Despite some changes in its leadership team, the Village Association of Batavia continues in its mission of preserving the village's historic character and stimulating the economic growth of Batavia's Main Street District.
In April, Batavia resident Tony Thomas became the new association president after Kathy McCoy Leone, citing time restraints, resigned that position. Due to financial issues, salary funds for the association's manager Karen Adams dried up this year; unfortunately, her position became a casualty.
But the VAOB, which is a non-profit organization funded solely by donations and membership fees, is not dwelling on the past - they are only looking toward the future.
"We have taken some little steps backwards in order to move forward again in a big way," Thomas said. "We are working to identify a few projects in the village that we deem worthy of our consideration."
A few of those village projects include the village's railroad trestles, restoring the East Fork of the Little Miami bridge, and writing historic guidelines for the village's historic district (which has attracted some opposition).
The Batavia Township trustees just recently approved a $5,000 donation to the association to be used for a project in the village - Thomas said there is no consensus at this time on how that donation will be used.
"Progress has been made," Thomas said. "But we are always looking for more interested residents and businesses to join the association. Our primary focus for the next year is going to be fund-raising and recruitment."
The 5th annual Taste of Clermont, to be held this summer, has become the largest fund-raiser for the association over the years.
The association is also hosting a village wide open house June 1.
"Everything that we do is focused on economic growth and promoting the village," Thomas said. "I am looking forward to making even more progress in the months to come."
To join, volunteer, or for more information on the VAOB, visit www.vaob.org.
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