First created by law in 1979, Kingston's Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission administers the designation and protection of historic properties and historic districts throughout the City. Consisting of seven City residents appointed by the mayor, the present commission includes a preservation architect, an urban planner trained and experienced in preservation planning, a real estate attorney
, a technical preservation professional, a master preservation craftsman, an art historian and a homeowner who restored Ulster County's oldest home. In addition to approving conformance to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for exterior work to properties landmarked or within historic districts as required by law, the Commission also provides guidance to property owners to help protect their property values and the city's historic character.