This structure pictured above is known as the Masonic building. It was purchased 2 weeks ago by the board of the Paulding CIC in an effort to boost downtown revitalization.
The building was purchased from Laron Hodgin after he had spent many hours of construction remodeling to save the building. It is surprising how large some of these old buildings are! Even on the third floor, the ceiling is estimated to be 14 feet.
Greg White, president of the CIC, along with George Carter, Dave Burtch, Jerry Zielke, and others visited at least five other communities to see what worked and what didn’t to ensure that the purchase of this building would be a success for this community. They have worked in cooperation with the State Bank and Trust to secure the loan of $96,000 with 20% down on a 15 year loan.
Jerry Zielke said they would be applying for grants up to a 1/2 million dollars to help with the remodeling, but in order to do so Paulding must be declared a special energy district in the Toledo Port District. That means the loans will eventually be paid for through tax dollars of the owner. As the CIC is looking at new and exciting things to do with this building, they are encouraging members of the community to join, and skills are greatly needed to help with this project.
Dave Burtch stated that it was important to recognize this as a community based effort. He also emphasized that the this is not “free” money being used to purchase the buildings, meaning that donations of funds and energy are greatly needed to make this succeed.
One of the first things to happen will be the opening of a “table cloth” restaurant. In this restaurant will also include upscale downtown apartments which are nearing completion now. Soon will also be the addition of the CIC offices in these buildings.
If you would like more information on how you can help, contact the Paulding CIC or the Paulding County Economic Development at 419-399-8282.
