Main Street lighting gets big boost

Cherokee's downtown lighting project received a major lift this week as Cherokee State Bank committed $25,000 and North Star Community Credit Union contributed $20,000, marking two of the largest gifts to date.

The unified support from these cornerstone financial institutions has helped  transform the lighting project from an ambitious idea into a community-driven movement backed by economic leaders who see long-term value in lighting up the heart of Cherokee’s business corridor.

Cherokee State Bank President Curt Johnson underscored the deep connection between Main Street’s vitality and the community’s future.

“Our community's success is fundamentally tied to the economic vitality and resilience of our downtown. This project reinforces our century-old philosophy of supporting initiatives plus preserving and enhancing the community character and infrastructure of Cherokee.”

Johnson’s remarks frame the lighting project as a continuation of the bank’s long tradition of community stewardship and investment in Cherokee.

North Star Community Credit Union echoed that commitment, highlighting the projects ability to elevate pride, strengthen connection, and create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

“The Cherokee Main Street lighting project will add something special to our downtown and create an inviting place for residents and visitors to enjoy,” said Amber Pearson, NSCC Marketing Manager. “Projects like this help create pride in the place we call home, and we’re proud to contribute to making this vision a reality. We look forward to seeing the lights become a part of Cherokee for years to come.”

Pearson added, “Our staff and members are grateful for opportunities like the lighting project to show our appreciation for the communities we serve. We see so many people and organizations working to make a difference, and we're proud to contribute alongside them. Supporting this project brings people together and will have a lasting impact which we truly value.”

Residents and businesses wishing to join the fundraising effort can make tax-deductible donations by writing checks out to the Cherokee Community Foundation (Lighting Project) and dropping off checks at City Hall or sending them to Cherokee City Hall, 416 W. Main St., Cherokee, IA 51012 (attn. Sara Lucas).

The goal for the project, which will feature permanent lighting stretching across East and West Main Street is $100,000. Supporters are pleased to be nearly halfway there.

“Obviously, we’re so grateful to Cherokee State Bank and North Star Community Credit Union for their generous donations,” said fundraising coordinator Denny Holton. “They have stepped up big and we hope others will join the effort. We're waiting to hear back from others in our business community and we're hopeful this jump start will get folks excited and help take us to the finish line.”

Cherokee City Hall employees will be charting donations as they come in and all donors will be recognized on a sign as completion of the project nears.