In 2019, the Conneaut Port Authority (CPA) acquired the former Hagstrom Auto Sales building located at
1 Welton Road in Conneaut, Ohio. This project was possible due to the CPA building a strong partnership
with the Conneaut Foundation. During discussions with the Foundation, one of the Port’s goals was to lease the building to a business that would provide recreational services to the public.The public-private partnership with the City, Conneaut Foundation, and business owner allows the CPAto provide a recreational service for the community and visitors while also meeting the demand of the tourism industry.The Port Authority released a Request for Proposal in late 2019 to find a business that would meet the tourism need and enhance economic development in this area. After review of Courtney Forbes, owner of the Conneaut Creek Float and Fly Shop, proposal and participating in many discussions, it was clear that her business was the best fit for Conneaut. This new opportunity is a catalytic project for the City’s gateway corridor.In February 2020, the Port Authority approved a lease with Conneaut Creek Float and Fly Shop owner, Courtney Fobes. Courtney brings years of experience in the canoe and kayak rental business. Fobes, Armstrong and third partner Billy Brown, all from Albion, grew up locally, and are thrilled for the opportunity to create a business out of their passions. Both Armstrong and Brown were fishing guides in Alaska for more than 10 years, and Fobes previously operated Conneaut Creek Boat Rental in Albion for five years. “I have a passion for kayaking and canoeing; it is a great way to relax and enjoy nature,” said co-owner Courtney Fobes. “This business will enable people to get on the water with family, learn about the creek and appreciate its extreme beauty and nature. “We’re honored to be located on one of the best fisheries in the Great Lakes Region,” Co-owner Dan Armstrong said. “With our experience, we’re focusing primarily on fly fishing and are excited about sharing our knowledge with people on this amazing resource. “It’s important for us to be involved and give back to the community - this is our home,” Fobes said. “We plan on doing several creek clean-ups per year and providing educational and fun events and opportunities for our neighbors.” The Conneaut Creek Float and Fly Shop offers kayak and canoe rentals on state wild and scenic river, Conneaut Creek, and in October, will open a full-service fly fishing supply shop. The shop opened for business on May 23, 2020 and plans to provide services year round. Fobes said they will offer several different kayak/canoe trips ranging from one-hour to all day floats. Fishing float packages will be offered at a later date.

The Civic Development Corporation of Ashtabula County (CDC) awarded The Conneaut Port Authority with a grant earlier this year. This funding will be used for the exterior renovations on the Welton Road building. The Port Authority is in the process of renovating the building by making interior and exterior improvements including new water and sewer lines, new bathrooms and signage to name a few. The Civic Development Corporation of Ashtabula County (CDC) funding has helped us move forward with this project. . The CDC has been around since 1959 and only fundraise every 5 years. All the money they raise here stays here in Ashtabula County. The funding campaign for 2020 is underway and we need your help. The CDC been busy fundraising not only for our project, but for 14 other very worthwhile projects. We are grateful for their continued support of our county. All the projects they support are around for several generations and you can see, touch, and feel your gift when you donate to them.The CDC Challenge relay is designed for all to see the greatness Ashtabula County has to offer! Check out all the CDC places you can go and activities you can still enjoy this summer with your family!We need to help them finish their fundraising efforts. They are 73% complete, and The Conneaut Port Authority would like to deliver this extra push to help them with their efforts! Please help CDC, by helpi helping them you ,are helping us in a huge way. Thank you!