Sending on behalf of Platinum Chamber Champion Member
The City was recently designated as a
Certified Local Government (CLG) through a partnership with the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Office. This designation reflects Fort Scott’s commitment to preserving its historic character while supporting thoughtful growth and development.
What is a Certified Local Government (CLG)?
A Certified Local Government is a city that has met state and federal standards for historic preservation and participates in a larger partnership between local, state, and federal programs.
This designation allows the City to:
• Participate in preservation planning at the local level
• Apply for historic preservation grants
• Provide local review of projects affecting historic properties
Programs like this are designed to help communities protect historic resources while also encouraging economic development and revitalization.
What does this mean for downtown property owners?
For properties located within designated historic districts or individually listed properties, certain exterior changes may require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) before work begins.
This may include:
• Window and door replacements
• Exterior materials or siding changes
• Demolition or new construction
• Significant exterior alterations
The purpose of this process is to help maintain the historic character of downtown Fort Scott while still allowing property owners to invest in and improve their buildings.
Quick Checklist: Do You Need a COA?
Property owners are encouraged to contact the City before starting work if they answer YES to any of the following:
☐ Is the property located in the downtown historic district or individually listed?
☐ Are windows, doors, or exterior materials being changed?
☐ Is the exterior appearance being altered?
☐ Is an addition or new construction planned?
☐ Is demolition (partial or full) being considered?
If there is any uncertainty, City staff are available to help determine next steps.
