SEEC's Main Street Matters Series Continues to Connect Schoharie County Property Owners with Statewide Preservation and Design Experts; Final Session Scheduled for September
SCHOHARIE COUNTY, NY | July 2026 — The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC) has successfully completed the second installment of its Main Street Matters educational series, continuing its mission to connect Schoharie County property owners with leading preservation, architecture, and downtown revitalization professionals from across New York State.
“Strong Main Streets don't happen by accident. They are built through thoughtful collaboration and informed investment,” remarked, Julie Pacatte, Executive Director of SEEC and host to the Main Street Matters series.
The three-part virtual workshop series was created to provide practical guidance for owners of commercial and mixed-use properties located within Schoharie County's historic districts. Developed in partnership with the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Preservation Studios, the series helps participants better understand how thoughtful building improvements, preservation practices, and strategic investments can strengthen both individual properties and entire downtown business districts.
The second session, held in May, focused on the principles of great design, emphasizing historic districts. Special guest Mary Barthelme joined the conversation to represent the New York Main Street Program.
Participants explored real-world case studies demonstrating how preservation-sensitive renovations, façade improvements, and adaptive reuse projects can enhance community character while increasing economic vitality. The discussion highlighted how quality design supports long-term investment, attracts visitors, creates ownership value, and preserves the unique identity of Schoharie County's Main Streets.
"One of SEEC's core goals is making expert knowledge accessible to the people who are investing in our communities every day," said Julie Pacatte, Executive Director of SEEC. "Whether someone owns a historic storefront, is considering building improvements, or simply cares about the future of their downtown, Main Street Matters provides practical tools and real examples that empower local decision making.”
The series launched in February with an introductory workshop covering Certified Local Government (CLG) programs, Historic Tax Credits, preservation resources, and available state, federal, and local funding opportunities. Intentionally selected collaborators, SHPO experts present the facts, and Preservation Studios, the facilitator of nearly 60% of all New York State Historic Tax Credit projects, gives examples showcasing a broad spectrum of success. Together, the first two sessions have provided participants with both the strategic foundation and design principles needed to pursue successful downtown revitalization projects.
The final session is scheduled for September 2026 and will focus on navigating the Historic Tax Credit and funding application process. Participants will receive practical guidance on preparing competitive applications, understanding eligibility requirements, and leveraging available financial incentives for renovation to preservation projects.
Property owners, business owners, municipal leaders, and community members interested in participating are encouraged to register through SEEC at www.seecny.org or contact the organization at admin@seecny.org or call (518) 517-1700 for additional information.
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About Frances Stern, Certified Local Government Statewide Coordinator and Grants & Homeownership Credits, represents the Incentives & Planning Unit of the NY State Preservation Office, which coordinates various state and federal historic preservation grant incentives and administers the Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Credit program, Traditional Building Trades programming, and the Certified Local Government (CLG) program. Additionally, the unit aids the public, municipalities, and preservation colleagues with information on preservation governance, public policy, and outreach opportunities.
About Mary Barthelme, program administrator representing the New York Main Street (NYMS) program which is administered by the Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) division of the New York State Department of State. It provides financial resources and technical assistance to strengthen the economic vitality of New York’s traditional Main Streets and neighborhoods.
About Mike Puma, partner at Preservation Studios, works directly with developers and architects to formulate comprehensive rehabilitation plans that conform to the Department of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. He joined Preservation Studios in 2011, became a partner at the company in 2013, and holds a B.A in Environmental Design with a minor in Architecture from the University of Buffalo.
About Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC)
Founded by private sector leaders, SEEC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening Schoharie County by fostering economic growth. SEEC serves as a liaison between businesses, local municipalities, and institutional leaders to highlight opportunities, support entrepreneurship, add value to enterprises, and make direct investments that shape more desirable communities. SEEC's vision is to unite legacy-minded investors, bold entrepreneurs, and forward-thinking leaders who will unlock Schoharie County's untapped potential, drive sustainable economic growth, and create lasting community impact.