The Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce is planning the 2016 annual State of the City presentation in Genoa on Nov. 17 at Genoa City Hall, 333 E. First St.
The chamber has hosted a monthly meeting in November each year for the past few years focusing on what has been accomplished and what is on the horizon for economically flourishing Genoa. The State of the City luncheon reception costs $15 and is open to the public. Lunch will be catered by Premiere Catering. You can register and pay online today at http://business.genoaareachamber.com/events/details/monthly-membership-luncheon-state-of-the-city-address-84 or call the chamber at 815-784-2212.
As a prelude to the upcoming presentation, City Consultant Joe Misurelli pointed out that many people have seen the vibrant and growing commercial sector in Genoa, because it is very visible along Routes 72 and 23. Recent additions include the Prairie State Winery expansion, Alan Browne Chevrolet’s planned expansion, the newly opened Karlsbad Tavern, the library, Cademon Brewery and Tasting Room, expansion of the Corner Grill, Energym, Sylvan Learning Center, Minihan’s Irish Pub, Smokin’ Grill, the new Abby’s Video Café opening soon, and the recent rebranding to Butera Market for the city’s large grocery retailer.
However, people may not be aware of Genoa’s industrial focus and activity. Not only is J6 Polymers renovating the former 84 Lumber facility into its new corporate headquarters, but Service Concepts is nearly doubling its industrial space in Genoa, and Custom Aluminum has completed a major expansion adding 37,500 square feet of new industrial operations and 8,400 square feet of storage.
Mayor Mark Vicary said during the past few years he and the City Council have been dedicated to economic expansion, supporting programs and taking actions to assist businesses. He noted this has paid off with substantial activity. He pointed out as examples the plan approval that facilitated the Lloyd Garden Center rising from the former junkyard, and the creation and council approval of licenses specifically crafted to handle the unique business needs of Cademon, Minihan’s, Abby’s, and Corner Grill. The city has not only developed a professional marketing video and upgraded website, and maintained a strong relationship with the chamber, but also when working one-on-one with businesses projects, the city has found ways to facilitate their projects.
The mayor stressed that Genoa is really shining brightly as a community, with events like the recent Volksfest adding to Genoa Days, Cruisin’ to Genoa Car Show, Celebrate the Season, and many other fun times, proud of its outstanding high school football team and season record, and showing great achievement from continually striving to expand business in the community.
It is an exciting time to be a member of the Genoa community and the Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce. We continue to partner with local government and other organizations to pursue improvements in the overall quality of life for the city, county and region, particularly in the areas of transportation, education, health care, tourism, economic development, community development and workforce development.
Our success in achieving our mission and purpose is due to a collaborative effort from the Chamber Board of Directors, Chamber Ambassadors, city of Genoa, chamber members and area professionals. Join us on Nov. 17 at the State of the City Luncheon for more information on the economic growth and development of our wonderful city!
To join the chamber or to find out more about our member benefits, visit www.genoaareachamber.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
• Cortney Strohacker is executive director of the Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce.