HANCOCK, Mich. (WZMQ) – It has been over a year since Finlandia University announced it was closing, the move impacted the town of Hancock both economically and emotionally.
When Finlandia University announced it would be ceasing operations 115 employees of the university, including teachers and support staff, were left facing unemployment. In the year since the entire staff was laid off the town of Hancock has rallied to provide opportunities for nearly every single one of those affected.
“Michigan tech had quite a few openings and a lot of local businesses that have really grown in the area, so we were fortunate for that,” remarked Mary Babcock, the Hancock City Manager.
The effects of the closure are being felt by more than just those who were employed by the school. Local businesses have noticed the absence of 300+ students and their families visiting.
“Definitely the loss of the student population and their opponents for sports teams, the traveling, that definitely you can see a little bit in the motels and the restaurants,” added Babcock.
Left behind in Hancock are empty buildings, from dorm halls to fitness centers. All but two have been either sold to private owners or have a plan in place for redevelopment.
“We still have Paavo Nurmi and Finn Hall, both are in the process of going back to their banks which have mortgages on them,” commented Babcock.
The former Juulita center, now rebranded as the Skyline Commons was purchased by Moyle Development, the company plans to renovate and invest in the building which houses business suites and a cafe.
“I think long term we are thinking potentially residential, but that will all develop as we find potential tenants and people who are interested in the building, and where that may lead,” remarked Steve Aho, the Facility Manager at the Building.
According to the Hancock City Manager the full effects of the college’s closure are difficult to judge because of the mild winter. She is hopeful the town will continue to find creative solutions as they look to the future.
