What is a local historic district?

Given the proposed expanded boundaries for a local historic district in the Oakhurst community, many may be wondering what is a local historic district. Here is the site for the National Parks Service: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/workingonthepast/. Please feel free to submit questions here or contact Amanda Thompson with the City of Decatur directly. There will be public meetings. The Decatur Preservation Alliance also has information available.

As for the process for the local historic district, the flow chart for the process can be found on the City of Decatur website. http://www.decaturga.com/cgs_citygov_resboards_historic.aspx

"What do some 2,300 local historic districts have in common? In each one, a majority of its residents have decided they want to keep the look and feel of the place they call “home” by adopting a local preservation ordinance, then creating a local preservation commission to administer it. Local legislation is one of the best ways to protect the historic character of buildings, streetscapes, neighborhoods, and special landmarks from inappropriate alterations, new construction, and other poorly conceived work, as well as outright demolition."