Plan Commission backs local historic designation for 312 E. Ninth St., former Zion United Methodist Church

The Marshfield Plan Commission voted Oct. 21 to forward a recommendation to locally designate 312 East Ninth Street (the former Zion United Methodist Church) to the local historic registry.

James Leven, city planner presenting for the Historic Preservation Commission, said the property — built in 1925 and designed by Gustave A. Krasen — is a well-preserved example of late Gothic Revival architecture and has significant history as a community gathering space. Leven said the nomination materials include an intensive survey, property records and photographs that support architectural significance and integrity.

Leven told the commission that, if designated locally, exterior alterations to the building would require review by the Historic Preservation Commission and the Plan Commission; interior changes are not subject to that review. Leven noted there are potential benefits to pursuing listing on state or national registers later, including possible tax credits, but he said there are no immediate automatic tax benefits solely from local designation.

The public hearing had no speakers. Commissioners who spoke during the item noted the owner, Michael Kennelly, has maintained the property and that designation would help preserve an architecturally significant local landmark. The commission moved to approve the designation and approved it by roll call; votes recorded as yes included Commissioners Mitchell, Meyer, Frederick, Bernardi, Caprillion, Council member O’Reilly and Mayor Teaschik.

Ending: The recommendation moves forward consistent with the city’s historic preservation ordinance; staff noted that a removal-from-register process exists, which would require review by the Plan Commission and Historic Preservation Commission.