Harrison County Looking to Fill Empty Storefronts

Darrell Voelker is executive director of the Harrison County Economic Development Corp.

The Harrison County Economic Development Corp. has launched an effort to help local businesses pay rent. The organization says the goal of the Commercial Rent Subsidy Program is to boost economic growth and fill vacant commercial space.

The subsidy will cover up to 50 percent or $12,000, whichever is less, over the course of two years.

HCEDC Executive Director Darrell Voelker says "Harrison County Economic Development Corporation is taking bold steps to ascertain prosperity for local entrepreneurs. Our hope is to fill currently vacant storefronts with thriving new businesses." He adds the organization is targeting entrepreneurs "that are in business for the long run."

Applications must be approved by the Loan Review Committee before moving on to the HCEDC Board of Directors.