Heritage Ohio promotes economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio. Among other things, the agency is the designated statewide preservation partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Over the past decade-plus, Hamilton has seen numerous renovations of small and large historic structures, including the Well House Hotel renovating the former Anthony Wayne and the future redevelopment project of former municipal building at 20 High St.
Mertz will talk about what’s called building pathology, and addressing common issues that plague old and historic buildings. This includes the basics of being a good steward and planning a maintenance routine, to spotting water infiltration and masonry issues. The discussion will also cover instructing owners on carefully evaluating small problems now before they can become big problems later.
“Given Hamilton’s wealth of historic buildings, we are excited to provide this opportunity to the historic property owners in our community,” said Hamilton Planning Director Lauren Nelson, adding there will be a day-two part on Sept. 13 of the workshop with pre-selected building owners. Preference would be given to historic commercial buildings located in Hamilton’s central business districts.
During this second day of the workshop, Mertz will spend time in downtown Hamilton conducting one-on-one building assessments. He will evaluate current conditions of the owner’s building and provide advice to address maintenance issues, active deterioration or future trouble spots. Heritage Ohio staff will follow up with these building owners insuring they have clear next steps to address priority actions.
“When city staff considered potential properties to suggest to Heritage Ohio for the workshop, the former Beckett Paper site immediately came to mind,” said Nelson.
PRESERVATION WORKSHOP
Heritage Ohio’s Preservation Assessment Workshop series will kick off in Hamilton on Thursday, Sept. 12. The 6 p.m. workshop will be in Hamilton’s City Council chambers, 345 High St., and is free and open to the public, but seating is limited.
David Mertz, the former director of Belmont College’s Building Preservation/Restoration program, will lead the discussion.
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