Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Historic Resources intends to consider amending 17VAC5-30, Evaluation Criteria and Procedures for Designations By the Board of Historic Resources. The purpose of the proposed action is to address the owner objection process to properties nominated for designation by the Board of Historic Resources for inclusion in the Virginia Landmarks Register. The amendments will add clarifying language that written notification of the nomination and written notification of the public hearing will be sent to property owners as shown on current real estate tax assessments books. In addition, property owners who wish to object to a designation must submit their formal objection seven business days prior to the board meeting. The amendments also add that in addition to the letter being notarized, it must be attested and reference the property by address or parcel number, or both. Also, in order to be counted by the director as a property owner, if the objecting party was not listed on the real estate tax assessment list, then a copy of the recorded deed evidencing transfer of ownership must be submitted along with the attested and notarized statement. Lastly, formal designations may be reconsidered at a subsequent board meeting if the director receives, at least 30 days prior to the next scheduled board meeting, written, attested, and notarized statements stating that there is no longer an objection.

The agency does not intend to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 10.1-2205 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: November 4, 2015.

Agency Contact: Jennifer Pullen, Executive Assistant, Department of Historic Resources, 2801 Kensington Avenue, Richmond, VA 23221, telephone (804) 482-6085, FAX (804) 367-2391, or email jennifer.pullen@dhr.virginia.gov.