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Mount Zion AME Church preservation raised at CRE meeting; staff points to Florida Historic Trust grants
Summary
A Mount Zion AME Church member asked the CRE board for help preserving the 1866 church building, noting its historic significance and tourism interest; staff suggested Florida Historic Trust grant opportunities and offered to assist with application coordination.
At the Oct. 13 CRE meeting a Mount Zion AME Church member urged the board to help preserve a 159-year-old church building at the edge of downtown that hosts walking-tour visits and tour buses.
The commenter described the building as an important historical edifice built in 1866 and said volunteer efforts and occasional donations have not been sufficient to cover preservation needs. "It's a landmark and it's registered with The United States," the speaker said, asking how the city might assist with funding or access to grants.
Staff replied that Main Street programs can apply annually to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and that Ocala Main Street would be willing to assist with a grant application for preservation work. Staff offered to meet offline to discuss potential grant applications and use of the facility for community activities outside of church services.
No direct funding or commitments were made during the meeting; staff offered follow-up assistance and suggested pursuing historic-preservation grants available through the Florida Historic Trust and other Main Street resources.
