Door County Community Foundation Purchases Nicolet Bank Building

The Door County Community Foundation announced it has purchased the former Baylake Conference Center and Clock Tower property from Nicolet National Bank. “Downtown Sturgeon Bay has had some rough news in recent months,” said Bret Bicoy, president and CEO of the Door County Community Foundation. “Yet we strongly believe that Door County’s largest downtown district has a bright future and we want to be a part of it.”

The Community Foundation will move its offices into roughly half the building and configure the remainder of it as a gathering and meeting space for other charities and community groups. “We envision everything from Girl Scout troops to nonprofit boards using the community space,” said Bicoy. “We’re investing in technology which will allow the community to safely use the building after regular business hours and on weekends. We hope to create a true gathering place for the people of Door County.”

The Clock Tower and surrounding grassy area is also included in the purchase. Hence, the Community Foundation is pleased to announce its commitment to continue to host an annual Christmas tree lighting celebration. “Sturgeon Bay Utilities has been a very generous partner in supporting this annual Christmas tradition,” said Bicoy. “We’re honored to be able to work with them to continue this holiday celebration.”

“We also want to express our gratitude to Nicolet National Bank for selling the Community Foundation this property at such a reasonable and fair price,” said Bicoy. “We hope to continue the bank’s tradition of opening up this facility to the community for the benefit of Sturgeon Bay and all of Door County.”