BPW Members Hear Update on Downtown Kenton Revitalization Efforts

President Sandy Moore welcomed 4 members and guest Jennifer Ramge to the Hardin Co. Business & Professional Women’s Club. The dinner meeting was at Kenton’s Royal Buffet on May 27 at 5:30 p.m.

Following the delicious dinner, hostess Connie Dietz introduced speaker Jennifer Ramge. Ramge works part-time for the Chamber of Commerce as the coordinator for the Kenton Historic Courthouse District. Her mission is to “Preserve the Past. Powering the Future”. That means that she wants to revitalize Kenton’s downtown and focus on the commercial development, but she wants to keep the history that makes it very special. It is all centered around the 1915 courthouse, which is on the National Register.

Her focus points, to revitalize downtown Kenton, are through historic preservation, economic development, community activation, business recruitment, and strategic long lasting partnerships. In the last year, Kenton has been rebuilding by replacing pipes, some office spaces have been remodeled, building new schools, tearing down old buildings that are not useable, and fixing potholes in the streets plus new sidewalk areas. This all points to confidence in the community to be energized to bring in more business. She is working on communication to many businesses who might consider expanding into Kenton.

The building of a Scooter’s in Kenton has been a very positive start. She was elated to announce that a restaurant is planned in the Rite Aid building soon. She has found some interest in a possible hotel, some law offices, and a gun store. Of course, the bagel store is opening and will offer wine and coffee along with various bagels. Ramge is offering events for entertainment downtown, but has cancelled Eats on the Streets. She is working to arrange art tours in certain stores. She is pleased to work with the Revitalize Kenton group to get positive community action. The October 2nd Candlelight Concert will be one event to focus for entertainment. Of course, she is also working to try to bring another grocery into Kenton.

With new businesses, she is supporting the idea for specific fire codes. It is necessary; especially for old buildings. It is thought that a fireman could take the training to be a fire inspector for Kenton. This would be an advantage in bringing in more business as Kenton would show the importance for fire safety. Ramge is excited that there are business possibilities for growth in Kenton as she communicates to any business that wants to expand. After all, the cost of living is lower even as 5 highways make Kenton a hub.

Following a question and answer period, Pres. Moore led the group in thanking Ramge for her positive information and began the meeting. She thanked Connie Dietz for being the hostess. Secretary Norma Frederick read the April 22 minutes which were approved. Frederick also gave the information for a possible donation to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. That was tabled for consideration in June. Treasurer Connie Dietz had her report filed for audit. Donations were voted to be added to the scholarship fund. Dues of $36 were collected.

Director Sandy Moore of the Helen Mabrey Shoe Fund gave her report. She corrected the savings account for April before reporting the May report. The CD is the same as in April. She stated that Katrina Hughes-Collins was paid for tax prep plus a $1 credit union fee to pay for her service. The $3,000 grant from the Hardin County Community Foundation was received and deposited at Quest Credit Union. She had sent a thank you note to the foundation. No shoes were purchased during May.

Pres. Moore asked for volunteers for officer changes in BPW. None were noted. An audit will be done soon.
Scholarship Chairman Vanessa Brim is still receiving any scholarship applications until May 31. Discussion followed for Ladies Night Out. It was decided to meet at the parking lot beside Middlefield Bank for carpooling to go to Olive Garden in Lima on June 10. All who want to meet should be there by 5:30 p.m. Guests are always welcome. Scholarship applicants will be reviewed on June 10 and a scholarship amount will be decided. Hostesses for the coming year will also be decided at this June 10 meeting.

Having no other business, Pres. Moore adjourned the meeting. She wished everyone safe travels.

Submitted by Norma Frederick