Downtown Development Authority Minutes

Downtown Steering Committee Chair Joan Wadsworth reviewed the Council meeting of May 2^nd. A Request For Proposal (RFP) was approved by Council for the services of a strategic planner. The cost for the strategic plan is expected to be between $50,000 and $100,000 which will be paid by a budget amendment of the City Council. Responses to the RFP will be due by June 13, 2005. A committee, consisting of the City Manager, DDA Director, Chamber Director, and Downtown Steering Committee Chair, will review the proposals and recommend three or four of the proposals for interviews by City Council.

In discussing the assignments given to the DDA by the Downtown Northville Steering Committee Final Report, it was determined that the first assignment of maintaining a small town ambiance would need input and direction from the strategic planner. The second task of analyzing long-term parking needs could begin with conducting an inventory of the parking requirements for existing uses in the downtown. It was suggested a college intern would do the inventory.

Assignments where the DDA could be a partner include marketing, retention and recruitment, and brand identity. Discussion ensued regarding the coordinating of efforts with the NCBA and Chamber to market the downtown. It was stated further discussion on this topic will take place at the next DDA meeting.

With respect to recruitment and retention, it was mentioned that there appears to be no clear statement of what constitutes a viable policy of recruitment and retention. Discussion ensued on the limitations the DDA has in retaining a current business, and possible direct interventions the DDA could pursue in recruiting a specific business mix for the downtown. A key element in successful recruitment is the establishment of a "brand" image for Northville downtown….what are we and what do we want to be? Recent recruitment efforts have shown that a more successful strategy would be to aim for successful independent business owners with proven business skills and a viable merchandising niche.

The Arts Commission has received an offer of sponsorship by an unnamed car dealership for the 2005 clock concert series. The Arts Commission is seeking reassurance that, despite this new financial development, the DDA will still contribute the FY 05-06 earmarked funds to the Arts Commission. The consensus of the DDA was to continue to support the Arts Commission with the designated funds.

A letter from Ron Bodnar of Copy Boy Printers was distributed regarding his objection to the sculpture being proposed for the Main-Hutton park. He also suggested the formation of a DDA advisory board. Director Ward will follow up with discussions with the NCBA and Mr. Bodnar.

The Personnel Committee of the City Council has been directed to interview potential candidates to add two new members to the DDA board that have property interests in the downtown. Election of DDA board officers will take place when there is a full board.

There were no questions regarding the DDA April budget report.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Carol T. Kasprowicz
Recording Secretary