Holmes County Chamber office renovation well underway; here's what happening inside

The Daily Record | Kevin Lynch

When talking about the renovations being done to the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau, Executive Director Tiffany Gerber says to think rest area.

"Think rest stop," Gerber said. "Visitors will be able to come in and pick up information even if we aren't here. We are inserting basically a glass wall that opens, so when we are not here, our administrative offices will be secured, but people can still access the front. There will also be security installed."

The chamber office, located at the northwest corner of Clay and Jackson streets in MIllersburg, is being renovated, creating a visitors center that will include a public restroom. The doors to the center will be open evenings and weekends, unstaffed, and visitors to Millersburg and Holmes County are welcome to stop in and get information they need to make the most of their visit to the area, according to Gerber.

Administrative offices will move toward the back of the building, opening the front for staff during normal business hours, and unstaffed during after hours and weekends, Gerber said.

The director has been pleased with the progress the contractors are making, keeping the chamber staff informed each step of the way. She hopes the project will be completed by mid-June. Avodah is the main contractor.

"We are excited that they are in the process of replacing our windows with larger windows, so natural light is going to be a large part of the new space," Gerber said. "Hopefully that will make our office feel more welcoming."

Aside from having informational brochures and maps and other multimedia items about the area, the chamber office also will feature an artistic water display that was funded through a grant.

The chamber also is exploring partnerships with businesses to showcase locally made products, as far as furnishings go.