Community market held in Renovo
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KEVIN RAUCH/FOR THE EXPRESS
Jazzy Jackson took her turn at making her cotton candy. Jeremiah Wilson of Renovo offered the unique experience to all that stopped by his stand.
RENOVO -- An out-of-town businessman has taken a particular liking to the Renovo area and has spearheaded an effort for the rural community to embrace what they have to offer -- starting with a community market that he hopes will continue to grow.
Greg Zembower, who works in real estate in his hometown of Mechanicsburg, was introduced to western Clinton County from friend and Lock Haven City Council member Doug Byerly. Zembower's first trip to Renovo made quite the impression, as he instantly felt that he had found "a hidden gem."
"There's a little bit of everything that people in the city want to do and be part of a rural area that offers so much from ATV riding, hunting, fishing, hiking and some great places to eat. Just about any outdoor activity that you'd want, the Renovo area has to offer," Zembower said of his new favorite weekend destination.
Zembower invested in two Erie Avenue buildings for Airbnbs, buying and remodeling older buildings, breathing new life into the properties.
The 706 Erie building offers upstairs, short-term rentals while the bottom unit has been readied for a business. Zembower is currently working with an investor on an outdoor supply store, the exact type of business that he felt would thrive in the community.
The 626 Erie Ave. property came with a large lot next door, again, something the businessman feels has endless possibilities.
After a social media campaign, a community market gained a lot of interest resulting in the first one being held last weekend.
The foot traffic and varied vendors proved that the Mechanicsburg man is onto something.
Bake sales, yard-sale-style set-ups, haircuts and even free cotton candy that kids were permitted to make themselves, proved a great turnout for the first event.
Still, the force behind the market envisions much more.
"Starting with food, food trucks are really desired by everyone that I talk to, and then vegetables and fruits, there's a real desire for these items and I'm sure out there somewhere is someone that would fill that need," Zembower said.
He has encouraged anyone from the community to take up such an undertaking or contact individuals or businesses that can fill the void.
On a related note, Renovo Borough Council recently voted to amend their ordinance for food trucks. Vendors that present the proper licenses and certifications to the Renovo Borough office will have the option of paying $100 for an annual fee or $20 for a three-day permit.
"Right now, we're planning on the community market once a month, but I'd love to see it grow to bi-weekly, maybe even weekly and get to the point where people are making a trip to Renovo just to check it out," Zembower offered.
"We can really start to see the area thrive and I know if we put in the work people will come here and help stimulate the tourist activity. This is a hidden gem just perfect for weekend getaways and even more," he summed up.