LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK

To the Editor,

During National Historic Preservation Week, I hoped to share with your readers an explanation about the connection between historic preservation and economic development.

Economic development remains one of the biggest arguments for historic preservation today. Used effectively, economics will aid both preservationists, residents and merchants of cities and towns. Tax incentives have long been associated with benefits of restoring or utilizing historic buildings. Tax credits are offered at both the state and federal level to individuals who restore structures.

In addition, grants may be allocated to both individuals and cities involved in revitalizing downtown or residential areas. These competitive grants are given from various state and federal governmental agencies. Grant money may be used to offset restoration costs of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, promote historic buildings, or various other preservation activities. By utilizing existing structures, expenses will be less than if a new building was constructed.

The revitalization of downtown areas not only attracts consumers but adds to the city's tax base which may then be utilized for city improvements and further preservation. Further revenue may be acquired through the sponsorship of preservation related work shop or seminars. House, barn and cemetery restoration are examples of educational work shops that have aided communities nationwide.

The key to economic success in any community is the cooperation between various organizations. Partnerships among developers, non-profit preservation organizations, industrial components, housing associations, and various other groups will form a solid foundation for which economic development may be built.

KEVIN O'DELL

Cape Girardeau