Discussion and possible action on any and all matters regarding State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Economic Development Efforts. (Armando Esparza, Director of Economic Development and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)

BACKGROUND:
The Arizona SHPO, a division of Arizona State Parks, is responsible for safeguarding the state’s historic and archaeological properties. The office collaborates with communities to protect heritage resources, facilitates the Certified Local Governments (CLG) program, and provides incentives such as historic tax credits. Their programs can align with the city’s economic development goals, particularly in areas such as downtown revitalization and tourism enhancement.

SAN LUIS 2040 GENERAL PLAN
The Economy chapter of the City of San Luis’ 2040 General Plan emphasizes the importance of economic development, community revitalization, and historic preservation in building a vibrant community. Historic preservation is mentioned in relation to enhancing community identity, supporting economic development, and leveraging cultural heritage as an asset.
Specifically:

• Community Identity & Preservation
• Reinforcing community identity through historic preservation efforts.
• Developing standards to preserve the historical integrity of buildings, particularly in the downtown area.
• Historic Preservation Goals and Policies
• Pursuing Certified Local Government (CLG) status through the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
• Conducting surveys of development sites to protect cultural resources.

Establishing the Economic Development Commission as the board for the CLG program would align with these goals and provide a framework for preserving San Luis’s heritage while promoting economic growth. This action could open new grant funding opportunities, such as federal Historic Preservation grants, to support preservation and revitalization initiatives.

SLEDC ACTION:
The Economic Development Department seeks recommendations and input from the Commission members on how engagement with SHPO programs will integrate historic preservation into downtown revitalization efforts, promote tourism, enhance community pride, and foster a stronger local economy.