The future of preservation and revitalization has arrived.
We’re looking for the first round of communities to experience the local version of the new Ohio Preservation Connection, called “Local Preservation Connections,” and the first communities anywhere in the country to experience this new tool.
Put another way – how would you like to be a part of the future of preserving Ohio’s past?
Imagine sitting at your computer or picking up your phone and asking this question: “I live in a house at xxx West Third Street in Mansfield. Are there local laws that govern the installation of vinyl siding?”
This very question was asked this week on the new Mansfield Local Preservation Connection paired with the Ohio Preservation Connection. This was the response:
“Based on your address, you are located in the Sherman’s Estate Historic District. Based on the information available about the Sherman’s Estate Historic District design review area, vinyl siding installation may fall under the category of “Other significant changes to a property” that require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) if it involves changes in exterior siding that could potentially cover up trim or important architectural features of the building. Specifically, the guidelines mention that “Exterior siding that does not cover up trim or important features of the building” falls under the “COMMENT ONLY” category, which means it does not require a COA but the Commission would like to have input.
This suggests that if the vinyl siding installation does not cover up trim or important architectural features, it might only need a comment from the Commission. However, it’s best practice to contact the Mansfield Historic Preservation Commission directly for specific guidance and confirmation on whether your project requires a COA, considering the nuances of each individual case and the preservation goals of the district.”
To answer that question, the interface:
- Automatically consulted maps of local historic districts
- Identified which set of guidelines applied
- Read through those standards to identify which applied to this question
- Answered the question — all within a handful of seconds.
Now imagine being able to ask:
- What local resources are there to assist with my commercial building renovation? Are there grants or tax incentives?
- What organizations exist in my area that can provide assistance in historic house repair?
- What style is my building (after uploading a photo)?
- What statewide incentives exist for preserving our historic downtown? Where can I find assistance?
- What buildings in my community are listed on the National Register of Historic Places?
- What corporations and foundations have given grants for preservation projects in my part of Ohio in the last five years?
- What is a Certified Local Government? How do we become one?
…and countless additional questions.
This can be of tremendous benefit to preservation and downtown revitalization organizations, as well as for property owners and civic leaders. When combined with automatic access to the Ohio Preservation Connection, the result can be nothing short of astounding.
To bring this to your community, we are looking for local sponsoring organizations. The cost is very minimal. We’ve already heard from over a dozen Ohio communities interested in participating.
For more information, drop Thomas a line at: thomasatpo@gmail.com.
Image: DALL-E 3
