Community Heritage Commissions: A Resource Guide

The Community Heritage Commission is one of the most important components in a local government’s heritage program, yet the enabling legislation provides little guidance about its formation and function. As a result, there are numerous approaches—some are successful, others less so, and still others fail.

The goal of this guide is to support the formation and ongoing work of the Community Heritage Commission through research, guidelines, and standards. By understanding best practices and lessons learned, a consistent interpretation and implementation of the Community Heritage Commission can be successfully adopted by all local governments and regional districts. By establishing and authorizing a commission, the local government places importance on community-led conservation. Stronger systems and strengthened relationships will ensure greater success for the commission and improved conservation for the community-at-large.