HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE OFFERS PROGRAM ON PROPERTY CREDITS

NEWTOWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Box 189
NEWTOWN, CONNECTICUT 06470

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact John Renjilian, 203-426-0864

The Newtown Historical Society is proud to team up with the State Historical Preservation Office and the C H Booth Library to present an information session on state programs offering credits for rehabilitating old and historic structures. Alyssa Lozupone will present the program Monday, November 5, at 6.30 PM, in the community room of the library, 25 Main Street.

The State Historic Preservation Office is responsible for overseeing the government program of historic preservation for Connecticut’s citizens. Formerly part of the Commission on Tourism, the office is now part of the Department of Economic and Community Development and provides new opportunities for collaboration on restoration and community revitalization. SHPO administers a range of federal and state programs that identify, register and protect the buildings, sites, structures, districts and objects that comprise Connecticut’s cultural heritage.

Of major interest to most homeowners is the Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit, a program designed to encourage new homeownership and to assist existing homeowners in maintaining or rehabilitating their property. To do this the state offers a 30% tax credit per historic home, up to a $30,000 limit. The rehabilitation work must have a minimum expense of $15,000, and the home must be on either the state or federal register of historic houses, or in an established historic district. In addition, the program is limited to buildings of 1-4 dwelling units, and at least one unit must be occupied by the owner for five years following the rehabilitation. Outbuildings on the same property also qualify for the credit if they contribute to the historical significance of the home. A federal tax credit of up to 20% may also be available.

All Newtown Historical Society programs are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the program. For more information please visit the website at www.newtownhistory.org, Facebook at www.facebook.com/newtownhistoricalsociety, or call 203-426-5937.