CASS COUTNTY, Ind. (WLFI)—It's a hot topic amongst members of Logansport Landmarks, a volunteer organization that advocates for historic preservation in Logansport.
Communications Director for Logansport Landmarks Paul Willham claims that Rennewanz who is a contractor in the city has a history of poorly managing his business.
Willham said people on the Historic Preservation Commission bring a certain expertise to the commission that helps, he feels that's not Rennewanz.
"Perry doesn't bring that kind of expertise to the table, if anything he might represent the type of thing the board commission is trying to stop which are people basically trying to flip houses and do it as cheaply as they can with a bad result for the community," said Willham.
Willham said he has created a petition which already has 60 signatures, the petition is asking the city to remove Rennewanz from the commission.
Mayor of Logansport Chris Martin released a statement to News 18:
"This is being blown way out of proportion and people need to be more respectful of others, especially in the times we're in."
Mr. Perry Renewanz also released a full statement to News 18 in response to the opposition of his latest appointment:
"Mayor Martin approached me 2 months ago and asked if I would consider being part of the Historical Board. He finds my construction and life experiences of value. I accepted and I was appointed. I look forward to contributing to this community. I was born and raised in Logansport. I spent 10 years in the military,"
I lived in cities such as Philadelphia, Wilmington Delaware, Baton Rouge, Houston, Jacksonville, and even had businesses in the city of New Orleans. It is my pleasure to put my knowledge to use to better the community I grew up and live in today. This is the reason why I am involved in other boards - to help make a difference. With all that being said, we have completed and invested our own money on multiple projects throughout the city of Logansport,"
Most of those homes were the worst home on the city block and in many cases they were ready to be torn down. After taking on such projects, the finished homes were the talk of the neighborhood because of the beauty and the increased value we brought to the each neighborhood,"
We pride ourselves in returning all of these homes onto the property tax roll and providing local employment opportunities to professional craftsmen with the knowledge to complete such projects. I look forward to serving on this board despite all the negative publicity and division that has been caused. It is a privilege to have the trust of the city officials. Thank you for your time."
