Our Town Coshocton names new executive director
Our Town Coshocton named its new Executive Director Lanny Spaulding. “We find Lanny to be enthusiastic, well-spoken and with a passion for historic preservation,” shared OTC Board President Tom Barcroft.
“I’m very excited to be here and everyone I have met with has been so open and friendly. I think we are all on the same page as to our plans for Coshocton,” said Spaulding. He has met with many city/county officials and is happy with what is happening on Main Street already. “There is already a huge interest in our community to maintain, expand and bolster Main Street. I see myself not as trying to reinvent the wheel, but to bring my experience and skill set to help push this cart, alongside the OTC Board and local stakeholders, forward toward a vibrant downtown.”
Spaulding was born in Coshocton, graduated from Coshocton High School in 2004 and attended Ohio University with a double major in Political Science and European History. He studied in the United Kingdom his junior year and has held various political positions at local, state and federal levels.
“Along with living in German Village, I’ve not only developed a fondness for historic preservation, from Ohio to across the pond, I’ve seen how historic preservation serves as a magnet to drive tourism and consumerism serving as a driver of economic growth,” said Spaulding.
Spaulding feels Coshocton’s location is what makes it unique. “In addition to being a historic community and very scenic, Coshocton is at the crossroads of Northeastern and Central Ohio. It is also proximal to the state’s eastern border. We will always be mindful as to how we can make sure Coshocton is a destination, specifically the downtown, as opposed to being passed by on the way to somewhere else.”
Spaulding also said the greatest challenge we are facing right now could be potentially the greatest opportunity. “The global pandemic. It will not stay forever. It will, I believe, create a knee-jerk tendency post-pandemic for folks to spread out from urban centers. If we can prime scenic, historic Coshocton to be as inviting as possible while offering a unique downtown experience, we could capitalize on an expected influx of outside visitors.”
“The best way for residents to help make Coshocton all it can be is to support local businesses,” said Spaulding. “Take a chance. Main Street will be built back up. If you are thinking about starting a new business or moving your existing business, check out Main Street.” He said many local organizations are working together. “My main focus at present is to familiarize myself with downtown – its stakeholders, its buildings.”
“I see no failure on Main Street – only potential.”
Category: Business
