Each May, the Metropolitan Historic Zoning Commission honors a neighborhood association, merchants association or individual that has, through their leadership, made outstanding contributions to their community and worked towards preservation and education regarding the history of their neighborhood/district. The winners of this recognition inspire others to take action in their communities. Characteristics of a Leadership Recognition Honor include:
- Provided protection for the important historic resources of their neighborhood
- Provided education of the history of their neighborhood through events, publications or neighborhood features
- Understands how to help move change forward, that is respectful to the historic character of the neighborhood, though effective communication and participation
- Has improved neighborhood participation and inclusion
- Created valuable links or improved communication and processes between the neighborhood and Metro government
Government employees and volunteers, and elected officials do not qualify as the purpose of the recognition is to honor grassroots efforts towards preservation. Specific rehab projects do not qualify as those projects have the potential of recognition through the Metro Historical Commission’s Preservation Awards program.
Application Process
Nominations may be made by individuals, associations/groups or Zoning Commission staff to the Metro Historic Zoning Commission by April 1, each year. To apply, send information as to how your neighborhood/district meets the characteristic of the honor, and any supporting documentation, to [email protected]. A decision on the awardee will be made on third Wednesday of April at the Metropolitan Historic Zoning Commission public hearing. Both the awardee and the associated councilmember shall be invited to attend the beginning of the May Metropolitan Historic Zoning Commission public hearing (third Wednesday of the month) to receive a certificate.
Honorees
2023: Haynes Heights Neighborhood Association
Haynes Heights is honored as the first historic overlay that tells the story of a neighborhood developed for African Americans during the “Jim Crow” era when Black residents created their own communities within the context of redlining and other discriminatory policies and the first overlay that protects mid-century architectural styles, such as Ranches and Split Levels. Property owners were instrumental in obtaining the protection of their history with a historic zoning overlay and accomplished the task during COVID, just as they have been the key force to prevent rezonings over the years that would likely have resulted in the loss of this important neighborhood. The Metropolitan Historic Zoning Commission is proud to honor the association’s many efforts towards preserving their story and their neighborhood during Preservation Month.