The previous building owners were running an illegal marijuana grow operation out of the basement. As a result the electrical and plumbing were wired differently adding an additional speed bump for the Herrera’s.

“When I originally bought [the building], I actually had to sign a bunch of agreements agreeing to change out all the electrical, all the plumbing,” Herrera said. “Beside the shell of the building and some inside framing, it’s essentially going to be a brand new building.”

Herrrera has applied for the Downtown Façade, Revitalization and Accessibility Grant Program. This grant program has been put in place for entrepreneurs just like Herrera. The goal of the grant is to provide business owners, new and established, with a bit of a financial cushion to help aid in the revitalization of downtown. City Manager Marc Mondell is keen on making sure the private sector is on board with the city’s downtown rehabilitation plan.

Mondell plans to provide the private sector with a plan for the future to allow them to realize this will work. Currently there are several moving pieces, but the city is looking to lay the foundation. He wants the community to remain focused, confident and committed.

“People need to remain positive and focused and we need to stick to the plan,” Mondell said. “If we stick to the plan and the direction in the path, we will have positive results. If we don’t, then those things could be in jeopardy.”

In addition to Tap 78, Matt Taylor will have an office space in the building for his business Next Level Grips. Currently Taylor operates his business remotely.

“He will be putting in a green screen and a virtual golf deal where you can go in and try new golf heads and he can custom make you golf sets, golf fittings, golf grips,” Herrera said. “You can do that all from this location.”