Counties Support Resources for Historic Preservation

On February 15, 2023, Associate Policy Director Dominic Butchko submitted testimony to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee in support of SB 0425 – Maryland Historic Trust – Historic Preservation Partnership Program and Fund – Established.

The House Appropriations Committee will consider the bill’s cross-file, HB 0674, on February 28.

SB 0425 establishes the Historic Preservation Partnership Program, housed in the Maryland Historic Trust, to implement and encourage the preservation of historic properties in partnership with qualified nonprofits. Maryland is replete with sites and structures of historical significance. They are sources of both revenue and pride for the State, and counties fully recognize the need to safeguard these treasures. Any program that bolsters preservation and development efforts is a step in the right direction, and accordingly, the Maryland Association of Counties supports this legislation.

From the MACo Testimony:

Maryland is blessed with a rich bounty of historic sites and notable structures. As state leaders look forward, the preservation of these sites is critical as they can serve as a driver of community redevelopment and economic growth. Public policy that provides tools for jurisdictions to further preservation efforts is a positive step for both communities and broader economic development. Redeveloped historic sites can help drive future growth, and strategic place-making initiatives, providing a possible source of new affordable housing, job creation through tourism, and cultural and historical educational value.