The sentence you provided is important to the passage as a whole because it introduces the idea of preserving architecture through local government ordinances, presenting an alternative to the practice of developers tearing down old buildings to construct new ones.
This idea contributes to the broader discussion about the value of architectural heritage, sustainable urban development, and the role of local governance in shaping the physical environment.
By suggesting that local governments could enact ordinances to preserve architecture, the passage may be advocating for the conservation of historical or culturally significant buildings. It implies a proactive approach to urban planning that considers the cultural, historical, and aesthetic aspects of a community's architecture. This idea contrasts with the more destructive approach of allowing developers to demolish old structures without considering their architectural value.