Tryon Town Council discussed Tuesday the possibility of creating an ordinance, which would also require the establishment of a historic preservation commission. Tryon officials are discussing the possibility of having a three member board.

Town manager Justin Hembree said the ordinance is the first step in the town becoming a certified local government and it will make it easier for the town to obtain historic preservation grants and funding.

Crys Armbrust, Tryon&squo;s new business and tourism development coordinator, said if an area of the town receives the national historic district designation, business owners could receive a tax credit of up to 40 percent for renovations to historic structures.

&dquo;I think this is extremely important for the Town of Tryon in maintaining the character of our current structures,&dquo; said councilman Dennis Durham.

Durham added that maintaining historic structures can be expensive, but for Tryon, &dquo;it&squo;s crucial.&dquo;

The commission would have to be in place for one year prior to the historic district being recognized, Tryon officials said. The commission would also be able to set up historic districts that aren&squo;t nationally recognized but are important to the town.

A public hearing will be required prior to the ordinance being approved.