THE SELMA TIMES-JOURNAL

Homeowners get out and clean during the springtime generally.

It is no different here in Selma.

But some homeowners, those who live in the historic districts of the city, must receive permission from the Selma Historic Development Commission.

The commission keeps everything as close to the original historic intent as possible while allowing homeowners to make repairs or upgrade their properties.

These days, sprucing up in the state&8217;s largest contiguous historic district has drawn a bit of attention. It&8217;s National Preservation Month.

Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. recently joined with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to declare May as National Preservation Month.

On May 29, Selma will be recognized nationally as a Preserve America City, said Patty Sexton, Selma Main Street manager and historic preservation/revitalization coordinator.

Preserve America is an initiative of the George W. Bush Administration that encourages and supports community efforts to preserve and enjoy cultural and natural heritage.

The goals of the initiative include a greater shared knowledge about the nation&8217;s past, strengthened regional identities and local pride, increased participation in preserving the economic vitality of communities.

Planning and Development Department Director Charlotte Griffeth said celebration of this month with national designations, such as the one by Preserve America, bring together people to enjoy and protect the places that matter to them.