About Hornell HPG

Hornell Partners for Growth (HPG) was established as a Business Improvement District (BID) in 1997.  A Business Improvement District is a public/private partnership between property and business owners who contribute to the beautification, maintenance, development and promotion of the city and local businesses.  Hornell Partners for Growth was created with a mission to "lead the city's efforts in support of local merchants with their pursuit to improve business climate and customer satisfaction." 

HPG is 100% committed to supporting area merchants through consultative relationships with local and county governments as well as local commerce organizations and new merchants. HPG provides a wide range of services geared to ensure that community merchants may enhance sales and help customers have an enjoyable shopping experience within the city of Hornell.

March of 2009 marks 13 successful years for Hornell Partners for Growth, BID. Since its inception, we have continued to accomplish the goals set forth by the HPG directors. We will persist in our leadership role among the community by articulating strategic alternatives, coordinating special events and coordinating plans to enhance the beautification of our city.

The HPG Dollar Program continues to grow in popularity! The purchase of HPG Dollars is to enhance the community economy by keeping locally earned dollars in the Hornell economy. HPG Dollar recipients can redeem the “Dollars” at any of the 300+ businesses in the Hornell area. When patrons spend their money at a local independent business, they are choosing to reinvest in the community and contribute to a strong local economy. Supporting locally owned businesses is a choice that leads to a higher quality of life for families, friends and neighbors. The sharp, updated look of the gift check system provides immediate cash value to the merchant and allows for a more efficient system of program management. During the past year, a collaborative approach was utilized to engage personnel departments with area employers to make use of the HPG Dollar Program for gifts to employees. Alstom, Inc. and St. James Mercy Hospital, two of the Hornell area’s largest employers, have purchased and distributed HPG dollars to their employees. We are excited to report that, as of January 2010, we have processed over $450,000 of HPG dollars.

Events sponsored by HPG have a multi-tiered purpose. They provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the benefits independent businesses provide for the surrounding communities. In addition, these events also cultivate and build a customer base for local merchants for the present and future. Events like the Easter Egg Hunt, Arbor Day, Shop-O-Rama, Sidewalk Sales, July 4th Festival, Fall Festivals, 5-Hour Sale and Holiday Aglow remind the local residents and visitors, that their local businesses are involved, conscientious and care about the community that supports them.

Beautification efforts for Hornell are always a high priority. Orderly, clean and attractive streets are pleasing to residents and visitors. In return, these efforts spur economic development, improve the quality of life and enhance the customer perception in the community. HPG takes great pride in its business district and is extremely appreciative for the volunteers that have joined forces to help keep the city looking beautiful and inviting.

HPG understands that economic development is a local process. The economic growth of the district depends on the development and implementation of strategies that focus on the community’s unique strengths. HPG continues to work with the city of Hornell’s local agencies to recruit businesses that compliment the district. Outside business prospects, looking to move to the Hornell area, have extensively utilized HPG’s web site and space portfolio over the past year.

In 2009 HPG honored three area Professionals for their contributions and support with helping the Hornell community grow:

• Pete Wall, President & CEO of Universal Health Network
• Doug Gilbert, Owner of Doug's Flower Shop
• Family of Gerry Kelly for his years of commitment to the Hornell community

Honorees were chosen for their outstanding contributions, exceptional business performance, and valuable commitment to improving the quality of life in the city we call home, Hornell.

I have tremendous confidence that with each passing year, we will offer new experiences and accomplishments to help make the City of Hornell thrive. I would like to thank the HPG Board of Directors, all the HPG members, Mayor Shawn Hogan, and the Chamber of Commerce President, Jim Griffin for their past and future support.

Respectfully Submitted,

June P. Pieklo
Executive Director

    Proudly Serving as HPG Exec. Dir. Since 2000!