Historic Resources Committee
Historic Resources Committee
Fri, April 10, 2026
Agenda items
Vote records
Discussion summary
Transcript
Agenda items (55)
Procedural (55)
1ProceduralHow do we deal with requests? (In the past these requests went to Council.)
The committee discusses how to handle requests for honoring individuals that traditionally went directly to City Council.
2ProceduralApproval of the Agenda Removed the update from Beloved Cville since E. Shillue was not present.
The agenda is approved with one item removed because a staff member was not present to discuss it.
3ProceduralMeeting Minutes February 2026 [Attached to this agenda.] Motion: Mr. Bergen. Second: Ms. Pola. Agenda and minutes approved unanimously.
The committee approves the February 2026 meeting minutes without changes.
4ProceduralPublic Comment* [10:10, 5 minutes] Gennie Keller – Pending demolition of 314 9th St., in Fifeville. A Preservation Piedmont board member is taking photographs of the property for documentation purposes. There was a newspaper article about the gentleman who once lived there; he retired from Railway Express and was a resident for 38 years. Currently owned by Ronald McDonald House.
A resident expresses concern about the pending demolition of a historic home at 314 9th Street in Fifeville, which was occupied for 38 years by a Railway Express retiree and is currently owned by Ronald McDonald House.
5ProceduralDowntown Mall 50th Anniversary 2026 [10:15, 15 minutes]
The committee discusses plans for celebrating the Downtown Mall's 50th anniversary in 2026.
6ProceduralGeneral update – L. Pola & D. Berry
L. Pola and D. Berry will provide a general update on committee activities.
7ProceduralACHS [10:40, 10 minutes]
The committee receives updates from Albemarle County Historical Society.
8ProceduralUpdate – E. Shillue
E. Shillue will provide an update on committee activities.
9ProceduralLiberty Bell Replica [10:55; 10 minutes]
The committee discusses the replica Liberty Bell displayed in Charlottesville.
10ProceduralUpdate – O. Brown
O. Brown will provide an update on committee activities.
11ProceduralNeighborhood Walking Tours - BPAC [11:25, 5 minutes]
The committee and local partners plan a series of neighborhood walking tours throughout 2026, with dates and leaders assigned for each.
12ProceduralAnniversaries of Note [11:30, 20 minutes]
The committee discusses important anniversaries to mark, including the 10th anniversary of the 2017 events in Charlottesville.
13ProceduralStaff Discussion [11:50, 10 minutes]
Staff provides updates on upcoming projects and initiatives.
14ProceduralFunding item/allocation 10.DHR Stewardship – Swan Tavern Collection [11:05, 5 minutes]
The committee will decide whether to provide funding to cover DHR stewardship costs for the Swan Tavern collection.
15ProceduralFunding item/allocation 11.Monticello Historical Marker [11:10, 5 minutes]
The committee will discuss a funding request related to a Monticello historical marker.
16ProceduralUpdate from B. Bergen
B. Bergen will provide an update on committee activities.
18ProceduralUpdates and discussion HRC Agenda – April 10, 2026 (3.31.26) 1
The committee will review and prepare for the Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for April 10, 2026.
20ProceduralReview March discussion (see minutes, policy attached)
The committee will review a policy discussion from the previous meeting using the meeting minutes and attached policy.
21ProceduralReview revised policy (Staff memo to be circulated at April meeting.)
The committee will review a revised policy that staff will circulate at the April meeting.
23ProceduralApril – UVA North Grounds
A neighborhood walking tour of UVA North Grounds is scheduled for April.
24ProceduralMay – Rose Hill
A neighborhood walking tour of Rose Hill is scheduled for May.
25ProceduralJune - Locust Grove (J. Trompetter)
A neighborhood walking tour of Locust Grove is scheduled for June, led by J. Trompetter.
26ProceduralJuly - Lewis Mountain (B. Bergen)
A neighborhood walking tour of Lewis Mountain is scheduled for July, led by B. Bergen.
27ProceduralSeptember - Martha Jefferson & Little High (volunteer needed)
A neighborhood walking tour of Martha Jefferson and Little High is scheduled for September, and a volunteer is needed to lead it.
28ProceduralOctober - Barracks Rd/Rugby (L. Pola)
A neighborhood walking tour of Barracks Road and Rugby is scheduled for October, led by L. Pola.
29ProceduralDecember – Belmont
A neighborhood walking tour of Belmont is scheduled for December.
31ProceduralReview of March discussion (see minutes)
The committee will review a discussion from the March meeting using the meeting minutes.
32ProceduralScoping the documentation effort (10th Anniversary of 2017)
The committee will plan the scope of work for documenting the 10th anniversary of the 2017 events in Charlottesville.
34ProceduralEducation
This describes educational activities as one method the Historic Preservation Commission uses to fulfill its mission.
35ProceduralPublic commemoration (historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals and ceremonies)
This describes public commemoration methods like historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals as ways the Historic Preservation Commission fulfills its mission.
36ProceduralPublications (maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media)
This describes publications such as maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media as tools the Historic Preservation Commission uses.
37ProceduralPublic meetings (planning sessions, workshops, and lectures)
This describes public meetings including planning sessions, workshops, and lectures as methods the Historic Preservation Commission uses.
38ProceduralAnd through other means. * Regarding public comment(s). The HRC values community participation and input and welcomes public comments at meetings. At the beginning of each meeting, not more than 10 minutes will be allowed for the introduction of any guests and public comments. Speakers may speak for a maximum of two-minutes and shall begin by identifying their name and address. The intent is to allow public input; not initiate a dialogue or debate with the committee. Subsequent to this meeting segment, by majority approval the HRC may amend the agenda to allow further discussion; however, the motion should also establish a time limit for that discussion. Additionally, prior to adjourning--and applying the conditions above--the HRC may allow a period not to exceed five minutes for public comment. **Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangements to participate in the public meeting may call the ADA Coordinator at (434) 970-3182 or submit a request via email to ada@charlottesville.gov . The City of Charlottesville requests that you provide a 48 hour notice so that proper arrangements may be made. HRC Agenda – April 10, 2026 (3.31.26) 2
The Historic Preservation Commission may use other means beyond education, commemoration, publications, and public meetings to accomplish its goals.
44ProceduralGeneral update – L. Pola & D. Berry D. Berry worked a table in the lobby of the Paramount during a show and collected 25 responses. Total submissions now in the 50’s. HRC sub-committee to do first round of review of the collected stories, then come to HRC in April to select which recollections to feature. O. Brown suggests we coordinate with Friends of Downtown to ensure we are coordinating together on selection of photos and content. (No overlaps, no repetition.) FOC creating panels for all 6 kiosks, one for each decade w/ sponsor content on one side. Selection of photographs will depend on recollections featured (locations, reference point, names, etc.) -HRC requests quote for kiosk, so group can approve spending the $$. [Staff sent cost via email December 2025 = $250-300 per panel.] Staff will place this item on next Agenda. Lucy and Denny will have a count of the signs required. -FOC funds allocation, add to the next meeting.
The committee is creating kiosks for the Downtown Mall's 50th anniversary featuring historical recollections and photographs from six decades, with planning underway for panel costs ($250-300 each), photo selection, and coordination with community partners.
46ProceduralUpdate – E. Shillue HRC Agenda – March 13, 2026 (2.27.26) 1
Staff provides information about the agenda for the next HRC meeting scheduled for March 13, 2026.
48ProceduralUpdate – O. Brown There was a large turnout for the last Preservation lecture. More than 50 attended despite the yucky weather. Reminder the lectures are available online (recording). Beloved Community will discuss their virtual tours in an upcoming lecture– scheduled in May TBD. Reminder Fighting for Freedom series continues. Next lecture is April 16, 2026 at 6PM 1st Day of April ACHS will launch new Walking Tours. Rack cards are in development to publicize each tour offered. (Route and photos, w/ room for sponsorship on each rack card.) O. Brown: Does the HRC want to sponsor a tour? 2026 season $1,000 for 1 $1500 for 2 $2000 for all 3 tours HRC members discussed supporting sponsorship of all three tour rack cards; all agreed is it directly aligned with the committee’s mission statement. The group identified the necessity of either using the existing HRC logo, or crafting a new one. J. Trompetter moved to initiate this funding request, to be placed on the next HRC meeting agenda for a vote in support of funding all 3 tour rack cards.
The committee hears about upcoming preservation lectures and walking tours, and votes to sponsor all three ACHS walking tour rack cards for $2,000 in support of the 2026 season.
50ProceduralUpdate from B. Bergen Bill attended the County’s last Historic Preservation Committee meeting. Notes from that discussion: Premier spot for a historical marker- one of their members said they would not support removing the marker even if it’s inaccurate. Monticello (Thomas Jefferson Foundation) itself had no issue with its removal and will assist on new marker if/when it comes about. Since the County’s preservation group had not met since June 2025, O. Brown suggested members were apprehensive to make any decisions. O. Brown, as ex officio, will email Chris Taggert (Albemarle County) with Bill Bergen’s fact sheet so it can be sent out to their members again.
County preservation officials are hesitant to remove the Monticello historical marker despite potential inaccuracies, but Monticello itself is willing to help create a new one if needed.
52ProceduralUpdates and discussion B. Bergen reviewed previous discussions and the primary question before the HRC- is the current best and highest use for replica, and does its inaccessible location make sense? HRC Agenda – March 13, 2026 (2.27.26) 2 The next step will be to contact the Fire Chief to discuss.
The committee examines whether the Liberty Bell replica is being used effectively in its current inaccessible location and plans to contact the Fire Chief for next steps.
54ProceduralReview of February meeting discussion
The committee discusses topics from the February meeting.
56ProceduralPolicy review/summary
The committee reviews a policy regarding the honorary street naming process.
57ProceduralDiscussion/Questions The group reviewed J. Basic’s email for her opinion and guidance. Consensus was that the group has no way to evaluate for understanding of needs currently. Group discussed moving forward to develop a policy. Q: From O. Brown: Oct. 2020- Council deferred this responsibility to HRC. Then the HRC seemed to give it back to Council. Is that correct? Staff J. Werner provided an overview of where things currently stand: J. Frease has been asked to evaluate the current Honorary Street Naming process, part of Public Art program which is coming before Council this spring. The City Manager’s office recognizes they need a new policy that includes historic research and references/citations, which they hope the HRC will provide and act in advisory capacity. The process will be ironed out, with one step in the process being HRC can/will make recommendations up the ladder. At the moment, nothing is being asked by HRC- but the committee should be prepared to comment in future. Group consensus - Policy on research is important to establish. Q: From O. Brown- Two “things” correct? Honorary Naming, and Renaming of streets? Staff: Yes, for example, the HRC was not involved in the renaming of Preston Ave. Staff has worked hard so the HRC would not be involved. The Committee discussed the 2020 policy recommendation to Council and determined to revise to prep a new recommendation. Discussion: Policy on Research- how is it done and how is it presented? The two policies (Research & Honoring Individuals) are related.
The committee clarifies its role in reviewing requests to honor individuals and rename streets, and agrees that a clear policy on historical research standards is needed before moving forward.
61ProceduralNext walk is this Sunday, March 8th through The Meadows. [Meet at Best Buy bike rack at 10AM]
A walking tour of The Meadows neighborhood is scheduled for Sunday, March 8th at 10 AM, meeting at the Best Buy bike rack.
62ProceduralJune - Locust Grove (J. Trompetter)
A walking tour of Locust Grove is planned for June, led by J. Trompetter.
63ProceduralJuly - Lewis Mountain (B. Bergen)
A walking tour of Lewis Mountain is planned for July, led by B. Bergen.
64ProceduralSeptember - Martha Jefferson & Little High (volunteer still needed)
A walking tour of Martha Jefferson and Little High neighborhoods is planned for September, but a volunteer leader is still needed.
65ProceduralOctober - Barracks Rd/Rugby (L. Pola)
A walking tour of Barracks Road and Rugby is planned for October, led by L. Pola.
66ProceduralDecember – Belmont [D. Berry volunteered] BPAC staff T. Safranek inquired if HRC would like to volunteer at RiverFest to talk about the history of the Rivanna. (May 9th) The group determined they are not the best experts. G.Keller- noted that the Rivanna banks are now a threatened landscape due to transmission lines, development and encampments. Blue Trails or ACHS is perhaps a better source of support at RiverFest.
A walking tour of Belmont is planned for December, led by D. Berry, and the committee declines an invitation to volunteer at RiverFest, suggesting other organizations would be better qualified.
68ProceduralSharing of ideas and discussion
The committee shares ideas about how to commemorate significant anniversaries.
69Procedural10th Anniversary of 2017
The committee focuses on the 10th anniversary of the 2017 events in Charlottesville.
70Procedural4th St. scene is iconic.
The committee notes that 4th Street contains iconic imagery related to the 2017 events.
71ProceduralEvents unfolded in a sequence at the library, at the park, at Court Square.
The committee identifies multiple locations—the library, parks, and Court Square—where significant events unfolded in 2017.
72ProceduralWe have a responsibility to document these scenes. Q: What is the Jefferson Center planning for this anniversary (assuming they will be planning a program/event)? O. Brown: ACHS is the archive, and has donated items related to these events, already coordinating with researchers. Documentation from HRC will support ACHS’s record being built. Document also where the Unite the Right members were from (“not Charlottesville!”). The group discussed how the safety of this town has been questioned because of wrong assumptions regarding the people involved. Cultural landscape study for 4th Street? We should cover more area than that…. Start in the Garage. Parade Route, Parks…? Library of Congress collected photographs after the event. ACHS is willing to act as repository should HRC collect similar artifacts. HRC Agenda – March 13, 2026 (2.27.26) 4 HRC should come up with a scope of work on this identification/pulling together of resources, and plan for the appendix to the NRHP form… Perhaps one approach is to view the 2017 event as a battle. Document it as such. Define scope of work by starting a conversation. G. Keller made good points on the perceived statement. The group recommends keeping the dialogue open to begin scoping the documentation effort.
The committee plans to document the 2017 events through photographs and artifacts, coordinating with the Albemarle County Historical Society as repository, and will develop a scope of work to define what areas and stories to include.
74ProceduralPreservation Fair – May 5th
A Preservation Fair is scheduled for May 5th.
75ProceduralMall 50th Anniversary plaque Economic development would like something to unveil on July 3rd- 25th anniversary plaque is on granite by Central Place Fountain.
The committee plans to create a plaque marking the Downtown Mall's 50th anniversary, with the unveiling planned for July 3rd.
76ProceduralUpdate on Community Meeting - IPP process for 801 West Street Family history: Henry Martin (Great-great Grandfather) The owner’s mother was a teacher at The Jefferson School. Item going to Planning Commission in May, to Council sometime over the summer. Swan Tavern update on collection going to DHR. $14,000 estimate cost. Will the HRC give funds to help cover the stewardship fee? J. Werner may ask the committee in April – official funds request. Complexity of Design Guidelines Update: Staff received directions to update surveys and descriptions first- Freshen up these characterizations and sub-areas, before tackling code conflicts.
The committee discusses plans for documenting the family history of 801 West Street (Henry Martin property) and may be asked to fund conservation work on the Swan Tavern collection being transferred to the Department of Historic Resources.