Village Development Goals Discussed
Prior to the May 6 village council meeting, Barnesville economic development director Bill Knox outlined possible development goals and objectives for the village. Broadly speaking, Knox’s recommendations break down into two major areas: (1) infrastructure and (2) business and downtown development.
Infrastructure:
- Develop formal water distribution, wastewater collection and storm water system repair and replacement plans including budget considerations
- Investigate the feasibility of looping the waterline from Mt. Olivet to the village’s 12-inch line at I-70 and (working with Belmont County) extend water service to Hendrysburg
- Quarterly review/ input on water/sewer treatment and distribution issues from consultant Doug Frye
- Establish a formal tracking system for waterline breaks, wastewater issue and water issues to permit a more focused approach to line replacements and system improvements
Business and Downtown Development:
- Make the continued renovation/occupancy of the Bohandy Building and redevelopment of the now vacant N. Chestnut Street parcels, the first priority. Consider residential development of the second and third floors of the Bohandy Building
- Consider partnering with the Chamber of Commerce and downtown merchants to participate in the Ohio Main Street Program administered by Heritage Ohio
- Economic incentives for downtown development should be considered. Rather than establishing a grant program or direct subsidies to benefit private businesses, the village and community partners would both reap the benefits of a greatly expanded revolving loan program
- Develop a detailed inventory of building vacancies and maintain the list towards a goal of 100% occupancy of street level spaces. As of December, Barnesville’s rate was 86% occupancy while the national rate was 80%
- The initiative to provide hanging flower baskets should be encouraged and financially supported. Consider expanding the program to include large planters throughout the downtown
- Require the use of an inquiry form to be used by all village employees and the chamber to ensure all prospective new businesses are given accurate information, treated professionally and confidentially, and followed up with in a timely and consistent manner
The next Development Committee meeting will take place this coming Monday, June 3, 6:00 at the council chamber. The meeting is open to the public.
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