At 4PM this Monday, Milwaukee's Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) will review an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) to demolish buildings at 319-323 and 327 East Wisconsin Avenue, and 625, 627 and 629-631 North Milwaukee Street. They are part of one of the last complete blocks of 19^th century commercial architecture in Milwaukee.

As the Executive Director of an organization that gives over 500 tours to visitors and residents every year - including two tours that discuss the subject buildings, one of East Town that begins at the Pfister Hotel, and one of Downtown that begins at the Plankinton Arcade - I can tell you visitors (and residents) overwhelmingly agree our architecture is one of the most attractive and distinctive aspects of Milwaukee, especially our gorgeous 19^th century cream brick buildings

and early 20^thcentury commercial and residential architecture. Milwaukee does not have an "anywhere" built environment. This is a crucial characteristic in drawing people, investment, and talent to the city. And it's not just me saying this.

"[...] historic preservation is an excellent vehicle for economic development."

In 1987 the Common Council of Milwaukee voted to locally designate the buildings at the southwest corner of Milwaukee Street and Wisconsin Avenue as part of the East Side Commercial Historic District. This means any alterations or demolitions proposed within the designated district must receive a COA from the HPC. The HPC determines whether a proposal will receive a COA based on criteria set forth in Milwaukee's Historic Preservation Ordinance.

Not only locally registered, the East Side Commercial Historic District is also listed on the State and National Registers for Historic Places. People who rehabilitate these structures may apply for significant Tax Credits.

An awareness of historic architecture in our urban fabric is also an important part of innovative and forward-thinking planning. Milwaukee's Downtown Plan, accepted by Milwaukee's Common Council in October of this year states, "Downtown Milwaukee has numerous historic or historic-quality buildings. Well executed restorations have sparked new life for a number of these buildings. [...] Historic buildings and "iconic" buildings, (which may or may not be listed as historical structures) that strongly define a local context due to their unique placement, design, or character should be used as the essential framework on which to create or further develop a sense of place. [...] Downtown improvements and redevelopments should feel uniquely "Milwaukee" and not try to mimic current national trends." It is clear Milwaukeean's have chosen to empower the community with tools to ensure the careful consideration of our built environment.

If the Historic Preservation Ordinance, the East Town Commercial Historic District, and the Downtown Plan do not convince you these buildings are worth keeping around, demolition over rehabilitation has a lasting negative environmental impact. Careful consideration of the management of our built environment is an important part of creating sustainable communities.

I hope to see you on Monday,

Anna-Marie Opgenorth

Executive Director