RBC Bank does something giant for Montezuma’s downtown

Local News

September 24, 2008

From Staff Reports

MONTEZUMA — RBC Bank officials put their “Let’s Do Something Giant” slogan into action in downtown Montezuma Monday afternoon.

They donated the 5,000-square-foot former Flag Bank Building to the Montezuma Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The building is the largest commercial property in the historic district. It has been underutilized since its acquisition under the 2006 Flag Bank merger.

Montezuma’s DDA Chairman Frank Lester and Mayor Willie James Larry accepted the donation from RBC Bank.

According to region manager Sam Morgart, “RBC Bank is committed to community and economic development across our six-state footprint, so we are thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the efforts of the Montezuma Downtown Development Authority.” The Montezuma DDA is charged with restructuring the downtown economy by creatively converting vacant buildings into space for new uses.

Lester explained the DDA is working to sharpen the competitiveness of downtown’s traditional merchants as well as recruiting new employers. The former bank will be converted into affordable incubator space, in an effort to attract new businesses and entrepreneurs. Businesses locating in downtown Montezuma can take advantage of the Small Business Administration’s HUBZone Empowerment Contracting incentives, which offer additional points in competitive bidding for federal government contracts.

As an Entrepreneur Friendly Community, Montezuma can offer substantial assistance to start up, expanding and relocating businesses. For more information, please contact Camille Bielby, Downtown Development manager, Montezuma DDA, (478) 472-4777.