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Boosters see downtown as key
Downtown Norris Avenue is more than an economic generator, it's the heart and soul of the community.
That was the message McCook Main Street President Bill Longnecker gave the McCook City Council at its regular meeting Monday night, in his update of Lied Main Street Program activities.
"We're all connected by the Main Street district," Longnecker said and asked for some involvement from the council or city staff. Councilman Aaron Kircher agreed that a city representative should be participate at some level, as it would be beneficial to keep current with the organization's progress.
McCook Main Street's vision includes a variety of ideas to revitalize downtown McCook. Already activity is picking up, Longnecker said, with the Fox Theater renovation, plans for the Keystone Hotel, a new restaurant that is being constructed, plus another business that will soon join the area.
Plenty of new projects are being considered at McCook Main Street meetings, Longnecker continued, with most still in the start-up phase. These include a business inventory, that would categorize the kind of buildings available and other information that will be accessible on a Web site for relocating businesses or other interested parties.
A newsletter and a "think tank" to raise ideas for funding are also in the works. Currently Main Street is conducting its membership drive, with dues at $25.
Longnecker said the low price of membership makes it very affordable so businesses and individuals can join and show their support.
McCook Main Street works in conjunction with the McCook Chamber of Commerce, McCook Economic Development Corp. and Heritage Square. Board of directors include Longnecker, Tor Olson, vice president and Pam Hanson, secretary.
Its diverse membership of businesses, individuals, citizens and volunteers all have one goal in mind, Longnecker said: to rejuvenate downtown McCook.
"The meetings are extremely active, with so many ideas being heard," said. Longnecker. "It's amazing what the power of Main Street can do."
The advantages of a thriving Main Street are many, according to McCook Main Street literature. It's the symbol of the community's economic health, quality of life and also a great place to create and maintain jobs, which means a stronger tax base. Main Street is a good incubator for new businesses as it uses community resources wisely, such as infrastructure, tax dollars and land.
Main Street businesses also keep profits in town and support local community projects such as fundraisers for schools and service organizations. Besides just the business advantages, Main Street holds the community together with parades, special events and celebrations, he said.