Lackey’s project gets state credits

The grant came through the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development.

Graham Mink, a Stowe native, bought the store at 109 Main St. last year from Frank Lackey, the original owner of the store, which was a downtown landmark for more than 60 years before it closed in 2014.

Mink said he appreciates the tax benefits, which will help him replace the building’s sprinkler system in the building and finish a new staircase.

Many of the upper-floor apartments still need some finishing touches, one apartment still has a lot of work left, and the exterior needs some siding.

The state money will help him accomplish that.

“It’s a tremendous help,” he said. “I’m really appreciative of the state of Vermont for offering benefits like this.”

Gov. Peter Shumlin announced the allocation of $2.25 million of tax credits for projects across the state. He made the announcement in front of an 84-room hotel under construction in downtown St. Albans, which received more than $460,000 for three downtown revitalization projects.

“I am proud that my administration was able to play an important role in supporting downtown revitalization — fixing up old buildings, moving state offices to downtowns,” Shumlin said. “And offering support for these hotels that allow visitors to stay longer, spend more money and enjoy all that Vermont’s downtowns have to offer.”