BOTKINS — For the Botkins’ community, the last year has been one of continued growth.
“The village has continued to see investment in both residential and commercial economic development. The vibrancy of our economy has aided in continued growth and bodes well for new opportunities on the horizon,” said Administrator Randy Purdy.
His report continues:
The new Woodland Subdivision has sold 14 of its first 20 lots, with four homes already completed, and two more nearing completion. The budding neighborhood on the north-east corridor of the village is set to expand again in 2018, with the construction of four new homes set to begin. More lots are available, providing additional opportunities for families to join our community.
In addition to the residential expansion in the Woodland Subdivision, the village has placed a focus on a multiyear sidewalk expansion program. This program aims to increase the availability of safe walking routes throughout the village, and certainly adds to the aesthetic appeal of our community. In its first year the Sidewalk Project addressed needs along South Main Street adding sidewalks from the south side of Warren Street through the north side of Mary Street. This project is scheduled to continue in 2018, with even more safe and beautiful walking routes being added in the spring.
The last year has proven to be one focused on planning. The final preparations for upgrades to the village’s water treatment plant were completed, with the project scheduled to commence in the early part of 2018. These upgrades will ensure continued quality and capacity in our water system.
At the 2017 Botkins Carousel, the Botkins Community Club honored Botkins Native and Navy Seal Steve Van Horn. Van Horn was named grand marshal of the Carousel Parade and the village renamed a portion of North Sycamore Street “Dutch Van Horn Way” in honor of Van Horn’s selfless service.
Businesses in Botkins have enjoyed a strong year of economic growth, with an economy that has been booming and is on a path to continue to grow moving forward. This economy has provided businesses with opportunities for expansion, and in 2017 the village has focused on building at our industrial park. Throughout the year a robust economy has ensured that unemployment has remained low, while wages increased.
Looking forward, 2018 is slated to be another year of growth for the village. Continued development at the village of Botkins Industrial Park and the Woodland Subdivision will ensure that we see strong economic development, bot residentially and in business related ventures. Plans to upgrade the village’s water system is slated to begin in the early part of the year, with the continuation of the Sidewalk Project, upgrades to the Village’s Fire Department building, and work on the Village Community Park lane also scheduled. Riding the wave of a strong economy, the village is prepared for a year focused on growth and sustainability.
