There’s a saying that Columbus is every Ohioan’s second hometown – it’s a place we know well, and to which we feel a certain draw.  The last part of 2008 has brought several preservation-related stories to our attention from Ohio’s Capital City – most positive, and others casting a bit of a shadow for the future.  Here’s a quick round-up:

In late October, German Village Society Interim Executive Director Jody Graichen penned an interesting look at the guidelines governing exterior renovation and restoration projects in the Village.  In her article, Graichen points out the similarities and differences between German Village’s guidelines and standards used in preservation ordinances in places like Key West and Boston.

Its holiday time in Olde Towne East, that part of Columbus that stretches to the south of East Broad Street as it ventures east of Downtown.  Amazingly, we’re right around the corner from the Olde Towne East Neighborhood Association “Homes for the Holidays” tour.  Click here for details on the event.

This past week, the City of Columbus announced plans to demolish several of the city’s older public housing projects, including Poindexter Village, the city’s oldest.  Poindexter Village was constructed beginning in 1940, with a groundbreaking presided over by none other than President Franklin D. Roosevelt; it is apparently scheduled to be vacated between 2011 and 2013.

Marburn Homeowners Association members are attempting to save a Depression-era Tudor Revival House along Olentangy River Road in Columbus – and thereby maintain the characteristics of their neighborhood.  The house, whose out-of-state owner has stated that has been unable to sell the property as a residence, is scheduled to be demolished for a new medical office building.  This past week, the Columbus Development Commission tabled the office building plans, agreeing with activists that the plan as submitted would have a long-term negative impact on the area.

It was a festive occasion earlier this month when the Columbus Landmarks Foundation’s 2008 Preservation Awards recipients were named and celebrated.  The coveted James B. Recchie Design Award for 2008 was presented to Community Properties of Ohio Revitalization, representing some 200 renovated residential properties across the city.  Click here for coverage of the event and a list of award winners.

Lastly, it was again disappointing news as the economic crisis hits governmental services in Columbus.  As covered in a previous MyHometownOhio story, the city’s Historic Preservation Office has been hit by staff cuts; Mayor Coleman’s proposed 2009 budget further reduces the staff to 3 full-time equivalent employees.

Photo: Downtown Columbus - OhioCapCity/Creative Commons License