Process for Requesting Design Assistance
Historic District Commission
A Step-By-Step Guide
Applicants with complex projects can request Design Assistance from the Historic District to assist them
with the requirements of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation as interpreted by
the Preservation Briefs. These requests must be submitted at least 10 days prior to a meeting. This is
not a formal request to the Historic District Commission. An application for a Certificate of
Appropriateness is required for all projects in the District.
Introductory Meeting with Staff or Museum Director/Curator - Staff will assist the applicant
by explaining the application form and Guidelines. Museum Director/Curator will research any
historical documentation available that could assist the applicant.
Submission of Application – Applicant will submit their request to Staff who will review it to
make sure they have supplied all the necessary information including a site plan. If no
Additional information is needed Staff will process the request and $50 payment (Checks made
payable to ‘City of Manistee’).
Meeting – Applicant will discuss their project with the Commission. The Commission will
provide feedback that the applicant can use for their application for a Certificate of
Appropriateness.
Status Update – Staff will reach out after 10 months to see project status. If progress is being
made though project not completed; HDC may extend certificate expiration date upon formal
review at a regularly scheduled HDC meeting.
Applicant will complete an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness.
(5/19)
