Preservation: Panel to discuss tax credits for historic rehab projects

Missouri's historic rehabilitation tax credits have sparked increased interest in the rehabilitation of historic buildings. Many Springfield property owners have utilized the tax credit program in their projects, according to a statement by the Springfield Landmarks Board.

To take advantage of historic preservation incentives, property owners must follow the Secretary of Interior's Standards.

However, many owners encounter difficulties in satisfying the historic rehabilitation requirements while still conforming to local building codes.

Those interested in the tax credit program will have an opportunity to ask questions about the state's role in the process in an upcoming panel discussion.

The City of Springfield Landmark's Board and Urban Districts Alliance are hosting a panel discussion at 7 p.m. May 14 at Historic City Hall Council Chambers, 830 Boonville Ave.

The purpose of this panel discussion is to help those involved in carrying out and reviewing historic preservation rehabilitation projects better understand the program.

This discussion will help property owners and interested parties better understand the review process and learn how some of the compliance challenges are addressed.

Panelists will present and discuss the review process phases for the tax credit programs; discuss issues related to working with local building codes in rehabilitation work; and provide examples of how to address the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.

Those attending will hear how Dan Scott has successfully utilized the program and converted the Wise Feed Store, 440 N. Campbell Ave., to adaptive reuse.

Angelo Logan, an architect with the State of Missouri's Historic Preservation Program, along with Rosie Chruma, Missouri Department of Economic Development, will provide insight on qualifying for state and federal tax credits for historic rehabilitation projects.

The code specialist will be Harlan Hill of the city of Springfield. All professionals, volunteers and property owners involved in making decisions and giving advice regarding federal and state tax credits for rehabilitation of historic buildings are invited and encouraged to attend this free panel discussion. For more information, please contact Christian Lentz, 836-1036.