COLUMBUS, Ind. (AP) -- The city of Columbus is hiring an Indianapolis Museum of Art conservator to help preserve historic buildings before their past is lost.
Mayor Kristen Brown says the decision to hire Richard McCoy stems from concerns that Columbus is in danger of losing its knowledge of its historic architecture.
Columbus has long attracted tourists and architectural students and enthusiasts wanting to view the city's churches, schools, businesses and public buildings designed by such world-renowned architects as Harry Weese, Cesar Pelli and I.M. Pei.
Brown says many cities have someone in a planning department who oversees preservation efforts and have preservation ordinances, but Columbus does not.
McCoy will be paid $30 an hour to identify significant buildings, document their condition and advise and educate property owners about preservation issues.
