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Historic Milwaukee

MISSION STATEMENT

Historic Milwaukee, Inc. promotes appreciation for Milwaukee’s history and architecture.

We accomplish this by conducting numerous walking tours of the historical neighborhoods of Milwaukee, as well as offering group and student tours.

Historic Milwaukee is an affiliated member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Wisconsin Historical Society.

Vision

We are the recognized leader in creating awareness of and commitment to Milwaukee’s history and the preservation of its built environment. We provide this through innovative, responsive programs and strong community, corporate and civic alliances.

Façade Easement

Have you ever heard the term “façade easement” when people are talking about the Iron Block Building or the Germania Building? Just what does that term mean and how is it connected to Historic Milwaukee?

In the early 1980′s, when the owners of the Iron Block and Germania were looking for ways to finance restoration, the federal government was offering tax incentives. By donating a “façade easement” in perpetuity and a fee to a non-profit organization, the owners were able to assign a value to that easement and claim it as a charitable deduction, take rehabilitation credits of 25 % of the renovation coasts and receive low interest loans. The easements are attached to the title of the property and obligate future owners of the property as well. While the owners gave up the control they had over what could be done to the exterior of their buildings, the non-profit gained funds (half of which had to be set aside for any legal fees in connection to the easement), the assurance that the building would be restored, and the responsibility for the façade of the building on which they hold the easement.

This responsibility translates into inspections done once a year by a qualified architect. The architect looks for any changes in the condition of the façade or any additions to the façade that were not there when the easement was granted. The results of the inspections are forwarded to the building owners and any repairs or alterations are to be done in a timely fashion.

When the Germania Building’s owner filed for bankruptcy and the bank took over the management of the building, HMI had to hire a lawyer because there some question as to whether the paperwork had been filed correctly at the time the easement was given to HMI and this was the first time a building with a façade easement had changed ownership. The issue was resolved in HMI’s favor and the lawyer’s fee was paid for out of the money we set aside.

The next time you take a look at the Iron Block or the Germania, remember the role HMI plays in keeping that building a viable part of Milwaukee’s ambiance.