Minor Works applications are, as suggested by the title, for relatively inconsequential intended changes to historic landmarks, e.g., new signage for a restaurant. These two individuals also have the authority to approve the issuance of a Minor Works Certificate of Appropriateness, which means that such certificates can be processed quickly, typically within a day or two. If the Consulting Director and the Design Review Chairman do not agree that the intended action is a Minor Work or if they do not agree to approve the issuance of a Minor Works Certificate of Appropriateness, the application is submitted to the Design Review Committee of the C-MHLC and treated as a routine application. The C-MHLC approves the issuance of the Certificate of Appropriateness, disapproves the issuance of the Certificate of Appropriateness, or returns the Certificate of Appropriateness to the Design Review Committee for additional review. Appeals of the actions of the C-MHLC with respect to the design review decisions are made to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Ultimate appeals are to the courts.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission cannot deny the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of a historic landmark. It can, however, delay the effective date of such a certificate for up to 365 days. During this period the C-MHLC can request that the appropriate local governing board exercise the power of eminent domain to acquire the property. More typically, the C-MHLC would attempt to dissuade the owner from demolishing the property. An instance of success in this regard occurred with respect to the intended demolition of the W. G. Rogers House at 524 East Boulevard in Charlotte.