RAYNE, La. ( KLFY )– Rayne formed a Historic Preservation Commission to make it easier for owners of historic property to receive federal and state grants.

Charter member Lisa Soileaux said the historic commission will serve as a vessel between property owners and the city.

“If they want to renovate, if they want to add, if they want to build, or if they want to get acquired grants or monies, both state and federal, it’s a vessel that we’re going to provide that service for them to do it,” Soileaux said.

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Soileaux said the commission wants to prevent historic structures from being torn down to build something new in its place.

“It’s just a process to kind of put the brakes on when someone wants to change, totally change a historic structure,” Soileaux said. “Maybe they want to tear it down; maybe they want to build something more modern. It’s just kind of pumping the brakes.”

Their goal is to preserve historic sites in Rayne. They have already dedicated two sites and are working on two more.

“We’re not here to tell you how to build your building and reconstruct and renovate anything,” Soileaux said. “We’re here to see how the original historical structure can add to the value of their home or their business, and also add to the value and the historical significance of the city.”

The commission is also planning events for the city. Their first meeting is this Wednesday to create committees and assign board members to each committee.

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