From left is Kevin Muldowney, Andy Goodell, Vince Horrigan, Jacqueline Phelps, Katie Geise, Jody Cheney, Greg Lindquist and Cheryl Calhoun during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Chautauqua Works Workforce Development Board location at the Signature Center, 4 E. Third St., Jamestown. Submitted photo

The Chautauqua Works Workforce Development Board cut the purple ribbon officially opening their new office location in downtown Jamestown’s newly renovated Signature Center at 4 E. Third St. on Nov. 3.

”This space is dedicated to our job seeker and business customers, our staff and our partners,” said Katie Geise, executive director of the Chautauqua Works Workforce Development Board.

More than 80 guests joined her in the celebration including County Executive Vince Horrigan; state Assemblyman Andy Goodell, R-Jamestown; Jacqueline Phelps, regional director for Congressman Tom Reed; Kevin Muldowney, community liaison for state Sen. Catharine Young, R-Olean; Jamestown Renaissance Corporation Executive Director Greg Lindquist; and many Workforce Development Board members.

”The beautiful new space was specifically designed for us by the building’s new owner, George Patti,” Geise said.

GPatti Development LLC utilized design specialist Lori Galster, director of project management and design for CJM Construction Consulting, to lead the renovation project for Patti. The mid-20th century Art Deco building was previously home to M&T Bank.

Chautauqua Works receives public funds to provide services to job seekers and businesses in Chautauqua County. Most of these services are provided free of charge to job seekers and businesses. Direct services to jobseekers include Internet access to job listings, a resource room stocked with tools including copiers, fax machines, computers and telephones. Assessments, career counseling, basic skill development and free informational workshops on job search related topics are also available. Chautauqua Works offers coordinated referrals and access to more than 50 certified training programs throughout Chautauqua County and surrounding areas. Daily, 60 to 100 customers visit the Jamestown Chautauqua Works location.

Chautauqua Works’ business customers benefit from job postings; recruitment and screening services; job fairs; business seminars; and economic development referrals. The Workforce Development Board oversees all operations and is responsible for developing strategies to ensure that the local workforce has the skills needed for local businesses to compete in the global marketplace.