HomeMy WebLinkAbout02 PC REPORT SUMMARY OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK AGENDA REPORT ITEM #2
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MEETING DATE: JUNE 25, 2024
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION ACTING AS THE HISTORIC AND CULTURAL
RESOURCES ADVISOR (HCRA)
FROM: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
SUBJECT: SUMMARY OF TUSTIN HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK: MAY 7 — 14,
2024
On March 26, 2024, the Tustin Planning Commission adopted the 2024 Historic and
Cultural Resources Advisor (HCRA) Work Program. One of the goals contained within the
Work Program was the creation and establishment of a Citywide Historic Preservation
Week that would take place annually over one week during the month of May. This report
provides the Planning Commission with a summary of the City's first Historic Preservation
Week that took place during May 7-14, 2024.
In an effort to honor Tustin's vibrant history and build a relationship between the city and
the existing Tustin historic preservation groups and to help foster a relationship between
the groups, the city collaborated with the Tustin Preservation Conservancy and the Tustin
Area Historical Society to kick off the inauguration of Historic Preservation Week.
Throughout the week, residents enjoyed daily historical fun facts that were shared on the
City's website, interactive information booths, and guided walking tours, all aimed at
fostering a deeper connection with the City's rich heritage. The preservation groups,
Likewise, also shared coordinated information on their respective websites and joined the
city at the various information booths.
The in-person information booths showcased a variety of material centered on Tustin's
history and the City's Historic Preservation Program. City staff were present at multiple
information booths at various sites throughout, which included:
• Tustin Historical Museum
• Tustin Public Library
• The Home & Garden Tour
Planning Commission
Tustin Historic Preservation Week
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In addition, the City collaborated with the Tustin Area Historical Society and the Tustin
Preservation Conversancy and organized two walking tours.
The first tour, named the "Tustin Icons Tour", occurred on May 13, 2024 and was led by
Donna Marsh Peery and Tim Zierer from the Tustin Area Historical Society. This tour took
place at the Santa Ana Cemetery and focused on Tustin's notable figures and Civil War
veterans. The tour was well-attended with 15 members of the public in attendance, plus
Planning Division staff.
On May 14, 2024, the City coordinated the Old Town Walking Tour, in collaboration with
Brian Sjoberg from the Tustin Preservation Conservancy and Donna Marsh Peery from the
Tustin Area Historical Society. The 75-minute walking tour explored various facets of the
City's history, including:
• The Cox family legacy
• The architectural marvels of the Cox Plaza and Cox mini museum
• Tustin's agricultural heritage
• The historical significance of El Camino Real Road
The tour was also attended by 20 members of the public, as well as Planning Division staff
and members of the Planning Commission. This year's tour was the most successful
walking tour to-date.
These events served as a spotlight on the City's heritage and allowed the City to actively
engage with residents, share knowledge, and address inquiries about the City's efforts in
historic preservation. With the Planning Commission's support, it is the intent to establish an
annual"Historic Preservation Week", during May of every year.This initiative willfurther foster
relationships with the Tustin Area Historical Society,the Tustin Preservation Conservancy, and
the local community. The City, Tustin Area Historical Society and Tustin Preservation
Conservancy are thrilled about the prospect of enhancing this yearly celebration by
incorporating a broader selection of activities, informative workshops, and captivating content.
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Prepared by:
Erica H. Demkowicz, Senior Planner
proved by:
Justina L. Willkom, Community Development Director