Popular Preservation Grant Program Funded

More than $2 million in grants is available for preservation projects across the state. The 2009 Legislature has authorized the seventh round of the Community Heritage Preservation Grant Program, administered by the Department of Archives and History. Applications are available now through the department's Historic Preservation Division and may be downloaded using this link. Grant applications will be accepted through October 9, 2009.

The Community Heritage Preservation Grant program helps preserve, restore, rehabilitate, and interpret historic courthouses and schools. In Certified Local Government (CLG) communities grant funds may also be used for projects involving public and private, nonprofit-owned historic buildings other than courthouses or schools. All buildings must have been designated Mississippi Landmarks prior to application to be eligible for the grants.

Only county or municipal governments, school districts, and nonprofit organizations granted Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status by the IRS may submit applications. Those applications shall be in accordance with the provisions of grant procedures, criteria, and standards developed and publicized by MDAH. After evaluation by department staff, all complete applications will be presented to the MDAH Board of Trustees at a special meeting in December.

The grant awards will be paid to the grantee on a reimbursable basis upon the successful completion of the entire project. Applicants receiving grant awards should be prepared to cover all project costs before receiving reimbursements. A cash match of at least 20 percent must be provided. All grant projects MUST be completed by December 1, 2012.

There are fifty-three CLG communities in Mississippi. Application packets and further information are also available online, or by contacting Mingo Tingle in the Historic Preservation Division of MDAH at 601-576-6952 or at P.O. Box 571, Jackson, MS 39205-0571.

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