The Benefits of Becoming a CLG

Becoming a CLG makes a community eligible to apply for subgrants available only to CLG communities. At least 10 percent of the annual Historic Preservation Fund grant made to Michigan under the National Historic Preservation Act must be distributed to the CLGs. Becoming a CLG ensures that historic preservation issues are understood and addressed at the local level and are integrated into the local planning and decision-making process at the earliest possible opportunity.

Becoming a CLG can expand a local unit's participation in the historic preservation program through the National Register nomination process and, with qualified staff, other programs such as review of federal undertakings for impact on historic resources under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

Participation in the CLG Program promotes a positive image for the community by being a demonstration of commitment on the part of local officials to work with the state and federal government to preserve historic resources.

Obligations and Requirements

To qualify for certification, a local unit of government must have adopted a local historic preservation ordinance that complies with Michigan's Local Historic Districts Act, PA 169 of 1970, as amended, and meets the guidelines set forth in the CLG Manual.

Once certified, a CLG

• is required to maintain an ongoing system for the survey and inventory of historic resources;
• must develop four-year historic preservation goals for the community;
• is required to provide for adequate public participation in the local historic preservation program;
• may participate in the process of nominating historic properties to the National Register of Historic Places; and
• will be monitored every four years to ensure that all responsibilities are being met.

How to Become a Certified Local Government

Michigan's Certified Local Government Program: A Manual on How to Become Certified outlines the process for requesting certification. This manual [DOC], recently updated, is available for download. Applications for certification may be submitted to the SHPO at any time during the year. The SHPO reviews the application and the National Park Service approves final certification.

For information about any of the programs described on this site, write the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, Michigan Historical Center, P.O. Box 30740, 702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48909-8240, or call us at (517) 373-1630.

Michigan Historical Center, Department of History, Arts and Libraries
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