Kitsap Bank recently presented a $10,000 donation to the Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association as part of the bank’s annual Community Partner Program contributions. The donation falls under the Main Street B & O Tax Credit Program, which supports investment in local downtown revitalization efforts, including events, public relations and economic development activities, buildings, parks, trails, and other public amenities.
“Kitsap Bank is very pleased to partner with the Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association,” stated Steve Politakis, Chief Executive Officer. “These dedicated business and community leaders are successfully working to blend historic preservation and economic vitality in Gig Harbor’s historic commercial district, while maintaining the small-town quality of life we hold dear."
"Their projects, such as Connie’s Clock at the Bogue Viewing platform, and the Cushman Connection Trail, encourage tourism and economic development in this waterfront business community. We applaud theirs efforts to coordinate a community “branding” program, as well as their work with the University of Washington: School of Architecture to define possible structure improvement ideas for downtown.”
“Kitsap Bank’s continued support remains essential to the Association’s efforts,” says Gary Glein, GHHWA President. “The Waterfront Association’s mission is to bring community and waterfront district stakeholders together. We want to create awareness and implement incremental programs to encourage economic vitality and redevelopment that is consistent with the traditional character of a small, water-oriented downtown community. This year we have plans to better understand the economics of downtown, to communicate the advantages of the waterfront area, and to promote business and shopping opportunities. We work with the city and business to make a difference.”
Mary DesMarais, GHHWA Executive Director, says, “The state has created an avenue for businesses to direct their taxes back into their own communities by utilizing the Main Street B&O Tax Credit program. It is a win-win scenario for the donor, the community and the Waterfront Association.”
The donation to Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association is one of four such commitments made by Kitsap Bank this year to Washington State Main Street organizations. Donations of $10,000 each were also presented to the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association; Port Angeles Downtown Association; and Port Townsend Main Street Program. Through its Community Partner Program, Kitsap Bank has invested over $1 million and countless volunteer hours over the past six years to non-profits and civic organizations in the communities it serves. In 2013, the bank will provide support to over 80 area non-profit organizations with donations totaling more than $300,000.
Established August 8, 1908, Kitsap Bank is headquartered in Port Orchard, WA, operating 21 locations throughout Western Washington. With over $900 million in assets, the bank provides a full range of financial services to commercial and individual customers. BauerFinancial, the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm has given Kitsap Bank their 5-star rating; and Kitsap Bank has been named a Preferred Lender by the U. S. Small Business Administration.
-Kitsap Bank
