Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Historic Grants topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Historic Preservation Board seeks ways to use $15,000 local restoration grant; considers outreach and public‑art options
Summary
Board members and staff discussed the $15,000 local restoration grant that resets annually and is at risk of lapsing if unused; members suggested outreach, education about new state tax credits, and possible use of funds for historically themed downtown artwork if permitted by trust restrictions.
Town planning staff told the Historic Preservation Board on Sept. 3 that the board’s $15,000 local restoration grant remains available but resets annually and does not roll over to the next fiscal year.
Brad Bolen said the program has had no applicants this year and “we'd have the full $15,000” if no grants are awarded. “We don't roll over those funds,” Bolen said, urging the board to publicize the program so money is not lost. He proposed inviting a state representative to explain recent changes to the state historic tax‑credit program and presenting town incentives to Craig and Gould property owners as a way to advertise the grant.
Board members suggested broader outreach and education, including holding a public session for downtown and Craig and Gould property owners, coordinating with the Art Commission on potential public‑art projects and exploring whether PS Miller Trust Fund rules allow grant dollars to pay for historically themed downtown artwork or streetscape improvements.
Brad Bolen said the PS Miller Trust Fund has specific criteria and he would research allowable uses; he also noted the town has a smaller regular historic preservation budget that could be paired with Art Commission funds. Board liaison David Rowe also reminded members about upcoming museum events and local history programming as outreach opportunities.
No formal vote was taken. Board members asked staff to return with clearer guidance on grant eligibility, potential outreach strategies and education options at a future meeting, and to report back on whether the PS Miller Trust Fund permits art or streetscape projects that meet historic preservation goals.
