Historic Preservation in Dunedin
Published on October 01, 2023
Dunedin's quality of life is profoundly linked to the appreciation of its diverse and colorful history. Dunedin has changed significantly since the first land deed was recorded in 1852. However, significant historic structures in the town help identify, preserve, and promote Dunedin’s unique village-like quaintness, character and charm.
Currently, Dunedin has four historic landmarks that are on the National Register of Historic Places-
Historic Preservation as a Public Policy
As Dunedin continues to grow and change as people discover the economic prosperity, livability and beauty of the delightful town, the City recognizes that redevelopment pressures may contribute to the demise of historical and architecturally significant properties.
On October 4, 2018, the City adopted Ordinance 18-28 (Historic Preservation Ordinance) to declare historic preservation as a public policy. The purpose of the ordinance is to ensure that structures and sites that have special historic, architectural, archeological, aesthetic or cultural interest and value be protected and preserved so that they are to serve as visible and tangible reminders of the history and heritage of Dunedin.
Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC)
The HPAC serves as an advisory capacity to the City Commission, the City Manager and City Staff. The Committee’s primary duties are to:
- Safeguard the heritage of Dunedin by preserving the resources of the community which reflect elements of historical significance;
- Identify, designate, and make recommendations on regulating historic landmarks in order to preserve their historic significance;
- Maintain an inventory of historic structures; and
- Develop a historic plaque policy and application process.
HPAC along with the City Commission and City Staff work with property owners, local businesses, public agencies, and community organizations to help identify, preserve, and promote Dunedin’s unique character and assist the public with historical research, rehabilitation issues, and economic incentives.
Local Historic Landmark Designations
Upon the adoption of the Historic Preservation Ordinance, the City established its local historic landmark designation program. The purpose for the local historic landmark designation is to protect and preserve structures and sites that are deemed historically, culturally and architecturally significant. In addition to help safeguard the historically significant landmarks and its heritage, the City allows certain tax exemptions to encourage the restoration, renovation or rehabilitation of significant properties.
Currently, there are 31 local historic landmark designations within the City. These landmarks are given a plaque from the City to help identify the structures or sites that are approved by the City Commission for the historic designation.
Any proposed modifications, demolitions, or relocations to the historically designated properties will be required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Interested in Historic Preservation?
If you are interested in designating a property or site for the local historic landmark designation, have questions, or need assistance about the City’s Historic Preservation Program, please contact Frances Sharp at (727)298-3200 or fsharp@dunedinfl.net.
Comments on Historic Preservation Month in Dunedin
Hello, Dunedin!! This is Deborah. Let’s talk Historic Preservation!
Dunedin, in conjunction with the Dunedin Historical Society, proclaimed Historic Preservation Week during the month of March in 2008, 2011, and 2013. For the first time since Dunedin became incorporated in 1899 and became a city in 1925, the Dunedin City Commission has proclaimed the month of May 2023 as Historic Preservation Month!
On December 15, 2016 the Dunedin City Commission established the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and enacted a Historic Preservation ordinance.
In 2019, the City of Dunedin qualified for the Prestigious Certified Local Government in order to promote preservation initiatives.
During 2022 and 2023, the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee has done an exhaustive study and review of the Historic Preservation Ordinance and enabling resolutions. The Committee is currently working on making the Ordinance more user-friendly to our citizenry.
The City has undertaken a three-year study to ascertain the location and ages of our Historic Homes and Sites. The study was done in conjunction with the State of Florida and a Historic Preservation consultant, Blair Knighting of Kimley Horn and Associates. The Second Phase costs to the City were reimbursed by the State of Florida and the City has applied for a third-year reimbursement grant to complete the study.
Some may question the need for formal City Historic Preservation efforts. The goal of the ordinance is to preserve the aesthetics of the exterior of the structure but it does not restrict changes of color. Windows and Doors should emulate the original without restricting replacement with hurricane rated components. Professionals on the City staff are available to assist in designating a Historic Structure or Site. When changes are made, they will assist in obtaining a “Certificate of Appropriateness” which maintains the authenticity of the structure or site.
Since 2019, the City of Dunedin has designated 20 Historic Landmarks and currently several new applications are under review by the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee and the City Commission. The approved homes or sites are designated with a plaque designed by Dunedin artist Steve Spathelf.
Historic Preservation is a hallmark of our City’s history. The Arts, Culture and History of our City combine to create our “Sense of Place” and that is a significant component of our “Quality of Life.”
So… Thank You Dunedin, for continuing our conversation about Historic Preservation!
Thank You, Deborah Kynes