We say that we value our heritage but to date there has not been a lot of real substance to support that claim.  Small steps are now being made.  I am hopeful that it is the beginning of a new trend!

In the 2011 budget there was funding to hire a contract heritage planner; unfortunately filling that role did not happen quickly but finally there is a qualified person in place.  January 16, 2012, Council approved a report by the Heritage Planner which recommended a process for addressing the long list of properties on “the inventory” list.  You can read the report here.

Execution of that process has started; and, as defined in that recommended process there will be a report before Committee of Whole on February 27^th as to which properties, if any, from the first group assessed should be added to the Registrar as undesignated properties.

Why do I care about protecting Heritage?

Protecting Heritage is not just about protecting buildings or structures; it is also about protecting archaeological sites, streetscapes and landscapes.

Protecting Heritage is important as it enhances a sense of identity/place; it helps to understand a community’s cultural heritage and history.  It facilitates creation and maintenance of a diverse built environment.

Re-purposed protected Heritage is a good indicator of a sustainable community.

Here are some definitions or concepts which are important to understand when talking about “built heritage, specifically its preservation/protection.

The “inventory list” is just that:  list of properties which have been identified by the Heritage Committee as possibly having value in terms of its architecture, its location and/or siting.   Being on the list has no significance other than indicating that the property may have cultural value.

The “Register” includes properties and buildings which are both designated and undesignated.  It is Council, on the advice of the Heritage Committee, who determines what is on the Register.

A property which is not designated but is on the Register is often referred to as a “Listed” property or as an undesignated building.  An owner of Listed property shall not demolish or remove the building unless the owner give the Township Council at least 60 days written notice of intent to do so.  During the 60 days the Township can explore possible options and alternatives with the owner.

Designated properties on the Register are protected by a bylaw.

designated property at 12974 Keele St., King City (the Crawford and Maud Wells House circa 1900)

You can see here other properties which have been designated in King Township.

I look forward to showing that we really do value our Heritage:  putting appropriate properties onto the Register is a good beginning.