To: Kathryn A. DeFillippo, Freeholder Director
Morris County Freeholders Considering Resolution to Ban Churches from Receiving Historic Preserva...
We are against this resolution for 3 primary reasons: 1) Historic funding has a "neutral criteria" for historic preservation and does not endorse the religion nor foster religious activities; 2) Most church buildings serve a far greater purpose beyond religious activity, such as hosting 12 Step Support Group Meetings, hosting Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens, serving as Community Disaster Recovery Centers, etc., 3) Many church buildings have great historical value to their community and area, offering a "sense of place."
Why is this important?
For several years, our church, The First Reformed Church of Pompton Plains, has received Morris County Historic Preservation Grant Funds with the intention of restoring three of our historically registered buildings to their original and historic quality. The grant pays 80% of the cost of the work. The church funds 20%. We are grateful for what has been given to us so far, but there is much work to do.
Last year, work on the Sanctuary was only partially funded and we were hoping to apply for more funds to finish that job. This year, we are also hoping to start the process for the work needed on our 1788 Stone House, Friendly Manse. The Stone House historically served as a Town Tavern, a Post Office, a stop on the Underground Railroad, a hospital, and now a residence. The church clearly sees its historical value. It would be shame to not restore its historical nature. But, if the resolution passes, historical preservation funds to churches will end, which could eventually lead to all funding for historic preservation going away. We are concerned for the ramifications in Morris County, but also statewide.
Last year, work on the Sanctuary was only partially funded and we were hoping to apply for more funds to finish that job. This year, we are also hoping to start the process for the work needed on our 1788 Stone House, Friendly Manse. The Stone House historically served as a Town Tavern, a Post Office, a stop on the Underground Railroad, a hospital, and now a residence. The church clearly sees its historical value. It would be shame to not restore its historical nature. But, if the resolution passes, historical preservation funds to churches will end, which could eventually lead to all funding for historic preservation going away. We are concerned for the ramifications in Morris County, but also statewide.