17.90.020 Purpose.
The purposes of this chapter are to provide for the identification, evaluation, designation, and protection of designated historic resources within the boundaries of the city of Bellingham, and to provide for the preservation and rehabilitation of eligible historic properties within the city of Bellingham for future generations through special valuation, a property tax incentive, as provided in Chapter 84.26 RCW, and the allowance of adaptive uses in order to:
A. Safeguard the heritage of the city of Bellingham as represented by those buildings, districts, objects, sites, and structures which reflect significant elements of the city’s history;
B. Foster civic and neighborhood pride in the beauty and accomplishments of the past, and instill a sense of identity based on the city of Bellingham’s history;
C. Stabilize or improve the aesthetic and economic vitality and values of such sites, buildings, and objects;
D. Assist, encourage, and provide incentives to private owners for the preservation, restoration, redevelopment and use of historic buildings, districts, objects, sites, and structures;
E. Promote and facilitate the early identification and resolution of conflicts between preservation of historic resources and alternative land uses; and
F. Conserve valuable material and energy resources by ongoing use and maintenance of the existing built environment. [Ord. 2005-12-094].