By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Bowling Green City Council helped pave the way Monday evening for a local manufacturer to add approximately 20 jobs.
Council agreed to vacate about 90 feet of right-of-way adjacent to Betco Corporation on Newton Road. The vacating of the right-of-way will allow the company to proceed with construction of an additional facility at its location.
Betco is planning a 20,000 square foot warehouse for the relocation of operations from another state – which will create an estimated 20 new jobs.
Also at Monday’s meeting, Mayor Dick Edwards declared Nov. 25 as “Small Business Saturday” in Bowling Green. “Small businesses employ over 48 percent of the working population of the U.S.,” he said.
Mayor Dick Edwards and Mary Hinkelman talk about Small Business Saturday.
Mary Hinkelman, managing director of Downtown Bowling Green, asked those present to remember the “Holly Days” and “Downtown Dollars” promotions while they do their holiday shopping.
“We are working hard to promote our downtown,” Hinkelman said. “It’s so important for our downtown merchants.”
According to Hinkelman, when people spend their shopping dollars locally, 68 cents of every $1 stays in the local economy. She also noted that local businesses are frequently giving back to the community.
“They make a huge investment in our downtown and it vibrates out to our whole community,” she said.
The mayor also recognized Wendy Chambers, executive director of the Bowling Green Convention and Visitors Bureau, for her efforts in the city being named one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns of the Year. This is the second time in 10 years for Ohio Magazine to name Bowling Green to the position.
Wendy Chambers talks about Best Hometown Award.
The November issue of the magazine features coverage on Bowling Green, “showcasing all our wonderful city has to offer,” Chambers said. The magazine mentions the historic downtown, vibrant campus, beautiful parks and community spirit.
The November edition of Ohio Magazine is available at Ben Franklin and at the Four Corners office in downtown. The city will be recognized in another edition in January, plus the “Summer Fun” edition. A representative of Ohio Magazine will be at the city’s Holiday Parade to present an award to the community.
“Way to go Bowling Green,” Chambers said.
In other business at Monday’s meeting:
- Municipal Administrator Lori Tretter reported that city offices will be closed on Friday for Veterans Day.
- Tretter also mentioned the annual tree lighting will be held Nov. 17 at 6:45 p.m., in front of Wood County District Public Library.
- Planning Director Heather Sayler reported that Camiros, the firm working on the city’s Community Action Plan, was pleased with citizen feedback on the draft plan. A formal presentation of the plan is expected in January.
- Public Works Director Brian Craft said efforts are being made to complete roadwork on North Grove, West Evers and South Church before winter weather.
- Craft also reported the leaf collection started on Monday and will continue for weeks. He asked that residents keep the leaves away from curbs and gutters.
