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t „ ~ <br />allow the HPC to delay it for up to a yeaz while the Commission seeks preservation <br />alternatives. <br />Preservation of historic resources through local designation can be a significant and <br />beneficial factor in the local economy. The rehabilitation of historic buildings can <br />generate jobs, creating more„jobs than the same investment in new construction. Historic <br />rehabilitation activities have significant "multiplier effects" to the local economy, <br />creating a positive impact on other business and to the local tax base. It can also be cost <br />effective and sustainable, promoting the reuse and recycling of buildin~~materials and <br />reducing the volume of construction and demolition debris in the waste stream. <br />A local historic preservation program can be the foundation for promoting heritage <br />tourism, which is the fastest-growing segment of the tourism industry in North Carolina. <br />This trend beazs further consideration by a broad group of pertinent interests in the <br />County, such as visitors' bureaus, economic development proponents, and <br />preservationists. <br />A local historic preservation program has significant educational value for the enrichment <br />of County citizens. The preservation of historic architectural resources and landscapes <br />provide examples of past architectural styles, construction methods, and materials. <br />Research for landmazk designation reports will increase our knowledge of local history. <br />A local historic preservation program protects the County's historical heritage and <br />enhances the quality of life for its citizens and visitors. Preservation of historic <br />azchitectur and landscape helps define traditions and values for the present and the <br />future. It is a significant factor in Orange County's successful economic growth into the <br />21st century. <br />6 <br />Conclusion and Recommendations <br />A local landmazk designation program is an effective tool for protecting historic <br />resources and promoting the values of preservation. The Boazd of Commissioners has the <br />authority to implement such a program. It is consistent with existing planning goals and <br />the Boazd's proven commitment to protecting its cultural resources. A landmark <br />designation program is the next logical step in the County's comprehensive historic <br />preservation program, building upon the extensive historic resource inventories and the <br />historic preservation element of the county's Comprehensive Plan. A landmarks program <br />would place Orange County in the mainstream of local government historic preservation <br />programs in North Cazolina. <br />The Historic Preservation Commission enthusiastically recommends the adoption of a <br />local landmark designation program. The HPC also recommends that $10,000 be <br />appropriated annually to establish a Historic Preservation Fund for National Register <br />nominations and local designation reports. <br />O~!i <br />5 <br />