Part 1 introduces research strategies, key resources, and terminology to help homeowners uncover their property’s past. Participants will learn where to begin their search, how to identify and access historical documents, and what types of records are most useful. The session also explores distinctions between historic resources and landmarks, the importance of historic integrity, and how local and county archives can be utilized for research. An interactive demonstration will showcase how to compile and summarize findings into a cohesive history that highlights the home’s significance.

SPEAKERS

Amber Long is the founder of Long Historic Preservation Services, a Santa Barbara County-based consulting firm focused on caring for historic places and the built environment. Before starting her own business in 2023, she spent a decade working in planning and cultural resources for both public agencies and private firms. Amber is passionate about finding creative, balanced solutions that help protect historic sites while meeting the needs of communities, developers, and agencies alike. Her work ranges from local projects to collaborations with the military and nonprofits. Notable projects include the rehabilitation of the historic Sebastian Store in San Simeon and ongoing work with the Piedras Blancas Light Station. She holds degrees in political science and U.S. history from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Amber also volunteers with local heritage groups and enjoys traveling with her husband. She’s called the Central Coast home for over 20 years.

Carrie Chasteen is an expert in historic preservation with over 23 years of experience in cultural resource management. With a Master of Science in Historic Preservation, she has worked on a wide range of projects, helping developers and property owners navigate historic regulations and preserve significant properties. As a Principal Architectural Historian, she specializes in preparing regulatory compliance documents, evaluating properties for historical registers, and ensuring projects align with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. Carrie also loves uncovering the stories behind places, using her deep research skills to craft historic context statements that highlight a property's unique significance.

Part 2 delves into financial incentives such as the Mills Act and State Historic Tax Credits, explaining the application processes, eligibility criteria, and potential tax reductions. Attendees will learn how to determine whether their jurisdiction participates in these programs and what steps to take if it does not. Additional financial assistance, including earthquake retrofit grants and local preservation funds, will be discussed. The session also covers how to protect a home’s future through deed restrictions, easements, and Mills Act contracts, and considers the broader impact of historic designation on property values.

SPEAKERS

Lambert Giessinger, Senior Architect, City of Los Angele Office of Historic Resources Los Angeles Department of City Planning

Cindy Heitzman, Executive Director, California Preservation Foundation

Jon Haeber, Field Services Director, California Preservation Foundation

Janiele Maffei,Chief Mitigation Officer,California Earthquake Authority (CEA)

Part 3 will cover essential best practices for maintaining, repairing, and upgrading historic properties while adhering to preservation standards, including how and why to follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, and how these guidelines impact renovation projects. The session will introduce the California Historical Building Code, highlighting how it differs from conventional building codes and how it can benefit homeowners. Topics will include navigating local regulations for property alterations, assessing whether a project may impact historic features, and distinguishing between maintenance, repair, and replacement (and why this distinction matters). Homeowners will also gain the knowledge to improve energy efficiency in a way that respects the historic character of the home.

SPEAKERS

Ione Stiegler, FAIA, Founding Principal, IS Architecture