Milni Simms, Senior Planner of the Community & Economic Development Department explained the Citizens Academy, its meetings, schedule, and registration process. She requested that a Commissioner volunteer to represent the HPC at the Academy meeting on October 25, 2018. The purpose would be to meet and share their personal experience with other Board members and Commissioners. Chair Thomae volunteered to represent the HPC at the meeting.
Paul Loomis Treasurer of the Historical Society provided information about the updated website, the success of the recent Chamber Breakfast, and the upcoming lecture series by Jim Williams. The Society will be present at every Second Saturday at Steam Pump Ranch. Mr. Loomis also mentioned the Heritage Garden is being prepared for the winter crop. Commissioners asked questions.
Councilmember Solomon provided historical information about the land near the Preserve. He offered potential uses of the land. Comissioners asked questions and provided their thoughts. Ms. Dellerman offered to ask staff to investigate grant opportunities for additional land preservation.
Chair Thomae displayed a spreadsheet depicting work in process and work completed at Steam Pump Ranch. Chair Thomae reviewed each line item of the Steam Pump Ranch assessment spreadsheet, offering explanations and encouraging discussion.
Ms. Dellerman updated the Commissioners on the progress of the local registry. She and her intern knocked on the doors of the Oro Valley Country Club Estates' homeowners, to seek interest in the local registry. Eleven applications have been received. Ms. Dellerman requested help from Commissioners to continue the project.
Chair Thomae reviewed notes from former Vice Chair Ohlson that included other municipalities and their progress in historic preservation. Chair Thomae asked for volunteers to inquire with other municipalities about their process and successes. Commission Bohen and Commissioner Hiett accepted the task.
Vice Chair Huff agreed to assist in the essay process. October through February is the designated time frame. Winners will be awarded at the April 2019 Town Council Meeting.
Ms. Dellerman informed the Commission that Parks & Recreation department has a new Depurty Director, Matt Jankowski. Steam Pump Ranch had a very successful summer camp, this year was atypical in that the year ended with the biggest number of participants on record. The success was attributed to the history of the camp and its curriculum. This year the Ranch has held three weddings. The current phase of the well site has been completed with the exception of some clean up. Painting of doors and windows at Steam Pump Ranch have been completed. Ms. Dellerman reported that the Town is awaiting the award results for the grant from the Tohono O' odam Nation.
Chair Thomae stated that the Commission has several items currently on the Agenda. Vice Chair Huff requested the annual report be drafted.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Thomae adjourned the meeting at 6:41 p.m.
MOTION: A motion was made by Chair Thomae and seconded by Commissioner Biel adjourn meeting at 6:41 p.m.