Profiles of Best Practices (For an Adobe Acrobat version of this profile, click here!) Engaging Community Development Activities- Tigerton Business DevelopmentCommunity, County Village of Tigerton Area of Project Impact Village of Tigerton , Town of Fairbanks Population Affected 764 (Village) and 687 (Town), Total 1,451
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Situation
In the early 1990's, Tigerton's small downtown lost existing businesses, due mainly to retirements by owner-managers. There were few business start-ups or relocations. Vacant buildings and structures needing repair were evident, but little investment was occurring in the downtown or beyond.
Economic Development Strategies
An organized effort was desired in order to stimulate entrepreneurship, help existing businesses, and attract new business. Financial resources were sought to improve streetscapes and aging buildings. To move forward, greater capacity for economic development was needed.
Implementation
In 1993, the Village sold a large, run-down automobile garage - located on the main intersection of downtown - at a fire sale price to an entrepreneurial Tigerton family. The family invested in a major renovation, then started a deli-restaurant and craft store in the building. One in-village business and two outside retail businesses were recruited to the "mini-mall", as well.
In 1993, the community successfully applied for "Main Street" status - the smallest community so designated by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. Tigerton Main Street (TMS) was organized in 1994 and raised funds to hire a half-time manager. Using the four-point Main Street Approach and state & national technical assistance, TMS created design and fundraising plans. For example, the "Adopt a Light" fundraiser garnered donations of $1,000 per donor, who were recognized with fixture nameplates. TMS also started a building improvement grant program to encourage investment.
At the same time, TMS conducted business assistance, recruitment and marketing programs. TMS created a business recruitment packet detailing area facts and demographics, and describing properties available for business start-up and relocation. TMS also created a detailed directory of local businesses to inform consumers of the wide variety of businesses in the Tigerton area, new mountain bike and cross country ski trails to attract tourists, and a monthly newsletter to promote businesses and garner program support. Resources of Wisconsin Main Street were used to help potential and existing firms write business plans, hone marketing strategies, and seek financial assistance.
Partners and Leadership
The Tigerton Main Street partnership included the Village Board, business leaders, High School industrial arts class, American Legion, Lions Club, Tigerton Lumber Company, and the Wisconsin Main Street Program.
Outcomes
A downtown design initiative resulted in the erection of 33 historic streetlights, benches, planters, a village square gazebo, and veterans' memorial. The building improvement grant program was used by three businesses to renovate facades, and by six businesses to replace or improve signs. Two business start-ups and two business relocations occurred as a result of the mini-mall project. TMS assisted six business start-ups to date, including one in the Town of Fairbanks just outside the village. Most of the new businesses started remain in business today. Two businesses employ five or more persons each.
Contact
Virginia Kauffman, Main Street Manager
P.O. Box 3
Tigerton, WI 54486
715-535-2110
