Erin Krause Riley

The commission reviewed an update from the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy regarding student outreach, lecture series, curriculum development, wildlife surveys, and invasive plant management. The Arizona Game and Fish Department presented reports on deer and javelina population surveys. Staff provided updates on City Council strategic objectives for future funding, the vegetation management project, summer heat messaging at trailheads, new trailhead signage, staffing changes, repairs to an illegal trail, and recent community engagement events. The meeting also included discussion of future agenda topics, potential field tours, and requested updates on ecological planning.

The Commission addressed the Certificate of Appropriateness and HRER funding for the Girard Residence windows replacement project. Additionally, the commission reviewed and discussed the Historic Preservation Commission brochures, made assignment allocations, and engaged in a discussion regarding the Historic Districts brochure and outreach strategies, including planning topics for a future retreat.

The commission reviewed the first quarter 2025 Certificates of No Effect, received an overview of a pre-application for the Alhambra Terrace Condominiums regarding a Historic Property zoning overlay, and heard an update on historic preservation outreach efforts for the United Blood Bank Services building.

The commission received presentations regarding safety issues in historic neighborhoods and proposed improvements for the Civic Center's west entry. Regular agenda items included the approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness and funding for a roof replacement at a residence in the Sands North Historic Townhouses District, the approval of a Historic Preservation Plan and Design Guidelines for the Kimsey Building, and the approval of National Register applications for Scottsdale North, the Kiva Craft Center, and the Sands North Townhouses. Additionally, the commission held a discussion regarding a publicity pamphlet for the Historic Property Overlay and heard commissioner announcements regarding future agenda topics.

The Commission reviewed and discussed the development of communications regarding the identification of primary architectural features of historic property zoning districts and neighborhoods. The Commission also considered a request to reschedule their upcoming June meeting, ultimately deciding to maintain the original date. Additionally, a presentation was provided regarding residential building code and safety requirements for ornamental window coverings, and the Commission held a formal recognition of service for a departing commissioner.