What is a historic landmark?
A historic landmark is any single building structure, site or object, designated by the governing body as having particular historic, cultural or architectural significance.
Generally, a property is considered eligible for designation as a landmark if it is more than 40 years old. The criteria used for establishing a landmark designation are similar to the criteria used for designation on the State or National Register of Historic Places.
Examples of designated landmarks in Overland Park are the Strang Car Barn (now Traditions Furniture) and the Historic Overland Theatre (now the Rio Theatre) both located downtown.
Why is it important to designate historic landmarks?
Designating historic landmarks helps to prevent historically significant buildings from being demolished or modified in appearance.
Protecting historically significant buildings will help foster civic pride in past accomplishments in the city. Preserving the remaining tangible elements of the city’s history and prehistory, will provide our residents with a sense of identity and appreciation of the past.
City landmarks can be promoted as attractions for residents and tourists that enhancethe value of the community as a whole. The Landmarks Commission promotes the use of landmark sites for the education and general leisure of the residents.
What are the benefits to the property owner of listing a property as a landmark?
Protection of a historically significant site provides stability for the property owner and neighborhood by keeping important historic resources intact. The proud owner of a designated landmark is encouraged to promote the landmark designation as a marketing tool for a business to attract potential customers to the location. The Landmarks ordinance provides a public forum to discuss the importance of a landmark to the community, and the impact on the physical appearance or historical context of any changes proposed to a designated building.
At this time, there are no monetary benefits related to designation by the city as a landmark.
Buildings that are designated as landmarks will be showcased on the City’s Web site. In addition, a plaque will be made available to display on the building.
How do I nominate a building for consideration as a historic landmark?
Anyone can file an application to nominate a site as a historic landmark. A pre-application meeting should be arranged with the Planning and Development Services Department before filing an application in order to review the nomination requirements.
An application for a landmark designation will include detailed descriptions of the property including explanations of the historical, cultural or architectural significance of the property. A small fee is required with the application. Once an application is filed, the landowner will be notified, and a sign will be posted in front of the property, inviting property owners or neighbors to a public hearing held by the Landmarks Commission.
Can changes be made to a building that is designated as a landmark?
Changes to the exterior of a building can only be made upon the approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Landmarks Commission. This certificate will be issued if the commission determines that the changes are not detrimental to the historic, cultural, or architectural character of the landmark.
The City will not issue building permits for exterior work until a Certificate of Appropriateness is obtained.
Ordinary maintenance and repair, and interior work may be done without the certificate.
Additional information about the Landmarks Commission and historical landmarks, including application forms and meeting dates may be obtained on the City’s Web site, by visiting City Hall (map) or by contacting the Planner of the Day at 913/895-6217 or pod@opkansas.org.
More about the Landmarks Commission can be found in Chapter 2.17 of the Muncipal Code(.pdf file).