EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (WKBN) – As East Palestine continues its comeback from that train derailment two years ago, community leaders are now turning to a group that specializes in economic revitalization.
Jason Duff is CEO of Small Nation, a firm based in western Ohio that helps small towns like East Palestine. He was in the area taking a tour with several residents and business owners.
“It all starts with let ‘s think about what we want to see for East Palestine 20, 30, 50 years down the road,” Duff said. “We’re looking at existing buildings. We’re meeting with some restauranteurs and dreaming what is possible here. I’m pretty energized and excited because there is a lot of energy and momentum. I think this town has a great comeback story.”
Several weeks ago, a dozen locals traveled to Bellefontaine to see what Small Nation did for that town.
“We found ways to activate buildings and capital, and it really starts with listening to the locals and what the community wants and what they’ll financially support,” Duff said.
Chaney Nezbeth with the Way Station was one who made the trip. She said she learned how the community made its own revitalization happen intentionally instead of random growth.
“Not only market the community but bring in specific retail, specific restaurants and bars that all kind of made sense together,” Nezbeth said.
As the group walked through East Palestine’s restored train station, Duff asked the group to think of things that locals will take for granted — something he called “burying their aces.”
“The train really passes every 18 minutes. Some communities don’t have trains,” Duff said.
Some small business operators in town hope the lessons learned will help.
“I’ll take any and every opportunity for someone to come in and please look at what we have. Open up our little town,” said Kathleen Unkeefer, with Straight From the Heart Florist.
