RLF Request

Local attorneys accessing RLF to renovate historic Columbia City building

COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. (September 13, 2011) – Local law firm Myers, Tison, Hockemeyer & McNagny, LLP announced today that the firm will be renovating and moving into the historic and former Post & Mail newspaper building, 116 Chauncey Street.

“Maintaining our presence in downtown Columbia City was an important factor in our search for a new location,” said managing partner Greg Hockemeyer, “I am proud of our firm’s commitment to supporting the redevelopment of this important property.”

Built in 1911, the former Post & Mail building was most recently occupied by locally based teakwood furniture company Three Birds Casual, which has since relocated to a facility in Gateway Park. The firm anticipates $400,000 in building acquisition and improvement costs.

“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the centennial of this local landmark,” said Hockemeyer, “This project has involved collaboration among a number of local organizations that we hope will become a source of pride for all of Whitley County.”

The Columbia City Redevelopment Commission, which oversees a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) area in downtown Columbia City, is supporting the project through Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) and façade grant awards. The City of Columbia City is also planning public improvements along Jackson Street to support the project.

“We are pleased to support local businesses that are willing to invest in the historic charm of downtown Columbia City and contribute to the overall economic growth of Whitley County” said Columbia City Redevelopment Commission chairman Carl Siler, “The RLF program was designed to provide much needed assistance to support the reuse of vacant and underused facilities in our community.”

The Commission oversees a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) area in downtown Columbia City. The RLF program promotes efforts to strengthen the economic viability of properties located in the TIF area and stimulate private sector investment in downtown Columbia City through the physical revitalization of local properties. RLF programs have become a widely used financial incentive, establishing a pool of funding that can be replenished once loans are repaid to provide additional loan awards.

“This project is a prime example of a local business willing to invest and make a difference in the historic preservation and appearance of downtown Columbia City,” said Mayor Jim Fleck, “This investment will serve as a benchmark for additional downtown business owners interested in preserving the history of Whitley County.”

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About Whitley County EDC:
The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency in Whitley County, Indiana. The EDC works closely with local, regional, and state partners to support our industry clients' growth and success. Our mission is to implement a unified economic development effort and to expand employment and business opportunities for the benefit of the people of Whitley County by developing and maintaining cooperation of all individuals, groups, and organizations within the county. The Whitley County EDC was established in 1992 and represents Whitley County, Columbia City, and the Towns of Churubusco, Larwill, and South Whitley. For more information about the EDC, visit www.whitleyedc.com.

Media Contacts:
Alan Tio (Whitley County EDC) – 260.244.5506
Greggory Hockemeyer (Myers, Tison, Hockemeyer & McNagny, LLP) – 260.248.2224
Carl Siler (Columbia City Redevelopment Commission) – 260-244-4479

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