Contributed Photo Johnson’s Service LLC, owned by Robert Johnson, center, recently received matching grants from Shawano Country Vision 2017 to help with renovation costs at the auto repair and towing business in Shawano. Shown with Johnson are Nancy Smith, Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce executive director, and Dennis Heling, Shawano County Economic Progress Inc. chief economic development officer.
Johnson’s Service has received grants totaling $3,449 through Shawano Country Vision 2017.
The matching grants were awarded to help cover renovation costs at the auto repair and towing business, 532 S. Main St. The project included interior and exterior painting and installing new plumbing, lights and ceiling.
Johnson’s Service has been in operation since 1972 and is owned by Robert Johnson.
A number of businesses in downtown Shawano have recently invested in business improvements to their building facades and interiors.
“We decided to join forces with other businesses on the south end of Main Street to make our business more appealing to current and new customers by cleaning and remodeling the inside and outside of our business,” Johnson said. “We really appreciate the financial assistance provided by Vision 2017 in creating our ‘new look.’ ”
Small businesses in Tigerton, Eland and Shawano have received a total of $60,000 in Vision 2017 facade and interior grants, which organizers claim have stimulated nearly $600,000 in private investments.
“The improvements and private investment made by these businesses not only helps to increase their sales, but also improves the appearance and image of our commercial districts,” said Dennis Heling, Shawano County Economic Progress Inc. chief economic development officer. “All of this contributes to a healthy business climate and enhanced quality of life for our residents.”
Shawano Country Vision 2017 is a five-year economic development plan designed to address various needs of area businesses and communities. One of the key goals is to bring at least 1,000 new jobs to the area by 2017.
The plan’s overall goal is to spur capital investment and grow the economy by implementing specific action steps in key areas, including business expansion, attraction and recruitment; tourism/retail development and community development.
The plan was initiated three years ago by the board of directors of Shawano County Economic Progress Inc. and the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce to proactively tackle economic challenges including several plant closures, job losses and lower than average per capita income. It is intended to provide a blueprint for future growth and prosperity and a stronger economic climate for Shawano and Menominee counties.
DID YOU KNOW?
Any employer or entrepreneur operating in Shawano or Menominee county can apply for Shawano Country Vision 2017 grant programs. To determine if your project or business development idea is eligible, contact Dennis Heling at 715-526-5839 or scepi@frontiernet.net, or Nancy Smith, Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce executive director, at 715-524-2139 or nsmith@shawano.com.