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This mission of the Joliet Historic Preservation Commission is to identify and oversee the City’s historic landmarks, districts and sites, as well as to preserve such districts and sites for the use, observation, education, pleasure and general welfare of the inhabitants of the City of Joliet.

What is the Joliet Historic Preservation Commission?

The Joliet Historic Preservation Commission (JHPC) is an advisory board to the City of Joliet which was established with the Historic Preservation Ordinance of 1990 and subsequent amendments. In short, the JHPC evaluates historic properties and structures for nomination as Local Landmarks or part of Local Historic Districts. Once nominated, the Commission recommends to the Joliet City Council that the properties or structures be designated as a Local Landmark or Local Historic District. The Joliet City Council makes this final determination.

Who Serves on the JHPC?

The Commission is made up of 12 volunteer members who are appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. Of these members, nine are voting members who must reside in the City of Joliet. The remaining three are non-voting members who can reside outside of City limits.

The Joliet Historic Preservation Ordinance lists a number of areas of expertise that prospective Commissioners can have. They include anthropology, architecture, art, building construction, engineering, finance, historical and architectural preservation, history, law, community development, planning, real estate, and related professions.

Commissioners have an interesting range of backgrounds and bring a variety of skills to the JHPC. Although formal training is not required, it is helpful to have a demonstrated interest in local history, community service or neighborhood involvement. In addition to a diversity of expertise, the Commission welcomes members of various races, age, gender, and ethnicity.

The Commission liaison to the City of Joliet is the Commission Secretary, a City Planner.

What are Commissioners Expected to Do?

Commissioners are expected to attend the monthly Commission meetings, scheduled the fourth Wednesday of the month at Joliet City Hall. Before each meeting the Commissioners receive and review an agenda packet for the meeting. Commissioners are also expected to attend a Committee meeting, which is the Wednesday following the full Commission meeting, also at City Hall.

The Joliet Historic Preservation Commission is a working commission, in that Commissioners assist with various projects or activities. These projects and activities usually pertain to one of the three JHPC Committees: Landmarks, Districts, and Public Awareness. Some examples are:

• Assisting property owners with landmark or district nomination forms (Landmarks)
• Participating in and organizing local preservation conferences or tours (Public Awareness)
• Planning a neighborhood meeting for residents interested in starting a historic district (Districts)

Where Can I Find Out More?

You can call a Joliet Historic Preservation Commissioner or the Commission Secretary at 815-724- 4052 or email the Secretary at bnewberg@jolietcity.org.