Monroe DDA honors those who contributed to city’s success in 2020

Despite lockdowns, Monroe businesses managed to thrive

On Monday, Monroe Downtown Development Authority held its annual award ceremony to thank those who contributed to the city’s success and honor those who went above and beyond in giving their time, talents, and resources to Downtown Monroe in 2020. The reception took place at The Factory, the city’s newest event location.

“Without these generous people, none of our efforts would be possible,” Sadie Krawczyk, Monroe Economic Development director said, going on to thank all the sponsors and volunteers in attendance and give an update on the successes that the city had achieved. Despite the pandemic and all the disruption that it had brought last year, there were many successes. She noted that although the city had lost 21 jobs and had eight businesses close, 18 new businesses had opened up and 80 new jobs had been created.

“And of those eight businesses that had closed, only one had been as a result of COVID,” Krawczyk said.

The following awards were handed out to end the reception.

Golden Hammer Award which went to The Southern Ox Ax Throwing
Celebrates excellence in renovation and remodeling of buildings in downtown.

Volunteer of the Year Award which went to Boy Scout Troop 705
Recognizes selfless service for the betterment of downtown and the benefit of our citizens and visitors.

Business of the Year Award – which went to John’s Supermarket
Celebrates innovative businesses that help create an
environment of collaboration, attract new customers, and
encourage additional investment in downtown.

Sponsor of the Year Award which went to Reliant Homes
Celebrates a sponsor that goes above and beyond monetary
support by volunteering numerous other resources for the
success of downtown.

Reliant Home was recognized for its donation to the city of 123.70 acres of land that has about 4,000 feet of river frontage on the Alcovy River. The city plans to develop the property into a park that would allow for kayaking entry and exit points, mountain biking trails, equestrian trails, walking paths, playgrounds, a frisbee golf course, or “many other things for the enjoyment of locals and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.”  

Other successes and investments noted were:

• Five private projects completed for a total investment of $3,712,160
• Seven public projects completed for a total investment of $19,688
• Twelve properties sold for an investment of $5,956,500
• Attendance at downtown events totaled 32,325
• Volunteer hours – 440