Fairmont to discuss downtown

9 Nov 2020


Cathy Reynolds became Fairmont city administrator five months ago, she held several listening sessions at various sites in the community. In addition to the traditional economic driver of jobs, one topic repeatedly cropped up: downtown revitalization. “To me, this seemed like a key priority to this community. People kept talking about downtown, more retail, more events,” Reynolds said. Knowing that other organizations and individuals have an interest in reviving the area, Reynolds decided to combine the effort by recruiting Ned Koppen, president of the Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce; Linsey Preuss, Fairmont economic development coordinator; Blake Potthoff, executive director of the Fairmont Opera House; and Dayna Johnson, a Fairmont resident with extensive experience in downtown revitalization. “We’re facilitators. We are not the group that is going to revitalize downtown, but we are facilitators for that process,” Reynolds said.

The five-member squad has compiled initial information on the goals for downtown and is now seeking community input and involvement. A public discussion will be held on Nov. 19 at the Fairmont Opera House. It is open to all interested persons. Bring your lunch and your ideas. RSVP at info@fairmontoperahouse.org.

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