Economic Innovation
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From the Chairman
Economic restructuring is a keystone to downtown revitalization.
Current projects in progress include:
Centralized rental (and sales) information fordowntown retail and office vacancies including distinctive, uniform logo signage and preparing vacant stores for optimum appearance to prospective tenants. (See the link to the right for listings)
Directed, negotiated development of specific vacant buildings for specific busineses by meeting with landlords and identified interested prospective tenants. Second locationsof successful businesses are currently targeted.
Upper floor rehabs, primarily residential but also certain business and office space, targeting specific buildings whose owners have some interest.
Preparing a detailed downtown inventory of spaces including building ownership, and available spaces with demensions and floor plans.
Creating a downtown development ombudsman position. The ombudsman would help prospective downtown business persons through rental or porperty acquisition, zoning, permitting, codes, and financing.
Future plans include:
Creating an angels network of individuals interested in both investing in and mentoring new businesses in downtown.
Increasing the existing revolvinglow interest loan fund for start-up businesses and expansion of existing businesses. Individuals, institutions, and corporations would be approached. Possible return on investment could be offered as well as the option of donation.
People and their time and expertise are needed. People with specific project of interest listed above as well as new ideas are very welcome. Subcommittees for these projects and others are planned.
Ed Fine, chairman (814)-573-8042 edfine_usatek.net
Opportunities in Downtown Meadville
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