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FD to welcome statewide conference

Preserve Iowa Summit set to convene here in June

Fort Dodge has an excellence record of preserving historic buildings and venues and keeping them a vital part of our community in the 21st century. Consequently, it is highly appropriate that our town will be the host city for the 2017 Preserve Iowa Summit, which will convene here June 8 through 10.

The summit is being coordinated by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs’ State Historic Preservation Office, the city of Fort Dodge, the Fort Dodge Historic Preservation Commission and Preservation Iowa, which is a group that works to educate the public and policy makers on historic preservation issues.

This exciting event will have eclectic appeal. It is anticipated that among those attending will be a historic property owners, preservation enthusiasts, developers and local government officials.

Five mobile tours will showcase both what Fort Dodge has already accomplished regarding historic preservation or is underway. This outings will feature:

• Karl King Bandshell in Oleson Park,

• The former Phillips Middle School,

• Warden Plaza,

• U.S. Gypsum Co.

• Sculptures throughout Fort Dodge.

The summit’s agenda is still being finalized but will include an array of informative sessions addressing a wide range of preservation topics.

Many Fort Dodgers and other area residents will appreciate having the opportunity to learn the latest developments in the historic preservation world.

The summit will also focus broader attention on what Fort Dodge is achieving.

“When I think of the summit, I think of the excitement this will draw to our historic downtown and the Oak Hill District,” Clarissa Harvey, senior city planner with the city of Fort Dodge told The Messenger this week. “To me, it builds on tourism in Fort Dodge. It gets people interested in the significant elements that we have.”

The planning committee is seeking local and statewide partnerships as it puts the finishing touches on preparations for this gathering. It is also seeking volunteers to help with the event. Anyone interested in lending a hand should contact Harvey or Associate City Planner Maggie Carlin at 576-8191.

The Messenger applauds the decision to hold this important summit in our city. We urge Fort Dodgers to give it enthusiastic support.

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