent of that cultural group must be obtained before a
permit may be issued under this section.
Sec. 41.35.090. Notice required of private persons.
Before any construction, alteration, or improvement of any nature is undertaken on a privately
owned, officially designated state monument or historic site by any person, the person shall give
the department three months notice of intention to construct on, alter, or improve it. Before the
expiration of the three-month notification period, the department shall either begin eminent
domain proceedings under AS 41.35.060 (b) or undertake or permit the recording and salvaging
of any historic, prehistoric, or archeological information considered necessary.
Sec. 41.35.100. Excavation and removal of historic, prehistoric, or archeological remains on
private land.
Before any historic, prehistoric, or archeological remains are excavated or removed from private
land by the department, the written approval of the owner shall first be secured. When the value
of the private land is diminished by the excavation or removal, the owner of the land shall be
compensated for the loss at a monetary sum mutually agreed on by the department and the owner
or at a monetary sum set by the court.
Sec. 41.35.110. - 41.35.190. Historic sites advisory committee. [Repealed, E.O. No. 83, Sec. 20
(1993)].
Repealed or Renumbered
Sec. 41.35.200. Unlawful acts.
(a) A person may not appropriate, excavate, remove, injure, or destroy, without a permit
from the commissioner, any historic, prehistoric, or archeological resources of the state.
(b) A person may not possess, sell, buy, or transport within the state, or offer to sell, buy, or
transport within the state, historic, prehistoric, or archeological resources taken or acquired in
violation of this section or 16 U.S.C. 433.
(c) [Repealed, Sec. 3 ch 83 SLA 2001].
(d) An historic, prehistoric, or archeological resource that is taken in violation of this section
shall be seized by any person designated in AS 41.35.220 wherever found and at any time.
Objects seized may be disposed of as the commissioner determines by deposit in the proper
public depository.
Sec. 41.35.210. Criminal penalties.
A person who is convicted of violating a provision of AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240 is guilty of a
class A misdemeanor.
Sec. 41.35.215. Civil penalties.
In addition to other penalties and remedies provided by law, a person who violates a provision of
AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240 is subject to a maximum civil penalty of $100,000 for each violation.
Sec. 41.35.220. Enforcement authority.
The following persons are peace officers of the state and shall enforce AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240:
(1) an employee of the department authorized by the commissioner;
(2) a peace officer in the state;
(3) any other person authorized by the commissioner.
Sec. 41.35.230. Definitions.
In AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240, unless the context otherwise requires,
(1) "commission" means the Alaska Historical Commission established in AS 41.35.300 ;
(2) "historic, prehistoric, and archeological resources" includes deposits, structures, ruins,
sites, buildings, graves, artifacts, fossils, or other objects of antiquity which provide information
pertaining to the historical or prehistorical culture of people in the state as well as to the natural
history of the state.
Sec. 41.35.240. Short title.
AS 41.35.010 - 41.35.240 may be cited as the Alaska Historic Preservation Act.
Article 02. ALASKA HISTORICAL COMMISSION
Sec. 41.35.300. Creation.
There is created in the department the Alaska Historical Commission.
0
Sec. 41.35.310. Composition of commission.
The Alaska Historical Commission consists of the following persons:
(1) the lieutenant governor;
(2) the state liaison officer appointed under 16 U.S.C. 470-470n (P.L. 89-665, National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966);
(3) three persons with professionally relevant backgrounds appointed from each of the
following fields: history, architecture, and archeology;
(4) one person appointed to represent indigenous ethnic groups;
(5) two persons appointed from a list of recommended nominees, containing at least four
names, submitted each year by the Alaska Historical Society;
(6) one other person.
Sec. 41.35.320. Appointment of members.
Members of the commission are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the legislature
meeting in joint session. The members of the commission serve at the pleasure of the governor.
Sec. 41.35.330. Term of office.
The term of office for a member of the commission is three years, except for those who are
members by virtue of their positions with the state, who serve for as long as they remain in the
position by virtue of which they are members of the commission. Except as provided in AS
39.05.080(4), a member appointed to fill a vacancy serves for the unexpired term of the member
succeeded.
Sec. 41.35.340. Compensation.
The members of the commission serve without compensation but are entitled to per diem and
travel expenses authorized by law for other boards and commissions.
Sec. 41.35.345. Officers.
At the first meeting of each year, the commission shall elect a chair from among its members.
Sec. 41.35.347. Meetings and quorum.
The commission shall meet at least twice a year. Additional meetings may be called by the chair
or by petition of at least five members. Five members of the commission constitutes a quorum.
Sec. 41.35.350. Duties of the commission.
(a) The duties of the commission are to
(1) survey, evaluate, and catalog Alaska prehistory and history materials now in print;
(2) ascertain and register what Alaska prehistory and history work is now in progress;
(3) identify the existing gaps in the coverage of Alaska's past in presently available
published works and establish priorities for bridging them;
(4) prepare a thematic study of Alaska's history for historic preservation;
(5) identify the sources of Alaska's history;
(6) coordinate the production and publication of works that will adequately present all
aspects of Alaska's past;
(7) cooperate with the federal government in programs relating to history and archaeology;
(8) develop criteria for the evaluation of state monuments and historic sites and all real and
personal property that may be considered to be of historic, prehistoric, or archeological
significance as would justify their acquisition and ownership by the state;
(9) cooperate with the department in formulating and administering a statewide historic sites
survey under 16 U.S.C. 470-470n (P.L. 89-665, National Historic Preservation Act of 1966);
(10) review those surveys and historic preservation plans that may be required, and approve
properties for nomination to the National Register as provided for in 16 U.S.C. 470-470n (P.L.
89-665, National Historic Preservation Act of 1966);
(11) provide necessary assistance to the governor and the legislature for achieving balanced
and coordinated state policies and programs for the preservation of the state's historic,
prehistoric, and archeological resources;
(12) consult with local historical district commissions regarding the establishment of
historical districts under AS 29.55.010 - 29.55.020 and the approval of project alterations under
AS 45.98.040 ; recommend, if appropriate, the formulation of additional criteria for the
designation of historical districts under AS 29.55.020 (b); approve plans for and evaluate the
suitability of specific structures for purposes of loan eligibility and continuance under the
historical district revolving loan fund (AS 45.98); and consult with the Department of
Commerce, Community, and Economic Development relative to the adoption of regulations for
historical district loans under AS 45.98;
(13) determine the correct and most appropriate names of the lakes, streams, places, and
other geographic features in the state and their spelling;
(14) pass upon and give names to lakes, streams, places, and other geographic features in the
state for which no single generally acceptable name has been in use;
(15) cooperate with local subdivisions of government and, with their approval, change the
names of lakes, streams, places, and other geographic features to eliminate duplication of names
in the state;
(16) prepare and publish an official state dictionary of geographic names and publish it for
sale, either as a complete whole or in parts when ready; and
(17) serve as the state representatives of the United States Board on Geographic Names and
cooperate with that board so that there is no conflict between the state and federal designations of
geographic features in the state.
(b) In carrying out its duties to name geographic features under this section, the commission
shall consider using Alaska Native place names for geographic features in the state that have not
previously been named, using Native language writing systems accepted by the Alaska Native
Language Center of the University of Alaska at Fairbanks.
(c) When the commission gives a name to a lake, stream, place, or other geographic feature
in the state, the name is the official name of the geographic feature and shall be used in all maps,
records, documents, and other publications issued by the state or its departments and political
subdivisions.
(d) A person may not attempt to modify local usage or name an unnamed geographic feature
in an advertisement or publication without first obtaining the approval of the commission. If a
person violates this section, the commission shall promptly announce its disapproval and shall
adopt an official name for the feature.
Sec. 41.35.360. Reports. [Repealed, Sec. 35 ch 126 SLA 1994].
Repealed or Renumbered
Sec. 41.35.370. Executive director. [Repealed, E.O. No. 83 Sec. 20 (1993)].
Repealed or Renumbered
Sec. 41.35.375. Powers of chairman.
Subject to available appropriations, the chair may, with the concurrence of a majority of the
commission, employ necessary personnel and may contract for the services of experts and other
persons who may be needed.
Sec. 41.35.380. Gifts and income.
(a) There is established in the state general fund a special Alaska Historical Commission
receipts account into which shall be paid:
(1) all monetary gifts, grants, and bequests received by the commission;
(2) all royalties and other income that the commission receives from its projects.
(b) The legislature may appropriate funds from this account for commission projects.
Chapter 41.37. CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMISSION ON FEDERAL AREAS IN ALASKA
Sec. 41.37.010. - 41.37.150. Citizens' Advisory Commission on Federal Areas in Alaska.
[Repealed, Sec. 3 ch. 81 SLA 1981, as amended by Sec. I ch. 25 SLA 1988 and Sec. I ch. 71 SLA
1998].
Repealed or Renumbered
Sec. 41.37.160. Citizens' Advisory Commission on Federal Management Areas in Alaska.
The Citizens' Advisory Commission on Federal Management Areas in Alaska is established in
the department. In the exercise of its responsibilities, the commission shall consider the views of
citizens of the state and officials of the state.
Sec. 41.37.170. Membership and officers.
(a) The commission is composed of 12 members appointed in accordance with this section.
(b) The membership of the commission shall represent each region of the state to give the
commission a reasonable geographic balance among regions of the state.
(c) The governor shall appoint six members of the commission.
(d) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint one member of the commission
from the membership of the state house of representatives and two members who are residents of
the state who are not legislators.
(e) The president of the senate shall appoint one member of the commission from the
membership of the state senate and two members who are residents of the state who are not
legislators.
(f) Each member of the commission serves at the pleasure of the appointing authority.
(g) The commission shall select a presiding officer of the commission from its membership.
The commission may elect other officers.
Sec. 41.37.180. Qualifications of members.
The members of the commission appointed by the governor under AS 41.37.170(c) and members
appointed under AS 41.37.170 (d) and (e) who are not members of the legislature shall be
representative of the diversity of users and uses of federal land in the state.
Sec. 41.37.190. Term of members of the commission.
(a) A member of the commission appointed by the governor serves for a term of four years
or until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(b) A member of the commission appointed from the legislature serves for the person's term
of office as a legislator or until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(c) Except as provided in (b) of this section, a member of the commission appointed by the
speaker of the house of representatives or president of the senate serves for four years or until a
successor is appointed and qualifies.
Sec. 41.37.200. Compensation, expenses, and per diem.
(a) A member of the commission who is a legislator or a full-time employee of the state or
of a municipality of the state shall suffer no loss of compensation from the state or a municipality
of the state as a result of service to the commission.
(b) A member of the commission is entitled to per diem and travel expenses authorized for
boards and commissions under AS 39.20.180.
Sec. 41.37.210. Staff of the commission.
The commission may employ staff and contract for services relating to matters within its
authority. Staff employed under this section are responsible to the commission.
Sec. 41.37.220. Duties of the commission.
(a) The commission shall consider, research, and hold hearings on the consistency with
federal law and congressional intent on management, operation, planning, development, and
additions to federal management areas in the state.
(b) The commission shall consider, research, and hold hearings on the effect of federal
regulations and federal management decisions on the people of the state.
(c) The commission may, after consideration of the public policy concerns under (a) and (b)
of this section, make a recommendation on the concerns identified under (a) and (b) of this
section to an agency of the state or to the agency of the United States that manages federal land
in the state.
(d) The commission shall consider the views, research, and reports of advisory groups
established by it under AS 41.37.230 as well as the views, research, and reports of individuals
and other groups in the state.
(e) The commission shall establish internal procedures for the management of the
responsibilities granted to it under this chapter.
(f) The commission shall report annually to the governor and the legislature within the first
10 days of a regular legislative session.
(g) The commission shall cooperate with each department or agency of the state or with a
state board or commission in the fulfillment of its duties.
(h) All hearings of the commission are subject to AS 44.62.310 . Hearings of the
commission held under this section shall be noticed as provided in AS 44.62.190 and 44.62.200,
and the hearings shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of AS 44.62.210 .
Article 4. Historic Preservation Commission
Article 4. Historic Preservation Commission
2.30.410 Established.
(a) An historic preservation commission is hereby created, consisting of seven residents of the City of Seward or
surrounding areas, who shall be appointed by the council. If there is more than one applicant for the
position, the council shall appoint by ballot voting. Applicants must receive at least four votes in order to be
appointed. No officer or employee of the city may be appointed a member of the commission.
(b) To the extent available in the community, three commission members shall be professionals, as defined in
Appendix A of 36CFR 61, from the disciplines of history, architecture or architectural history and
archaeology. If the commissioners are not professionals in the disciplines of history, architecture or
architectural history, and archaeology, then consultants in these disciplines will be appointed as consultants
to the historic preservation commission. Consultant appointments shall be approved by the historic
preservation commission and must be qualified under the standards defined in Appendix A of 36 CFR 61.
(c) A chairman of the commission shall be selected annually by the appointed members.
(Ord. 94-04; Ord. 2000-13, § 3, 2000)
2.30.415 Terms of office; filling vacancies.
(a) Members of the historic preservation commission shall be appointed for a term of three years, provided that
the terms of initial appointments shall be staggered so that as nearly as possible a pro rata number of
members shall be appointed for each year.
(b) The city council, may appoint any qualified person to fill a vacancy of any member of the board provided that
the appointment shall be for the unexpired term of the vacancy.
(c) Following a member's absence from three consecutive regular meetings of the commission, the remaining
commission members shall decide whether the commission member should be retained or whether to
request council appointment of a new member.
(Ord. 94-04; Ord. 2000-13, § 3, 2000)
2.30.420 Meetings and quorum.
(a) The commission will meet at least twice each year at a time and place to be designated by the commission.
(b) Four members of the commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, except that, in
the absence of a quorum, any number less than a quorum may adjourn the meeting to a later date. The
affirmative votes of at least a majority of those commission members present shall be required for any
action.
(c) All meetings and records of the commission shall be open to the public. The commission shall keep minutes
of proceedings showing the vote of each member upon each question and shall keep records of any actions,
all of which shall be immediately filed in the office of the city clerk and shall be a public record.
(Ord. 94-04)
Seward, Alaska, Code of Ordinances
(Supp. No. 25-1, Update 3)
Created: 2022-12-16 15:15:40 [EST]
Page 1 of 2
2.30.425 Powers and duties.
(a) It shall be the responsibility of the historic preservation commission to:
(1) Develop a local historic plan that will include provisions for identification, protection and interpretation
of the area's significant resources. Such a plan is to be compatible with the Alaska Historic Preservation
Plan and to produce information compatible with and for the Alaska Heritage Resources Survey.
(2) Survey and inventory community historic architectural and archaeological resources within the
community.
(3) Review and comment to the state historic preservation officer on all proposed National Register
nominations for properties within the community area.
(4) Act in an advisory role to other officials and departments of local government regarding the
identification and protection of local historic and archaeological resources.
(5) Work toward the continuing education of citizens regarding local historic preservation and community
history.
(6) Support the enforcement of the Alaska Historic Preservation Act, AS 41.35.
(7) Review local projects and recommendations about the effect on properties identified in the local
historic preservation inventory.
(b) The commission shall have no authority to expend or commit city funds without first obtaining approval by
and any necessary appropriations from the city council.
(Ord. 94-04)
(Supp. No. 25-1, Update 3)
Created: 2022-12-16 15:15:40 [EST]
Page 2 of 2
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes
November 10, 2022 Volume, Page
CALL TO ORDER
The November 10, 2022 regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called
to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Tanguy Libbrecht.
OPENING CEREMONY
Mary Ann Benoit led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Tanguy Libbrecht presiding and
Sue Ward Mary Ann Benoit
Dona Walker Art LeMaster
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Bailey Sayler, Library Museum Director
Kris Peck, Deputy City Clerk
Excused — None
Absent — None
Vacant — Two
CITIZEN COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR
PUBLIC HEARING
Cheryl Seese, inside city limits, spoke of a recent Historic Preservation award she had
received, as well as the timeframe to decline a nomination for such an award. She thanked everyone
on the commission for their service to the community.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Motion (Libbrecht/Ward)
Motion Passed
Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Unanimous
The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items:
Approval of the October 13, 2022 Historic Preservation Regular Meeting Minutes.
SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS AND REPORTS
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes
November 10, 2022 Volume, Page
Proclamations & Awards — None
Chair Report
Libbrecht thanked Commissioner Ward for her work on the 2023 Historic Preservation
Meeting schedule.
Other Reports and Announcements
Report on Historic Preservation Facebook Page.
Benoit reported their most recent Facebook posts focused on the St. Peter's Episcopal Church
and heritage tourism.
Report on Certified Local Government (CLG) Grant 20005.
Benoit said that a digital version of the walking tour map was available by scanning a widow
decal QR code with a smart phone. There was currently one window decal located at the Chamber of
Commerce. The Seward Community Library & Museum would have their window decal posted
within the next few days. The availability of the digital walker tour map would reduce the overall
usage of the printed maps.
Report on USS Alaska
LeMaster provided a laydown on the USS Alaska Submarine memorial concept. Navy
veterans of the submarine had expressed interest in a memorial plaza located in Seward. LeMaster
intended to keep Historic Preservation in the loop on any future ideas forthe project. LeMaster noted
the submarine was still in active service and it could be 15-20 years before decommissioned sections
of the submarine would become available. The conning tower of the submarine was the most ideal
piece and would require a 60 x 60 square foot space to be displayed. Libbrecht responded that it
seemed reasonable for Historic Preservation to keep the project on their radar.
Library Museum Director Bailey Sayler added that she was also working with the veterans
of the USS Alaska to feature a small-scale model of the submarine inside the Seward Community
Library.
Presentations — None
NEW BUSINESS
Other New Business Items
Possible proposal for helping write a grant for St. Peter's Episcopal Church
City of Seward, Alaska Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes
November 10, 2022 Volume, Page
Chair Libbrecht said he would be happy to assist St. Peter's Episcopal Church in applying for
any available grants to maintain the building. He felt St. Peter's Church was an important historic
building to the Seward community.
LeMaster said he had talked with the church wardens and planned to get together to discuss
applying for grants. He would volunteer his time separate from Historic Preservation and said he
would keep the commission in the loop with updates.
2023 Historic Preservation Commission Priorities & Meeting Schedule
Motion (Ward/Benoit) Approve of 2023 Historic Preservation
Commission Priorities & Meeting Schedule
Libbrecht said the Historic Preservation Commission wanted to have four meetings a year
with each meeting preceded by a work session. The meetings would be held on the second Thursday
in January, April, August and November.
Motion Passed
Unanimous
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS — None
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Cheryl Seese, inside city limits, said the nationwide Episcopal Church organization had a lot
of funds for repairing historic churches and she would look into it as a citizen. She suggested the
USS Alaska Memorial be incorporated into the existing Mariner's Memorial on the South Harbor
Uplands. Seese would also like to see a Jesse Lee Home memorial that told the full story of the
building and its inhabitants.
COMMISSION AND ADMINISTRATION COMMENTS & RESPONSE TO CITIZEN
COMMENTS
Benoit appreciated the citizen comments and thanked to the new chair and vice chair for the
meeting.
Libbrecht also appreciated the citizen comments. He hoped the commission could fill the
two vacant seats and also keep the workload reasonable.
Ward said she would work with Baily Sayler to clean up the 2023 Historic Preservation
schedule and correct some minor errors and typos.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:41 p.m.
City of Seward, Alaska
Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Minutes
November 10, 2022 Volume, Page
Kris Peck
Deputy City Clerk
(City Seal)
Tanguy Libbrecht
Chair