Local business development experiences resurgence

MAYFIELD, Ky. — A new local business, Barkin’ Barber Pet Grooming, will open in Mayfield soon. According to Graves County Economic Development President Jason Lemle, the opening is part of a larger resurgence in local business development since the December 2021 tornado.

Lemle highlighted the immediate impact of the disaster, saying “hundreds of companies” were displaced. In addition to the business owners and employees who were adversely affected, he said that the community lost tax revenue.

However, Lemle said these businesses have since relocated to other areas of Mayfield and Graves County. He said GCED has “ongoing plans” for the revitalization of downtown Mayfield, including purchase and acquisition of real property through the Industrial Authority of Mayfield-Graves County.

In the interim, the agency is in “constant conversation” with new and existing companies about other location opportunities.

Lemle said recent data indicates that the economy is growing and in a promising state of recovery.

Mayfield-Graves County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Katie McCord characterized local businesses as vital to the community and stimulating the economy. While fostering new development, she said the chamber holds a responsibility to offer a support system for local businesses, especially those negatively struck by the tornado, to rebound and flourish.

Barkin’ Barber owner Ethan Couch said he hopes to make a splash in the business sphere while being a member of its collaborative network. He said that a lifelong passion for animals inspired him to start a dog grooming business in his hometown.

Couch explained that he initially studied at Murray State to become a veterinarian, but it “didn’t work out.” He dropped out of college and worked in construction for two years, though he found it unfulfilling.

He said his background in pet ownership, veterinary science and online grooming classes from Penn Foster led him on this two-year trajectory from uncertainty in life to a long-term shop and home in Mayfield.

Couch noted that Barkin’ Barber will hopefully unify the community under a shared love of their furry friends. He said that his business is not intent on trumping the competition, but rather working with them closely to best serve the community.

Will Spencer is a reporter for the Mayfield Messenger. To read the full article, visit mayfield-messenger.com.

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