Historic Preservation Commission
Jan 27, 2026
The lede
- Commission approved minutes from October 2025 meeting and reviewed the successful 2025 Awards Program, which raised $345 for the maintenance grant fund
- Property Maintenance Grant notices sent to eligible property owners; two unused grants from last year make additional funds available for 2026
- St. John’s and at least one other property owner already expressed interest in applying for maintenance grants
- Staff presented about historic preservation to Capron Village Board and reported on downtown façade renovations and new businesses
- Carl Swanson appointed to the Commission but unable to attend first meeting
Decisions & votes
- Minutes approval: Moved and seconded (Monaghan/L. Kummerow) to approve the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes. Motion carried with a 5-0 voice vote.
Discussion items
- 2025 Awards Program recap: Boone County Museum of History worked well as location; El Molcajete restaurant displayed award photos; the Menomonie Street award was mailed
- Future fundraising events: Discussion postponed until February meeting
- Friends of Preservation meeting: Staff will organize when weather improves; David Kummerow offered Swift House as venue to highlight restoration projects and provide resources
- Book sales: $100 earned during Hometown Christmas; postcard books sold well at Museum
- Downtown development: Staff provided recap of façade renovations and new businesses in Belvidere
Financial / operational notes
- 2025 Awards Program final budget: Low RSVPs resulted in reasonable food costs; event raised $345 for the maintenance grant fund
- Property Maintenance Grant funds: Two grants from 2025 were not utilized, making those funds available for 2026 awards
- Book royalties: No update reported
- Staff administrative: Annual Certified Local Government report submitted to the State