Even though the Southeast is experiencing the brunt of an economic downturn, the Village of Kenosee has been busy to start the new year. 

"2017 started out very busy in our area due to the best snow we've had in some time. The number of visitors coming up to take advantage of the snow is up, which really helps our local businesses stay open for regular hours for what can be a slow time of the year for them," expressed Mayor Mark Doty. 

As for the plan in 2017, their main focus is to grow. 

"The village is working on a new development area for a number of years. It's been a slow project but it's going. Moving forward with our new development, it's going to add over thirty lots for new homes in the village. As well, we've dedicated a parcel of land to be used for either apartments or condominiums down the road."

Doty shared that they have not sold any lots as of now, but the office has been getting phone calls from individuals interested. 

"It's taken a long time to get where we're at now..."

"...but we've done all of our studies, upgraded the lines for sewer and utilities, had the area topographically mapped, and the lots are ready. We've come a long way and they're going to be really nice lots compared to the old part of the village."

Right now, visitors can expect ice fishing to be well underway. Snowmobiling has picked up significantly as well. He mentioned that in his 20 years of living in Kenosee, he hasn't seen a large amount of riders until recently. To put the icing on the cake, he shared that various winter activities have been prominent in the area.