The downtown historic design guidelines were a central theme, introduced by Stephanie Straer from the community development department. The guidelines are set for discussion at the August city council meeting, with the objective of providing clarity for property owners on design expectations. Binoy Panu, who has been involved in the project, emphasized that the guidelines aim to offer guidance rather than enforce strict rules. This approach seeks to maintain the city’s historical essence while fostering economic progress. Panu explained that the guidelines are divided into sections focusing on historic buildings, new constructions, and the approval process, making them user-friendly for both property owners and city staff.

Community engagement has been a cornerstone of developing these guidelines. A recent public meeting drew over 100 participants, including residents and business owners, many of whom do not usually attend such meetings. This session successfully gathered various community opinions, which are being used to inform the guidelines. Feedback from the meeting revealed strong support for preserving the historic character of downtown St. Cloud. Participants expressed preferences for architectural styles and public space designs, using interactive tools like colored dots on design boards to communicate their views.

Panu noted widespread community interest in ensuring new developments align with the historical context of the area. The guidelines will include recommendations for ornamental landscaping and street furniture, balancing historical significance with modern design elements. The guidelines are expected to comprise 50 to 60 pages, featuring illustrations to help stakeholders navigate them easily.

Beyond the guidelines, the meeting explored the integration of new buildings with the existing historical context. The board discussed maintaining the grid pattern of streets and aligning public infrastructure projects with historical contexts. Important preservation aspects include awnings, colors, and materials. The number of colors on a building should be limited, and specific materials preserved to maintain historical character. The integration of new structures into the existing landscape is crucial, with guidelines suggesting a 20 to 30% window-to-facade ratio to ensure new designs complement historic architecture.

The board expressed a need for flexibility in design, emphasizing key architectural elements that define the area’s integrity, such as roof shapes and height restrictions. The Secretary of the Interior’s standards were referenced as foundational for many preservation projects. There was a call to educate the public on preservation practices and to facilitate interdepartmental collaboration.

The guidelines for streets and public spaces will address both existing and potential new constructions. The city’s investment in streetscape improvements was noted, with an expectation that new developments respect downtown’s historic character without imposing strict guidelines. The preservation of early European influences in St. Cloud’s layout is critical, as is the treatment of utilities and outdoor mechanical systems, which should be concealed to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the downtown core.

Parking structures were highlighted as requiring careful design to avoid creating stark, uninviting facades. Examples from other towns illustrated how to incorporate parking while preserving a pedestrian-friendly environment.

The meeting also focused on existing buildings’ historical features, such as awnings and canopies, which date back to the pre-1920s. These elements are vital to the area’s unique character. Architectural evolution was discussed, with single-family homes transforming into multi-use properties reflecting changing community needs. There was a consensus on maintaining original features and the aesthetic character of buildings, viewing changes over time as opportunities to document and celebrate architectural history.

Specific architectural features, like a notable pink structure with varied brick sizes, were analyzed. The need to balance modern functionality with historical significance was reiterated.

The meeting also addressed the need for flexible preservation guidelines to accommodate property owners and developers facing financial constraints. A proposal to adjust setback requirements was mentioned. More vegetation and native plants are to be integrated into new designs, respecting the historic feel while allowing artistic expression.