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Creation of historic district expected
By BRADY DENNIS ZEPHYRHILLS -- As the future inevitably charges north from Tampa into east Pasco, officials in Zephyrhills are trying to preserve a piece of the past. They have worked for years to establish a historic district within the city. And that dream is nearing reality. The lines for the district are drawn. The properties -- more than 120 -- have been identified. A historic preservation board has been appointed. The National Register of Historic Places application has been filed. One of the last remaining hurdles is a public hearing tonight on the issue. The city already has sent letters to homeowners in the proposed historic district. The district is bounded roughly by South Avenue, Ninth Avenue, Seventh Street and 11th Street. The biggest restriction on residents with contributing historic structures will be that they cannot make major renovations to the exteriors of their homes without approval of the historic preservation board. On the other hand, residents within the district possibly will be eligible for federal tax credits. It also can help residents get a break on local property taxes and possibly increase property values, City Manager Steve Spina said. "I think overall it will help preserve the character (of Zephyrhills)," Spina said. "Any time you do that, it helps." City leaders said there has been little or no response so far from residents. Most seem to take a laissez-faire attitude toward the policy -- if it doesn't cause them a headache, then it's fine by them. "As long as it doesn't interfere with our everyday lives, I don't see what it will hurt," said Judy Fee, who lives with her husband, Willard, at 5429 Eighth St. "I think it makes the neighborhood feel important." Nancy Alfonso agrees. Her law firm, McClain & Alfonso, at 38416 Fifth Ave., is also part of the district. The yellow building has housed City Hall and the fire station in years past. "I think it's great," Alfonso said of the historic district. "There is a lot of character here. Whatever is going to help get Zephyrhills noticed, it's worth it." In the letter sent to residents of the proposed district, city officials said they would follow the state Department of Interior standards when deciding about what changes could be made to historic homes and businesses. The city Planning Department, which is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., has a copy of those standards available for review. Another copy is available next door at the city library. Residents with further questions and concerns are welcome to attend today's meeting at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Barring any objections, City Council members are expected to pass the proposal unanimously.
 © 2006 • All Rights Reserved • St. Petersburg Times
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