The Ada Community Improvement Corporation met on Wednesday, April 18 with a nominally limited agenda (attached). No old business, no new business. Formal announcements were limited to financial reports.

The heart of the matter was committee reports from Commercial and Community committees as well as an opportunity to hear from all 10 individuals who attended. 

Beatitudes director and CIC vice president Deb Curlis reported on the opening of two new businesses–Our Garden of Gifts 2 in the space formerly occupied by Ruth Roider’s Gallery for the Arts and Studio 415, which is moving from multipurpose space at Ada First UMC to the form Reichert's building.

There was also discussion about what downtown properties are empty and their condition. Deb Phillips as Director of Chamber and Tourism at the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance provided information on strategies to improve the facades of downtown businesses. 

Chamber director Lindsay Hollar provided updates on works in progress including Regal Beagle renovations and renovation of The Armory as part of the Old Route 69 Brewery. (Editor’s note: The Armory listing on the CLIO historic tour of Ada needs updating https://theclio.com/entry/119010/ )

CIC Trustee Bryan Marshall announced that he has been appointed as the new executive director of the Hardin County Community Foundation, which currently makes $220K in grants annually.

CIC Trustee Terry Keiser reported that the Ada-Liberty EMS has received materials for beginning construction of an addition to its building on Gilbert St.

The corporation currently has 11 members. To become a member, individuals make a pledge of support and pay dues of $25/year. Additional contributions are also welcome. 

The April 17 Treasurer’s report shows a checking balance of $13,727 and a savings balance of $9,515.

The next meeting of the Ada CIC is July 17, 2024.

2024 Officers & 2024-2025 Trustees

• Jamie Hall, President & trustee (*e. 24)
• Deb Curlis, Vice President, trustee (e. 25)
• Eileen Peterman, Treasurer & Secretary, trustee (e. 24)
• Terry Keiser (e. 12.31.25)
• David Retterer (*) (e. 12.31.25)
• Bryan Marshall (e. 12.31.25)