COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio History Connection continues to wait for federal funds that were already appropriated, and the delay has led to layoffs.
The organization reduced 12 positions from the State Historic Preservation Office, effective May 9.
Neil Thompson, Manager of Media and Public Relations at Ohio History Connection, said the State Historic Preservation Office is waiting for $1.448 million in federal funding.
“We did not receive federal funds that were part of an appropriation from the federal fiscal year that began October 1st, 2024,” Thompson said.
According to Thompson, $1.448 million is about 60 percent of the office’s overall funding.
“We could no longer sustain the level of staffing from other channels of funding, since we have not received that federal funding at this time,” he said.
Thompson describes the State Historic Preservation Office as Ohio’s preservation advocate and service center.
“It undertakes many federally mandated job duties and responsibilities,” he said. “Many people have heard of the National Register of Historic Places, the State Historic Preservation Office is responsible for the administration of that program on the state level.”
Thompson adds that the responsibilities of the State Historic Preservation Office were delegated by Congress in the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
Office staff includes archaeologists, historians, and other professionals in preservation-related fields.
With 12 positions now eliminated, Thompson said it could take longer, and deadlines could be extended for work and responsibilities.
“These responsibilities that the State Historic Preservation Office has under its authority and responsibility, we remain committed to making sure that these get done for the citizens of Ohio, for all the communities of Ohio that rely on these services,” Thompson said.
According to Thompson, Ohio History Connection leaders and board members continue to advocate for the release of the federal funds. He said they have also involved the Governor’s Office and lawmakers.
ABC6/FOX28 reached out to the National Park Service, the agency responsible for administering the delayed funds, and received the following statement.
“Pending financial assistance obligations, including grants, are under review for compliance with recent executive orders and memoranda. We will be happy to provide you with an update when we have additional information to share.”
