Commission approves issuing nomination forms for 2025 historic preservation awards

The Ames Historic Preservation Commission voted to issue nomination forms and launch the 2025 historic preservation awards program.

Staff said the Commission has run the awards program for several years and proposed issuing a press release and notices to neighborhood contacts to solicit nominations. Nomination materials will be due by Feb. 20; after staff receives entries the Commission will review nominations and determine awardees. The awards are typically presented to City Council, with the Commission chair joining the Council to present winners, likely at a second April meeting.

Commissioners discussed past participation levels and noted that while nominations in prior years have been few, submissions were generally high quality. The Commission emphasized it is not required to give every award category every year if nominations do not meet the standard. Commissioners also confirmed nominations may come from across the city and are not limited to the Old Town Historic District.

Members asked whether energy‑efficient renovations consistent with historic character could be recognized. Staff said the Commission could consider sustainability-related criteria or a category recognizing energy‑efficient work that preserves historic character, and suggested adding language about sustainability to future nomination guidance if the Commission wishes.

A motion to issue the 2025 nomination forms carried by voice vote.