The rocky economy has Groveport village officials keeping a watchful eye on commercial development and future income tax revenues.
"Some things are in a holding pattern due to the economy," said Economic Development Director Jeff Green at Groveport Village Council’s Dec. 15 meeting.
Green said Groveport has a lower vacancy rate in its industrial parks compared to last summer when the vacancy rate was 13 percent.
" We’re holding our own and we’re fortunate compared with other community’s vacancy rates," said Green. "It looks good, just not as good as it has been."
Village Administrator Steve Morris added, "We’re being cautious until we see our income tax revenue figures from November and December."
Regarding filling vacant warehouse space, Green said officials are fielding some interest in the Radio Shack warehouse on Williams Road.
"There’s still an interest in Groveport," said Green.
He noted the Groveport Kroger is adding 20,000 square feet to its store, which he indicated is a sign that economic growth is still possible in tough times.
Councilwoman Jean Ann Hilbert noted that, while the city of Columbus is closing recreation centers, Groveport’s rec center is still doing well. She suggested Green use the rec center as an enticement to attract businesses whose employees would be interested in using the rec facility.
Police news
The Groveport Police reported that a lottery letter scam is targeting unsuspecting people, including one reported incident in Groveport. The police offer these tips in identifying and protecting yourself from these scams:
•Legitimate lotterys or free lotterys never ask for money.
•Never give out your personal or bank information to unknown sources.
•Do not open suspicious e-mails.
•Do not cash mysterious checks that you are not expecting.
For further information or help, contact the Groveport Police Department at 836-5301.
Other Groveport news
•Hilbert suggested the village look into setting up a charter review committee in preparation for the 2010 village charter review.
•Village officials are reviewing Ohio’s Jobs Stimulus Program for Logistics and Transportation where communities are eligible to apply for up to $10 million in loans to assist in the promotion of transportation and logistics jobs.
•A 14 inch in diameter hornets nest was discovered between the acoustic drop ceiling and roof of Crooked Alley KidSpace on Wirt Road. The nest has been removed.
•The village is considering obtaining an emergency generator for the recreation center at an estimated cost between $300,000 to $400,000.
