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Athens City Council Passes Historical Preservation Ordinance

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Athens City Council unanimously passed an ordinance Monday that will promote historic and architectural preservation in the city. 

The establishment of Title 45 comes shortly after the Athens County Commissioners sought the Ohio Attorney General's opinion regarding a reestablishment of an advisory committee for The Ridges. 

The council's decision to pass the ordinance is unrelated to the commissioners' action, but Athens City Councilwoman Chris Fahl said that both plans concern the preservation of historic buildings such as The Ridges. 

Earlier this month, Ohio University proceeded with the demolition of the former tuberculosis ward at The Ridges, a decision that was met with opposition from Athens residents, including the Athens Historical Society. 

"When historic buildings are taken down, or buildings that are really loved, then people realize that their heritage could be at risk. So I think that when that happens especially, people get galvanized," Fahl said. 

Fahl said that Title 45 has been in the works for about eight to 10 years and was part of the city's comprehensive plan.