Waterstreet Financial & Firelands Federal Credit Union
Investing in downtown Sandusky's historical buildings
Located at 300 East Water Street in downtown Sandusky, Waterstreet Financial has more than just a Bay view. Their "view" is each one of their clients and their unique financial needs.  Waterstreet Financial is a full service, independent financial planning firm that provides a personalized financial plan based on clients' goals, time frame, and tolerance for volatility.  We are a “holistic financial planning firm” says Dustin Ness, Managing Partner at Waterstreet Financial. By offering sound, objective-based advice they provide applicable solutions for each of their client’s individual needs.  Through their partnership with Raymond James Financial Services, Waterstreet Financial provides clients with the right combination of financial services, support, and guidance in their pursuit of personal financial goals.   
In September 2019, Waterstreet Financial opened their doors. The office building, which was completely gutted during renovation, still has the original interior brick walls - one of the amazing features that makes the building so appealing.  It’s easy to see why the waterfront building was a great location, but Dustin says they also chose downtown Sandusky because they wanted to be a part of the “Renaissance” of Sandusky.  Many of downtown Sandusky's historic buildings are being redeveloped into modern spaces, perfect for local businesses, restaurants, and residences alike.  Waterstreet Financial is currently renovating 3 additional offices within the building with plans for continued growth.
Fast Facts
  • A combined total of $1 million dollars invested and 11 jobs created between Waterstreet Financial and Firelands Federal Credit Union
  • WSF employees have a combined total of 90 years experience in the financial industry
  • Firelands Federal Credit Union presently serves over 35,000 members
  • 110 Credit Union employees donated $21,550 plus a match from the company gave a total of $43,100 to United Way of Erie County
Like Waterstreet Financial, Firelands Federal Credit Union chose to open their sixth branch location in downtown Sandusky exactly one year later, in September 2020, because of the development and opportunities they saw.  New restaurants plus new businesses and new residential areas, combined with a new school (BGSU/Cedar Fair) creates a formula for growth and expansion.  Firelands Federal Credit Union focuses on helping the community and small businesses in the region by offering higher earnings on savings, lower rates on loans, and a wide range of related financial services at the lowest possible cost.  Nestled between Small City Tap House and the Columbus Ave. Lofts, at 236 Columbus Ave., this is Firelands Credit Union’s first branch in Erie County – welcome! 
After looking at six or seven spaces downtown, Brett Montague, President of Firelands Federal Credit Union, said he “couldn’t pass up” being next to City Hall and new businesses downtown. In renovating an old, run down building, there were a lot of obstacles. The finished product came out better than expected, says Brett. His favorite part of the new location is a huge skylight that is above a back office (see picture below).  
Skylight located in the new Firelands Federal Credit Union branch back office
Firelands Federal Credit Union's new lobby
Both Waterstreet Financial and Firelands Federal Credit Union are deeply involved in the community. From partnering with local restaurants like Cameo Pizza, Sweet Potato Catering, and Doughin’ Crazy to donate yummy treats and meals to healthcare and frontline workers, to matching employee donations to local non-profits, they realize the importance of supporting their community and neighboring businesses.  Likewise, they both contracted local companies for their renovation needs - Hoty Enterprises, Janotta & Herner and Brady Signs, to name a few!  
Did You Know?
Opening up a new location comes with a "laundry list" of to-dos. Aside from the management of the actual business, business leaders must now become experts in real estate, renovation, and capital investment. ECEDC is here to help shorten that learning curve. We make critical connections and provide direct business advising to make sure your new space and new build meet and your needs and fit your business model. Contact us to learn more.
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The 12 Days of Development email series recognizes and celebrates another year of progress in Erie County, Ohio. December 12th - 23rd, you will receive a email spotlight on a company investing, improving and innovating in our community. We can't capture it all, so let us know a neighbor we missed or what activities you've got planned to make the 2021 list! #ErieCounty12Days