I am writing in response to Leonard Greco's letter about the Historic District Ordinance.

According to Leonard, this ordinance makes it nearly impossible for his fraternity to expand and alter its house, a house that would bring in "$600,000 to the community."

I agree with his point that the borough council should listen to the community's opinion when voting on issues that would affect the community. However, this ordinance was created in the hopes of protecting the community, and preserving it; which should be important to residents. Historic aspects of our community and our country are important for several reasons.

First, they are a part of our heritage, something that we should not forget. Second, once a historic edifice is altered or destroyed, a part of history is lost. It is possible to restore them, but it is no longer authentic. Lastly, the fact that our town is historic and has maintained many old buildings brings in revenue annually through tourism. I would like to think that our community has some respect for history.

The ordinance was originally created in 1961, so what you are referring to is the revision of the ordinance. It states that buildings can undergo renovations/additions, provided they are okayed by the review board, which should take less than the three years the fraternity has allotted. Lastly, I understand that fraternities do a lot for the community, however it is unclear why a renovation of an existing fraternity would bring in $600,000 for the community.