Historic Landmarks Commission

The Commission consists of five members appointed by the Town Council.  All members reside within the planning and zoning jurisdiction of the Town.  A majority of the members of the Commission shall have demonstrated special interest, experience or education in history, architecture, archaeology or related fields.  The Commission may appoint advisory bodies and committees as appropriate.  The powers of the Historic Landmarks Commission are as follows:

(a)    Undertake an inventory of properties of historical, prehistoric, architectural and/or cultural significance.

(b)  Recommend to the Town Council individual structures, buildings, sites, areas or objects to be designated by ordinance as “Landmarks”.

(c)  Recommend to the Town Council that designation of any building, structure, site, area or object as a landmark, be revoked or removed for cause.

(d)  Review and act upon proposals for the alteration or demolition of designated landmarks.

(e)  Conduct an educational program with respect to historic landmarks within its jurisdiction.

(f)  Cooperate with the state, federal and local government in pursuance of the purpose of the Ordinance; to offer or request assistance, aid, guidance or advice concerning matters under its purview or mutual interest.  The Town Council, or the Commission when authorized by the Town Council, may contract with the State or the United States, or any agency of either, or with any other organization provided the terms are not inconsistent with state or federal law.

(g)  Enter, solely in performance of its official duties and only at reasonable times, upon private lands for examination or survey thereof.  However, no member, employee or agent of the Commission may enter any private building or structure without express consent of the owner or occupant thereof.

(h)  Prepare and recommend the official adoption of a preservation element as part of the Town of Southern Shores Land Use Plan.