November 19, 2024

Howe picks up MSI award

Jay Howe of Greenfield, middle, received a leadership award from Main Street Iowa for his involvement in his local community. From left, Howe was presented the award by Lt. Governor Adam Gregg, Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority Executive Director Debi Durham, Greenfield Chamber/Main Street and Development Executive Director Stacie Eshelman, and Governor Kim Reynolds. (Contributed Photo)

Main Street Iowa hosted the annual Main Street Iowa Development Awards celebration this evening at Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines. The program honored the efforts of those who work tirelessly to revitalize Iowa’s downtowns – the heart and soul of communities across the state. The awards honor outstanding accomplishments, activities and people making a difference in the state’s Main Street districts.

This year, 13 projects were selected to be recognized from the 76 competitive nominations submitted. Governor Kim Reynolds and Debi Durham, executive director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and Iowa Finance Authority, presented the honors.

Forty-three leadership award recipients were honored throughout the evening for their significant and inspirational leadership and volunteer contributions to their local Main Street programs.

Jay Howe was recognized as Greenfield’s Leadership Award Winner. Howe has been active member of Greenfield Chamber/Main Street and has served on the Design Committee since Greenfield became a designated Main Street Iowa program in 1995.

He’s helped with many development projects downtown and throughout the community including Trees Forever, The Storefront Improvement Grant, Historic District Design Guidelines, the Warren Cultural Center (restored Opera House) project and rehabilitation of Hotel Greenfield.

“We were happy to see Jay receive this state award, his passion and dedication for Greenfield to remain vital and thriving are beyond compare” says Greenfield Chamber/Main Street Director, Stacie Eshelman.

Greenfield native Natalie Newell was also recognized at the event as Main Street Fort Dodge’s Leadership Award Winner. Newell is a founding member of Main Street Fort Dodge, serving as the secretary since 2018. She was recognized for her volunteer contributions and spearheading downtown improvement, stating that she does it “all with an infectious smile and can-do attitude”.

“The Main Street Iowa program is a powerful economic development tool that has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1985,” said Durham. “We continue to see significant growth in business, jobs and investment in communities of all sizes because of the program. As a result, these districts serve as inspiring examples of what’s possible for Iowa’s downtowns.”

The Spirit of Main Street Award was also presented to the network of 53 local Main Street executive directors for their dedication, creativity and commitment to their local economic development efforts through the challenges of 2020 and 2021.

“Main Street is grassroots economic development,” said Michael Wagler, Main Street Iowa State Coordinator. “It is inspiring to witness the impactful work of local Main Street program staff, volunteers and community partners.”