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Our Mission

& Objectives

The Galena Preservation Advocacy Organization (GPAO) is a community based planning advocacy organization with a mission of encouraging the preservation and rehabilitation of historic places with a focus on privately owned properties. The organization also promotes designing and planning activities for the community that will enhance and sustain Galena as a great place to live and work. The following objectives and priorities represent the community based activities that the organization will undertake. 

517 S High St. Historic Photo for soci

GPAO Objectives:

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Objective #1

 

Advocate for the protection and rehabilitation of privately owned historic buildings, features and structures throughout Galena

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High Priorities:

  • GPAO  will partner with the City of Galena to create and maintain a list of privately owned historic buildings most in need of protection and rehabilitation

  • Assist in landmarking buildings outside the Historic District boundaries, as needed. 

  • Develop a community based preservation advocacy and information campaign.  Landmarks Illinois will continue to work with the City, GPAO and our community on preservation efforts in Galena and Jo Daviess County.

  • Promote the adoption of an ordinance (s) that encourage the rescue of neglected privately owned historic buildings (“Demolition by Neglect” which actually prevents properties from being demolished. 

  • Assist property owners of historic buildings that are in financial need with assistance. Find solutions such as volunteer crews of building contractors or students, Habitat for Humanity, Veteran Organizations, etc.

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Objective #2

 

Promote roadway and street designs that are in harmony with surrounding land use and improve aesthetic appeal of historic Galena.

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High Priorities:

  • Work with the Illinois Department of Transportation – District 2, the City of Galena and Jo Daviess County to promote sensitive solutions for the imminent U.S. Route 20 improvements along Route 20. 

 

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Objective #3 

 

Promote design features that will enhance and make the City more interesting.

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Objective #4

 

Encourage the City to advance its strategic plans. This includes an update of the 2004 Comprehensive Plan.

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