�This could be the start of a new beginning for downtown Oak Harbor,� according to Priscella Heidecker, executive director of the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce, who announced a consortia of area business people have formed Waterfront Improvement LLC as a vehicle to facilitate the land acquisition.  

George Churchill, chairperson of the Chamber�s Waterfront Improvement committee, stressed both the legal and psychological importance of the action.  �In the 30 years various improvement projects have been talked about and studied, this is the farthest it�s ever gone,� he said.  Mr. Churchill explained the incorporation is �an important and necessary step to tie-up the property for a potential developer.�

The breath of the land to be acquired makes it possible to include a new Oak Harbor Performing Arts Center as part of the complex, he added.  �This not only adds to the luster of the development, it helps create a true anchor for downtown renovation.�

Ms. Heidecker also announced the renowned Seattle-based firm of Callison Architecture has been retained to draft preliminary plans and renderings for the resort and conference center.  The vision is for the hotel to feature up to 160 guest rooms and suites, with an adjoining conference center that would accommodate up to 300 persons.  

At the same time, The Marketing Company International of Bellevue has been named by the LLC to assist in attracting potential developers and assessing the value in entering into a franchise agreement to �flag� the complex with a well known brand.  The Company currently provides marketing, sales and operational assistance for more than 50 hotels throughout the Western United States, Canada and Mexico.

Principals Mary A. Fischer and Barry J. Parrish expressed an optimistic outlook for the Oak Harbor Resort & Conference Center.  �It�s a great location and a beautiful area,� said Ms. Fischer, �and we�ve already had potential investors send senior representatives to tour the area.�

According to Mr. Churchill, community support is critical to the success of any waterfront improvement project.  �More and more people have expressed interest in this concept,� he concluded, �and I believe we have the foundation for a truly unifying effort.�