Pacific Grove considers shortening list of historic homes

The City of Pacific Grove is known for it’s history, and in no better way is it captured than with its homes. 20% of structures in Pacific Grove are considered “historic” by the city. They are cherished by both visitors and residents, like Jim Hogan and his wife.

“She came over here, saw this place, and fell in love with it. She called me up and said, ‘I think we got a house.’ That’s what did it. We bought it, said Hogan.

Hogan bought a Victorian home with his wife back in 1987. At the time, it was already registered to the city’s list of historic gems. This spring, the city is taking a closer look at these homes. “There appear to be a number of structures on there that may not meet the criteria to be historic. At the time, it was recommended that we fund a survey to look at the removal of those structures that may not meet the criteria,” said City of Pacific Grove Director of Community and Economic Development, Anastazia Aziz.

This criteria includes looking at when the home was built, who has lived there, the events that took place there, and its architectural style. The city said maintaining the home’s original style is a key factor. For Hogan, preserving his home has become a priority. “We thought at first we’d really add on and really build. We could go up to a second floor without adding it, but we decided not to do it,” said Hogan.

The city said they’ve found that nearly 400 homes do not meet the historic criteria. By removing these homes the city said they can better protect the community’s character. “So that for generations to come the city maintains its overall character, feel, and protection of its historic resources,” said Aziz.