Developing a good grasp of the functions and interactions of the following key players will enable interested persons in the community to anticipate steps in the HDZ process, to participate effectively, and to understand the parameters of local preservation efforts. Local governing bodies in Virginia play a central role in the HDZ process. Additionally, the local governing body participates actively in the administration of the HDZ process by approving the designation of additional local historic districts or district expansions, appointing replacement members to the ARB, and reviewing appeals of ARB decisions. Because of the local governing body s authority over the ARB and HDZ process, it is critical that a good working relationship be maintained.
Some ARBs have council or board liaisons which is an excellent way to promote cooperation.
Other ARBs meet annually with the local governing body to report on recent activities and answer questions about controversial issues. A number of ARBs are required to submit annual reports to local government officials. An ARB is the local body charged specifically with administering the HDZ ordinance, and is established pursuant to its provisions. In some localities, a specified number of ARB members may be required to possess certain qualifications, such as expertise in architectural history or local history, in order to ensure that the ARB members are sufficiently qualified to make decisions. Relations between the ARB and the governing body may turn sour when a controversial decision made by the ARB is overturned by the council or board on appeal.