Downtown Development Authority Meeting - 2020-09-10

Detailed briefing

Downtown Development Authority Meeting — September 10, 2020 ATTENDEES: Roll call listed Kathy Breitner, Matt Bughera, Tim Knapp, Josh Baker, Jody Eubank, Nikki Law, Dana Mulder and Amy Gillard; Brian Badini joined later. • The DDA approved the August 13 meeting minutes. It also approved sending proposed bylaw revisions to the city attorney for review, with a final edit to membership wording. The draft changes discussed include three-year terms ending December 31, updated membership and attendance language, and staff handling secretary and treasurer responsibilities. Any further legal changes may return to the board before City Council consideration. • COVID-era downtown operations remained a central issue. Blue Ribbon Events was announced as planning an art invitational in Zorn Park that weekend, with distancing and capacity systems described. Thirty-one picnic tables formerly used downtown were moved to Harbor Springs schools for outdoor learning and dining. Members said the shade-sail installation did not hold up to weather, while the tables themselves saw substantial use. • Businesses raised concerns about crowding at the Chamber’s open house, tree lighting and Ladies Night. Several participants said their establishments could not safely accommodate the usual shoulder-to-shoulder attendance under current restrictions. Josh Baker and Nikki Law volunteered to work with Bonnie on possible changes to open house and tree-lighting plans. No final decision on those events was made. • The DDA applied for a Potocki Foundation COVID-19 grant that could reimburse downtown businesses for PPE and related expenses if awarded. Members said receipts would be required for future reimbursements. The DDA also plans to circulate information on grant opportunities and a local hand-sanitizer supplier. • Downtown enhancement work continues. The committee is reviewing tree-grate replacement, tree-lighting options, electrical costs, and how future projects will be maintained. A finance group will also prepare a City Council presentation on DDA revenues, expenses, five-year-plan projects, and future funding priorities. • Members discussed Marina Park and the harbormaster building after a grant was turned down because of state requirements. City representatives said they will begin discussions with the Harbor Commission and then Council on possible next steps. Ice Fest was also left unresolved; concerns included sponsorship uncertainty, event finances, and COVID limits on several traditional activities. Worth watching: • Whether the bylaw draft clears legal review and moves to City Council. • Whether the pending COVID-19 grant provides business reimbursement support. • Harbor Commission and Council direction on Marina Park and the harbormaster building. Upcoming: The Harbor Commission meeting was identified as October 14 at 4 p.m.; the DDA will revisit Ice Fest planning and financial issues. Why it matters: The DDA is balancing immediate business-support needs with long-term downtown projects amid uncertain event and funding conditions.

No open public follow-ups are linked to this meeting yet.