The following Press Release was issued this afternoon:

"Preservation Ohio has announced that this morning it filed a motion in the Seneca County Court of Common Pleas seeking recognition as an amicus curiae party in a pending action involving the Seneca County Courthouse.  In specific, the organization is asking for the opportunity to provide briefs to assist the Court in its deliberations.

Some weeks ago, Seneca County Commissioners filed a Complaint seeking the Court to declare that it had complied with the City of Tiffin architectural review ordinance, which governs external changes to buildings located within the downtown historic district.  Last week, the County, together with the City of Tiffin, presented joint stipulations of fact that supported the Commissioners’ contention.  If granted, the relief requested would mean that the county could proceed to demolition of the courthouse without further obligations under the ordinance.

In its motion, Preservation Ohio shared its willingness to share information with the Court relative to the matters being considered, including the impact of the demolition on the fabric and development potential of the downtown architectural review district.  Further, the organization stated that:

“We know of no reported cases in Ohio where the interface between levels of state government interests have been weighed in the context of historic preservation or architectural review ordinances, as distinguished from zoning ordinances.  As such, this case will likely have substantial precedential import as other communities consider the future not only of county courthouse facilities, but of other county and state-owned properties…. It is therefore in the best interests of the entire state that the decision reached in this case be based on a complete consideration of all relevant facts, and not just those included in the submitted Stipulation of Facts.”

It is important to note that the County has granted permission for an independent group to develop a renovation and funding strategy for the courthouse, which must be presented by mid-July, at the same time that it is pursuing this ruling.  The Seneca County Courthouse, designed by noted architect Elijah Myers, has been included on the List of Ohio’s Most Endangered Historic Sites since 2005.

Preservation Ohio is celebrating its 27th anniversary this month as Ohio’s statewide historic preservation organization.  Through education, advocacy and partnership, it seeks to promote a future for the state’s rich collection of historic resources to promote both economic development and a high quality of life.  More information about Preservation Ohio can be found on its website, located at www.preservationohio.org."

Photo: Seneca County Courthouse - Preservation Ohio File Photo, All Rights Reserved