Documents released in April show more new businesses coming into Ohio, but local officials are treading cautiously while remaining positive about business growth in Athens.
The early months of 2010 show promising numbers of new businesses filing with the state, according to a news release from Jennifer Brunner, Ohio's secretary of state.
Although new businesses are coming to Ohio, Director of the Athens County Economic Development Council, Todd Shelton, was hesitant to say Athens County's business economy is back on track.
(Athens' business) climate is still a little bit cautious because of the economy. The retail is still struggling a little bit
but I don't think it is as bad as it was last year he said.
Over the last year and a half, Ohio University's Innovation Center has added 10 businesses, for an overall total of 13, said Jennifer Simon, director of the center.
A business incubator that rents out building space to new companies, the Innovation Center also provides shared services such as business coaching and broadband access, Simon said.
People who have lost their jobs create their own work. Entrepreneurship is up across the nation she said.
During his primary re-election campaign, Athens County Commissioner Lenny Eliason (D) said he and the other commissioners focused on expanding the businesses that are already established in the county.
We're really in a difficult time right now because the economy hasn't improved. Ohio University is going through struggles and that's our biggest employer
he said.
The commissioners are mostly focusing on the food industry, Eliason added.
Rumors circulated earlier this year that a Dunkin' Donuts would move in next to CVS/Pharmacy, 555 E. State St.
Dunkin' Donuts didn't like that location, but it might move farther down the street, said Larry Payne, Athens County commissioner (R).
At this point the prospect of a doughnut shop coming to Athens is still up in the air, Payne said.
Shelton also recognized the need for larger industry and said the state has put a lot of money into new technology and alternative energy.
The development council is engaged with Athens employers and remains a liaison between them and the state to make sure they receive what they need to grow and thrive, he said.
I believe people are looking for new opportunities
Simon said. We don't have large employers
other than the university. The importance of people starting their own business is critical.
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Elizabeth Lundblad
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