(Le Mars) — The Le Mars Historical Preservation Commission is one step closer to getting the downtown district designated as a National Historic Site and listed on the National Historic Registry. Earlier this morning, the local historic preservation commission held a public hearing to gather comments. No one spoke in opposition to the plan and Le Mars Mayor Dick Kirchoff gave his approval of the project. Iris Hemmingson serves as the chairperson for the historical preservation commission, and explains what’s next.
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Hemmingson says many people have the false belief that if a building is placed on the National Historic Registry, then they can not remodel, or otherwise upgrade the building. She says that simply isn’t true.
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Hemmingson says this is the culmination of two years of work. She says two other districts within Le Mars have already been recognized for their historical qualities. They include the homes in the Foster Park region, and the Le Mars Municipal Park. The historical building preservationist says the downtown district has its own unique qualities.
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Hemmingson says once Le Mars downtown is classified as a historic district, it may mean an increase of tourism to the community.
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