Council updates historic‑preservation code to state model with local changes, keeps commission advisory

The Dallas City Council unanimously adopted an update to the city’s historic‑preservation regulations, taking the State Historic Preservation Office’s model language but tailoring it to preserve the Historic Preservation Commission as an advisory body rather than a decision‑making board.
City Planner Chase Blue explained the changes were largely technical and that the Office of Historic Preservation had issued a revised model code. “They have released a new version of the model code… We’re looking to adopt the new model code,” Blue said. He added staff pared and customized the model code to fit Dallas practice and to keep the Historic Preservation Commission advisory, vesting many administrative decisions in staff and the council to match the city’s other advisory boards.
Councilors asked about the definition and appointment of the historic‑preservation officer; staff said the city’s economic development specialist currently fills that role and that municipal‑code language clarifying appointment authority will be included alongside the development‑code repeal and replace.
Councilor Holzapol moved to adopt the Planning Commission recommendation to approve the code change and directed the city attorney to prepare an ordinance adopting the new development‑code language; the motion passed unanimously.
What it means: The new code aligns Dallas with state model language required for Certified Local Government status while keeping local custom: the Historic Preservation Commission will continue to advise staff and council rather than serving as an independent decision body. Staff told council they removed or modified portions of the state model that conflicted with Dallas’ preferred procedures and will place commission membership and duties in the municipal code for easier amendments.
Ending: The city attorney will prepare an ordinance to formally adopt the updated historic‑preservation chapter; staff said the changes support grant eligibility and maintain the city’s certified local government standing.