Downtown Development Authority Meeting — 2025-11-12

Detailed briefing

Downtown Development Authority Meeting — November 12, 2025 • The DDA approved its 2026 budget. The proposed budget projects about $268,025 in revenue and $255,500 in expenditures, leaving a cushion without using fund balance. Staff said preserving the fund balance is important because larger downtown projects are anticipated in coming years. • Major budget items discussed included $18,000 for social media, $20,000 for Main Street streetscape consulting, maintenance funding for sidewalks, lighting and downtown fixtures, and a proposed $15,000 general-fund contribution toward lamppost painting. Members supported retaining flexibility in maintenance accounts because unexpected repairs can arise during the year. • The board approved an annual sidewalk-sales schedule: the second Friday and Saturday of August. Members said earlier August timing may better serve merchants because attendance has reportedly declined when the event is held later in the month. • Ice Fest planning is underway, with organizers considering February 6-8. The committee is exploring ways to bring more activity onto Main Street and is discussing a longer-term path toward a certified competitive ice-carving event. The board was told the event budget anticipates about $20,000 in sponsorship revenue and roughly $6,000 in DDA support. • Promotions Committee members reported informal feedback from downtown retailers that summer traffic and sales were generally stronger than in 2024, though several businesses reported weaker results or were still refining their business model. Members also cited examples of retailer interest in social-media marketing after an influencer’s visits generated customer attention. • Santa’s Workshop is being prepared in the Trevor Furbay building, with a Santa chair, rocking horse, tree, letters-to-Santa mailbox, Toys for Tots drop-off, and other activities planned. Santa is scheduled for December 12 from 4-8 p.m., December 13 from 9 a.m.-noon, and December 20 from 9 a.m.-noon. Worth watching: • Staff will seek information on the removal of trees near the Shay House after members said the work occurred in the DDA area without their awareness. • The Enhancement Committee plans to return in December with more developed lamppost color options and a possible public survey approach. • Damaged or exposed Spectrum and AT&T utility equipment remains unresolved; members said follow-up has been difficult. Upcoming: Small Business Saturday and the Christmas tree lighting are November 29; the merchant open house is December 6. Why it matters: The DDA’s approved budget and event plans shape downtown maintenance, business promotion, seasonal activity, and preparation for larger streetscape investments.

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