The OHPC consists of seven members appointed by the mayor and chosen, whenever possible, from among local architects, realtors, historians, Historical Society members, and those who have had previous experience in preservation. Members serve five year terms. They review and approve applications for any proposed alterations to the exteriors of properties in the Owego Historic District. The pupose is to ensure that the changes proposed will not damage or diminish those features or building elements that are significant.
The National Register of Historic Places was established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. It is the official list of the nation's important historic properties. Listing on the National Register places no restrictions on private owners of registered properties. They may sell or alter as they wish, consistent with local ordinances. It does offer the benefits, however, such as federal rehabilitation tax credits. To belong is a matter of great pride for most communities.
Owego is a village of distinctive architectural and historical character. People come from all over to see our charming historic buildings. We are fortunate to have preserved most of our architecture, but we also have lost many of our landmark buildings to fire, neglect, and progress. Since our historic appearance is one of the best features, we want to preserve it.
The OHPC meets on the first and third Wednesdays of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the board room of the Department of Public Works Annex located at 20 Elm Street, Owego.
The OHPC generally requires the property owners or their contractors to present the application and answer questions. OHPC members are available for consultation and advice at these meetings, or informally at an earlier stage in the design process.
In order for an application to be reviewed at a meeting, it must be filed in the Department of Public Works office no later than the Wednesday morning preceding that meeting.
Property owners are encouraged to meet with the OHPC before planning any major exterior work. The OHPC goal is to work with property owners in maintaining our historical heritage.
The building permit is issued by the Code Enforcement Officer of the village when any structural change is planned to an existing building or any new construction is undertaken. It is outside of the jurisdiction of the OHPC. An application for a building permit can be obtained at the Department of Public Works, 20 Elm Street, Owego, NY 13827. The Notice of Determination, on the other hand, is issued by the OHPC to an applicant in the historic district for an approved project. In the Historic District of Owego both a building permit and a Notice of Determination are required by anyone seeking to alter the exterior of a building. You must receive an OHPC certificate before seeking a building permit.
The Historic District runs from John Street on the east to William Street on the west. It includes all of Front Street, most of Main Street and the side streets in between.
1.) Repair or replacement of windows, doors, roof, or siding
2.) Porch repair or reconstruction
3.) Painting (color change only)
4.) New construction and additions
5.) Changes in commercial exteriors
6.) Signs
7.) Demolition
8.) Any changes to previously approved projects
Mark Trabucco, Chair of the OHPC @ 687-1889
Village of Owego, Department of Public Works @ 687-1101