Maquoketa Seeks to Honor its History

Maquoketa Betterment Corporation officials announced that funding has been secured to move forward with the downtown historic district nomination. Betterment, Jackson County Economic Alliance (JCEA), City of Maquoketa, and the Jackson County Historic Preservation Commission and the Maquoketa Chamber of Commerce, along with multiple generous contributors collaborated on this effort.

A Betterment sponsored grant writer submitted a successful application on behalf of the City of Maquoketa to the Community Foundation of Jackson County that contributed $3,500 to the effort. The Maquoketa Historic Preservation Commission committed an additional $2,000, with private donations completing the approximately $8,500 cost.

Duane Hagerty of Heritage Works, a Dubuque non-profit firm familiar with and successful at district nominations will be contracted to do the work. Dave Heiar, Executive Director of the JCEA had this to say; “District designation provides an additional tool resulting in possible preservation grants and federal and state tax credits for developers and private owners interested in renovating buildings within the district.” Heiar also added that the cities of Bellevue and Preston are considering a similar process with Hagerty and Heritage Works.

Prior to City Council approval of a contract with Heritage Works, the Maquoketa Chamber of Commerce hosted a prospective district property owners meeting on January 16, 2017 to answer any questions property owners may have. Approximately 50 people attended this informational session. Some asked whether this designation would restrict what they did with their downtown property. Historic district recognition does not limit a property owner from making changes to their building in any manner they see fit. It does however, open financial options not available today which would require meeting historical standards if used.

Betterment President, Tiffany Mangler is excited about the prospect of the historic designation. “In addition to the funding streams this opens up, this also has a benefit from a tourist perspective which not only affects the downtown but all of Maquoketa.”

Questions may be directed to JCEA offices at 563-652-4549.