|
2024 Mayoral and City Council Candidate Historic Preservation Q&A
Candidates for District 3
Kate Callen
Coleen Cusack - Did not respond
Ellis Jones III - Did not respond
Councilmember Stephen Whitburn - Did not respond
1. Preservation and New Construction Strategies
What is your plan to ensure that the unique architectural heritage of our historic neighborhoods is conserved for future generations while we continue to build new construction?
Kate Callen: I am a second-generation SOHO supporter -- my mother's favorite T-shirt was a SOHO shirt that read, "The greenest building is the one that is already built." If elected, I would work closely with SOHO to identify and safeguard District 3 historic treasures. The assault on historic preservation that culminated in the destruction of the Little Red Bungalow in Mission Hills has been well-organized and well-funded. I believe it can be fought successfully. A first step would be to exert public pressure on developers to consult with surrounding communities on the design and impact of their projects. Key message: Don't build ugly!
2. Adaptive Reuse and Sustainability
What are your thoughts on promoting adaptive reuse projects within our historic neighborhoods, ensuring the preservation of their cultural identity while integrating sustainable practices?
Kate Callen: The central question about adaptive reuse is not "Should we do it?" but "How should we do it?" Such projects should proceed carefully with full community input and under the guidance of adaptive reuse experts who are not being paid by the builder. City Hall can and should take the lead in promoting these projects. We need to change the "build everything everywhere" mindset that Complete Communities has promulgated.
How do you plan to encourage the repurposing of historic buildings for modern use, while maintaining their architectural integrity and cultural significance?
Kate Callen: Repurposing historic buildings makes perfect sense at every level: economically, environmentally, and culturally. Again, this should proceed carefully with expert guidance, and the process should include community participation. As D3's Council rep, I would make it my business to keep track of our historic buildings and, as needed, to serve as a forceful advocate for them and their neighborhoods.
3. Long-Term Vision
What is your long-term vision for the development and preservation of our historic neighborhoods, considering the evolving needs of our communities and the imperative to conserve our cultural heritage?
Kate Callen: My vision begins by making it clear that historic preservation is not a deterrent to building more housing. That propaganda has created a false dichotomy of preservation vs. development. We must have both. I would urge City Hall and the building industry to explore new avenues for incorporating historic architecture and design in new projects. And I would strongly support SOHO's efforts to build public awareness of the value of our historic treasures, especially here in D3.
How will you ensure that your policies and initiatives reflect a sustainable and holistic approach to preserving the essence and history of our neighborhoods for generations to come?
Kate Callen: One of my campaign slogans is "Neighborhoods First!" I was lucky to grow up in an older urban neighborhood in Philadelphia that was enriched by classic design and architecture. I want San Diego's children to have that same wonderful experience. D3 neighborhoods have become blighted by oversized multi-story bunkers that dwarf nearby Craftsman homes and cast shadows across the neighborhood. That is NOT what we love about living in San Diego! My commitment to historic preservation has deep roots. That's why I'll fight for it and keep fighting.
Yes, No, or Maybe Questions
Some neighborhoods like Golden Hill and Encanto have been waiting for designation as historic districts for many years, and have applications now pending at the Historical Resources Board (HRB); other neighborhoods are currently organizing to submit applications.
1. If elected, will you be an aggressive advocate for the designation of the backlog of neighborhoods that are waiting for historic district status?
Kate Callen: Yes
2. Would you support a neighborhood's seeking historic district status by urging the HRB to agree to a specific reasonable timetable for making a decision?
Kate Callen: Yes
3. Would you support increasing City Council funding for the HRB so that they can more actively designate new neighborhoods as well as enforce the landmarks law in already designated historic districts?
Kate Callen: Yes
4. Were you in favor of the failed SB 10 legislation?
Kate Callen: No
5. Do you support the Mills Act to assist with the restoration and rehabilitation of historic homes?
Kate Callen: Yes
|
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
|
