Deadwood historic preservation officials are recommending the city pursue renewed Certified Local Government status, a designation they say could strengthen preservation efforts and open the door to additional grant funding.
In a memorandum to the Historic Preservation Commission, Historic Preservation Officer Kevin Kuchenbecker and Program Coordinator Bonny Anfinson recommended reapplying through the South Dakota State Historic Preservation Office and the National Park Service.
The program allows certified communities to play a larger role in historic preservation activities and compete for preservation grants.
City staff say Deadwood already meets the program’s requirements through its preservation ordinances, Historic Preservation Commission, property surveys and public education efforts.
Deadwood previously held the designation but later withdrew from the program. A separate effort to regain certification in 2008 was unsuccessful.
Officials say obtaining Certified Local Government status would strengthen partnerships with state and federal preservation agencies, reinforce Deadwood’s leadership in historic preservation and create new funding opportunities for future projects.
The Historic Preservation Commission is being asked to recommend that the City Commission authorize a new application.
