Draper Historic Preservation Commission Meeting – January 21, 2026

The Draper Historic Preservation Commission held its first meeting of 2026 on January 21, 2026, at 6:07 PM. The commission approved previous minutes, discussed several ongoing projects, and made decisions on grant writing, plaque modifications, and upcoming public outreach articles. No public comments were received.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes Approval: The minutes from November 19, 2025, were approved unanimously (motion by David, second by Wendy). All members present voted in favor.

Discussion Items

• Draper Historical Society Coordination: The commission sought a liaison to the historical society. Annie Bomber volunteered to take on the role, ensuring consistent attendance at the monthly meetings (last Monday at 11 AM).
• Oral History Grant: The commission discussed assisting the historical society with an oral history project through a $3,000 matching grant. Annie Bomber offered to write the grant. A motion authorizing Annie to help write the grant (provided the historical society desires it) was made and passed unanimously.
• Reconnaissance Level Survey Update: Staff reported that Kurt Cuffer’s preservation firm (Preservation Strategies) has been hired for a citywide survey. Physical surveys will begin in April, and Kurt plans to attend the March meeting to discuss the project.
• Widowmaker Plaque Update: Staff updated on the plaque for the flight park. The county requires its logo on the plaque, necessitating a modification costing approximately $830. Additional work includes site preparation (concrete pad for ADA access) and a maintenance agreement. The commission deferred voting on the $830 expenditure until the county agreement and construction costs are finalized. A potential move to hold an item on this was noted.
• America 250: Wendy reported that the city has created a task force for the semiquincentennial, and she serves on it. The commission discussed ways to incorporate history into celebrations, such as oral history collection at Draper Days, and emphasized documenting underrepresented stories. No formal action was taken.
• Juneteenth Article: Wendy presented a draft outline for an article in Draper Forward about slavery in Draper and the Bankhead family. The deadline for the June issue is April 15. The commission expressed support for the article and discussed ensuring accuracy and community buy-in. Members agreed to proceed with research and writing.
• Walking Tour Brochures: David reported placing brochures at several locations; only one rejection (dentist’s office). He requested additional plastic display cases. Due to budget constraints, the commission agreed to hold off ordering until July.
• Ethnic and Minority History Research: Ongoing research into local ethnic history, specifically regarding a goat farm and family, has yielded limited success. Research continues.
• Native American Recognition: The commission discussed a potential plaque or article recognizing Native American presence in Draper. Given time and budget constraints, a Draper Forward article on the Domínguez–Escalante expedition and Native Utah in 1776 was proposed for the September/October issue. The commission agreed on this approach.
• National Register Nominations: Two property owners (Isaac Stewart and Dina Williams) are ready to proceed with National Register nominations. The commission decided to solicit quotes from multiple consultants, as previous contact with Coral has been difficult. Annie will obtain quotes.
• Inventory Day Scheduling: Annie proposed February 2 or 9 for a follow-up inventory day. She will coordinate with interested members.
• Conflict of Interest Forms: Members completed and submitted conflict of interest forms. Discussion clarified that the forms are intended to disclose interests that could create conflicts with commission decisions.

Key Outcomes

• Minutes approved: Unanimous.
• Authorized Annie Bomber to assist with the oral history grant (pending historical society’s request). Motion carried.
• Widowmaker plaque: No vote taken on the $830 plaque modification; staff will return after county agreement and cost estimates are finalized.
• Juneteenth article: Commission agreed to develop an article for the June issue of Draper Forward, with a deadline of April 15.
• Native American recognition: Commission decided to pursue a Draper Forward article for September/October, rather than a plaque this year.
• Brochure reorder: Delayed until July due to budget.
• National Register nominations: Annie will obtain quotes from consultants.
• Inventory day: Annie will attempt to schedule for February 2 or 9.
• Meeting adjourned at 7:17 PM.