Taylor Economic Development Corp. holds open house
The Taylor Economic Development Corp. recently welcomed the community to its new digs in a revitalized property with a ribbon cutting and open house.
The quasi-governmental nonprofit with five board members appointed by City Council moved last fall from the McCrory Timmerman Building at Second and Main streets to 111 W. Third St.
The ceremony at the new office took place May 29 following weeks of renovations.
“This new space is more than just an office – it’s our sales office for the city of Taylor,” said Ben White, president and CEO. “It’s where we tell Taylor’s story, where we highlight our community’s potential and where we lay the foundation for future investment and growth.” The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce co-hosted the ribbon cutting.
The strategic location of the office in the heart of historic downtown highlights the “unique charm and character” of the city, said EDC board member and Chamber of Commerce Membership and Operations Director Rachael Westerman.
White noted the office used the Japanese architectural technique Shou-sugiban on a wood wall in the lobby, which preserves wood by charring it and leaving it a rich charcoal color.
The technique is not only fashionable but showcases “the history of Taylor and the fire that happened in downtown Taylor in the 1800s,” White said.
Murals on another lobby wall also reflect historical scenes from the city, but down a hallway, the boardroom and offices become more contemporary.
“We have the old Taylor in the front of the building and the new Taylor in the back,” White said.
Added Westerman, “The design and energy of this new office space perfectly encapsulates the caliber of work being done by the EDC team – dynamic, forwardthinking and deeply committed to Taylor’s continued success.”
Created by Taylor voters in 1994, the EDC is funded by one-half percent of the city’s annual sales tax and is a separate entity from City Hall, with its own staff and budget.
According to EDC officials, the nonprofit “fosters economic growth and development of businesses in Taylor by supporting local companies and by bringing new industry into the community.”
Through its Building Improvement Grant Program, the EDC also gives businesses a chance to improve facades and infrastructure to appear “more aesthetically appealing to the community, residents and visitors.”
Board members serve three-year terms; they meet at 5:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of the month in the conference room.
