Landmarks Liaison Program

The Tacoma Landmarks Preservation Commission established a Neighborhood Liaison Program in 2004 to:

Provide information about historic preservation to residents & businesses
Encourage and raise awareness about historic preservation
Bring issues to the attention of the Landmarks Commission

Historic preservation is an important tool for neighborhood-level planning, not just for individual buildings. Historic preservation can help enhance character, encourage economic growth, and create a sense of place for a community.

What are the responsibilities of the Landmarks Preservation Commission?

Review nominations and advise City Council on additions to the Tacoma Landmarks Register
Review and approve design changes to local landmarks
Provide for public outreach and education
Approve applications to the Special Tax Valuation Program
Review and advise Council on proposed name changes to streets, buildings, parks, etc.

Tacoma has over 130 individual local landmarks and three local historic districts. The New Tacoma Neighborhood includes more local landmarks than any other neighborhood. Select landmarks in the neighborhood include:

Nisqually Power Station, S. C Street , built in 1911
17 structures in the Hilltop including residences, apartments and commercial structures
Carnegie Library built in 1903
Stadium High School
Union Station Historic District

Who’s on the Commission and how is their work guided?

The 15 member citizen commission appointed by the Mayor is made up of professionals in the fields of architecture, real estate, history, and banking as well as at-large members. The Commission was established by Tacoma Municipal Code 1.42. Tacoma’s historic districts are regulated by TMC 13.07.

What services does the City’s Historic Preservation Program provide?

The Historic Preservation Office reviews proposed projects involving historic properties, advises City and other governmental agencies, and provides expertise for historic preservation planning. To learn more visit:

www.cityoftacoma.org/historicpreservation

Contact information

Commission liaison to the New Tacoma Neighborhood Council:
Sharon Winters e-mail: swinters@nventure.com
evening phone: 761-9349

Historic Preservation Officer:
Reuben McKnight e-mail: reuben.mcknight@cityoftacoma.org
work phone: 591-5220