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Founded 05-05-05

Boone Town Council Establishes Historic Preservation Commission

Story by Kathleen McFadden

At their regular meeting on March 15, the members of the Boone Town Council unanimously approved the establishment of the Historic Preservation Commission of Boone.

The council members discussed the idea at their retreat in February, but agreed by consensus that the draft ordinance would give the commission too much power.

The revised ordinance addressed those concerns.

The commission will be composed of five to seven members who live and/or work in Boone, and some of the group’s responsibilities will be inventorying properties with historical, architectural, prehistorical and cultural significance within the town; report any areas suitable for designation as historic districts; and prepare and recommend adoption of a preservation element as part of the town’s comprehensive plan.

Council member Rennie Brantz said that historic preservation is important for education enrichment and for the role it plays in the unique identity of a community.

“Our historic identity helps differentiate us from other communities,” Brantz said. “There’s much to remember and celebrate about our past.”

Brantz continued, “It opens the door to remembering, preserving and passing on our history and our legacy. The Historic Preservation Committee can provide leadership and direction in establishing this memory.”

Council members Brantz and Janet Pepin will serve on the commission.