#US #Winchester #Ziegler #Shenandoah Valley #Westminster-Canterbury

Ziegler's Milestone Financing for Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury

Ziegler, a prominent investment banking firm, has recently celebrated the successful closing of $16,469,896 in Series 2025 Bonds for the Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury (SVWC). This achievement underscores the organization's strategic vision and commitment to growth in providing senior living services.

About Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury

Located in Winchester, Virginia, SVWC is a not-for-profit entity that operates a life plan community founded in 1982. The campus, sprawling over 87 acres, provides a range of accommodation and care services that include 311 independent living units (comprising apartments and cottages), 48 assisted living units, 12 memory care units, and 51 skilled nursing beds. Recently, SVWC successfully completed a significant two-phase expansion project that added 97 independent living apartments to its offerings.

The facility's forward-thinking strategy was further showcased when SVWC pursued the acquisition of an adjoining 90 acres of undeveloped land, signaling its intent to explore future development opportunities. This move presents a solid foundation for SVWC to initiate new projects that can help cater to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Financing Acquisition

To facilitate the purchase of this land, SVWC opted to issue the Series 2025 Direct Bank Bond, with financing arrangements made through Atlantic Union Bank. The bond comes with an 8-year commitment period, designed to align financially with SVWC's existing debt structures. In addition to securing funds for the land acquisition, Ziegler collaborated with SVWC’s current lenders to optimize the credit spread and adjust the amortization on their previous Series 2023A bonds. This strategic financial maneuvering aims to alleviate short-term debt servicing pressures for the organization, allowing it to focus on future growth without the burden of excessive financial strain.

Leadership Perspectives

Duane Wernecke, SVWC’s Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the vital role that Ziegler played in this journey. He noted how Ziegler’s guidance has empowered the SVWC leadership team to navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape confidently. “Thanks to our long-standing partnership with Ziegler—especially the efforts of Tad Melton and the Mid-Atlantic Team—we can strategically position ourselves amid the challenges faced by single-site providers,” he stated.

On his part, Tad Melton, Managing Director at Ziegler, highlighted SVWC’s persistent dedication to growth through intelligent long-term planning. “Over the past two decades of our partnership, we’ve seen SVWC’s careful planning manifest in visible growth, from expanding independent living spaces to improving healthcare facilities. Their recent land purchase illustrates a clear commitment to future enhancements that will undoubtedly solidify their position as a leader among life plan communities,” he remarked.

Commitment to the Future

Ziegler’s role as a premier underwriter for not-for-profit senior living providers has been paramount in exploring creative financial strategies to meet the unique challenges of this sector. The firm excels in offering tailored solutions, ranging from investment banking and financial risk management to merger and acquisition services. Their expertise not only elevates their clients’ financial standing but also plays a crucial part in ensuring long-term sustainability in a competitive landscape.

As the senior living sector continues to evolve, the successful execution of this financing deal marks a significant chapter for Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury. With Ziegler’s partnership, SVWC stands poised to embrace future growth opportunities while continuing to prioritize the welfare of its residents.

For further details regarding Ziegler and their range of services, visit www.ziegler.com.