Cobleskill will get insights on a method to rehab abandoned downtown buildings next week.
Rick Hauser, a licensed architect, will discuss the strategy at the Best Western at 7:15pm next Thursday, the 27th.
The meeting is hosted by Cobleskill Partnership Inc., the downtown advocacy group.
Mr. Hauser has formed limited liability companies that purchase and restore abandoned and dilapidated buildings, according to CPI's Brian Kaiser.
"He's been successful in rural, Upstate villages in New York," Mr. Kaiser said.
The strategy, he added, depends on a mix of donated in-kind services and funds from investors.
The in-kind services could be those needed for start up: architects, engineers and attorneys.
"Those are often the hardest to raise money for," Mr. Kaiser said.
Then, the LLC uses grants, public funds and money from investors for the actual restoration, he said.
Investors receive tax advantages and, eventually, a return on their investments, Mr. Kaiser said.
The strategy isn't new to Mr. Hauser.
"He's successfully created several of what he calls 'Main Street LLCs,' " Mr. Kaiser said. "The communities he's used this in are not dissimilar to ours."
The meeting is open to the public. RSVP is appreciated; call 296-8122 or cobleskillpartnership@gmail.com