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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 PSD Meeting MinutesPSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 14, 2006 Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney (c), David Hayhow (vc), Catherine Blumer (s) ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: i Joseph Chin, Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Vincent Villegas BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: Richard Karp, Bill Stewart OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green; Barbara Hicks; and Matt Weingarden CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Moved by D. Hayhow, Seconded by C. Blumer Motion passed unanimously. FINANCIAL REPORT: K. Green & B. Hicks presented the October, November, December financial reports. She noted that the PSD continues to be on target with regard to its finances. D. Hayhow moved that the report be placed on file. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Open Board Positions: K. McKinney explained he met with Randy Hannan from the Mayor's Office. R. Hannan stated there are an incredible number of vacancies on boards city-wide. D. Hayhow suggested Bob Trezise be appointed as the city represented to continue the relationship between the PSD and EDC. K. Green listed a series of suggestions for the two remaining seats. K. McKinney suggested instead of formally recommending folks that a meeting be set with Randy Hannan to discuss board members. CSO Update: K. Green explained the Lansing City Council has approved sale of bonds to fund the Michigan Avenue CSO project from the Sparrow area to Capitol Avenue and 2007 reopening of the 200 and 300 N. Washington Square blocks. Council did not approve beautification streetscape elements. Councilmember Kaltenbach stated City of Lansing staff did not adequately explain why these elements were necessary. Maintenance Update: K. Green explained issues still exist regarding salting and trashcan monitoring. A meeting with Kevin Johnson is scheduled for next week. K. Green talked about specific problems, but stated overall the maintenance team is doing a good job. Annual Meeting Update: K. Green stated feedback was positive. People — retailers in particular — have commented that they regretted missing the meeting. Harold Leeman observed that the number of retailers present was low. K. McKinney suggested taking extra efforts to get the retailers at the meeting in the future. Cruisin' the Gut Update: K. Green presented an expense breakdown for PSD involvement with Crusin' the Gut, along with a zip code break down of attendees. K. Green has passed most of this issue to Bob Johnson, Lansing Department of Planning & Neighborhood Development. B. Johnson has suggested shifting the car show to REO Town and holding the cruise in the evening. This compromise would allow more parts of the city to benefit, but also alleviate some of the stresses. Book Recycling Project: K. Green explained that last year a pilot law book recycling program was held last year. He hopes to expand it to all law firms. D. Hayhow moved PSD staff move forward on this project, C. Blumer supported. OLD TOWN UPDATE J. Schriner-Hooper invited all members to the OTCA Annual Meeting and explained the first Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival is coming to Old Town. The OTCA is also .hosting a Taste of Old Town type event in conjunction with the beer festival. Old Town should experience construction on the bridge in Grand River over most of the summer, but the businesses and property owners seem prepared and un -phased. DIRECTOR'S REPORT K. Green presented a written report of his activities. K. Green highlighted his participation with the Mayor's transition team as well as K. McKinney and M. Weingarden. MARKETING MANGER REPORT M. Weingarden presented a written report of his activities. M. Weingarden highlighted the PSD's participation in the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau 2006 Visitors Guide. Eleven PSD Businesses participated. OTHER BUSINESS: V. Villegas expressed enthusiasm for downtown Lansing. T. Kaltenbach asked about the downtown trolley proposal. K. Green has been K. McKinney asked about the status of the Michigan Walk of Fame. K. Green explained fundraising efforts will kick off at the end of this week, but based on previous programs, we are still on target. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Catherine Blumer PSD Board Secretary PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: March 14, 2006 Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development Kevin McKinney (c), Catherine Blumer (s), Bill Stewart ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Councilman Tim Kaltenbach BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: David Hayhow (vc), Richard Karp OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green; Barbara Hicks; and Matt Weingarden CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:13 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Moved by B. Stewart, Seconded by C. Blumer Motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Open Board Positions: K. McKinney explained he met with Randy Hannan from the Mayor's Office. R. Hannan stated there are an incredible number of vacancies on boards city-wide. D. Hayhow suggested Bob Trezise be appointed as the city representative to continue the relationship between the PSD and EDC. K. Green listed a series of suggestions for the two remaining seats. K. McKinney suggested instead of formally recommending folks that a meeting be set with Randy Hannan to discuss board members. CSO/Trolley Update: K. Green explained that the CSO project is going to kick-off this month. Work will extend from Sparrow to Capitol Avenue. He provided a general overview of traffic availability. K. Green explained he meets regularly with a group of community leaders to discuss a Trolley program from downtown Lansing to downtown East Lansing. Cruisin' the Gut Update: K. Green explained that three Cruisin' the Gut events would be happening downtown. The proposed dates are June 10, July 22 and September 23. The permit process has not been completed. City expenses are to be reimbursed by the sponsors of the event. DIRECTOR'S REPORT K. Green presented a written report of his activities. K. Green highlighted his work with X -cel Lounge & Dance Bar. He has also met with Lenny Burns, Tim Brogan and the owner of Saini's Spirits. He talked about the "Stadium District" marketing concept. He talked about work with the historic signs. MARKETING MANGER REPORT M. Weingarden presented a written report of his activities. M. Weingarden highlighted events and the possible shifting of the brown bag lunches from city hall to the lot next to the Parthenon restaurant. OTHER BUSINESS: T. Kaltenbach discussed possible change to the sign ordinance. K. Green stated that J. Chin will not be able to serve as an advisory board member due to a new job assignment. K. Green was asked to see if the person taking J. Chin's position or someone else in that office might be willing to work with the board in an advisory position. K. McKinney asked about budget — Matt & Barbara will facilitate some kind of conference call to talk about the budget. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 pm. Respectfully Submitted, �%)q Catherine Blumer PSD Board Secretary PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: May 9, 2006 Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development Kevin McKinney (c), David Hayhow (vc), Bob Trezise (t) M. Catherine Blumer (s), Richard Karp, Bill Stewart ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Vincent Villegas BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green; Barbara Hicks; and Matt Weingarden CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:04 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Moved by B. Stewart, Seconded by C. Blumer Motion passed unanimously. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks presented the January, February, & March financial reports. She noted that the PSD continues to be on target with regard to its finances. B. Hicks has shared considerable information with B. Trezise regarding the financial reports. D. Hayhow moved that the report be placed on file. DISCUSSION/ACTION: PSD Board Treasurer: B. Stewart moved that B. Trezise serve as Treasurer and C. Blumer seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously. Open Board Positions: K. Green explained he has spoken with Randy Hannan, Mayor's Deputy Chief of Staff regarding appointments. Hannan should have a slate of appointees in the near future. Budget Review: K. Green provided background on the PSD Budget approval process with Lansing City Council. The experience was positive and Council members expressed concerns with specific program areas, but overall seemed positive. B. Trezise expressed a desire to move the Lansing Economic Development Corporation and c:a Lansing Principal Shopping District offices to a new location. He has incorporated moving expenses into his current budget proposal. He has suggested the Lansing EDC pick up the full cost of buying both the PSD and EDC out of their current leases. D. Hayhow moved the PSD Board is supportive of the critical partnership with the Lansing EDC and in moving together to best serve the interest of downtown Lansing and looks forward to evaluating new office opportunities. B. Stewart seconded the motion. DIRECTOR'S REPORT K. Green presented a written report of his activities. He discussed the rally and letter to the editor he had published in the Lansing State Journal. B. Stewart explained closing was a great decision for Skyline, rather than be in the middle of that mess. K. Green has been working with a team that is creating an RFP for the Board of Water & Light Power Station. D. Hayhow has a connection to the Detroit Riverfront Design -consultant. He suggested this connection be utilized for the Grand Vision team. K. Green also has followed up on the Neon Sign museum and conversations are occurring with folks at Impression 5 Science Center. B. Stewart and D. Hayhow agreed having something visible on Washington Square would be great. K. McKinney asked about the status of the Sign Ordinance and K. Green explained he was continuing to work with city staff. K. McKinney requested the PSD Board review a draft of the ordinance. D. Hayhow asked about the opening of the 200 & 300 N. Washington Blocks and K. Green said this was on schedule and must be done for the CSO plans to occur on schedule prior to 2020. MARKETING MANGER REPORT M. Weingarden presented a written report of his activities. M. Weingarden highlighted Lansing City Market Vision session, Michigan Avenue Streetscape and LansingPSD.com. He noted regarding the Michigan Avenue Streetscape, that the Public Service Department would be covering maintenance cost for the rain garden projects. He has received considerable feedback on LansingPSD.com. D. Hayhow suggested some potential revenue opportunities may exist with the website. OTHER BUSINESS: D. Hayhow asked about the WiFi initiative and K. Green is following up with Mayor's office. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Catherine Blumer PSD Board Secretary PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES June 21, 2006 Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney, Bob Tresize, Doug Johns, Jennifer Christian, Richard Karp BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: David Hayhow ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Tim Kaltenbach, Vince Villegas = _ OTERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Barbara Hicks, Matt Weingarden' CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:35 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Moved: R. Karp, Second: B. Trezise FINANCIAL REPORT: May financial report accepted and placed on file. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Office Relocation: K. Green outlined the aspects of the new lease at the Arbaugh which includes dedicated and shared office space with the Economic Development Corporation. K. McKinney expressed concern about breaking the lease. B. Trezise commented that Gary Granger was very gracious about breaking the PSD lease. K. McKinney requested K. Green to e-mail the board bullet points regarding the lease agreement details. K. Green informed the board that he had discussed the lease situation with D. Hayhow and D. Hayhow was comfortable with the arrangements. Dumpster Alley update: The project is moving forward. The alley already looks better simply with the dumpster removed. They are presently relocated to the Washtenaw Street side of the Knapp's Building. Consumers Energy is starting their work after July 4'h, and the project will continue for approximately four months. Budget Review: K. Green suggested revisions to the Fiscal Year 05/06 budget including carry over and changes to staff salaries. Worksheet providing numbers was provided to board members as part of their board packets. K. McKinney asked whether the numbers would be sustained in the future. K. Green said they were sustainable. Motion to support revised Fiscal Year 2005/2006 budget. Moved, B. Trezise and second, R. Karp. Motion passed, all present voting aye. K. McKinney asked about beautification efforts, specifically, cost to power wash the sidewalks. A major spruce up needs to happen to enhance beautification efforts in downtown. Director's Report: Festival of the Sun. The entire PSD staff will be participating as volunteers for the Old Town Commercial Association's Festival of the Sun. Lansing received two Cool Cities awards. Efforts to create a specified Stadium District received a $100,000 grant while the OTCA received a Michigan Mainstreet designation. The OTCA has created an Octoberfest event. The Director's Report was submitted to the board in writing. Marketing Manager Report: Vision Creative is working the new PSD website. A copy of the marketing report was provided to board members. CSO project: The Michigan Avenue project is moving forward. It will take several months to complete. K. McKinney officially welcomed D. Johns and J. Christian as new PSD Board members. The meeting was adjourned at 6:15. Respectfully Submitted Barbara Hicks PSD Executive Assistant PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES May 9, 2006 Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney (c), David Hayhow (vc), Bob Trezise (t) M. Catherine Blumer (s), Richard Karp, Bill Stewart ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Vincent Villegas BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green; Barbara Hicks; and Matt Weingarden CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:04 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Moved by B. Stewart, Seconded by C. Blumer Motion passed unanimously. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks presented the January, February, & March financial reports. She noted that the PSD continues to be on target with regard to its finances. B. Hicks has shared considerable information with B. Trezise regarding the financial reports. D. Hayhow moved that the report be placed on file. DISCUSSION/ACTION: PSD Board Treasurer: B. Stewart moved that B. Trezise serve as Treasurer and C. Blumer seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously. Open Board Positions: K. Green explained he has spoken with Randy Hannan, Mayor's Deputy Chief of Staff regarding appointments. Hannan should have a slate of appointees in the near future. Budget Review: K. Green provided background on the PSD Budget approval process with Lansing City Council. The experience was positive and Council members expressed concerns with specific program areas, but overall seemed positive. B. Trezise expressed a desire to move the Lansing Economic Development Corporation and Lansing Principal Shopping District offices to a new location. He has incorporated moving expenses into his current budget proposal. He has suggested the Lansing EDC pick up the full cost of buying both the PSD and EDC out of their current leases. D. Hayhow moved the PSD Board is supportive of the critical partnership with the Lansing EDC and in moving together to best serve the interest of downtown Lansing and looks forward to evaluating new office opportunities. B. Stewart seconded the motion. DIRECTOR'S REPORT K. Green presented a written report of his activities. He discussed the rally and letter to the editor he had published in the Lansing State Journal. B. Stewart explained closing was a great decision for Skyline, rather than be in the middle of that mess. K. Green has been working with a team that is creating an RFP for the Board of Water & Light Power Station. D. Hayhow has a connection to the Detroit Riverfront Design -consultant. He suggested this connection be utilized for the Grand Vision team. K. Green also has followed up on the Neon Sign museum and conversations are occurring with folks at Impression 5 Science Center. B. Stewart and D. Hayhow agreed having something visible on Washington Square would be great. K. McKinney asked about the status of the Sign Ordinance and K. Green explained he was continuing to work with city staff. K. McKinney requested the PSD Board review a draft of the ordinance. D. Hayhow asked about the opening of the 200 & 300 N. Washington Blocks and K. Green said this was on schedule and must be done for the CSO plans to occur on schedule prior to 2020. MARKETING MANGER REPORT M. Weingarden presented a written report of his activities. M. Weingarden highlighted Lansing City Market Vision session, Michigan Avenue Streetscape and LansingPSD.com. He noted regarding the Michigan Avenue Streetscape, that the Public Service Department would be covering maintenance cost for the rain garden projects. He has received considerable feedback on LansingPSD.com. D. Hayhow suggested some potential revenue opportunities may exist with the website. OTHER BUSINESS: D. Hayhow asked about the WiFi initiative and K. Green is following up with Mayor's office. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Catherine Blumer PSD Board Secretary Principal Shopping District Minutes - Sept. 12, 2006 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney, David Hayhow, Bob Trezise, Doug Johns, Jennifer Christian, Richard Karp ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Tim Kaltenbach, Vince Villegas, Eric Rosekrans The August PSD Board Minutes were amended to show that Vince Villegas was present. OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Barbara Hicks CALL TO ORDER: :. K. McKinney, Chair, called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm PUBLIC COMMENT: None Chairman McKinney adjusted the board agenda to allow the Old Town Commercial Association's (OTCA) report to be presented first. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Director OTCA - The Turner Street bridge celebrated its reopening on September 7th, with a successful bridge parry and good media coverage. Old Town hosted nine ribbon cuttings on September 8t' and looks forward to welcoming five new businesses in the near future. The OTCA Board will meet on September 13th and Old Town is looking forward to Octoberfest scheduled for October 14''. 5:15 pm - D. Hayhow, Vice Chair, assumed Chair of the board meeting. K. McKinney is still present. Operations: K. Green outlined the PSD proposed goals for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, putting emphasis on moving away from maintenance to beautification and marketing. Snow removal would be scaled back. Beautification might be enhanced by creating a group to assist in that effort such as "Friends of Downtown" or by working with a landscape designer. Green stressed the importance of the PSD focusing on beautification, marketing and becoming more publicly visible. By working closely with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and creating a PSD/EDC city information system the Board would have the opportunity to take formal positions for or against upcoming projects. B. Trezise suggested adding "Project Updates" to the PSD Board Agenda. Marketing: Redoing the present PSD and Old Town Directories to a more attractive, possibly color coded, user-friendly single directory that incorporates the A, B and C districts, and that would include the Old Town, REO Town and Stadium Districts, plus information and events. It would be beneficial to everyone. Green also suggested the creation of a welcome packet for new residents in downtown and revisiting the idea of Work Late Wednesdays, a program that is designed to keep as well as bring people to downtown on Wednesday nights for restaurant and happy hour specials. B. Trezise questioned if family events were being considered. Green responded that at this time focus was on adult events, but certainly family events are a good idea. Silver Bells: Green explained the PSD partnering to take over Silver Bells this year was impossible. Matt had taken another job and Barb suffered a broken ankle, causing her to be on sick leave for several weeks, leaving him in the office by himself. The future of the PSD taking over and managing Silver Bells will be analyzed and brought back to the Board at its October meeting. By that time the new marketing manager should be on board and able to have input. Board members discussed the advantage of using PSD dollars to promote downtown events as opposed to maintenance, specifically snow removal. D. Johns expressed feeling that the elimination of snow removal would be perceived, especially by those who pay higher assessments, as a cutback in services without a reduction in the amount they are assessed. It was agreed that a Board retreat to discuss the PSD budget and 2006/2007 goals would take place in the latter part of October. Revenue generating event: Green continues to explore and identify an event for downtown that would be revenue generating. Walk of Fame Update: Stars will soon start to be placed in downtown sidewalks. Downtown Lansing Inc. had expected the cost of installation to be much higher than the quoted figure from L&L Contractors, a company contracted by the city of Lansing. Each star will cost $250.00 to install. DLI will be paying for the installation of each star. Nominating new Walk of Fame recipients will kick off in October. Marketing Manager Update: The process of hiring a new marketing manager was delayed until Barb returned to work to participate in the interview process. Over 125 resumes were received for the position. After much consideration, nine highly qualified applicants will be interviewing on September 18 and 20 Office Relocation Update: The move to the Arbaugh building is scheduled for October 16th. In an effort of conserve funds Green will be taking his office furniture to the new location. The other two PSD stations will have new furniture consistent with that of the EDC office to create a uniform appearance. Website Update: Vision Creative is working to construct a new PSD Web site. The new Web site should be more appealing and user friendly than the present one. Dumpster Alley: It will be approximately three months before the alley reconstruction is completed. Moving the dumpsters to the street has made an automatic improvement in alley's appearance. CSO Michigan Ave. Project: The project has been challenging, but it is moving forward. Green supplied the board with copies of the Noise newspaper showing the PSD's cooperative advertisements with various businesses. The ads were placed to help drive business into the area under construction. Green asked businesses to track the success of their advertisement. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks presented the May 2006 financial report, informing the board that it is on track with the city of Lansing's financial record. Fiscal Year 05/06 cannot be closed because the final numbers from the city Finance Office were just received in the PSD office the morning of September 12th. The final report will be presented to the Board at its October meeting. Motion to place the May Financial Report of File - moved B. Trezise, second R. Karp. All aye. OTHER BUSINESS: V. Villegas announced looking forward to opening his office in the Stadium District. T. Kaltenbach and City Council was congratulated on the new three minute rule governing public input at city council meetings. Meeting Adjourned at 6:00 pm �Respe tfull Submitted, Barb a i s, c Stant BOARD MEETING November 14, 2006 MINUTES PSD — Conference Room 401 S. Washington Sq., Ste. 101 Lansing, MI 48933 PSD Board Minutes Minutes: November 14, 2006 �•y C:1 MEMBERS PRESENT: C-1 David Hayhow, Bob Trezise, Doug Johns, Jr., and Jennifer Christian MEMBERS EXCUSED: Kevin McKinney, Richard Karp _ �' r— .. ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: ri1. cap Vince Villegas - a� OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Tonya Hansen and Barbara Hicks CALL TO ORDER: D. Hayhow, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 5:10 pm PUBLIC COMMENT: None DISCUS SION/ACTION: Motion made to approve November 1, 2006 Board Retreat Minutes. Motion moved by B. Trezise, second D. Johns. All members present voted aye. PSD BOARD RETREAT: Board members discussed the issue of defining what services the PSD should be providing as an organization; an issue addressed at the Board Retreat. Providing a welcoming environment and how to accomplish it was a principal concern. D. Hayhow suggested surveying people who frequent downtown as well as others to get feedback on what they feel the foremost concerns are. The survey could include questions on cleanliness, parking signage/information and general safety. On the issue of beautification the board felt that it's more than planting flowers, it includes sidewalks free of litter and of snow and slush during the winter. D. Hayhow suggested the Board pinpoint what issues should be focused on and move forward one at a time. ANNUAL MEETING: The Annual Meeting is scheduled to be held Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at The Firm from 5:30-8:00 pm with a short 20 minute presentation. One of the goals this year is to get the retailers and restaurant owners to attend. WEBSITE UPDATE: K. Green stated that a meeting was held between himself, Camron (Vision Creative) and Tonya, PSD Marketing Manager two weeks ago. It was suggested to Camron that the proposed design be simplified and be made more user friendly. D. Hayhow suggested that after the PSD receives the next proposal a beta test should be done by sending it to two dozen people for their opinions. PROJECT UPDATES: B. Trezise stated that MDA officially announced they are going to continue business in downtown and will occupy two yet to be constructed floors, at the Capitol View building. It was requested that the PSD send a letter of support for the project. MARKETING MANAGER: T. Hansen is updating the Principal Source. The Holiday Co -Op television advertising program is being coordinated with production scheduled for November 20 and 21. She is in the process of interviewing student interns to start in January, 2007. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks presented the July 2006 PSD Financial Report, noting that the totals are on point with the city numbers. The report was accepted by the committee. K. Green explained that there were $29,000 worth of 2005/2006 expenditures that were carried over into 2006/2007. The expenses were for downtown landscaping, new computers and an allocation for new office furnishings upon moving to our new office. OTHER BUSINESS: D. Hayhow suggested the PSD contact the Lansing State Journal to do a restaurant review of downtown restaurants. A "Downtown Taste" of half dozen restaurants could be done and from them a choice of the "Downtown Favorites" could be made. The meeting adj ourned at 6:10 pm Respe ly Submitted, Barbara Hicks PSD Executive Assistant Principal Shopping District Minutes - Sept..12, 2006 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney, David Hayhow, Bob Trezise, Doug Johns, Jennifer Christian, Richard Karp ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Tim Kaltenbach, Vince Villegas, Eric Rosekrans The August PSD Board Minutes were amended to show that Vince Villegas was present. OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Barbara Hicks CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney, Chair, called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm PUBLIC COMMENT: None Chairman McKinney adjusted the board agenda to allow the Old Town Commercial Association's (OTCA) report to be presented first. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Director OTCA - The Turner Street bridge celebrated its reopening on September 7th, with a successful bridge party and good media coverage. Old Town hosted nine ribbon cuttings on September 8th and looks forward to welcoming five new businesses in the near future. The OTCA Board will meet on September 13`h, and Old Town is looking forward to Octoberfest scheduled for October 14th. 5:15 pm - D. Hayhow, Vice Chair, assumed Chair of the board meeting. K. McKinney is still present. Operations: K. Green outlined the PSD proposed goals for Fiscal Year 2006/2007, putting emphasis on moving away from maintenance to beautification and marketing. Snow removal would be scaled back. Beautification might be enhanced by creating a group to assist in that effort such as "Friends of Downtown" or by working with a landscape designer. Green stressed the importance of the PSD focusing on beautification, marketing and becoming more publicly visible. By working closely with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and creating a PSD/EDC city information system the Board would have the opportunity to take formal positions for or against upcoming projects. B. Trezise suggested adding "Project Updates" to the PSD Board Agenda. Marketing: Redoing the present PSD and Old Town Directories to a more attractive, possibly color coded, user-friendly single directory that incorporates the A, B and C districts, and that would include the Old Town, REO Town and Stadium Districts, plus information and events. It would be beneficial to everyone. Green also suggested the creation of a welcome packet for new residents in downtown and revisiting the idea of Work Late Wednesdays, a program that is designed to keep as well as bring people to downtown on Wednesday nights for restaurant and happy hour specials. B. Trezise questioned if family events were being considered. Green responded that at this time focus was on adult events, but certainly family events are a good idea. Silver Bells: Green explained the PSD partnering to take over Silver Bells this year was impossible. Matt had taken another job and Barb suffered a broken ankle, causing her to be on sick leave for several weeks, leaving him in the office by himself. The future of the PSD taking over and managing Silver Bells will be analyzed and brought back to the Board at its October meeting. By that time the new marketing manager should be on board and able to have input. Board members discussed the advantage of using PSD dollars to promote downtown events as opposed to maintenance, specifically snow removal. D. Johns expressed feeling that the elimination of snow removal would be perceived, especially by those who pay higher assessments, as a cutback in services without a reduction in the amount they are assessed. It was agreed that a Board retreat to discuss the PSD budget and 2006/2007 goals would take place in the latter part of October. Revenue generating event: Green continues to explore and identify an event for downtown that would be revenue generating. Walk of Fame Update: Stars will soon start to be placed in downtown sidewalks. Downtown Lansing Inc. had expected the cost of installation to be much higher than the quoted figure from L&L Contractors, a company contracted by the city of Lansing. Each star will cost $250.00 to install. DLI will be paying for the installation of each star. Nominating new Walk of Fame recipients will kick off in October. Marketing Manager Update: The process of hiring a new marketing manager was delayed until Barb returned to work to participate in the interview process. Over 125 resumes were received for the position. After much consideration, nine highly qualified applicants will be interviewing on September 18 and 20 Office Relocation Update: The move to the Arbaugh building is scheduled for October 16th. In an effort of conserve funds Green will be taking his office furniture to the new location. The other two PSD stations will have new furniture consistent with that of the EDC office to create a uniform appearance. Website Update: Vision Creative is working to construct a new PSD Web site. The new Web site should be more appealing and user friendly than the present one. Dumpster Alley: It will be approximately three months before the alley reconstruction is completed. Moving the dumpsters to the street has made an automatic improvement in alley's appearance. CSO Michigan Ave. Project: The project has been challenging, but it is moving forward. Green supplied the board with copies of the Noise newspaper showing the PSD's cooperative advertisements with various businesses. The ads were placed to help drive business into the area under construction. Green asked businesses to track the success of their advertisement. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks presented the May 2006 financial report, informing the board that it is on track with the city of Lansing's financial record. Fiscal Year 05/06 cannot be closed because the final numbers from the city Finance Office were just received in the PSD office the morning of September 12''. The final report will be presented to the Board at its October meeting. Motion to place the May Financial Report of File - moved B. Trezise, second R. Karp. All aye. OTHER BUSINESS: V. Villegas announced looking forward to opening his office in the Stadium District. T. Kaltenbach and City Council was congratulated on the new three minute rule governing public input at city council meetings. Meeting Adjourned at 6:00 pm espetfall Submitted, di4smsitant b a i sc PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT December 12, 2006 401 S. Washington Square Conference Room Kevin McKinney, David Hayhow, Jennifer Christian, Richard Karp BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: Bob Trezise, Doug Johns, Jr. BOARD ADVISORS PRESENT: r- Vince Villegas, Eric Rosekrans OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Tonya Hansen, Barbara Hicks c� Kevin McKinney, Board President opened the meeting opened at 5:05 pm for discussion purpose. A quorum was not present. V. Discussion/Action: Pending City Budget Kevin Green informed the board that he has been part of the ongoing budget discussion/process with the mayor and other department directors. City departments are facing 5 to 15% budget reductions. A reduction of any percent will impose a strain on the PSD. The PSD will start its formal budget process in January of 2007. D. Hayhow recommended finding alternative resources to make up any deficit the PSD might face. K. McKinney proposed outlining a budget showing where the cuts would be made and how much they would be. That information should be e-mailed to the board by the first of the new year. Strategic Plan The plan that was presented to the board at its retreat will be ready for stakeholders at the January 16th Annual Meeting. Board discussion identified events the PSD could do in-house with moderate help, such as the Annual Loft Open House Tour, The Blues Concert Series, Work Late Wednesdays, the Michigan Trivia Contest in partnership with Lansing Community College, Speaker's Series for Michigan Walk of Fame and the Progressive Dinner. K. Green stated that the PSD was not able to execute Silver Bills but would stay involved. Categories of importance were identified: Development category includes the events outlined above; Exploration category includes OctoberfestBrew Ha Ha and the Saturday Evening Concert Series. A list of events is to be distributed to each board member. Board member: Richard Karp joins the meeting. A quorum is present K. Green said he would like to hold the Blues Series at Wentworth Park rather than VW1vIMQ's suggestion of the Sunbowl which is located behind City Market, along the river. He felt that although the Sunbowl is on the river, you don't get a sense of being downtown. J. Christian suggested holding the event on a downtown side street such as Washtenaw from Capitol to Washington. K. Green stated that closing streets becomes problematic for the city. He indicated that if the event were to be held on a downtown street, he would like to have held on the North Washington Square. He continued, the event would be free and a good way to get people into the area. K. Mckinney requested K. Green to come back with options. II. Public Comment: None III. Approval of the Agenda & Minutes: Moved D. Hayhow, Second R. Karp, All voted aye. Annual Meeting: The Annual Report will be ready for the Annual Meeting to be held on January 16th. The meeting will take place at The Firm with a short formal presentation at around 6:00 pm. Board members are requested to submit names of potential speakers. Beautification: K. Green is putting a small committee together to address the beautification issue. At this time there is no time -line implementing a plan. Mayor Bernero is looking at a broader plan, with the possibility of expanding the PSD boarders. K. McKinney, questioned the PSD's involvement with snow removal, K. Green responded it is still part of the PSD duties. D. Hayhow thought beautification should be changed to "welcoming" and that snow removal is very much a part of making downtown welcoming. Discussions are ongoing. Web Site: PSD will try to meet with Camron Gnass this week to view his proposed changes. Project Updates: The YMCA is holding a press conference on Wednesday, December 13,th, announcing their expansion at their present location in downtown Lansing. Throughout the summer K. Green provided the YMCA with extensive information. He pointed out the positive impact of the opening of the 200 & 300 N. Washington Blocks, the value of downtown becoming a residential area as well as an expanding business environment and the increasing role the YMCA would have on fitness and general health of the residents in downtown and the general population. K. Green's influence was instrumental in helping the YMCA make strategic decisions to expand downtown. VI. Director's Report: A print copy was part of the board packet. K. Green pointed out that Silver Bells truly had 100,000 people in attendance and that the event was exemplary. VII. Marketing Manager Report: Holiday Co-op is presently airing on television on WILX and Fox 47. Immediately following this year's campaign, T. Hansen will survey merchants regarding their opinion of this year's co-op and inquire as to what changes they would like to see in the future. Hansen has been interviewing candidates for intern positions. The PSD has been fortunate to have some qualified people interview. Hansen would like secure two interns; one for morning and one for afternoon. Each intern would be required to dedicate fifteen hours per week. VIII. Old Town: Jamie Schriner-Hooper has been working with Cool Cities Mainstreet for the past few days and was unable to attend the board meeting. D. Hayhow questioned how the Grand Vision was coming along. K. Green has been meeting with Bob Johnson on this issue. Parameters need to be identified and focus has to be put in place. K. McKinney wants to put together a small sub -committee to look at current assessments. A sub -committee, of diverse representation, will put together a strategic plan given there is an intense interest in beautification and marketing. K. McKinney does not want to see the PSD become an event organization. K. McKinney is willing to chair and Eric Rosekrans offered to be a member. Assessments: K. Green pointed out that in the board packets there is information showing present assessment levels, a map of the A, B and C zones and a rough estimate showing the financial impact of raising the assessments anywhere from one quarter cent to five cents (in increments of one quarter cent). The City Assessor's Office should be able to provide accurate numbers. T. Hansen informed the board that she is leaving the PSD to take a position with the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce as their Manager of Marketing and Communications. Financial Report: B. Hicks presented the financial reports for August and September 2006. She stated the reports are on point with the city's reports. Motion to accept the reports was made by D. Hayhow, second by R. Karp. All aye. K. Green announced the Marketing Manager position being vacated by T. Hansen has been offered to Andrea Ragan, one of the finalists who previously interviewed for the position. She will be starting in early February 2007. Walk of Fame: Judging is going on and an announcement regarding the next set of inductees will be made in February 2007. There were not that many new nominations. Meeting adjourned at 6:10 pm. S.aara Wic bmitted PSDE�xeAti ts' ant