Bills Would Change How Historic Districts Are Designated

Bills introduced in Lansing would make it more difficult to designate historic districts in Michigan.

The bills would update the 1970 Historic Districts Act to give the local public more influence in the process of establishing and keeping the districts.

Currently, new historic districts are determined by commissions at the state level.

But under this legislation, new districts would need at least two-thirds support from property owners within the district.

Property owners would also be able to appeal the district locally.

State Senate sponsor, Senator Peter MacGregor says after 45 years he thinks it’s time for an update.

House sponsor, Representative Chris Afendoulis, says the changes are about private property rights, transparency, accountability and empowering communities with more local control.

Opponents of the legislation worry the changes could jeopardize federal funding for the state’s historic buildings.