1998-07 Historic PreservationRESOLUTION NO. 98-07
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA SUPPORTING
FLORIDA HEARTLAND RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE
(FHREDI) APPLICATION FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANT-IN-AID
FUNDS
WHEREAS, Florida Heartland Rural Economic Development initiative (FHREDI) is a six -county
regional rural county coalition with member counties including Okeechobee, Highlands,
Hendry, Glades, Hardee and DeSoto; and
WHEREAS, FHREDI has the responsibility for project development and management of the Pearce
Homestead Property, AKA the Enda Pearce Lockett Estate; and
WHEREAS, project development is for the historic site to be a multi -use facility focusing on
Ecotourism, Heritage Tourism, and Agitourism; and
WHEREAS, the Welcome Center planned for the Main house will promote regional Ecotourism,
Heritage Tourism, and Agritourism attractions and events; and
WHEREAS, the structures -the main house, smoke house, shed, barn, foreman's house, outbuilding,
boat house, gazebo, and school house -have been evaluated for present condition and assess
for preservation/renovation as well as stabilization emphasis with priorities identified as critical
concerns requiring immediate attention; and
WHEREAS, certain stabilization and renovation work must be accomplished to provide for public
visitation; and a
WHEREAS, limited public access to the property for scheduled special events and social activities
will build community-based interest with volunteer and financial support for major
restoration/preservation projects; and
WHEREAS, project development will support sustainable economic development throughout the
region.
NOW, THERE ORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Okeechobee City Council does support
and urge favorable consideration for approval of the Historic Preservation Grant -in -Aid
Funding request for structural improvements and the services of an historical architect to
assure compliance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.
INTRODUCED and ADOPTED this I' day of September,
Bonnie S. Thomas; CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED. FOR ILEGAL SUFFICIENCY:
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John R. Cook, City Attorney
1998.
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Jamesl. Kirk, Mayor