We continue with a quick look at Galion’s design review program.
So across Ohio, more than 120 cities and villages have adopted local historic preservation, design review, or architectural review ordinances. Over 80 of these communities have taken the additional step of becoming “Certified Local Governments.” This designation means the local program meets specific criteria and undergoes an annual review to maintain that status.
The most recent community to achieve this recognition is our nearby neighbor, the City of Shelby.
Galion’s experience began in 1995 when the City applied for a $400,000 Small Downtown Program grant through what is now the Ohio Department of Development. As with most grant programs, there were specific requirements including the adoption of a design review ordinance. This measure incorporated the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, which continue to underpin most federal and state-level financial incentive programs today.
Galion’s ordinance was placed in Chapter 1311 of the city’s Codified Ordinances, beginning with the following statement:
“The City of Galion contains areas with unique and valuable historic, architectural and/or cultural resources. The preservation of these resources is directly linked to the economic, social, and cultural well-being of the community.”
The ordinance also allowed for the creation of local design guidelines based on those federal standards. These guidelines have been regularly updated by Galion’s Design Review Board and are available on the City’s website.
Whenever these guidelines are revised, they are submitted to the Ohio Historic Preservation Office in Columbus. This office, which helps administer preservation grants, loans, and tax incentives, reviews any proposed changes to ensure they remain in alignment with the Secretary of the Interior’s standards. Approval is required for both local governments and property owners to access most major funding sources for downtown revitalization and building rehabilitation.
Galion’s program has proven to be both flexible and effective. One example is the city’s decision a few years ago to amend its guidelines to allow specific types of vinyl windows that met preservation criteria. The Ohio Historic Preservation Office approved the change, making Galion the first community in the state to officially incorporate that material into its local design standards.
The impact of the program is clear. Since its adoption, Galion has seen between 20 and 25 million dollars in public and private investment tied to downtown improvements. Dozens of buildings have received new roofs, facade restoration, updated HVAC systems, and other vital upgrades.
The benefits go beyond individual projects. In recent years, the city has leveraged the design review process to secure additional funding for major efforts, including ongoing renovation work at the Big Four Depot. The program has made a difference across downtown, supporting projects large and small. Because of its integration with other state funding programs, the redevelopment of the Central Hotel would not have been possible — and more than 30 senior residents would not have the homes they enjoy today.
