THOMASVILLE — Thomasville Landmarks wants to nominate the unincorporated Thomas County town of Metcalf to the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s 2009 Places in Peril.

Brent Runyon, Landmarks executive director, asked Thomas County commissioners for support, including financial backing.

The annual Places in Peril list includes sites in Georgia in danger of being lost because of neglect, demolition or inappropriate development, according to a letter from Runyon to county Commissioner Moses Gross, who represents the district in which Metcalf is located.

If chosen for the 2009 Perils List, the Georgia Trust would help the southern Thomas County town develop a preservation plan, with implementation in 2011.

“Landmarks doesn’t have the capacity to do justice to Metcalf,” Runyon told commissioners.

Runyon’s letter said development pressure in the Metcalf area is relatively light. However, development, if insensitive to the prevailing rural and historic character of the town, could threaten to destroy its heritage, pattern and qualities.

The Landmarks executive director asked commissioners for support in nominating Metcalf for the Perils list. If selected, Landmarks would request assistance from county planning personnel.

Commissioner Claud Davis condoned the idea.

Putting money aside for several years to fund the project was suggested by Commissioner Elaine Mays.

Mike Stephenson, county manager, suggested a public hearing to gather input. Gross concurred.

“I would like to talk to some of the people down here,” Gross said.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier an be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 220.