Geneva HPC previews public historic-survey story map and $50,000 façade grant in FY2027 budget

City preservation staff demonstrated a newly updated historic-survey story map created to replace and augment the city’s 1999 survey. The interactive map links parcel pop-ups to full property history, permitting records and photographs. Staff said the map will be made public and posted on the HPC page of the city website once the commission recommends it and the city council adopts the update.

Staff also reported that the FY2027 budget includes a new historic-preservation residential façade grant. During the meeting staff said $50,000 has been placed in the FY2027 budget for that program and that a draft grant program description will be ready for commission review the following month. Commissioners and staff discussed posting and outreach strategies so property owners are aware of the tool and the grant once adopted.

Staff requested commissioners review the map for legibility and glaring errors before it moves forward for city-council adoption. Several commissioners praised the project and credited staff and volunteers who contributed historical research.