In the Tuesday, June 11th, Beaufort City Council meeting, in what has become a politically charged decision, the Council resorted to a secret ballot to pick two candidates for the important Historic District Review Board (HDRB).
Surprisingly, Katherine Pringle, who appeared ostensibly the most qualified candidate, was passed over for a second time. According to the resume she submitted to the city, Ms. Pringle holds a masters degree in Heritage Preservation and has studied for a masters of architecture and architectural engineering and construction. Ms. Pringle’s most recent employment involved providing architectural and construction monitoring services for historical preservation remodeling and renovation projects.
Also passed over was Maxine Lutz who served for six years as executive director of the Historic Beaufort Foundation (HBF) and has participated on myriad city committees to include those that developed the current city building code, the city’s comprehensive plan, the city’s civic masterplan, and the previous city code, the Unified Development Ordinance.
The Beaufort City code 10.7.3.A dictates that “to the extent that such is available in the community” city council should appoint to the HDRB “professionals in the disciplines of historic preservation, architecture, landscape architecture, history, architectural history, planning, archeology, or related discipline”. Mayor Phil Cromer made this point very clearly for his fellow City Council members when reading the following prepared comments during the voting proceedings:
“My vote on the proposed candidates is in no way a reflection on them or their qualifications. I am voting no to make a statement for the record. HDRB’s mission, according to the Beaufort Code, is to preserve and protect the historic character and architectural integrity of Beaufort’s National Historic Landmark District. In Section 10.7.3. (A) of the Code states that “to the extent that such is available in the community, 2 members shall be professionals in the disciplines of historic preservation, ….” Given the mission of the HDRB and the importance of the NHLD to the authenticity of our community, it only makes sense to have representation from the preservation community on a board charged with preservation. It is akin to having a representative of the medical community on a medical board. Having a representative of the preservation community on the HDRB brings significant benefits and enhances the effectiveness of the Board in several areas:
1. Expertise in historical context, architectural styles, and preservation techniques that are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the historic district. Their expertise ensures that modifications or restorations adhere to best practices in preservation thereby safeguarding the city’s heritage.
2. Balancing development and preservation. Development pressures often conflict with the need to preserve historic sites and structures. A preservationist can help balance these interests, advocating for sustainable development that respects and integrates historical elements. This ensures that new development does not undermine the historical and cultural significance of the district.
3. Enhances credibility and public trust. Residents and stakeholders are more likely to support board decisions when preservation interests are being represented and protected.
4. Ensuring compliance with preservation standards. Preservationists are well-versed in local, state, and federal preservation standards and guidelines. Their presence on the Board helps ensure compliance.
5. Preventing irreversible losses. Proactive involvement can help to identify and address issues leading to the irreversible loss of historic sites and buildings. Including a representative of the preservation community on the HDRB is not only beneficial but essential for maintaining Beaufort’s unique historical character and ensuring that development respects and enhances the city’s rich heritage.“
Nevertheless, Neil Lipsitz, Mitch Mitchell, Josh Scallate, and Mike McFee reappointed Mike Sutton, a local contractor.
The second seat which The Beaufort Code states “shall be (for) residents of the city, own property in the city, or own or operate a business in the city” went to Kim Petrella. Ms. Petrella lives and owns property in Beaufort’s historic district.
Prior to the secret ballots for the HDRB nominations, Andy Kinghorn was unanimously appointed as the city’s representative to the Beaufort Jasper Water Authority Board.
Ken Hoffman was unanimously reappointed to the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals.
Lise Sundrla was reappointed and Katheryn Mixon was appointed as representatives to the Cultural District Advisory Board.
Chetan Patel was reappointed and Jennier Mader was appointed to the Tourism Development Advisory Committee.
Issah Martinez and Joe McDermott were appointed to the Park and Tree Advisory Committee.
Since this is a public meeting falling under the Freedom of Information Act, is voting by secret ballot permissible?
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