EXCELSIOR SPRINGS – The Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Commission is accepting nominations for its Historic Preservation Awards Program.

Awards will be given in commercial and residential categories. Property owners who have made significant improvements to historic properties may be nominated by anyone in the community.

Gary and Kim Sanson won for improvements made in 2019 at the Brunke Hardware building, 423 S. Thompson. In 2017, the Sansons saw the importance of preserving the structure, which had been a business property in Excelsior Springs for more than 100 years.

Mark and Anna Sue Spohn received the Preservation Award for a Residential Property for restoring the residence of former Police Chief Bill Payne at 426 Concourse Ave. The structure, damaged as a result of a fire, faced potential demolition. Having been restored, the Spohns’ residence also serves as Payne Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast.

Awards were not presented in 2020 because of COVID-19.

“The Historic Preservation Commission seeks to recognize the hard work and investment of property owners whose projects improve the appearance of Historic Excelsior Springs,” Chairwoman Betty Bissell said.

Anyone who wishes to nominate a property owner may submit a completed form to the Community Development Department at the Hall of Waters by 5 p.m. April 12. Awards will be presented May 12 at the Historic Preservation Commission meeting.

More information on the Historic Preservation Commission can be found at cityofesmo.com/preservation/.