A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT to allow the city of thomasville to require a permit prior to demolition of a designated local historic landmark or a contributing structure within a locally designated historic district.
Whereas, in 1999 the City Council of the City of Thomasville established a historic preservation program, adopting an ordinance creating a Historic Preservation Commission, outlining its duties and requirements, and charging the Commission with the responsibility of carrying out a historic preservation program for the City; and
Whereas, between 2000 and 2007 the City Council designated six local historic landmarks and in 2002 and 2005 designated two local historic districts; and
Whereas, the City of Thomasville was designated by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation as the first Preserve American City (a White House initiative) in the State of North Carolina; and
Whereas, the City of Thomasville was designated as a Certified Local Government on June 4, 2001, by the United States Department of the Interior; and
Whereas, Thomasville's six designated local historic landmarks and two locally designated historic districts contain over 150 original 19th and early 20th century contributing structures that enhance the historic character and integrity of the City, promote tourism, and demonstrate the important heritage of the citizens of the community; and
Whereas, historic preservation contributes to the economic, social, and cultural well‑being of Thomasville and the State of North Carolina; and
Whereas, it is the goal of the City Council of the City of Thomasville to preserve and enhance one of the most valuable and unique resources of the community and to preserve the property values and promote the general welfare of its citizens; and
Whereas, protecting Thomasville from the loss of its historic architectural resources is of statewide importance; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.(a)  Notwithstanding the provisions of G.S. 160A‑400.14, a city may adopt an ordinance to the effect that no designated local historic landmark or contributing structure located within a locally designated historic district in the city may be demolished without a permit. Prior to adopting an ordinance under this act, a public hearing shall be held before the governing board of the city. Notice of the hearing shall be given in accordance with G.S. 160A‑364.
SECTION 1.(b)  A city may adopt, modify, and revise such ordinances as are necessary to implement this act and to further its intent.
SECTION 2.  This act applies to the City of Thomasville only.
SECTION 3.  This act is effective when it becomes law.