COLUMBUS GROVE — Union Bank Co. President Brian Young told about 50 people gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony that he was glad his gut feeling lined up with scientific research.
“It was very rewarding to me when our research lined up with my heart,” Young said. “It became clear after our analysis was completed that Putnam County was the best place to retain and attract the No. 1 asset of any successful company, its team members.”
Union Bank plans to build its new operation center at 105 Progressive Drive in Columbus Grove. The company was founded in 1904 in Kalida and now has offices throughout Ohio, including in Allen, Putnam, Hancock and Van Wert counties.
“As our plans evolved over the past several years, a question was rightfully asked by others,” Young said. “Where should a company have its headquarters when it serves customers throughout Ohio and other states? The building that will be constructed is a symbol of our progress and a much-needed aid to our operating efficiencies. We are a company that is committed to growth.”
The new 24,380-square-foot building will be completed in the second quarter of 2017. The company has already sold the current building at 100 S. High St. The new building will employ about 75 people with the potential of those numbers increasing. K-4 Architecture out of Cincinnati is designing the contract and Charles Construction out of Findlay is the building contractor.
Columbus Grove Mayor Ken Wright said village officials were happy that Union Bank chose Columbus Grove for the new building and that they included the city in its plans.
“They are showing their loyalty to our community by staying here,” Wright said. “They have shown their interest in our community in the past. They have been the single largest donor for the new park. We appreciate their decision to stay here in Columbus Grove.”
Wright also thanked Putnam County Community Improvement Corp. Director Curt Croy for helping facilitate the sale of the city-owned land to Union Bank. Wright added that the new building has allowed for funding to construct turn lanes onto Commerce Drive off state Route 65 because of increased traffic. Wright said there had been a problem securing funding previously because traffic did not dictate the need.
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