Landmarks Commission Meeting - August 18, 2026

The Monona Landmarks Commission’s August 18, 2026 meeting focused on historic-preservation design guidelines and grant planning. After a presentation by a Wisconsin Historical Society representative, the commission unanimously approved a motion to submit a letter of intent for a Certified Local Government (CLG) grant to develop design guidelines for locally designated properties. The letter is due September 11, and a full application is expected in December. Staff will seek ballpark estimates from consultants; no grant amount, consultant selection, or contract award was made. The commission discussed how guidelines could clarify review expectations for property owners and commissioners and support preservation tax-credit eligibility.

Staff reported that a Dane Arts grant application had been submitted and that a revised support letter was needed. A sign fabrication and shipping estimate from Backer was approximately $1,300; city staff may install it, and staff is considering obtaining another estimate. The commission also discussed the city’s comprehensive plan, being prepared by Vanderwal and Associates, with a draft anticipated in October; no new procurement action was taken on that work.