By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The Facade Improvement Grant Program in Barton County continues to work its magic. Three more grants were approved during Wednesday's commission meeting. Mel Waite with Astra Business Solutions at 105 N. Main Street in Ellinwood, said the program has been contagious.
"With us, the work that was done across the street from us at Two Chicks (and Some Old Bird) made us step up and look at our building more critically and say, 'Gosh, it's pretty dated,'" he told the commission. "It needs a little facelift."
Astra Business Solutions, formerly National Billing, shares its space with the Ellinwood Leader. Waite was awarded $20,000 and will contribute $15,113 to the project, which will include new windows, an awning, a door jam, and some exterior lighting. He plans to complement improvements being made to Gunn's Antiques & Collectibles on the neighboring property.
Micah Ehler with Ehler Chevrolet in Hoisington also received $20,000 for improvements. He will contribute $24,230 to the project that will include new windows and a door.
"We've been trying to update things," Ehler said. "We've spent over $150,000 in the last two years upgrading signs and just different things inside the building. We're just looking for some help on the windows and doors. We have to be very careful because of it being a historical building."
The commission also approved a $16,155 grant for INA Alert, 108 W. Santa Fe in Ellinwood. Nick and Laura Strecker will contribute $5,385 toward improvements that include new paint, replacing cracked siding, and reframing the doorway.