Naperville Commission Recommends New Preservation Plan

The city's historic commission unanimously supports a plan to update preservation policies before the upcoming bicentennial.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in City Hall

Isometric editorial illustration of a decorative nineteenth-century stone masonry cornice, representing city-wide historic preservation policy. — The Naperville Historic Preservation Commission has unanimously recommended that the City Council adopt the Progress Through Preservation plan ahead of the 2031 bicentennial. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Naperville Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council review the Progress Through Preservation plan. This proposal aims to strengthen local historic preservation efforts leading up to the city's bicentennial celebration in 2031.

Why it matters

The plan seeks to modernize preservation policies and staffing to ensure the city maintains its historic character as it prepares for its 2031 bicentennial. It serves as a strategic roadmap for managing growth while protecting architectural heritage.

The plan proposes simplifying the landmark designation process for all buildings reaching 50 years of age. It also calls for increased city staffing and training through the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions.

The players

Naperville Historic Preservation Commission

This local government body is responsible for advising the city council on the protection and management of historic properties.

Naperville Preservation Inc.

This is a private organization that drafted the Progress Through Preservation plan after analyzing measures in 29 other municipalities.

The details

Drafted by Naperville Preservation Inc., the plan was initially developed in 2022 and later updated in 2026. The commission has formally requested that city staff report back with specific recommendations for implementing these changes.

Initial analysis for the plan was conducted in 2022.
The preservation plan was updated in 2026.
The plan was submitted to the mayor and city council in spring 2026.
The Historic Preservation Commission issued its recommendation on October 22, 2026.
Naperville is expected to celebrate its bicentennial in 2031.

Political Context

The city intends to align its local preservation staffing with the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions training standards, which provides a recognized benchmark for professionalizing historic oversight. This shift toward formalized training may face opposition from budget-conscious officials concerned about the costs of increased municipal staffing.

Property owners with buildings reaching 50 years of age may see a more streamlined landmark designation process if these policies are adopted. Residents should monitor future city council meetings for potential regulatory changes regarding building management and preservation requirements.

The takeaway

The commission's recommendation highlights the growing importance of proactive urban planning ahead of long-term milestones. Homeowners in historic areas are encouraged to review the proposed landmark designation changes to understand how they might affect their property rights.