Woodside history committee marks Preservation Month, readies Independence Hall exhibit

Melanie Olsen, the town's associate planner and staff liaison to the History Committee, read a proclamation at the May 27 council meeting declaring support for historic preservation and previewed the committee's work for National Preservation Month.

Olsen recited the proclamation language and said the committee will promote a Woodside Town Center walking tour and run the annual preservation awards program. "Historic preservation is an effective tool for managing sustainable development, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability," she read.

Thalia Lubin, a history committee member, described work on two new panels for Independence Hall and thanked volunteers and local contributors. She summarized Independence Hall's history, including multiple relocations and use as a community meeting place; she noted the hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Council member Brown moved to accept the history committee item on the consent agenda; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call. Council member Auberich, Council member Brown, Council member Gold and Mayor Domkowski voted yes.

Lubin said the committee is preparing an exhibit for the Woodside Fire Protection District's 100th anniversary and expects firefighters to bring rigs for an event this summer; a specific public date was not set during the meeting.

The council did not alter the committee's materials; acceptance on the consent agenda was procedural.

What happens next: the history committee will install new informational panels for Independence Hall, finalize the fire protection centennial exhibit later this summer and notify council about event dates.