Downtown Development Authority Minutes

Absent: Lynda Heaton

Also Present: City Manager Gary Word, DDA Director Lori Ward, DPW Director Jim Gallogly, Police Chief Jim Petres, School Board President Joan Wadsworth, Arts Commission Chairman Ken Naigus, City Intern Tom Gromek.

Approval of Minutes: There being no additions or corrections, the minutes of the following meetings were approved:

- Special Meeting of May 24, 2004

- Special Meeting of June 1, 2004

- Regular Meeting of June 15, 2004

- Special Meeting of June 29, 2004

Arts Commission Chairman Ken Naigus presented seven models that artists had submitted in competition for a sculpture to be placed in the Hutton Park, located on Main and Hutton Streets. After explaining each model and reading the artist’s explanation of the work, DDA members voted their #1, #2, and #3 choices. Naigus explained that further input would be sought from City Council, merchants, a major contributor; and the public before a final decision would be made.

Director Ward stated that all but one of the parking management recommendations were adopted by the City Council at its July 6, 2004 meeting. The recommendation to change the on-street parking time limit from two hours to one hour was rejected. A letter will be sent to business owners and employees regarding the adopted changes. The changes are expected to be in force by August 1^st.

A discussion arose regarding the private parking spaces found in the Marquis lot. It was explained that the private parking spaces have been treated as part of the public lot when it pertains to snow plowing and maintenance. Objections have been raised by customers/ employees to being ticketed for being parked longer than three hours in one spot. It was suggested that the owners of the private spaces be contacted regarding this subject. Possible solutions include a formal agreement that will allow the private spaces to be treated as public spaces with the same maintenance and restrictions, or the obtaining of easements to enable the City to proceed. Ward was directed to supply a survey map which would differentiate private and public parking spaces. She was also encouraged to engage in preliminary discussions with the business owners.

City Manager Word and Director Ward met recently with Mike Kahm of Singh Development, owners and developers of MainCentre. The discussion centered on the possible use by the public at large of the gated lower level of the parking deck behind MainCentre. It is possible that up to 50 spaces might be available at a fee of $10/mo. per space. Kahm will be conducting a survey of how many spaces are available beyond what is needed for the MainCentre residents. The results of the survey are expected within 30-45 days.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:55 a.m.

The next meeting is scheduled for August 17, 2004.

Respectfully submitted,