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Preservation advocate urges National Register nomination for Odd Fellows Hall and flags flood and stabilization costs
Summary
Jeff Henry briefed the commission on efforts to nominate the Odd Fellows Hall to the National Register, noted the building's role in African American local history, described recent repairs and persistent flooding/structural concerns, and outlined limited grant and tax‑credit pathways for rehabilitation.
Jeff Henry presented the commission with historical research and a preservation plan for the Odd Fellows Hall, stressing the building's significance to Oxford’s African American history and asking for support with listing and rehabilitation strategies.
Henry said he had pursued contacts with the Maryland Historical Trust, Preservation Maryland and the National Park Service and that certified rehabilitation tax credits and small commercial historic grants may be available, although individual property owners often qualify only with association or non‑profit partnerships. He reviewed recent work (a 2023 roof, new heat pump) and displayed photographs of the building's current condition.
Commission discussion centered on chronic flooding and the building’s compromised foundation. Speakers described water present beneath floor hatches after recent rains and noted the site sits on a high water table. Estimates to stabilize or elevate the structure were discussed qualitatively and in ranges; Henry said bids he had seen ranged from about $40,000 to $100,000 depending on work scope.
Commissioners encouraged the presenter to pursue grant programs, consider a historic easement to protect the building, and to keep the commission informed about financing and any structural reports. No formal commission funding commitment was recorded during the meeting.
