Connecticut Senate Bill SB00831

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/13
• Refer: 2/5/13

Caption

An Act Concerning Fees To Establish Historic Districts.

Impact

The introduction of fees for establishing historic districts could significantly impact local governance and land use policies. Municipalities would gain greater financial autonomy in managing their historic districts, which could lead to more efficient processing of applications. However, this may also impose a financial barrier for certain groups or individuals seeking to establish or enhance historic districts, potentially limiting participation in preserving local heritage.

Summary

SB00831 aims to amend chapter 97a of the general statutes to permit municipalities to charge fees for processing applications to establish historic districts. This provision is intended to assist local jurisdictions in covering the administrative costs associated with evaluating and processing these applications. By allowing municipalities to set fees, the bill seeks to streamline the application process while ensuring that local governments are not overly burdened financially by the responsibilities of managing historic district applications.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention regarding the potential for fees to discourage applications from those unable to afford the costs, raising concerns about equitable access to historic district designation. Opponents of the fee structure could argue that it undermines the original intent of historic preservation efforts by making it financially restrictive for some municipalities and property owners. On the other hand, proponents might assert that the fees are a necessary measure for ensuring municipalities can adequately manage their historical resources.