News & Press
Mount Vernon Closes Funding Gap With Assistance From JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant
Mount Vernon, Ohio -– The Knox County Land Bank is proud to announce it has secured the final piece of funding needed to revitalize the first floor of 18 E. Vine St. The project plans include adding new office and restaurant space to the downtown building and a complete façade renovation. The $1 million JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant completed the capital stack the Land Bank needed to move the transformational project forward.
“The revitalization of the former Mount Vernon News building will act as a catalyst for additional investment and development for this historic community," said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “The Knox County Land Bank’s leadership in securing public-private investment to redevelop 18 E. Vine St. will create jobs, add businesses, and provide a community gathering spot for a more vibrant downtown.”
Founders Food Hall, a modern culinary marketplace featuring eight independent kitchens and a full-service bar, will provide the Mount Vernon community with new, diverse dining options. Founders will act as an incubator for local chefs, and the unique concept will also feature a “four-season room” with windows that open to create a patio feel during warm weather.
“Founders Food Hall will bring new energy and foot traffic to downtown Mount Vernon, creating a hub of culinary innovation and community gathering,” said Sam Filkins, Vice President for the Knox County Land Bank. “This project will not only allow restaurateurs to launch and grow their businesses, but it will also provide residents and visitors with an exciting, ever-changing dining experience.”
A name chosen by the Land Bank to honor the community’s rich history, the industrious spirit that has shaped it, and the forward-thinking vision that will carry it into the future, Founders is a tribute to the pioneers, entrepreneurs, and hard-working individuals who have built and sustained the area.
“Investing in Mount Vernon’s historic downtown is critical to ensuring our community remains a vibrant place to live and work,” said Shelley Coon, Chair of the Knox County Land Bank Board. “The redevelopment of 18 East Vine Street will not only bring new businesses and jobs to the area but also reinforce our commitment to responsible growth.”
The new office space will bring a professional workforce into the heart of downtown. This space will contribute to the daytime economy, helping to sustain local restaurants, shops, and service businesses while increasing overall foot traffic and vibrancy in downtown.
The Knox County Land Bank worked closely with JobsOhio and the regional economic development partner, One Columbus, to secure funding for this project, which is expected to catalyze continued investment in Mount Vernon’s historic core.
“Downtown Mount Vernon is already a great place, and the Founders Food Hall will only make it better.” said Kenny McDonald, President and CEO of One Columbus. “This investment will create opportunities for entrepreneurs, revitalize the space, and create even more momentum for Mount Vernon and Knox County.”
The JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Program offers competitive grants for development projects that help transform areas within a distressed community. Eligible projects include mixed-use projects, real estate development projects, and operated share spaces that meet the JobsOhio project criteria.
Construction is underway, with an anticipated completion date in September 2025, with an opening soon to follow. Work on the redevelopment of the lower level for a separate user and facade is scheduled for completion this summer.
For more information about Founders Food Hall, including vendor opportunities and how to get involved, visit www.foundersfh.com. Entrepreneurs interested in launching their food concepts at the hall can complete an interest form for kitchen space, sign up for updates, and learn more about the vision behind this exciting downtown destination.
Media Contact:
Matt Englehart
JobsOhio
About the Knox County Land Bank
The Knox County Land Bank is a quasi-governmental organization dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods and preserving property values by strategically returning vacant, abandoned, tax-delinquent, and other properties to their most productive and highest-and-best uses.
About JobsOhio
JobsOhio, Ohio's private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO. JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more at www.jobsohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.