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Historic Preservation Commission
Meetings
- 7 pm
- 1st Tuesday of every month
- Supervisor's Conference Room in Town Hall
The meeting is open to the public and we welcome all interested parties.
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
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John R. Pinna
Historian and Leader of the Historic Preservation
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Annon Adams
Member - HPC
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David Dengel
Member - HPC
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Daniel Fannon
Member - HPC
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Yvonne Laube
Member - HPC
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Coleen McCarthy
Member - HPC
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Christopher Sterbenz
Member - HPC
What is the Historic Preservation Commission?
The primary charge of the Town's Historic Preservation Commission is to identify, review and designate local historic landmarks that reside in the town to help preserve a historical record through the protection and preservation of specific sites, buildings and structures that have historical significance. The Commission also reviews proposed plans that impact historical locations in the Town, and provides guidance to the Town Board regarding preservation of the historic character of the Town.
You can read specifics regarding historical preservation and the commission in the Town Code.
Benefits of Designating a Property as a Historic Site
Maintaining the historic character of the Town of Poughkeepsie is important for tourism, education, and a sense of community.
People tend to judge a community by its appearance. A well maintained historic building or collections of historic buildings attract investment by way of businesses, jobs, tourism, or people relocating to that area.
Properties and districts can be designated local historic landmarks in addition to being on the National and State Registers of Historic Places. Listing on the National and State Registers of Historic Places does not protect the structure from demolition nor does it protect the property from insensitive changes. Only local designation can provide protection. A locally-designated property cannot be demolished without review by the Historic Preservation Commission.
When a property is designated a Town of Poughkeepsie Historic Landmark, the Historic Preservation Commission must review proposed plans relating to the exterior features of the structure that are visible from a public right-of-way. The Commission has no jurisdiction to review any changes to the interior or exteriors not publicly visible.
Owners of historic income-producing real property, owner occupied homes, and barns listed on the National Register of Historic Places may qualify for an income tax credit for rehabilitating the property. Owners are also eligible for preservation grants. Listing does not require the owner to provide public access to the property. Values within historic districts appreciate at greater rates than the local market overall.
How to Designate a Property
Commissioners Wanted
The Commission is seeking additional members. Relevant experience is not necessarily required — only an interest in preserving local history. Commission members discuss issues relating to historic properties in the Town. Please contact the Town Historian if you are interested, including a resume.