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Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell has introduced Bill No. 020462 to the Rules Committee of City Council that would no longer allow the Historic Commission to create historic districts. Instead, only City Council could create historic districts. This would remove the process from a panel of experts that are required by law to have a democratic process that includes extensive community input, to a political process. It would also allow for the disproportionate influence of large landlords and property owners who could invest in coercing City Council.
Community Groups around the city, and the Preservation Community, are aghast at the Blackwell Ordinance. Please write your Councilperson and the Mayor, and let them know you OPPOSE Councilwoman Blackwell's ordinance. Tell them you support historic preservation, and the program created by then Councilman John Street.
Councilwoman Blackwell has introduced this bill, despite saying she doesn't understand the current process for historic designation or what the Historic Commission is. Any changes in law should be based in best practices from other cities and good information!
Greg Montanaro gmontana@pobox.upenn.edu
