What do you see as the City’s role in preservation of historic
sites? Should the City be proactive or respond to community proposals?
Should the City and/or Redevelopment Agency be a funding source?
Historic preservation is an important public service and a legitimate
responsibility of city government. Historic sites and buildings give
Folsom much of its special character and community identity. The city
should take a proactive role in preservation and stewardship of
historic sites. Folsom’s Municipal Code (Chapter 17.52 H-D)
specifically address this role: “1) To preserve and enhance the
historic, small-town atmosphere of the historic district as it
developed between the years 1850 and 1950” and “2) To maintain,
restore, and reconstruct historic structures and sites within the
historic district.” If this is not the case, a funding agency within
the city should be established; if not through the Redevelopment
Agency, then perhaps through the creation of a city historic
preservation program.
Given that Folsom’s history includes significant contributions and
specific sites relating to gold mining, ranching, Native American
culture and religion, Chinese settlement, the first railroad in the
West, the first power transmission in the world, and the first
cross-country automobile route, in your opinion, how significant is
the role of heritage/cultural tourism in the City’s economic future
and what will it take to capitalize on these historic resources?
We have a unique and rich history that should serve as one of the
foundations for tourism. It could significantly benefit our future
economic vitality. It will require a strong partnership between the
city, the chamber and its tourism arm, and all entities within the
historic district to create a greater awareness of the importance of
our history. It will take funding to develop and realize the full
potential of our historic resources, as well as marketing and
promotion.
What is your vision for the City-owned historical/cultural
resources, specifically the Chinese Diggings, the Superintendent’s
House on the railroad wye, the Murer House, the Southern Pacific
Depot, and the Interpretive Area?
All of these historical/cultural resources need to be maintained and
incorporated into overall Historic District revitalization plans. They
will enhance the experience of visitors as well as residents, and
provide a legacy for future generations. I envision them as part of a
vibrant historic district that offers an array of cultural and
learning experiences for youth and adult in addition to arts, small
specialty retail, dining and entertainment.
What are your priority objectives relative to the Historic District
Revitalization project?
Revitalization is needed in order to restore economic health to the
district. The priority is to take care during this process not to
surrender historic authenticity. Once destroyed, history cannot be
replaced. Enhancing and highlighting our history should be one of the
priorities of revitalization efforts.
What is your vision for future use of the property located in the
Historic District which is currently occupied by the Corporation Yard?
I have heard some talk about developing the corporation yard into a
convention center similar to Asilomar. I’m not convinced this in
keeping with the character of the Historic District. Careful
consideration must be given to what is best suited to the area, and I
would like to hear ideas from members of our historic district
community.
When visitors and residents drive into the City from U.S. 50 onto
Folsom Boulevard, what impression of the City do you want them to
have?
None of our gateways into the City have any particular attraction, nor
do they speak to who we are. We need a comprehensive “Gateway”
throughout the city. Folsom Boulevard as the main access point to the
Historic District should reflect our unique historic and cultural
identity in a way that captures the interest of potential visitors.
