Opelika is known for its beautiful historic homes and churches. Over the past two decades, approximately 40 structures have been torn down or moved from Opelika's Historic Districts. Opelika is the ONLY city in Alabama that exempts religious organizations from following guidelines set up to protect these historic assets.
Opelika's city council agreed to draft an ordinance removing the exemption whereby religious organizations are allowed to remove, alter, or destroy historic structures in Opelika without following the same guidelines as everyone else. Currently owned church property would not be affected by this change. Now the city council has decided that "further study" is needed.
It's up to the public to let their voices be heard and rally with emails, phone calls and showing up to city council. If you favor saving this city's historic structures I urge you to start making phone calls to as many people as you can to let your voice be heard. Every single person who favors saving our city's historic structures needs to speak up and help get others to do the same. Please share.
Update #54 jaar geleden
Opelika's City Council agreed tonight to remove the exemption whereby religious organizations do not have to abide by historic preservation guidelines. This does not apply to currently owned church property but will protect any new acquisitions. Your responses to this petition had a huge influence on their decision! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR HELPING TO PRESERVE OUR HISTORY!
Update #45 jaar geleden
Opelika's City Council is scheduled to vote on Tuesday May 7th about whether religious organizations will be required to follow rules designed to protect Opelika's historic buildings. THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO VOICE YOUR FEELINGS ON THIS! PLEASE SHARE THIS PETITION WITH YOUR FRIENDS!
Update #35 jaar geleden
Petition is top story today in OA News. Please sign and share! https://www.oanow.com/news/local/opelika-residents-create-petition-to-challenge-preservation-rules/article_f95afbae-6a88-11e9-a236-6b3b22516338.html
Update #25 jaar geleden
The Renfro House on 10th Street in Opelika was recently purchased by the Catholic Church and is at risk. To learn about the history of this amazing home, read this article written by Ann Cipperly in 2017. http://eastalabamaliving.com/times-past-historical-features-east-alabama-living-magazine/renfro-house/
Update #15 jaar geleden
WTBS News in Columbus GA recently reported on this important issue. You can view this story by going to http://www.wtvm.com/2019/04/24/opelika-city-council-reexamining-religious-organizations-exemption-historical-preservation-ordinances/.
PLEASE SHARE THIS PETITION SO WE CAN GET AT LEAST 1000 SIGNATURES!!!!!
