URGENT UPDATE: Nimmo United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach has officially requested to be removed from the historic district that bears its name, citing escalating costs for repairs and improvements. This request was presented to the Planning Commission on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, raising significant concerns among city officials about the implications for historic preservation standards.
The church, established in 1791 and recognized as the oldest continuously used Methodist church in the country, argues that the stringent requirements of the Nimmo Church Historical and Cultural District are financially burdensome. Church representatives did not attend the meeting, leaving city officials seeking clarity on the specific alterations they wish to pursue.
Mark Reed, the city’s historic preservation planner, indicated that the church’s request stemmed from “significant material and labor costs” associated with necessary repairs. The Planning Commission has deferred making a decision until January 14, as they seek further information on the matter. Commissioner Bryan Plumlee emphasized the importance of the issue, noting its potential impact on historic districts throughout Virginia Beach.
The request has already been denied by both the Historic Review Board and the Historic Preservation Commission, who argue that allowing the church’s removal would undermine the protective measures essential for preserving Virginia Beach’s historical identity. Both boards have previously stated that such a move could set a dangerous precedent for other historic properties.
In total, Virginia Beach is home to 16 Historical and Cultural Districts, each safeguarding structures from the Colonial era through the 20th century. These districts require property owners to obtain a “certificate of appropriateness” before making any exterior changes, ensuring that all modifications align with the historical character of the area.
Councilwoman Barbara Henley, who represents the district where the church is located, expressed her awareness of the concerns surrounding the review board’s standards. She advocates for a compromise that balances preservation with the church’s financial realities. “Being in the historic and cultural district, they’re just required to meet the highest standard of historic preservation,” Henley stated. “That gets extensive. After a while, it just gets to be so costly you just can’t afford it.”
The church has not submitted any recent applications for maintenance or repair, leading to further inquiries from the Planning Commission about their current needs. The Historic Review Board previously approved three additions to Nimmo United Methodist Church, but denied a proposal for a welcome center, preserving the integrity of its iconic steeple, added in 1893.
This developing situation continues to draw attention as the community grapples with the balance between preserving historical significance and accommodating the financial realities of maintaining such properties. As the January decision approaches, the outcome could have profound implications for Virginia Beach’s approach to historic preservation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
