Despite an economy that has bred cautious investment trends, the owners of Meissenburg Designs decided now is the time to build for growth.

Last Thursday, the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee advised Flathead County to approve the Meissenburgs' request for a conditional use permit to expand two existing lots along Hwy 35 just south of the Hwy 83 intersection.

“It's nice to see someone is expanding their business,” said BLUAC chairman Shelley Gonzales.

Laura and Lloyd Meissenburg have operated their sign factory at that location since the 1980's. Laura Meissenburg said over the years the business has morphed from making outdoor signs for businesses to focusing on making specially-made vintage and metal signs.

It's a niche that Meissenburg Designs fills well.

And business is good enough that they want to make their shop bigger by 2,525 feet and add storage facilities on both lots.  

Their customer base consists of 1,700 restaurants, stores, and other outlets. She said as of late, bigger potential clients have contacted them and asked for orders the business can't fill because of capacity issues.

With a larger facility, the company would be able to fill the demands of larger customers.

She attributes the increase in demand to a new-found American consumer who recognizes the affect their consumption decisions have on American factories and jobs.

“Because of this new interest in "American-Made", we are seeing more companies consciously choosing to do business in America,” Meissenburg said.

As the economy continues it's slow climb, the couple is counting on seeing business expand even more and the addition of new employees in the future.

“Growth during slow economic times has been a difficult decision,” she said.

The application is set to go before the County Board of Adjustments on Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. Any comments about the application should be submitted to the Flathead County Planning and Zoning office by 5 p.m. that day.

The next BLUAC meeting will be at the Bethany Lutheran Church, Feb. 23 at 4 p.m.