Commission approves FY 2026–27 historic preservation work plan

Chair Jacobs opened the March 9 meeting of the Carlsbad Planning Commission. Staff presented the Historic Preservation Commission’s proposed fiscal 2026–27 work plan and a resolution to adopt it. Director Mike Strong told commissioners the plan summarizes last year’s accomplishments and outlines items the commission would undertake beginning July 1, 2026.

"This first agenda item is the presentation of the fiscal year 2026 to 2027 work plan," Strong said, listing prior accomplishments including five regular meetings, a website update, a subcommittee report, promotion of historic-site recognition and work to streamline Mills Act participation. He said the draft work plan proposes implementing a uniform plaque program, producing a brochure, expanding Mills Act outreach, supporting the third-grade historic art program, reviewing and maintaining the historic preservation ordinance and studying steps to obtain certified local government status.

Commissioner Lafferty asked that one line in the accomplishments page be reworded to avoid implying past criticism of city communications; Strong moved adoption of the resolution with that wording change. The motion was seconded and the commission approved the resolution unanimously.

The approved work plan also includes continuing partnership work with the Crossroads Historical Society, oversight of preservation work at the McGee House and support for updated cultural resource guidelines, with staff planning a follow-up presentation at the commission’s May meeting.

The commission did not take any separate binding actions beyond approving the resolution; staff will forward the adopted work plan and recommendations to City Council as part of the commission’s annual reporting process.