WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
Mount Vernon, Ohio -– The Knox County Land Bank is proud to announce it has secured the
final piece of funding needed to revitalize the first floor of 18 E. Vine St. The project plans
include adding new office and restaurant space to the downtown building and a complete façade
renovation. The $1 million JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Grant completed the capital stack the
Land Bank needed to move the transformational project forward.
Founders Food Hall, a modern culinary marketplace featuring eight independent kitchens and a
full-service bar, will provide the Mount Vernon community with new, diverse dining options.
Founders will act as an incubator for local chefs, and the unique concept will also feature a
“four-season room” with windows that open to create a patio feel during warm weather.
“Founders Food Hall will bring new energy and foot traffic to downtown Mount Vernon, creating
a hub of culinary innovation and community gathering,” said Sam Filkins, Vice President for the
Knox County Land Bank. “This project will not only allow restaurateurs to launch and grow their
businesses, but it will also provide residents and visitors with an exciting, ever-changing dining
experience.”
A name chosen by the Land Bank to honor the community’s rich history, the industrious spirit
that has shaped it, and the forward-thinking vision that will carry it into the future, Founders is a
tribute to the pioneers, entrepreneurs, and hard-working individuals who have built and
sustained the area.
“The revitalization of the former Mount Vernon News building will act as a catalyst for additional
investment and development for this historic community,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P.
Nauseef. “The Knox County Land Bank’s leadership in securing public-private investment to
redevelop 18 E. Vine St. will create jobs, add businesses, and provide a community gathering
spot for a more vibrant downtown.”
The new office space will bring a professional workforce into the heart of downtown. This space
will contribute to the daytime economy, helping to sustain local restaurants, shops, and service
businesses while increasing overall foot traffic and vibrancy in downtown.
“Investing in Mount Vernon’s historic downtown is critical to ensuring our community remains a
vibrant place to live and work,” said Shelley Coon, Chair of the Knox County Land Bank Board.
“The redevelopment of 18 East Vine Street will not only bring new businesses and jobs to the
area but also reinforce our commitment to responsible growth.”
The Knox County Land Bank worked closely with JobsOhio and the regional economic
development partner, One Columbus, to secure funding for this project, which is expected to
catalyze continued investment in Mount Vernon’s historic core.
“Downtown Mount Vernon is already a great place, and the Founders Food Hall will only make it
better.” said Kenny McDonald, President and CEO of One Columbus. “This investment will
create opportunities for entrepreneurs, revitalize the space, and create even more momentum
for Mount Vernon and Knox County.”
The JobsOhio Vibrant Communities Program offers competitive grants for development projects
that help transform areas within a distressed community. Eligible projects include mixed-use
projects, real estate development projects, and operated share spaces that meet the JobsOhio
project criteria.
Construction is underway, with an anticipated completion date in September 2025, with an
opening soon to follow. Work on the redevelopment of the lower level for a separate user and
facade is scheduled for completion this summer.
For more information about Founders Food Hall, including vendor opportunities and how to get
involved, visit www.foundersfh.com. Entrepreneurs interested in launching their food concepts
at the hall can complete an interest form for kitchen space, sign up for updates, and learn more
about the vision behind this exciting downtown destination.