The Winnfield Historic Preservation Commission met Thursday, Aug. 7, at 4:30 p.m. in the Louisiana Political Museum to discuss vacancies and updates on the city’s historic preservation efforts.

The commission considered nominations to fill two vacant seats, with final approval required from the Winnfield City Council. Names will be forwarded for council review.

The main focus was the city’s historic preservation ordinance. Commission member Shonna Moss said the ordinance was sent over three years ago to Ray Scriber, director of Louisiana Main Street, a division of the state Office of Cultural Development. Scriber recommended revisions to ensure compliance with state standards. Moss presented his notes and emails, requesting approval to submit the proposed changes to the city council.

Moss also reported that the city has yet to submit its Certified Local Government renewal, due in April. She has prepared much of the application ahead of a September National Park Service review. Moss warned that failure to maintain CLG status could jeopardize Winnfield’s Main Street designation.

Despite invitations, neither the CLG representative nor the city attorney attended the meeting. Moss noted she completed the annual Commission Assistance and Mentoring Program training, keeping the commission compliant with state and federal requirements. CAMP, offered by the Louisiana Division of Historic Preservation and the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, provides education and mentoring for preservation boards.

Commission members reviewed their duties and examined a map believed to outline the current historic district. Moss said she requested an official copy from the city clerk’s office, since the ordinance states the map is not attached but available for public viewing. The map review was postponed until the next meeting on Oct. 9.