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Naturally Lewis reports $6.68M economic impact, site evaluations and business support programs
Summary
Naturally Lewis told the Finance & Rules Committee it dispersed about $130,000 through Launch Lewis County (CDBG) to six businesses, is evaluating about 400 acres for redevelopment, and recorded a reported countywide economic impact of $6.68 million tied to local programs and a host community agreement.
Representatives from Naturally Lewis presented an update on economic development activities to the Finance & Rules Committee, focusing on small‑business support, site evaluation and tourism promotion.
The organization reported that Launch Lewis County (funded by a Community Development Block Grant) dispersed roughly $130,000 to six low‑ to moderate‑income businesses and that those funds were committed in the current cycle. Roxanne Turk, identified in the presentation as Director of Development, said the site and property committee has reviewed multiple properties and narrowed options to three sites under active environmental and funding consideration — roughly 400 acres in total under evaluation. Turk also said the organization is working with Empire State Development and the county IDA on funding and timelines for the Mandeville Building property.
On tourism and promotion, Naturally Lewis reported greater social media engagement and a pilot "park and paddle" transport proof‑of‑concept to increase use of the Black River. Micah/Michael Rose (grants and partnership lead in the presentation) summarized program metrics: 34 awards across five programs, 34 businesses receiving some form of financial partnership this cycle, eight hosted events including an economic development conference, 31 quick consults and 211 active members. The presentation attributed roughly $6,680,000 in economic impact across the county to the organization's activities, funded in part by a host community agreement that yields approximately $150,000 per year to program activities.
Committee members asked about business‑planning assistance and partner services; Naturally Lewis said it partners with the Small Business Development Center and local service providers for bookkeeping and specialized assistance.
