WOODRUFF, Wis. – Bill Sennholz doesn’t resemble the late Jimmy Stewart, who ran the fictional Bailey Bros. Building and Loan Association in the 1946 film classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Nor is the Forward Bank chain led by Sennholz in northern Wisconsin on the cusp of bankruptcy like George Bailey’s beleaguered lender.In fact, it’s the opposite for Forward Bank and its 15 locations because – a bit like Stewart’s movie character – Sennholz and team understand that investing wisely in the future of small towns and rural communities can pay back over time.
“Our motto is moving our communities forward and we really do it. We’re putting our money where our mouths are,” Sennholz said in a recent interview.
The strategy for doing so is embodied in what Sennholz calls “three and a
half points” that can keep small towns alive, even vibrant, as
depopulation threatens. Surprisingly, creating more jobs isn’t among
those points.
“Jobs are not the problem. There are lots of employers here who can and
will offer jobs,” Sennholz said. “In every community we’re in, it’s much
more about housing availability and affordability.”...
...moreKen Notes: Rural housing may be a larger problem than urban issues. We need to look at the new tools from Wisconsin to address this issue. We also need vision and leadership to use these tools effectively.
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- - Volume: 26 - WEEK: 31 Date: 7/27/2026 4:32:42 PM -