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Historic Preservation Commission discusses community preservation fair, plans follow-up
Summary
Commissioners reviewed staff recommendations for a historic preservation fair to provide one-stop preservation resources, discussed partnering with the Home Builders Association and local schools, and agreed to revisit detailed planning at the November meeting; volunteers stepped forward to help plan.
The Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission on Oct. 15 discussed plans for a historic preservation fair aimed at giving residents one place to ask questions about preserving their properties and to learn about local contractors and demonstrations.
“ The goal of the historic preservation fair would be to provide an opportunity for members of the community who have questions related to preserving their properties or who are interested in the processes to be able to ask questions of multiple groups at one time in one place,” said Lauren, a city historic-preservation staff member, summarizing the proposal and noting staff had consulted the State Historic Preservation Office about participation and potential grant funding.
Commissioners outlined several approaches to staging the event. Chair Angle said the fair could serve outreach goals and showcase the commission’s work, including the preservation plan. Commissioner Zenker suggested the commission consider a booth at the Home Builders Association spring home show as an alternative to a standalone event; staff said that association has in the past comped booths and that the home show can draw thousands of visitors.
A commissioner suggested involving the high school's career-technical construction program for demonstrations and outreach to younger residents. Several commissioners also urged broadening the target audience beyond traditionally recognized 'historic' houses, noting many late-20th-century homes are aging and need rehabilitation guidance.
No formal action was taken at the meeting. Commissioners Amy and Beth volunteered to help plan the fair, and staff said the item would return to the commission’s agenda in November with a reconfigured proposal and suggested timeline. The commission did not set a firm date for the fair at this meeting.
Next steps: staff will refine options for funding and format and bring a revised proposal and potential planning subcommittee structure to the Nov. 19 meeting for further action.
