NORTH VERNON, Ind. — The North Vernon City Council has passed Ordinance 1032-2026, which officially establishes the city's Historic Preservation Commission.
The initiative provides a structured framework to protect local landmarks while keeping decision-making authority entirely within the local community.
To safeguard historical character while maintaining accountability to local elected officials, the effort establishes a five-member voting board and three non-voting positions.
The City of North Vernon collaborated with downtown business owners, Indiana Main Street, and legal counsel to clarify board oversight and structural guidelines.
Mayor Shawn Gerkin nominated the five initial voting members of the commission:
- Rusty Hamilton
- Daniel Smith
- Cally Wilder
- Andrew Klescht
- Bridget Doran
Community governance remains central to the initiative, with board members appointed locally to report directly to the Mayor and City Council.
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