County Recruits for New Architectural Commission

The following is a news release from the County of Marin:

The Marin County Board of Supervisors is recruiting for five vacancies on its new Architectural Commission, and the deadline for applications is October 21.

In August, the Marin County Board of Supervisors approved a building code amendment that provides more freedom to those who have successfully maneuvered through the planning process and are seeking to construct dwellings and other structures that leave the smallest carbon footprint. As part of that code amendment, the Board approved the creation of the Architectural Commission to weigh the architectural or historical significance of a building or design to see if it falls under the preservation provisions of the alternative building code.

Prior to the code amendment, construction of environmentally sustainable homes was almost impossible while adhering to existing state building code, leaving “green” builders stuck or contemplating the idea of building without formal approval. The amendment and the Architectural Commission will help those who have the desire to build a zero-carbon home, using recycled materials and without the need for heating systems.

The Board is seeking the following volunteer commissioners:

• Two licensed architects
• One licensed professional engineer
• One licensed contractor
• One public member

Once the new advisory commission is formed, it will qualify and designate locally qualified historical buildings or structures pursuant to the health and safety code as well as structures deemed of present or future importance to the history, architecture or culture.

Apply online or learn more about the Architectural Commission or the application process by calling the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at  (415) 473-7331. You can also request an application by mail at Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Suite 329, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael CA 94903.