Historic Resources Committee
Historic Resources Committee
Fri, February 13, 2026
Agenda items
Vote records
Discussion summary
Transcript
Agenda items (101)
Procedural (101)
1ProceduralCall to order [10:00]
The meeting will be called to order at 10:00 AM.
2ProceduralApproval of the Agenda
Council members will review and vote to approve the agenda for this meeting.
3ProceduralMeeting Minutes December 2025 & January 2026 [Attached to this agenda.]
Council will review and approve the official meeting minutes from December 2025 and January 2026.
4ProceduralPublic Comment* [10:10, 5 minutes]
A five-minute public comment period allows residents to address the Historic Resources Committee.
5ProceduralDowntown Mall 50th Anniversary 2026 [10:15, 15 minutes]
The city will discuss 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 to the council.
7ProceduralReview of Historical Surveys [10:35, 5 minutes]
The commission will review historical surveys related to local properties or sites.
8ProceduralUpdate – E. Shillue
E. Shillue will provide an update to the council.
9ProceduralLiberty Bell [11:15, 10 minutes]
The commission discusses Charlottesville's Liberty Bell and how it is currently used by a local Boy Scout troop to ring on the Fourth of July.
10ProceduralUpdate – O. Brown
O. Brown will provide an update to the council.
11ProceduralStaff Discussion [11:45, 10 minutes]
Staff will lead a brief discussion lasting approximately 10 minutes at 11:45 AM.
12ProceduralDiscussion and update
Council will discuss and provide updates on relevant matters.
13ProceduralNaming Requests [11:50, 10 minutes]
The committee will review and consider naming requests for streets, buildings, or other city features.
14ProceduralNew project follow-up
Council will follow up on new projects and their progress.
15ProceduralAnnouncements [12:10, 5 minutes]
Announcements of general interest to the committee will be shared.
16ProceduralHonorary streets
Council will consider designating honorary street names to recognize community members.
17ProceduralResearch and citations
Staff will present research and citations to support community recognition efforts.
18ProceduralHRC policy review
The council will review policies for the Human Rights Commission (HRC).
20ProceduralFebruary - Johnson Village (J. Basic completed flyer)
A walking tour of Johnson Village is scheduled for February, with a completed flyer prepared by J. Basic.
21ProceduralMarch - The Meadows HRC Agenda – February 13, 2026 (2.4.26) 1
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the March meeting, which focuses on The Meadows neighborhood.
22ProceduralJune - Locust Grove
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the June meeting, which focuses on the Locust Grove area.
23ProceduralJuly - Lewis Mountain
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the July meeting, which focuses on Lewis Mountain.
24ProceduralSeptember - Martha Jefferson & Little High
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the September meeting, which focuses on Martha Jefferson and Little High neighborhoods.
25ProceduralOctober - Barracks Rd/Rugby
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the October meeting, which focuses on the Barracks Road and Rugby area.
26ProceduralDecember - Belmont
The Historic Resources Committee will review its agenda for the December meeting, which focuses on the Belmont neighborhood.
28ProceduralADC District Guidelines
The committee will discuss guidelines for the Architectural Design Commission (ADC) districts.
29ProceduralPreservation Plan
The committee will review the Historic Preservation Plan.
30ProceduralAppeals update
Staff will provide an update on recent appeals related to historic preservation.
31ProceduralAdditional staff notes
Staff will share additional notes or information relevant to the meeting.
33ProceduralEducation
The committee will discuss educational initiatives and programs.
34ProceduralPublic commemoration (historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals and ceremonies)
The committee will address public commemoration efforts, including historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic events.
35ProceduralPublications (maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media)
The committee will discuss publications such as maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media about Charlottesville's historic resources.
36ProceduralPublic meetings (planning sessions, workshops, and lectures)
The committee will plan public meetings, workshops, and lectures to engage the community.
37ProceduralAnd 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 – February 13, 2026 (2.4.26) 2
This item outlines the public comment policy and accessibility accommodations for meetings, allowing up to 10 minutes for public input at the start and end of meetings, with individual speakers limited to two minutes.
43ProceduralUpdate from E. Shillue Elizabeth Shilue provides an update on Beloved Cville, details: Google Earth tour of sites in Charlottesville. Includes videos about the sites. [6 yr. project] Attended a professional development day with Albemarle County schools for classroom enrichment for students. Launched a new project – new documentary film about Sarah Kelley, accomplished citizen from 10th & Page. A film by ‘Field Studio’ = Hannah Ayres.
Elizabeth Shilue updates the commission on Beloved Cville's progress, including a six-year Google Earth tour project showcasing local sites, a new documentary film about Sarah Kelley directed by Hannah Ayres, and professional development work with Albemarle County schools.
45ProceduralJoint ACHS Lecture Series
The commission discusses a joint lecture series with the Albemarle County Historical Society.
46ProceduralMary Hemings – Sponsor request for historical marker 40 people attended December’s Lecture. Recycle notes from November’s minutes as this is the same update. Early Feb. next lecture date re: Jordie Leandro. Venue TBD. HRC Minutes – December 12, 2025 (1.7) 1 ACHS program series 8 parts to go along with VA250 “Fighting for Freedom” Jan. 22nd Hamilton Jefferson debate. Center at Belvedere - look for tickets Monday the 22nd. February panel of descendant organizations. Mary Hemmings chapter of DAR would like to have a memorial or marker/honorary feature for Mary Hemmings in Charlottesville. Suggestions: Bring something formally to the HRC.
The Mary Hemings chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is requesting that the Historical Records Commission help move forward with creating a memorial or historical marker honoring Mary Hemings in Charlottesville as part of Virginia's 250th anniversary celebration.
48ProceduralChair check-in Review to continue in February 2026.
The commission chair provides a brief update, with a full review scheduled to continue in February 2026.
50ProceduralProgress update – L. Pola, D. Berry & H. Keller Minimal survey responses currently. [25 so far] Access only through Google- Google form was chosen as it allows photo uploads. Suggest removing the photos link so anyone can respond without registering for a Google account. Can add line if wanting to send photographs send to “preservation@charlottesville.gov” The Center has approved to send the survey out via their newsletter. The Paramount has approved HRC to distribute the survey prior to performances. Idea for presentation of survey results and promotion: vinyl decals displayed on the Mall floor to advertise/promote events. Staff requested Communication team post the survey on their social media accounts and do a press release. Posting occurred in late December. Timeline of the Mall, installation: Spring to Fall. Kiosks- exhibiting specific content geared toward the 250 celebration. Olivia Brown to write the content. Ideas on how to get this lift accomplished? Contact Chris Engle about tri-paneled signs repurposed- J. Werner to reach out to C. Engle.
Project leaders report on survey efforts to gather public input for the Downtown Mall 50th anniversary project, noting low response rates so far and discussing ways to increase participation through the Paramount theater and community center outreach.
52ProceduralDiscussion of this undervalued resource in Charlottesville Review of council decision 1980; Currently the local Boy Scout Troop rings the bell each 4th of July.
Staff will review a 1980 city council decision regarding the Liberty Bell to better understand and possibly increase recognition of this local historical resource.
54ProceduralEvaluation of options re: correction
Staff will evaluate different options for correcting the Monticello marker.
55ProceduralInformation from DHR The Albemarle County preservation committee did not meet in November so there was no opportunity to discuss this topic.
The Department of Historic Resources provides information about the Monticello marker issue; the Albemarle County preservation committee did not meet in November to discuss this matter.
57ProceduralDistributions of additional maps, if necessary
Staff will determine whether additional printed maps need to be distributed beyond the initial production run.
58Procedural“Business card” mock-ups to review HRC Minutes – December 12, 2025 (1.7) 2
Commission members review mock-ups of business card-sized versions of the Downtown Walking Tour map for feedback.
59ProceduralHRC webpage content needed Updates to be completed after the January HRC meeting.
The commission needs to update content on the Historical Records Commission webpage, with updates to be completed after this January meeting.
61ProceduralDecember – review/update from D. Berry (N. Downtown)
D. Berry will provide a December update and review on developments in the North Downtown area.
62Procedural2026 monthly route itinerary Project on-going. Please consider volunteering your time to join a walk.
The 2026 monthly route itinerary project is ongoing, and the committee is seeking volunteers to join walking tours.
64ProceduralDiscussion on drafting a process
The committee will discuss and begin developing a formal process for handling future business.
65ProceduralCLG example Tabled until after the new year.
A discussion about the CLG example has been postponed and will resume after the new year.
67ProceduralStaff questions/discussion Proposed IPP – 801 West Street o Update on Design Guidelines revision process o Priority areas; top concerns?
The committee will discuss a proposed Interior Preservation Plan for 801 West Street, receive an update on revisions to the Design Guidelines, and identify top priority areas and concerns.
69ProceduralUpcoming items of interest to HRC.
The committee will discuss upcoming items and projects of interest to the Historic Resources Committee.
70ProceduralLink to LAXART exhibit No discussion as the meeting adjourned promptly at 12 noon.
Information about the LAXART exhibit will be shared; no discussion occurred as the meeting ended at noon.
72ProceduralEducation
The Historic Resources Committee supports educational programs and initiatives in the community.
73ProceduralPublic commemoration (historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals and ceremonies)
The committee promotes public commemoration through historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals and ceremonies.
74ProceduralPublications (maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media)
The committee produces educational publications including maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media about local history.
75ProceduralPublic meetings (planning sessions, workshops, and lectures)
The committee hosts public meetings such as planning sessions, workshops, and lectures to engage the community.
76ProceduralAnd 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 Minutes – December 12, 2025 (1.7) 3
Public comment guidelines explain how residents can participate: up to 10 minutes for guest introductions and comments at the meeting start, with individual speakers limited to 2 minutes; people with disabilities can request accommodations by contacting the ADA Coordinator.
79ProceduralHRC welcomed new member Jen Trompetter
The Historic Resources Committee welcomed Jen Trompetter as a new member.
80ProceduralCurrent HRC members whose terms expire June 2026: Bill Bergen; Jen Trompetter; Caden Martz; Lucy Pola; Jalane Schmidt; and Richard Guy Wilson Link to Clerk of Council for questions about re-applying for HRC o (Maxicella Robinson)
Six committee members—Bill Bergen, Jen Trompetter, Caden Martz, Lucy Pola, Jalane Schmidt, and Richard Guy Wilson—have terms expiring in June 2026 and can contact the Clerk of Council if interested in reapplying.
81ProceduralHRC would like to plan a field trip to the ACHS basement
The Historic Resources Committee wants to organize a field trip to tour the Albemarle County Historical Society's basement collection.
82ProceduralAmong the other links to resources in this email, always refer to the JMRL "Local
Staff recommends referencing the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library's local resources when sharing information with residents and stakeholders.
83ProceduralO. Brown notes that ACHS has a great repository of local history references and she is happy to help HRC find resources for BPAC walk fliers, architectural survey reviews, etc.
Albemarle County Historical Society staff member O. Brown is offering to help the Historic Resources Committee locate materials for projects like the Black Precincts and African American Communities walking tour fliers and architectural surveys.
84ProceduralCity Intern S. Kim is organizing and creating an archival system for the City's historic materials, including hard copy documents, and is digitizing files from the Assessor’s
City intern S. Kim is building an organized filing system and digitizing the City's historic documents held by the Assessor's office and other departments.
85ProceduralAzalea Park property (the New Roots/IRC Garden) was purchased by the City
The City has purchased Azalea Park, which is currently home to the New Roots and IRC community garden.
86ProceduralUndocumented cemetery located at Azalea Dr. and Garden Dr.
An unmarked cemetery has been discovered at the corner of Azalea Drive and Garden Drive.
87ProceduralJ. Werner asks if anyone has historical information about property near Longwood Drive
J. Werner is seeking historical information about a property located near Longwood Drive.
90ProceduralNoted that building demolitions seem to be picking up; could HRC use the ca. 1877 Gray's Map to help identify which features are still extant from that period [and thus in need of additional protections?] i. Can we "condition" these properties [with code protections] before they come up for demolition?
The committee discussed using an 1877 map to identify historic structures still standing today and whether code protections can be applied to properties before demolition permits are approved.
91ProceduralCould HRC begin to identify physical sites associated with 20th'century civil rights leaders? Is Beloved Cville and/or Jefferson Center already doing this?
The Historic Resources Committee is considering whether to identify and document physical sites connected to 20th-century civil rights leaders, and whether other local organizations are already doing this work.
92ProceduralCould HRC put effort toward placing National Register plaques at various historic districts?
The committee is exploring the possibility of placing National Register plaques in various historic districts around Charlottesville.
93ProceduralBelieves there should be incentives and grants available [to promote] historic preservation
A committee member is advocating for financial incentives and grants to encourage property owners to preserve historic buildings.
94ProceduralFeels that the City should have some obligation to update historic registers and architectural surveys to reflect monuments and statuary that were removed
A committee member believes the City should update its historic registers and architectural surveys to document removed monuments and statuary.
95ProceduralAsks if Westhaven can be documented [as it is an historic resource that will be demolished soon due to impending redevelopment i. J. Werner noted that it was reviewed in the 1990s via interns supervised by M.J. Scala; it is also listed as part of the 10th & Page Preliminary Information
The committee is discussing whether to document Westhaven, a historic property facing imminent demolition due to redevelopment plans.
96ProceduralPreservation Virginia will be sponsoring their annual Legislative Reception on January 29th
Preservation Virginia is hosting its annual Legislative Reception on January 29th, which committee members are encouraged to attend.
98ProceduralGeneral update – L. Pola & D. Berry Everyone should be actively pushing out the survey to obtain more responses. Very few responses have come in at this time (35). Here is the document with the questions for printing out. Here is the google form with the option to submit photos. Here is the spreadsheet where the responses will populate. Access the spreadsheet with the brainstormed locations of where to solicit stories.
Staff is urging committee members to promote a community survey collecting stories about Charlottesville's history, noting that only 35 responses have been received so far.
100ProceduralO. Brown reminded us about the Jody Lahendro lecture concerning Black Churches; ACHS will be collaborating with Beloved Cville; there may be a late-summer lecture about the award-winning addition to Beth Israel
A lecture about historically significant Black churches is being organized by the Albemarle County Historical Society and Beloved Cville, with a possible additional summer lecture about Beth Israel's new addition.
101ProceduralLiberty Bell – J. Werner noted that the Fire Station will be making changes to their parking lot and therefore addressing the Liberty Bell will be a priority; there are Halprin Chairs at the firehouse; the bell is still rung every 4th of July by local Boy Scouts.
The Fire Station's parking lot renovation is moving forward, making it timely to address the historic Liberty Bell and Halprin Chairs currently at the firehouse, which is rung by local Boy Scouts each 4th of July.
102ProceduralMonticello Marker - on hold until Albemarle County historic committee meets
A decision on the Monticello Marker project is on hold pending a meeting with the Albemarle County historic committee.
103ProceduralSwan Tavern - tabled until decision is made about artifacts
Work on the Swan Tavern project is paused until the city determines what to do with historical artifacts associated with the site.
104Procedural2406 Hillwood was an error; no projects or work related to this house. This was likely added as an example of mid-century architecture
The 2406 Hillwood property was mistakenly added to the agenda as an example of mid-century architecture, but there are no actual projects or preservation work planned for this house.
105ProceduralMusic History is being undertaken by ACHS; HRC will support as needed
The Albemarle County Historical Society is leading a music history project, and the Historic Resources Committee will provide support as needed.
106ProceduralCville Parks & Recreation History may evolve into HRC support for Pen Park evaluation support Gregg Bleam's 1997 City as a Park document offers a comprehensive history of o City Parks but it is out of date
Parks & Recreation history work may develop into a project where the Historic Resources Committee helps evaluate Pen Park, building on a 1997 comprehensive parks history document that is now outdated.
107ProceduralVinegar Hill Park project never fully materialized as it was envisioned several years ago 2020 HRC members replied to City Council that they supported the effort but the o expense was more than HRC could afford HRC may support but should hold off until we are asked to comment o
The Vinegar Hill Park project stalled years ago when proposed costs exceeded the Historic Resources Committee's budget, though the committee remains willing to support efforts if asked in the future.
108ProceduralSwords to Plowshares is currently working with City Parks & Rec to visit parks and determine options for placing monuments and statuary HRC may support but should hold off until we are asked to comment o
Swords to Plowshares is partnering with City Parks & Recreation to explore options for placing monuments and statuary in Charlottesville parks, and the Historic Resources Committee will consider supporting the effort if asked.
109ProceduralLegacy of Enslaved People at Court Square is still evolving possibly via Parks & Rec HRC may support but should hold off until we are asked to comment o
A project to honor the legacy of enslaved people at Court Square is still in development, possibly led by Parks & Recreation, with potential support from the Historic Resources Committee.
110ProceduralMusic History – O. Brown noted that ACHS is working with other organizations to complete this work HRC may support but should hold off until we are asked to comment o
The Albemarle County Historical Society is collaborating with other organizations to complete a music history project, and the Historic Resources Committee may support it if asked.
111ProceduralMid-Century Modern architectural surveys HRC Meeting Minutes – January 9, 2026 (1.30) 3 DHR has expressed interest in surveying the Greenbrier Neighborhood o This project would be completed by professional consultants with support from o HRC such as community outreach and financial support J. Werner noted that several buildings of this era were surveyed in the 1980s o
The state's Department of Historic Resources wants to conduct a professional architectural survey of the Greenbrier neighborhood's mid-century modern buildings, with the Historic Resources Committee helping through outreach and financial support.
112ProceduralIdentifying New Historic Properties & Areas L. Pola asked if we should be looking at new areas to designate o J. Werner noted that he and K. Richardson are already looking at that as part of o the Preservation Guidelines update HRC's role would be to provide feedback on drafts o
The Historic Resources Committee will provide feedback on identifying new historic properties and areas to designate, as part of an ongoing Preservation Guidelines update.
113ProceduralReview existing Design Guidelines
The Historic Resources Committee plans to review and potentially update the existing Design Guidelines for historic properties.
114ProceduralReview drafts of Preservation Plan
The Historic Resources Committee will review draft versions of the city's Preservation Plan.
115ProceduralCollaborations with Beloved Cville
The Historic Resources Committee is exploring partnerships with Beloved Cville, a community organization.
116ProceduralCategorize Places Per Theme for Storytelling
Historic places in Charlottesville will be organized by theme to support community storytelling efforts.
117ProceduralRevisit Court Square signage (created in 2017) and Court Square Map
Signage and mapping at Court Square, originally created in 2017, will be revisited and potentially updated.
118ProceduralUpdate and/or reprint From Porch Swings to Patio oral history (see also LINK to download 101M document from library)
The oral history publication 'From Porch Swings to Patio' will be updated and reprinted for wider distribution.
119ProceduralK. Richardson has a mock-ups of a QR code business card; she can share a draft with HRC before printing.
A committee member has created sample QR code business cards and will share drafts with the Historic Resources Committee before final printing.
120ProceduralPrevious item for JLB follow-up: Friends of Cville offered to contact Roy Van Doorn at City Select who may be able to place maps in all tourism locations (click here for their Distribution Network)
Friends of Charlottesville may help distribute tourism maps through City Select's network to reach visitors across multiple locations.
121ProceduralLINK TO NEW MAP
The city is providing a link to a new map for reference or public access.
122ProceduralEducation
This item addresses educational initiatives or programs.
123ProceduralPublic commemoration (historic plaques, signs, markers, and civic festivals and ceremonies)
The city is considering ways to commemorate history through plaques, signs, markers, and civic events and ceremonies.
124ProceduralPublications (maps, brochures, tour books, and digital media)
This concerns printed and digital materials the city produces, such as maps, brochures, tour books, and online content.
125ProceduralPublic meetings (planning sessions, workshops, and lectures)
The city will hold public meetings including planning sessions, workshops, and lectures for community participation.
126ProceduralAnd 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 Meeting Minutes – January 9, 2026 (1.30) 5
This outlines public comment procedures at Charlottesville meetings, allowing up to 10 minutes total at the start and up to 5 minutes at the end, with individual speakers limited to 2 minutes each; it also explains how residents with disabilities can request accommodations to participate.