DevelopOhio

Officials in the village of Johnstown say they will focus on economic development this year; Mayor Sean Staneart said that “is the only way we can increase the village tax base without putting a larger burden on the residents who live here,” ThisWeek Community News reports. Staneart said despite operational efficiency and leanness, “we have been heavily restricted in adding additional services, or being able to provide a higher quality of service in our existing areas.” Jim Lenner, village manager and planner, agreed, saying “[w]e recently adopted our first economic development strategic plan that will help guide us in future endeavors to broaden our manufacturing tax base.” Lenner also said that “[e]stablishing a new business park is and will continue to be a high priority for the village.” One project planned for this year is the $1.2 million reconstruction of West Jersey Street between South Main Street and Anna Way. Additionally, Maronda Homes will continue building in a development within the village, and the village plans to continue informal discussions with a second developer that is interested in building a new residential neighborhood within the village. For more, read the full article.