The Winston County Journal

Local historic preservation advocates, city officials and other citizens debated the effect a proposed historic preservation ordinance will have in Louisville.

Todd Sanders of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History said that the ordinance simply gives the Historical Preservation Board the authority to review buildings in the proposed district before exterior remodeling building or demolishing.

Sanders commended the preservation board because the ordinance "doesn't hold up people" who want to make basic repairs, he said.

He added that the Historical Preservation Board does not have the power of zoning and planning and that the aldermen have final say over any decision.

"The historic preservation board does not seek to usurp power," B.J. Kelleghan said. "It's a group of reasonable people. It's your neighbors."

Kelleghan added, "It is not dictatorial. Just wanting to help keep Louisville beautiful and make it more livable."

"People should realize the commission's role is to help the person improve their property," said Sanders. "They are there for advice on how to retain the character of a structure."

Sanders noted Louisville could be held back while other cities with lots of historical buildings showcase their gems.

"When we do this (ordinance), the whole value of the city rises," said Sanders. "We have seen a lot of successful implementations."

On the other side of the discussion, attendees noted concerns about the commission placing constricting rules on their property.

"It is a tragedy to pass this if no option out," said Wally Bennett, a property owner in the proposed district.

Larry Miller questioned if the city would foot the bill for any property owners.

Sanders reiterated, "The commission nor the city go out and tell people what to do." He added, "There are tax abatements and tax exemptions available if approved as a historic district."

After hearing Sanders statements and city officials noting no funds would be available from the city, Miller said, "I'm against it."

Alderwoman Judy McLeod questioned limiting the district and making the area less encompassing.

Kelleghan noted a historic district survey team came in and set up the parameters of the areas. The historic preservation board using a partial grant spent $6,000 to identify which homes qualify as the city's ancient jewels.

Two more citizens noted their approval of the idea.

"It is important to preserve our historical heritage," said Beth McCool. "We need to take care of what is good and beautiful."

"This is an opportunity to preserve our history," added Mike Cournoyer who explained he is presently rebuilding a building downtown to fit the look of the historic district at extra cost since it is important.

The board tabled the matter and was set to discuss some points of the ordinance at July 15 meeting.

Following the historic and preservation public hearing, the board convened in a regular meeting to address several issues.

The board allowed Phillip Lowery to address the board about a ministry building planned at 323 West Main Street. Lowery requested the board provide him with a variance to build the building on the property.

Lowery outlined the ministry's positive contributions to the community over the past 17 years and how growth of the building could further provide positive aspects to the community.

Board Attorney Taylor Tucker advised the board not to take up the issue since Lowery had not provided the necessary paperwork to request a variance and city Engineer Kenny Morris added that no building plans had been provided so the board did not even know if a variance will be necessary.

"It is common requirements for everyone to turn in a plat of the property," said Morris. Morris noted he had not received any of the proper paperwork on the construction of the building as required by the city ordinances and codes.

The board recommended to Lowery to work out the details and provide the city engineer with the proper requested paper work. The board noted that once the city engineer receives the proper paperwork that the matter would first be addressed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and then the Board of Aldermen.

In other business,

€ After an executive session, the board upheld the termination of Tabitha Hardin from the Louisville Police Department and a reprimand of assistant Chief Lawrence Estes.

€ Approved changing insurance companies to save several thousands on insurance premiums.

€ Set upcoming budget hearing for August 5 at 5:30 pm.

€ Approved increase in fees for use of fire department equipment.

€ Accepted a vehicle donation from the Friends of the Animal Shelter and issued a written thank you to the group.

€ Approved resolution to accept funds for Louisville Coliseum repairs and improvements.

€ Made recommendation to the Winston County Board of Supervisors of Wilson Webb to Winston County Economic Development Board for the joint City and County seat.

The Board of Aldermen was set to meet in their regularly scheduled meeting July 15 at 6.p.m.

€ Discussed creating an ordinance to prevent loitering at city parks.

€ Approved Golden Triangle Planning and Development District to administer the Community Development Block Grant on the new Polo building project.

€ Approved tax exemption on ad valorem taxes for Taylor Machine Works.

€ Approved several invoices on the improving on the new industrial building for Polo.