Historic Districts Process Changed with Proposed Amendment

A proposed amendment (HB5232 and SB720) to Public Act 169 is looking to change the existing process in how historic districts are created and maintained in Michigan. You can read the entire bill here.

-In order for a historic district to go to a vote, it would need a petition signed by two-thirds of the property owners in that district.
-Historic districts would dissolve in 10 years and be up for another vote.
-This bill changes the appeals process for a property owner to a local board with local influences instead of a neutral state board.

A similar bill is being considered in Wisconsin. Maybe the most puzzling question is why now?

HOUSE BILL No. 5232
MHPN Statement on HB5232/SB720 Jeopardizing Historic Resources