Board adds four county properties to Alameda County Register of Historical Resources, hears cost estimates

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors waived further reading and adopted an ordinance adding four county‑owned properties to the Alameda County Register of Historical Resources.

County staff provided a brief report on the nominated properties and available cost estimates. For the Nike missile site, staff said a draft feasibility study has been completed and preliminary estimates to stabilize and secure three buildings are approximately $2,000,000. A feasibility study for the White Cotton Cottage is under contract and expected to take about 24 weeks; cost estimates for restoration (minimal stabilization versus full restoration for reuse) will follow. The San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery is under contract with a landscape firm at an approximate maintenance cost of $1,600 per month. Staff said estimates for restoring the Castro Valley Library have not yet been developed.

During public comment, James Farley, a member of the county Parks, Recreation and Historical Commission, urged timely action and exploration of funding sources, including federal options. Farley said delaying repairs increases costs and suggested modest permit fees could raise supplemental funds; he also suggested pursuing national designation or other federal mechanisms to help pay for restoration.

After public comment, a supervisor moved to waive the balance of the full second reading and adopt the ordinance pursuant to the Alameda County Zoning Ordinance; the board voted by roll call and the motion passed.

Staff said feasibility studies and more detailed cost estimates will be provided as the General Services Agency completes capital programs reviews and the contracted studies finish their work. The board did not set an immediate funding source; staff will return with additional estimates and options.