Table of Contents

• Community Events

• Business Feature: Splendor & Silks

• Committee Updates

• City of West Union Updates

• Member Spotlight

• Funding Opportunities

• Featured Volunteer: Zach Smith

• Get Involved

We're thrilled to bring you the latest edition of your West Union Main Street Chamber Newsletter! This month is filled with exciting updates and opportunities, from new business openings to upcoming events and city developments. We're committed to providing you with the information you need to stay engaged and informed about everything happening in West Union.

Community Events

Discover all the exciting events happening in West Union! Our Community Event Calendar is your guide to local activities, from business promotions to community gatherings. See what's coming up and make sure your own events are included! To add your event to the calendar, click the button below or reach out to us directly. Let's keep our community informed and connected.

Business Feature: Splendor & Silks

We're excited to welcome Splendor & Silks to our downtown business community! Chris Larson brings over 30 years of floral design experience to her new studio, creating custom silk flower arrangements that are perfect for weddings, events, and home décor. Splendor & Silks offers a unique, personalized experience, with custom designs tailored to your specific needs. From bouquets to centerpieces, Chris can create lasting floral arrangements that add a touch of elegance to any occasion. Visit her studio at 105 North Vine Street to explore her beautiful creations and discuss your custom design needs.

You can also read more about Splendor & Silks in last week’s The Union newspaper!

Studio Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Phone: (563) 412-8570
Address: 105 N Vine St, West Union, IA 52175

Business Feature: Driftless Knives

West Union welcomes Driftless Knives, a new business specializing in professional knife and tool sharpening. Located here in town, Driftless Knives provides essential services for both private and commercial clients in West Union and Northeast Iowa. In addition to sharpening, Driftless Knives also provides knife restoration and refurbishment by appointment. They also offer regular sharpening services and knife rentals for local restaurants and businesses.

They offer a wide range of sharpening services, including:

• Knives (all types)

• Woodworking tools

• Ice auger blades

• Chainsaws

• Scissors

• Garden tools

You can read more about Driftless Knives in this week’s The Union newspaper!

Phone: (563) 294-0456
Email: [email protected]
Address: 105 N Vine St, West Union, IA 52175

Committee Updates

Promotion Committee

The Promotion Committee is gearing up for two exciting events!

2025 West Union Block Party

Mark your calendars for a day of community fun on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM in Downtown West Union! This FREE event will feature live music by Casey Klein, human foosball, bounce houses, local food trucks, a pie-eating contest, dance performances by Expressions Dance Studio, and much more.

We're looking for local businesses to participate and showcase their offerings. Contact us at (563) 422-3070, [email protected], or visit our office at 101 N Vine St, West Union, IA 52175 to learn more.

2025 Playin' on the Plaza Music Series

Get ready for Thursday nights filled with live music! The annual Playin' on the Plaza music series returns every Thursday from June 12th to August 7th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Courthouse Amphitheatre.

Enjoy a diverse lineup of talented musicians, including:

• June 12: David Woods

• June 19: Brittany Sword

• June 26: Chet Reagan (feat. Miss West Union Crowning)

• July 3: Angela Meyer

• July 10: The Buck Hollow Band

• July 17: Denny & Bernie

• July 31: Bruce Bearinger

• August 7: Patsy & the Plum Street Jam

This year, we're excited to offer local food delivery directly to the plaza, allowing you to enjoy delicious food from West Union restaurants while you listen to the music.

Support Playin' on the Plaza!

Playin' on the Plaza is a FREE community event, made possible by the generosity of our community. If you'd like to contribute to the music series, please consider making a donation. Your support helps us bring live music to downtown West Union.

Design Committee

The Design Committee invites you to explore West Union in a whole new way with our exciting West Union Scavenger Hunt and to join us for our annual "Rakes and Rolls" event!

2025 Spring West Union Scavenger Hunt

We've captured photos of unique and interesting spots around town, and we're challenging you to identify their locations. Download our interactive Jotform app to view the photos and submit your answers.

How to Participate:

• Download the Jotform app here: https://app.jotform.com/250566701741152 and view the West Union photos.

• Explore the town and try to identify each location.

• Fill in your answers on the app.

• Submit your completed form.

The answers will be revealed on June 1, 2025, on our Facebook page, so be sure to follow us for the big reveal! This is a fun and engaging way to discover hidden gems and learn more about West Union. Get your friends and family involved and make it a community adventure!

Rakes and Rolls: Downtown Garden Spring Cleanup and Sponsor Breakfast

We invite our downtown garden sponsors and interested volunteers to join us for our annual "Rakes and Rolls" event! This is a brief breakfast and cleanup day hosted by the West Union Main Street Chamber Design Committee.

• Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025

• Time: 8:00 AM

• Location: West Union Main Street Chamber Office, 101 N Vine St, West Union, IA 52175

Mulch Provided! The City of West Union will be providing mulch for volunteers to use in their adopted gardens during this event.

Economic Vitality Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee is pleased to report the successful completion of our free "Learn Canva" class, designed to empower local business owners with essential digital marketing skills.

This beginner-friendly class provided participants with a one-hour introduction to Canva, covering:

• Navigating the platform

• Customizing templates

• Adding images and text

• Applying basic design principles

We held the class at four different times, accommodating a total of ten attendees. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many participants already utilizing their newfound skills to create professional flyers and graphics for their businesses.

The committee is thrilled to see the immediate and practical application of the knowledge gained from this class. We believe that equipping our local businesses with digital tools is crucial for their growth and success.

This class is an example of the Economic Vitality Committee's commitment to providing valuable resources and training to our business community. We will continue to explore opportunities to offer similar programs in the future.

Current Projects:

The committee is currently working on two key projects:

1. Comprehensive Guide to Starting a Business in West Union: This guide will provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a clear roadmap to navigate the steps required to launch a business in our community. It will serve as a valuable resource, streamlining the process and fostering new business growth.

2. Local Challenge Grant Application Process: To maximize the chances of securing funding from Main Street Iowa's annual Challenge Grant, the committee is developing a local application process. This process will help identify projects with the strongest potential for success, ensuring that West Union receives the support it needs for impactful initiatives.

We are dedicated to supporting the economic vitality of West Union and will continue to work on projects that benefit our business community.

Organization Committee

The Organization Committee is pleased to share the success of the 2025 St. Patrick's Day 9-Pin Mulligan Bowling Tournament!

We had a fantastic turnout, with 20 teams (80 players) joining us at Lilac Lanes for a day of fun and friendly competition. The event was a great success, thanks to the support of our generous sponsors, including Lilac Lanes.

We appreciate everyone who came out to bowl and support our organization!

Upcoming Event: 15th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser

Get ready to hit the greens! The Organization Committee is now planning the 15th Annual Golf Tournament. Join us for a fun day on the course, with great prizes and the chance to network with fellow community members. Highlights include flag games, door prizes, and a chance to win a 2-year Ford vehicle lease with a hole-in-one (courtesy of Wilbur Ford!)

• Date: Saturday, June 14th, 2025

• Registration: 8:00 AM

• Shotgun Start: 9:00 AM

• Format: 4-Person, Best-Shot, 8-Inch Cup

• Location: Pleasant Valley Sports Club

Team & Sponsorship Opportunities:

1. Basic Team ($160):

   • $160 per team

   • Includes lunch and green fees.

2. Premium Team ($300):

   • $300 per team

   • Includes Basic Team benefits and free drinks.

3. Hole Sponsor ($100):

   • $100 per business

   • Includes signage with name & logo at a hole.

4. Tournament Sponsor ($250):

   • $250 per business

   • Includes Basic Team and Hole Sponsor benefits, social media recognition, formal event recognition, and Mulligans & Flag Events.

5. Marquee Sponsor ($500):

   • $500 per business

   • Includes Premium Team and Tournament Sponsor benefits, and signage at registration.

City of West Union Updates

Downtown Design Standards Ordinance Reintroduced

The City of West Union is re-emphasizing its ordinance that establishes design standards for new construction and exterior renovations within the C-2 Central Business Commercial District. While still in effect, the ordinance's enforcement has been less active in recent years, and the City is now reminding property owners of its requirements.

In essence, the ordinance aims to preserve and enhance the unique character of our downtown area by setting guidelines for:

• Exterior Appearance: This includes materials, architectural details, windows, doors, and signage.

• Construction and Renovation: Any changes to a building's exterior (except routine maintenance) require a permit.

• Design Elements: This covers aspects like rooflines, façades, awnings, lighting, and site features.

Key Takeaways:

• A permit is required for new construction and exterior renovations in the C-2 district.

• The ordinance outlines specific standards for various design elements to ensure compatibility and aesthetic appeal.

• The Main Street West Union Design Committee reviews permit applications.

Free Design Assistance: Property owners in the Main Street district can also take advantage of free design assistance from Main Street Iowa. This valuable resource can provide expert guidance and support to help you plan and execute your projects in a way that aligns with the downtown design standards. Contact the West Union Main Street Chamber Office to learn more about accessing this service.

Design Guide Available: To further assist property owners in understanding and complying with these standards, the West Union Main Street Chamber Office has a design guide available. This guide provides helpful information and examples to ensure your projects contribute to the beauty and character of our downtown.

Where to Find the Full Ordinance: The complete text of the ordinance is included below. We encourage all property owners in the C-2 district to familiarize themselves with these guidelines.

Important Note:

This summary is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the full ordinance and contact City Hall for official guidance and specific application of these standards to your projects.

Member Spotlight

Appliance Plus - UScellular Authorized Agent

Welcome Appliance Plus, a UScellular Authorized Agent with over 20 years of wireless experience, to West Union! With multiple locations throughout Iowa, Appliance Plus is a family-owned business serving Rural Iowa since the 1950s.

In addition to their UScellular services, Appliance Plus has a long history as a GE showcase dealer, supplying new, scratch & dent, and pre-owned appliances.

At their West Union location (113 East Bradford Street), you can find:

• Friendly, knowledgeable associates to assist with your wireless needs.

• Help with troubleshooting, setting up email, making payments, and switching carriers.

Appliance Plus is committed to providing top-name brand appliances and products at low prices, with a focus on exceptional customer service and meeting their customers' needs.

Contact:

• Address: 113 E, Bradford Street, West Union, Iowa 52175

• Phone: (563) 422-8988

Hours:

• Monday: 9:00 PM – 6:00 PM

• Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM  

Exit Realty Driftless Group

Welcome Exit Realty Driftless Group, a locally owned and operated real estate agency serving the Driftless Region from their base in Elgin, Iowa. They are committed to providing exceptional service to buyers and sellers, guiding them through every step of the real estate process with expertise and care.

Exit Realty Driftless Group offers:

• Residential Real Estate assistance

• Land Sales expertise

• Commercial Real Estate services

They pride themselves on their local expertise, personalized service, experienced agents, and use of cutting-edge technology. Whether you're buying or selling, Exit Realty Driftless Group is dedicated to exceeding your expectations.

Contact:

• Address: 227 Center Street, Elgin, IA

• Phone: (319) 231-9037

• Website: https://www.exitdriftless.com/

• Email: [email protected]

Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism

Welcome Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering and implementing tourism and business development and expansion in Fayette County.

This organization works collaboratively with stakeholders, business owners, community residents, downtown organizations, and regional and statewide partners to develop and identify projects and initiatives that strengthen existing businesses and resources within the County and foster new business and resource development within each community.

Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism strives to enhance the economic vitality and promote the unique attractions of Fayette County.

Contact:

• Address: 101 N Vine Street, Office A, West Union, IA 52175

• Phone: (563) 265-5248

• Website: https://visitfayettecountyiowa.com/

• Email: [email protected]

Hours of Operation:

• Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

• Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

• Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

• Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM  

Fayette County Newspapers

Welcome Fayette County Newspapers, your community newspaper covering local news, events, and life stories in Fayette County for over 172 years! They are the publishers of the Fayette County Union, a trusted source of news and information for the region.

Fayette County Newspapers provides a wide range of services, including:

• Publishing

• Printing

• Marketing

• Graphic Design

• Job Work

• Digital Advertising

• Sportscast Advertising

They are committed to keeping the community informed and connected through their various publications and services.

Contact:

• Address: 101 E Main St, West Union, IA 52175

• Phone: 563-422-3888

• Toll Free: 888-321-5410

• Website: https://www.communitynewspapergroup.com/fayette_county_newspapers/

Imperial Roof Systems Co

Welcome Imperial Roof Systems Co, a company with a long-standing history in the roofing industry, established in 1977. From their home office in West Union, Imperial Roof Systems has grown from providing roofing coatings to specializing in various single-ply membrane systems and serving a wide range of states.

Imperial Roof Systems offers:

• A wide range of roofing systems (including single-ply membranes)

• Services for both commercial and industrial properties

They have received numerous awards and recognition for their quality and expertise, including:

• Sika Sarnafil Elite Contractor (2002 - Present)

• Firestone Approved Contractor (25+ years)

Imperial Roof Systems also has a branch in Papillion, NE, and continues to be a strong presence in the roofing industry.

Contact:

• Address: 203 Armour Street, West Union, IA

• Phone: 563-422-5124

• Website: https://www.imperialroofsystems.com/

Koch Real Estate

Welcome Koch Real Estate, dedicated to providing a relaxed and refined buying and selling experience in West Union and the surrounding area. Emily Koch and her team strive to deliver exceptional client service with integrity, expertise, and honesty.

Koch Real Estate offers assistance throughout the entire home buying and selling process, including:

• Finding homes within your price range

• Assisting with paperwork

• Helping you find buyers

They pride themselves on their:

• Client-focused approach

• Responsive communication

• Market expertise

• Extensive referral network

Contact:

• Address: 315 1/2 Hwy 150 N, West Union, IA

• Phone: (563) 422-7274

• Website: https://www.koch.realestate/

• Email: [email protected]

Spahn & Rose Lumber Co.

Welcome Spahn & Rose, the professionals' one-stop shop for quality lumber and building supplies in West Union and across the Midwest. With nearly 60 years of experience, Spahn & Rose is known for its outstanding customer service and knowledgeable staff.

The West Union location provides:

• A wide range of building materials and decking supplies.

• Roofing and siding supplies from leading brands.

• Custom cabinets for new construction and remodeling.

• A dedicated paint store with design assistance and paint-matching services.

Spahn & Rose caters to contractors and builders and also serves as a hometown hardware store and lumber yard, offering everything needed for successful projects.

Contact:

• Address: 103 East Railroad Street, West Union, IA

• Phone: (563) 422-3806

• Fax: (563) 422-5748

Hours of Operation:

• Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

West Union Hardware & Curious Goose Gift Shoppe

Welcome West Union Hardware & Curious Goose Gift Shoppe, a local destination offering a unique combination of hardware supplies and charming gifts. This store provides both practical necessities and delightful finds for residents and visitors alike. This combination makes it a convenient and enjoyable place to shop in West Union.

Contact:

• Address: 301 IA-150, West Union, IA 52175

• Phone: 563-422-5646

Hours:

• M-F 8am-6pm

• Sat 8am-5pm

• Sun 10am-4pm

West Union Monument Company

Welcome West Union Monument Company, a business with a long-standing tradition of serving the community for over 77 years. Founded in 1946, they assist families in creating and installing distinctive, quality cemetery memorials.

West Union Monument Company prides itself on:

• Expertise in memorial creation

• Exceptional quality craftsmanship

• Fair prices

• Honest management

• Unparalleled customer service

They offer a large inventory and have stone craftsmen who design and create memorials on-site, allowing for personalized tributes to honor loved ones.

Contact:

• Address: 126 W. Franklin Street, West Union, IA 52175

• Phone: (563) 422-5895

• Toll-Free: (800) 404-8670

• Fax: (563) 422-9454

• Website: https://westunionmonument.com/

• Email: [email protected]

Hours of Operation:

• Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Funding Opportunities

Empower Rural Iowa Innovation Grant

Applications are now being accepted for the Rural Innovation Grant program.  Three tracks are available including rural independent grocery stores, small food producers, and second stage growth companies.  Businesses must be in a community with a population of 20,000 or less.  Application deadline is Friday, April 25, 2025.  For more information: Rural Innovation Grant Program | Economic Development & Finance Authority Questions?  Contact [email protected].

Open 4 Business Contest

Open 4 Business is an opportunity for businesses (located in a designated Main Street Iowa community’s commercial district) to compete for a chance to win up to $25,000 in grant funds. These funds assist with a business development or expansion project that will help them grow their business. Each local Main Street program can submit ONE business to the competition.

Apply by 5:00 p.m., May 1, 2025.

Apply for Workforce Housing Tax Credits

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is currently accepting applications through June 10 for workforce housing tax credits. The program is designed to develop new housing opportunities in communities across the state, focusing on projects that use abandoned, empty or dilapidated properties. IEDA has $35 million available for the current round with a limit of $1 million per project. A portion of the total allocation has been set aside for developments in small communities, defined as those within Iowa’s 88 least-populated counties. Project applications are scored competitively based on readiness, documented financing, community impact and developer experience. Awards will be announced in August. Learn more: This recording provides an overview on the program and application process. Apply now. Questions? Contact [email protected].

NEW T-Mobile Hometown Grant Program Applications

Apply Now: Up to $50,000 Grants for Small Towns  (communities under 50,000 pop.) This program provides funding to help build stronger, more prosperous small towns and rural communities! Application deadline: 11:59 p.m. (CT), Monday, June 30. To learn more, click here.

Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant

Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant offers financial support for brick-and-mortar projects that enhance designated Main Street districts. Individual awards range from $25,000 to $100,000, requiring a 1:1 match. Competitive projects should align with district goals, demonstrate quality preservation-based design, increase business and/or housing opportunities and have a clear scope of work. Each community is eligible to submit ONE application. Project selection method is determined by the local program.

The West Union Main Street Chamber Economic Vitality Committee is meeting to determine the local process.

• Applications and instructional video will be released on June 23.

• Design assistance requests must be submitted by July 30 to ensure assistance before the grant deadline.

• Applications are due August 27.

Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Grant Program

Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Grant Program Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and will be awarded as funds are available. For more information, click here.

City of West Union Revolving Loan Fund

Purpose: The purpose of the City of West Union’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is to provide “gap” financing to new and expanding businesses for which credit is not otherwise available on terms and conditions, which permit completion and/or the successful operation of proposed business activities.

Eligible Projects: Any business improvement or start-up project in the City of West Union is an eligible project. Project activities which can be funded with RLF funds include, but are not limited to: land acquisition, site preparation, building acquisition, building construction, building remodeling, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, and working capital for business start-up and expansion activities.

West Union Main Street Chamber Revolving Loan Fund

Purpose: The West Union Main Street Chamber Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) funds are available to provide financial assistance to start-ups or expansions to small businesses in West Union.

Eligible Projects: The creation of jobs is a fundamental consideration. Applicants eligible for RLF funds include, but are not limited to, individuals, partnerships, businesses, corporations, and non-profit organizations. Municipalities and county governments are ineligible applicants.

Featured Volunteer: Zach Smith

This month, we're proud to recognize Zach Smith for his outstanding contributions to the West Union Main Street Chamber and community!

Zach moved to West Union in 2018 with his wife, Kari, and they have since grown their family with three daughters. As the pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church located off the Ossian blacktop, Zach is dedicated to serving his congregation and sharing his faith.

Beyond his pastoral role, Zach has generously given his time to several organizations in West Union:

West Union Parks & Rec: Zach has helped coach and umpire baseball, fostering a love of the game and supporting the personal growth of young athletes.  

Open Hands Food Pantry: For the past four years, Zach has volunteered at the food pantry and now serves as the chairman of the board. He is passionate about providing support to families in need within the community.

West Union Main Street Chamber: Zach has been a dedicated volunteer for the past three years, starting with the Promotions Committee and now serving as a member of the Board. He is deeply appreciative of the Chamber's work in supporting local businesses and strengthening the community.

Zach's commitment to service and his passion for West Union make him a truly valued member of our community. We extend our sincere gratitude for his dedication!

Get Involved

Join the Promotion Committee and Create Memorable Experiences in West Union!

Do you want to be part of the excitement that brings our community together? The West Union Main Street Chamber is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our Promotion Committee, led by chair Zach Smith!

The Promotion Committee plays a key role in re-establishing West Union as a vibrant place for everyone. This involves:

• Sparking community excitement and involvement.

• Organizing and executing popular events.

• Promoting local businesses.

• Creating a positive image of West Union.

Key Events:

The Promotion Committee coordinates a variety of beloved community events, including:

• Trunk or Treat: A safe and fun Halloween event for families, bringing together businesses and community members for trick-or-treating and games.

• Miracle on Vine Street: A magical holiday shopping experience featuring unique gifts, Santa Claus, cookie decorating, a toy drive, hayrides, live music, and community spirit.

• Playin' on the Plaza Music Series: (As previously mentioned)

• West Union Block Party: (As previously mentioned)

• Miss West Union Program: A program that selects a community ambassador and awards a college scholarship.

Volunteer Opportunities:

We need help with various tasks related to these events, such as:

• Event planning and organization.

• Event setup and execution.

• Marketing and promotion (social media, flyers, etc.).

• Securing sponsorships.

• Logistics and coordination.

• Working directly with the community during events.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Make a direct impact on West Union's vibrancy and community spirit.

• Meet new people and connect with residents and business owners.

• Gain valuable experience in event planning, marketing, and community engagement.

• Contribute your skills and talents to a fun and rewarding cause.

• Be a part of creating cherished memories for families and individuals.

• Work alongside dedicated community members like Zach Smith to make a difference.

Meeting Information:

The Promotion Committee meets monthly on the second Wednesday from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM.

Get Involved!

If you're passionate about West Union and want to help make our community even better, please contact the West Union Main Street Chamber office to learn more about volunteering with the Promotion Committee. We'd love to have you on board!