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TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Historic Preservation Commission
DATE: September 16, 2026
SUBJECT:
A Resolution Authorizing Approval of the Summer 2026 Historic Preservation Grants and Allowing the Mayor to enter into Historic Preservation Grant Agreements and Addendums (Legistar 26-0561/ KDWK-26.116-PZ/HP- JM)
PURPOSE:
Authorizing the execution of a Historic Preservation Grant Agreements with owners of properties within the historic districts or local landmarks to foster the continued preservation of Aurora’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks.
BACKGROUND:
Last year, City Council approved a million dollars for the Historic Preservation Grant Program to be expanded over multiple years along with expanding the program to both owner occupied and rental properties up to five living units and increased the maximum grant amount. The Preservation Grant Program is a reimbursable grant for exterior historic rehabilitation projects. The maximum increased from $20,000 to $30,000. All grants at or under $15,000 require no cash match. All grants over $15,000 require a dollar-for-dollar cash match for every dollar over $15,000. The final $1,000 of the grant is additional funding for the use of local contractors.
The current balance in account 101-1840-463.50-43 is approximately $378,000.
DISCUSSION:
Staff received 28 applications representing the local districts, the National Register district, and Local Landmarks. The work is all exterior ranging from tuckpointing, window repair, chimney restoration, siding repair and painting to structural stabilization and porch restorations. Staff used additional outreach efforts for this grant round, including handing out flyers and having a community meeting.
On August 2, 2026, the Historic Preservation Grant Committee reviewed the 28 applications submitted for the Summer 2026 Historic Preservation Grant Program.
The Preservation Committee evaluated all project applications using a five-point scale, with one repres...
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