The Importance of Small Towns
Brittany Misner, Vice President of the Licking County Chamber of Commerce
 
Small towns are where the mantras such as shop local, eat fresh, and support your local farmer were created. This is where these phrases mean so much more than what most realize, these phrases create economic prosperity and maintain jobs in our small towns. The less and less that we do these things we come closer to losing the charm that our small towns provide. Fortunately, Licking County is blessed with thriving villages and townships making successful small towns something in the current day versus in the past. At the Licking County Chamber of Commerce, we work hard to promote our members-business partners and municipalities, in order to advance the economic well-being of the community.

Our community embraces the small-town feel. And with the help of Explore Licking County we do a great job of promoting our communities not only to our residents but visitors too. Granville and Buckeye Lake are great examples, welcoming visitors from all over Ohio even out of state visitors too. Both villages growing, creating jobs, and welcoming new business. This is not just of value to the visitors; this is of great value to the residents as well. Thriving communities elevate opportunity, provide amenities, and valuable resources.  Mike Fornataro, Executive Director of the Buckeye Lake Region Corporation says, “Once anchored by the Buckeye Lake Amusement Park and referred to as "The Playground of Ohio", Buckeye Lake Village continues to welcome visitors as  Licking County's gateway to the lake itself, and all the entertainment and activities of the Buckeye Lake Region.”

A village in Licking County that continues to radiate hometown pride is Hanover. This community does a great job supporting local business, the school system, and most importantly supporting one another. Bill Weaver shares, “ Duane Flowers and I serve on the Licking Valley Heritage Society and we like to say, “This is a great place to live and work for 14,000 years!” he continues, “We in the Valley, have a tight nit community, you simply don’t see this everywhere.”

Similar in size but just positioned on the other side of the county, Hebron continues to welcome residents and new business to their village. Mayor Layton says, “These small towns are important in providing services and allowing Licking County to focus on all the other important issues that need addressed. The thing about Hebron is that it is just a small part of Licking County about 2,400 people. Sure, we provide great drinking water, waste reclamation service, maintain the streets and alleys, provide parks and recreation facilities. We also have a full-time police department and the fire service is great. The best part of Hebron without a doubt is the people. They are always ready to help when something happens or there is someone in need. Great People! It truly is one of those places where everybody knows your name.”
In conclusion, I challenge you. I challenge you to continue to support the small towns of Licking County. Continue to shop local, eat local, spend local, and enjoy local for the current and future success of the small towns we love and cherish!