Downtown Development Authority Meeting - 2024-06-12

Detailed briefing

Downtown Development Authority — June 12, 2024 ATTENDEES: Matt, Rocky, Margaret, Dodie, Sarah, Todd, Nikki and Gail were marked present during roll call. • The DDA approved moving forward with the first phase of the merchants walkway using plain concrete. The adopted motion calls for attempting to repair the retaining wall and replacing it if it is not repairable. The motion passed, and the amount identified for a City Council budget amendment was $125,477. • The walkway decision carries an unresolved property issue. During public comment, a property owner said one of the two walls behind the buildings is privately owned, that the owners would handle it themselves and that a license allowing the city to improve the grounds had been revoked. The board proceeded with the vote without resolving which wall is covered or whether access remains authorized. • The contractor advised that the wall showed wear but was not visibly failing and suggested drainage improvements could address the freeze-thaw problem. The approved repair-first motion leaves details to be clarified as the project advances. Work had previously been described as beginning after Labor Day and finishing around the first week of November, subject to the budget amendment and project arrangements. • No decision was made on outdoor merchandise displays or window signage. Members discussed preserving a clear pedestrian path, distinguishing between displays on private property and public sidewalks, and avoiding situations that force pedestrians into the street. The current working standard discussed was a six-foot clear path where applicable and displays near storefronts, but future language remains under review. • Planning staff asked the DDA to provide recommendations on outdoor displays later in the summer. Window-sign rules are also being revised, with 15% glass coverage described only as a placeholder. Any final percentage would need to apply equally across business types. The Enhancement Committee can continue the discussion before the August DDA meeting. • Third Street lighting has been delayed because the contractor is unavailable. Installation is now on the schedule for the week of September 9, and the existing twinkle lights will remain until then. Wayfinding signs will not be removed this summer; painting and on-site repairs may occur as the contractor is available. Worth watching: 1. Whether City Council approves the merchants walkway budget amendment. 2. How the DDA resolves wall ownership, access and the revoked-license claim before construction. 3. Whether summer observations produce enforceable recommendations for displays, signs and pedestrian clearance. Upcoming: Night of the Arts is June 25 from 5:30–8:30 p.m.; no regular DDA meeting is planned for July, with the next meeting expected in August. Why it matters: The walkway investment and pending storefront rules will shape downtown access, appearance and public spending.

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