Summary
The Canyon County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) approved $18,960 in grants for Historic Preservation Support that will benefit efforts in Melba, Middleton, and Notus.
The projects are as follows:
• Melba Valley Museum Will Receive $7,960 for Hotel Room Repair and Restoration
• Downtown Middleton Historical Survey, Phase II Will Receive $5,000
• Notus Museum Will Receive $6,000 for Heating and Air Conditioning Unit Upgrades
On Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, the Canyon County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) approved $18,960 in grants for Historic Preservation Support that will benefit efforts in Melba, Middleton, and Notus. The projects are as follows:
Melba Valley Museum Will Receive $7,960 for Hotel Room Repair and Restoration
The Melba Valley Museum’s historic 1922 hotel room at the Gardner Hotel is set to undergo much-needed repairs. This project aims to restore the room to closely resemble its original appearance, addressing damages to the walls and ceiling. The preservation effort is important for maintaining the historical integrity of this significant landmark.
Downtown Middleton Historical Survey, Phase II Will Receive $5,000
The Downtown Middleton Historical Survey’s second phase plays a critical role in identifying buildings and structures of historical significance. This comprehensive survey work is essential for planning future renovation and preservation projects. The insights gained will guide efforts to conserve Middleton’s rich history for generations to come.
Notus Museum Will Receive $6,000 for Heating and Air Conditioning Unit Upgrades
The grant for the Notus Museum’s heating and air conditioning unit is a significant step toward creating a more comfortable environment for both staff and patrons. This improvement will enhance the overall experience for visitors, allowing for increased hours and improved accessibility to the public. The upgraded facilities will contribute to a more ideal setting for preserving and sharing local history.
“History belongs to all of us, and Canyon County is happy to support qualifying efforts in historic preservation throughout the County in a variety of ways,” said Nicki Schwend, Director of Canyon County Parks, Cultural and Natural Resources. “Nonprofit entities apply for these grant awards on an annual basis and funds have been used for brick-and-mortar projects on historic properties, oral histories, preservation planning, and more.”
Anyone interested in learning more about these grants and grant opportunities should contact Canyon County Parks, Cultural and Natural Resources at parks@canyoncounty.id.gov.
Supplemental info:
A unique responsibility and duty of the Canyon County Historic Preservation Committee (HPC), under the direction of the BOCC, is the recommendation and administration of the Canyon County Historic Preservation Grant Award Program.
This program funds qualified, nonprofit organizations in Canyon County who have a mission of conservation, protection and maintenance of historic objects, information or properties. Canyon County sets aside a sliver (no more than twelve one-thousandth of a percent, or <.012%) of property tax revenue dedicated to a grant award program for historic preservation projects every year.
Idaho Code § 31-864 grants the BOCC in their respective counties authority to levy not more than twelve one-thousandths percent (.012%) on each dollar of market value for assessment purposes of taxable property within the county for the support of county historic societies and historic preservation projects.
The BOCC, by resolution, re-established the Canyon County HPC in January 2013. The HPC is an advisory board in matters pertaining to historic preservation in Canyon County.
The advisory board members usually include attorneys, anthropologists, archaeologists, architects, historians and historic preservationists, all having one thing in common—an interest in preserving cultural resources as educational opportunities for the future.