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June 19, 2004 Page 2 and presented a slide show with photos of historic structures around Paris and in the downtown. 6. Public comments and questions regarding the proposed designation of the Church Street Historic District. Margie Bell, 624 Church Street, stated she did not want to turn over the decision about what work to do to her house to a committee. She expressed a concern that people can't afford to comply with the Secretary of Interior's standards. She also questioned if it was permissible to use contemporary materials on structures other than the primary one. Chairman Starrett advised Mrs. Bell that there would be guidelines developed to help citizens and that would provide alternative materials that are less expensive but still acceptable. Mrs. Bell said she believed the ordinance was attempting to take away people's rights. Councilman Don Wilson explained to the audience that there was no intention of taking away property owners' rights, but that the City was within the law by enacting ordinances to protect property, such as is the case with zoning laws. He briefly explained the purpose of Certificates of Appropriateness. Michael Mosher questioned how the Commission was issuing COAs prior to adoption of the district, and Arvin Starrett explained the moratorium provision of the ordinance. Laura Foyte questioned how many Commission members resided or owned property in the district, and Chairman Starrett advised that 6 members or alternates did. Ms. Foyte stated she felt decision makers should have to live in the district. Councilman Wilson explained that the purpose of the ordinance is to protect property, not force anyone to change property. He advised that the City of Bonham provides tax freezes to help protect historic properties. There were various citizen comments regarding the cost of renovating the Courthouse because of the requirement that certain materials be used. They stated this was frightening to home owners. Carrie Zaboroski informed the audience that the material selection as the Courthouse was the result of grant requirements and that the HPC maybe more lenient. Chairman Starrett added that the Commission reviewed the Secretary of the Interior's Standards each time a request came before it and that's what it would follow. Paul Denney stated that this was vital, because some construction was irreversible and could permanently destroy a building's historical character.