State Historical Resources Commission

The State Historical Resources Commission (SHRC) is a nine-member state review board, appointed by the Governor, with responsibilities for the identification, registration, and preservation of California's cultural heritage. The SHRC meets at least four times per year to give citizens an opportunity to participate in the public hearings.

COMMISSION OPENINGS
 As of November 10, 2009, the terms of six commisioners expired. Applications are being accepted to fill these positions. Commissioners are appointed by the governor. If you are qualified and interested in serving on the State Historic Resource Commission, you may apply online from the Governor's website at http://gov.ca.gov/appointments.

Commissioners representing the areas of Prehistoric Archaeology, Architectural History, Historian, Historical Archaeology are required to be recognized professionals in their respective fields. Commissioners representing the areas of Folklife, and Ethnic History are required to be knowledgeable in these areas.

Section 5020 of the Public Resources Code identifies the commissioners qualifications, powers and duties.  See California State Law and Historic Preservation (pdf - 95 pgs)

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Responsibilities of the Commission

Five members of the SHRC shall be recognized professionals in the disciplines of history, pre-historic archaeology, historic archaeology, architectural history, and restoration architecture. One member shall be knowledgeable in ethnic history; one member shall be knowledgeable in Folklife; and two members shall represent the public or possess expertise in fields that the Governor deems necessary or desirable to enable the Commission to carry out its responsibilities. The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) serves as Executive Secretary to the SHRC.

In accordance with State law (California Public Resources Code Section 5020.4), the primary responsibility of the SHRC is to review applications for listing historic and archaeological resources on the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, and the California Historical Landmarks and California Points of Historical Interest registration programs.

The SHRC is also charged with the following responsibilities:

Conduct a statewide inventory of historical resources and maintain comprehensive records of these resources.

Develop and adopt criteria for the rehabilitation of historic structures.

Establish policies and guidelines for a comprehensive statewide historical resources plan.

Submit an annual report to the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation and the State Legislature giving an account of its activities, identifying unattained goals of plans and programs, and recommending needed legislation for the support of these programs.

Consult with and consider the recommendations of public agencies, civic groups, and citizens interested in historic preservation.

Develop criteria and procedures based upon public hearings and active public participation for the selection of projects to be funded through the National Historic Preservation fund and other federal and state grants-in-aid programs.

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