[1] The department was founded in 1960, in conjunction with the start of construction of the Civic Auditorium (later renamed Rabobank Theater and Convention Center).

In addition to running the auditorium and convention center, it started promoting Bakersfield to outside companies and visitors.

The department would continue to run the facilities until 1998 and the construction of the Centennial Garden (later renamed Rabobank Arena).

Its focus was to designate redevelopment districts, where financial incentives were offered for construction, rehabilitation, and relocation.

This was the first time the city government would recognize and preserve historical landmarks.