Certified Local Government (CLG)

Becoming a Certified Local Government is a crucial step in formalizing LaBelle's commitment to historic preservation. This partnership with the State of Florida and the National Park Service provides access to specialized technical assistance and grant funding, empowering us to better protect and promote the historic resources that give our downtown its unique character.

The Certified Local Government program is a federal-state-local partnership that encourages communities to establish local historic preservation programs. Through CLG designation, LaBelle would gain a formal preservation framework, access to dedicated grant funding, and a stronger voice in decisions affecting its historic resources.

The LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation has taken an active leadership role in strengthening historic preservation efforts within the City of LaBelle.

Recognizing the need to modernize the City's historic preservation framework, LDRC was instrumental in developing and submitting proposed amendments to the City's historic preservation ordinance, along with updated historic preservation design guidelines.

This work included reviewing existing policies, identifying areas needing improvement, coordinating with the Florida Division of Historical Resources, and helping establish the framework necessary for LaBelle to pursue Certified Local Government designation.

The proposed changes aim to strengthen local preservation policies, clarify review procedures, and provide consistent guidance for the preservation and rehabilitation of designated historic properties.

These efforts reflect LDRC's commitment to protecting LaBelle's historic character while supporting responsible growth, economic development, and downtown revitalization.

Preservation is not about preventing change. It is about protecting the historic character of LaBelle while allowing the community to grow and evolve.