A Decade of Collaboration, Revitalization, and Economic Progress in Champaign County
According to Toni Overholser, DDC Director of Projects, “This is a joint award shared between the CEP and the City of Urbana; they have collaborated to significantly increase the number of business visits in Urbana and Champaign County.” She noted that CEP has been a “valuable partner, convening resources to support business growth…and providing solutions for businesses facing workforce or other business challenges.”
This recognition highlights not only recent momentum but also ten years of CEP-led economic growth, public–private collaboration, and strategic investment benefiting residents, employers, and the region. A Decade of Projects That Strengthened the County Over the last ten years, CEP has supported a broad range of high-impact projects spanning manufacturing, healthcare, retail, housing, historic preservation, and commercial redevelopment. These projects represent millions in capital investment and support hundreds of local jobs. Major developments CEP has contributed to include: • Weidmann Expansion • KTH Parts Industries – Two Expansions • Ultra Met – Two Expansions • Orbis Expansion • Phoenix Ag Warehouse • ColePak Expansion • Q3 Property Renovation • Legacy Place (North School, South School, and Douglas Building transfer/renovation) • The Willman Building Redevelopment • 1300 Building (US 68 & SR 55) • Aldi • Memorial Health Building • Sutphen • Cobblestone Hotel • Navistar Building • Urbana Daily Digital One recent standout, noted by the DDC, is the Willman Lofts and 211 Co-Working Space, a catalytic redevelopment made possible by a wide network of partners. “This project was made possible by the collaborative efforts of Sellman Enterprises LLC, The 211 Coworking, JobsOhio, the Dayton Development Coalition, the City of Urbana, the Champaign Economic Partnership, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau and Ohio Department of Development,” Overholser said. “The CEP was an important partner, helping to guide efforts and coordinate support for this project.” Developer Perspective: CEP’s Role in Making Projects Possible Local developer Jamon Sellman, owner of Sellman Insurance Group and the driving force behind the Willman Building redevelopment, credits CEP as a crucial part of bringing the project to life. Sellman shared that CEP “brought the Vibrant Communities Grant to my attention, then helped tremendously through the application process.” CEP’s involvement extended beyond guidance: “They took so much off my plate, helping with the application and countless follow-through opportunities.” He emphasized that CEP’s support allowed him to stay focused on the broader demands of the project: “The application process was lengthy, and CEP took most of the burden. That allowed me to stay focused on the other tasks necessary to keep a successful project moving forward.” From a developer’s standpoint, Sellman described CEP’s value in two words: “Knowledge and follow-through. These were crucial in making my project happen. Thank you, CEP.” Leadership Across Key Community Organizations Beyond project facilitation, CEP plays a leadership role in numerous county-wide and regional groups that shape workforce, infrastructure, tourism, transportation, and community strategy. CEP leads or participates in: • Manufacturers HR Council • Champaign County Community Collaborative • Local Ag Council • Business Advisory Council • Ohio Gas Access Partnership (OGAP) – Board Member • Champaign County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau • Logan-Union-Champaign Planning Commission • Regional Transportation Council • Champaign Health Improvement Plan • Community Health Assessment Steering/Leadership Committee • Main Street Urbana / Heritage Ohio – Board Member These collaborations ensure that Champaign County remains connected, competitive, and supported at every level, from local entrepreneurs to global manufacturers. Regional Partners Acknowledging CEP’s Impact The DDC expressed strong appreciation for CEP’s contributions. Overholser shared, “We appreciate all that the CEP and the City of Urbana do to support economic and revitalization efforts in the region, and we are excited to recognize their outstanding efforts.” CEP’s influence is evident in the breadth and longevity of its partnerships. The organization works hand-in-hand with major employers, healthcare systems, manufacturers, and service providers including KTH, Weidmann, Memorial Health, JRS Group, Pioneer Electric, RITTAL, Bundy Baking Solutions, International Motors, Mercy Health Urbana Hospital, FastLane, Community Health & Wellness Partners, Tramec/Johnson Welded Products, VECTREN, and Parker TruTec. Equally critical are CEP’s collaborations with the region’s financial institutions, whose support makes local projects possible. CEP partners closely with The First Central National Bank, The Peoples Savings Bank, Park National Bank, and F&M Bank, ensuring that businesses and developers have access to the capital, resources, and guidance needed to bring transformative projects to life. Together, these partnerships form a robust, interconnected network, one that CEP actively nurtures to keep Champaign County competitive, resilient, and positioned for sustainable growth. Continuing the Mission For ten years, CEP has been one of Champaign County’s most impactful and unifying forces by connecting people, accelerating projects, and strengthening the local economy. The Business Outreach Champion Award reflects not just a successful year, but a decade built on collaboration, relationship-building, and strategic vision. From Furniture to Future: CEP Helps Transform Willman Building into The 211 (The Two Eleven)9/12/2025
Thanks to the Champaign Economic Partnership (CEP), that answer arrived. With steady guidance, local connections, and a clear vision for growth, CEP helped ensure the Willman Building wouldn’t sit idle. This September, it will officially reopen, not as a furniture store, but as The 211 (The Two Eleven), a modern hub for small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
“We wanted to create more than office space. We wanted to build a place where people in Urbana can work, gather, and thrive together,” said Jamon and Tiffiene Sellman. “The 211 is designed to feel warm and inspiring, a hub where local professionals and creatives can stay connected right here in our community.” The project connects Urbana’s past and future. The historic Willman Building remains a cornerstone of Main Street, while inside, a new venture, operated by local entrepreneur Tiffiene Sellman, offers flexible, contemporary work environments: private offices, co-working memberships, a conference room, and event-rental options. Natural wood, abundant light, greenery, and welcoming finishes create a professional space that still feels inviting. The goal is simple: give local talent the resources they need without leaving Champaign County. This outcome took time and persistence. CEP began working with the Willman family in June 2022 to identify a buyer. Several prospects toured the property but passed. CEP kept at it, ultimately connecting with Jamon Sellman, who saw the potential and stepped forward. From there, CEP worked alongside Jamon on the JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant application and helped shape the pitch, close financing gaps with a local bank, and see the project through closing and construction. CEP continued supporting the effort as plans evolved and partners aligned, including JobsOhio and the Dayton Development Coalition. Former owner Scott Fannin is pleased with the result. After touring the revamped space, he said, “I love what they’ve done with it.” He added, “I just wanted it to be in good hands,” and believes that wish has been fulfilled. The redevelopment, led by Sellman Enterprises, LLC, covers 13,255 square feet and represents a $2.9 million investment in downtown Urbana. The 211 (The Two Eleven) anchors nearly 7,000 square feet on the first floor, while the upper two floors have been converted into nine loft apartments. In addition to the JobsOhio grant, the project leveraged Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credits, a competitive program that helps bring private investment to historic buildings which are resources CEP helped connect. More than a shared workspace, The 211 (The Two Eleven) is designed as a community engine. Planned amenities include a coffee bar and lounge, flexible work zones, space for yoga sessions and workshops, and event capacity for birthdays, anniversaries, and professional gatherings. Its impact will be felt across the local economy by keeping professionals in Urbana rather than commuting to Columbus or Dayton. Momentum is already building. The first official event is scheduled for September 24, 2025 and they will be welcoming 40–50 attendees. It’s an early sign of how the building will function: as a place to connect, create, and celebrate. Throughout the renovation, the building’s character has been preserved. Original hardwood floors, tall windows, baseboards, and even elements of the original mechanics remain. Guided by historic-preservation rules, the team layered in modern touches such as deep “color-drenched” walls, gold-and-black finishings, and thoughtfully thrifted vintage lighting to blend past and present in a way that feels both practical and inspiring. While Jamon took on ownership, Tiffiene shaped the identity and operations of The 211 (The Two Eleven). CEP’s leadership tied it all together. Director Rich Ebert and his team ensured local resources were leveraged, outside partners were connected, and the project never lost momentum. Rich Ebert, Director of the Champaign Economic Partnership believes that this project will be a catalyst for all of Champaign County. “Having such a space in the heart of our county will provide a central hub that will draw business and entrepreneurs from all over. The space will provide business ingenuity and creativity among it’s members. With the ability to work and live in such an environment, I am excited to see what comes from this repurposed space.” The 211 (The Two Eleven) is poised to become an essential part of Champaign County’s business ecosystem to be a place where ideas are born, partnerships form, and residents find both opportunity and connection. Thanks to CEP’s leadership and the Sellmans’ commitment, Urbana gains more than a co-working space; it gains a lasting reminder of what’s possible when a community invests in itself. Tours & Availability Interested in touring or checking availability at The 211 (The Two Eleven)? Contact Tiffiene Sellman at [email protected]. Memorial Health Expands Occupational Health Services for Urbana/Champaign County Businesses2/28/2024
 Memorial Health is expanding its Occupational Health services for those businesses and entities in the Champaign County area. The organization’s Occupational Health services include injury care, employee wellness, pre-employment physicals and fitness-for-duty exams, drug testing, immunizations and much more.
The new full-time clinic hours are now 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. During these expanded hours, Memorial providers and nursing staff are available to provide employee healthcare services and injury management/treatment. Memorial Occupational Health is located at 1958 E. U.S. Highway 36 in Urbana. To learn more about the Occupational Health program at Memorial, call (937) 578-2256.
Rich Ebert, CEP's new Executive Director shared his excitement recently saying, "Seeing lights on at Legacy Place in Urbana's Downtown warms my heart. The transformation of all three buildings has been amazing. The impact of this project on our community will be felt for many years to come. In all three building, the apartments are large and comfortable as well as cozy and clean. Residents coming to live in these apartments will be thrilled with the amenities and features along with the unique setting each is in. After touring the buildings, I've been most impressed with the attention to detail by the builders and designers. it will be an absolute asset to our greater community for years to come!"
Legacy Place Apartments will be hosting Open Houses at all 3 locations on Monday, February 14th from 1:00pm until 6:00pm. Locations include: Legacy Place North, formerly North Elementary School (located at 626 N Russell Street, Urbana); Legacy Place South, formerly South Elementary School (located at 725 S Main Street, Urbana); Legacy Place Monument Square, formerly Douglas Hotel (located at 27 Monument Square, Urbana). The community is invited to come tour the facilities, hear about the history, and share their own stories surrounding these historic buildings. Parking will be limited at each location, and it is encouraged to utilize the shuttles from the Champaign County Community Building (located at 1512 South US-68, Urbana) that will be running between the three properties from 12:30 pm until 4:00 pm. For information on tours or leasing, contact [email protected].
The Village is seeking more financial assistance through OPWC program to implement Phase ll of water line replacement program. Phase l Water Line replacement was completed in 2018.
Phase ll of the water line replacement program would replace water mains, service connections, fire hydrants and water meters on Walnut, North Main, West Race, and Sandusky Streets. This will serve approximately 140 residences directly and the remainder of the Village providing better water flow through the system. "We grateful to have received the grant and thank the State for their investment in our community." says the Village of Mechanicsburg.
"It was also nice to see our storefront repairs finish painted. Very proud of that arched sheet metal corner." says Blind Eye Restoration.
CEP was proud to be a part of this project and we are grateful for the partnerships that have been created! *Survey is now closed*
The Champaign County Commissioners are exploring grant opportunities to improve internet/broadband service. The first step is to collect data to determine the need for improved internet service, and this will be done through a survey. We need your opinion! Please take a moment to complete the survey (at your home), it can be found at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LUCInternet. Please share this information with others in Champaign County. Thank you! Ice Cream Parlor Will Also Return
After several months without a police chief, the St. Paris Village Council voted to hire a full-time chief during Monday’s regular council meeting.
Eric Smith of Bridgeport will earn a salary of $47,500 a year as defined by the village handbook. There will also be a “Canine Care Allowance” of $6,235.32 a year. Smith begins his duties on May 1, according to information from St. Paris Mayor Brenda Cook. A probation period will last until Nov. 1, at which time the mayor with the village’s safety committee will evaluate performance and recommend to council permanent appointment or dismissal.
In 2011, with the assistance of Hull & Associates, the city obtained a grant from the Ohio Department of Development through the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund for assessment work at the site.
In 2014, the city filed an expedited foreclosure application with the county Board of Revision. The following year, no one bid for the property at public auctions and the property was forfeited to the city. In 2017, the city took title to the property and, later that year, TIS Properties LLC partnered with the city to clean up and redevelop the site. The city and TIS both committed funds toward that end, and the Champaign Economic Partnership assisted in obtaining grant funding. In 2020, the city transferred ownership of the east side of the property to TIS Properties LLC. The city still owns the west side of the property, west of Dugan Run and the Simon Kenton Trail. City officials say remediation has been completed on the west side and that a covenant not to sue will be requested from Ohio EPA. At that point, the city hopes to find an end user. The city, TIS and the Champaign Economic Partnership continue work to redevelop the property. Information provided by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the city of Urbana and the Champaign Economic Partnership. |
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211 N. Main St Office 7 Urbana, Ohio 43078 Mailing Address: PO Box 268, Urbana Ohio 43078 937-653-7200 |
All drone photography courtesy of Jassen Dobyns of UAVisions LLC. Additional photography courtesy of Dave Millner of the Champaign Camera Group.
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