For those with a passion for maintaining the past, the Pinellas County Historic Preservation Board (HPB) opens its doors to potential new members, with applications currently being accepted for two Alternate positions. As reported by Pinellas County's official news, one of these roles is set to kick off a full three-year term starting on January 1. Meanwhile, the second is an immediate opening to fill a vacancy, which will last until December 31, 2026.
The HPB, a body dedicated to overseeing the county's historical integrity, seeks individuals with either professional expertise in historic preservation or a demonstrated interest in the history of Pinellas County. According to the county's announcement, this board, which volunteers their time, includes eleven conscientious members who serve staggered three-year terms to ensure continuity of vision and care for the community's treasured landmarks and districts.
Nominations for these positions are a collaborative effort; each member of the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) puts forth a candidate, with additional nominations for two at-large members and two alternates. In a unique gesture of governance, the BCC yearly selects one of its own to chair the HPB, acting as a non-voting, ex officio member.
Candidates should note that the Pinellas County HPB operates in line with the Certified Local Government program standards, a federal program promoting local historic preservation efforts. Those accepted bear considerable responsibilities, ranging from recommending the designation of local historic landmarks to reviewing applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for changes to the exterior of locally designated properties, as described in the news release from Pinellas County.
