Historic Preservation Board 11/5/2026

Clay County, Florida Historic Preservation Board meeting, November 5, 2026. Staff reported that the county received a $125,000 state legislative appropriation for repairs to the historic courthouse roof, half of the $250,000 requested; the grant agreement is being prepared, with a two-year performance period. The board’s fiscal-year budget is $10,040. Planned marker costs include $3,070 for the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church marker (received), $3,595 for the Middleburg Colored School marker (expected in February), and a possible $3,145 for the Middleburg Civic Association marker, which has not yet been reviewed. If all three proceed, $230 would remain. The board voted to pursue a marker for Revolutionary soldier Private Lewis Wilford at Old Hickory Grove Cemetery, estimated to cost about $45, contingent on obtaining property-owner permission. Staff also noted that a state marker application for Gary’s Ferry will be considered on December 2; board members raised questions about its proposed location and public access. No vendor awards or procurement bids were reported.

A Florida Public Archaeological Network representative briefed the board on proposed federal changes to Section 106 historic-preservation review, including provisions associated with Senate Bill 5653, warning that the changes could reduce state historic-preservation review and public consultation for federally connected projects. Members discussed advocacy and documenting local historic resources; no formal action was taken on that issue. The board also discussed a February 15–16, 2027, Certified Local Government training event, including forming a planning committee and arranging local tours, and voted to approve recognition certificates for two preservation volunteers.