(KNZA)--As the new year moves forward, so does the ongoing effort to bring new life to the Brown County Community of Horton, with a plan revealed to entice new businesses into the city.
It was last month that entrepreneur and host of MSNBC's The Profit reality series, Marcus Lemonis, finalized his purchase of five downtown buildings, with two to be demolished.
Horton Mayor Tim Lentz says Lemonis is now reaching out to aspiring small business owners to provide him with their visions, for possible use of the remaining three buildings. “Marcus has rolled out the Lemonis Small Business Incubator Program
Lentz tells MSC News. “The business owner will be responsible for submitting proposals to Horton@marcuslemonis.com as why the business will fit Horton and then it will be reviewed by Lemonis himself along with the Horton community to ensure a mutual fit. The chosen businesses will also have an opportunity to gain up to $25,000 in microlending from Marcus Lemonis himself, in order to help fund the start-up of these businesses.”
Lemonis, after learning of the failing state of the community's business district, came to Horton in January of last year, with the visit leading to the formation of the underway Reinvent Horton campaign.
That includes the painting of buildings, including this past weekends enhancement of the local armory, as well as city-funded infrastructure improvements along with successful fundraising campaigns for the effort. “We set out on a campaign to raise money for the twenty-two new light poles downtown. The light pole cost of that project was $49,500, and within three weeks we raised $50,800 to get all the poles paid for and then some.”
The Reinvent Horton committee has also developed plans seeking outside support for the town's recovery from major metropolitan areas and donors, and has set up a GoFundMe crowdfunding page for the city of Horton. Interested parties can also mail donations for the revitalization plan to Reinvent Horton at 205 East 8th Street in Horton, Kansas 66439.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
LATEST STORIES
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday