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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007 PSD Meeting MinutesPSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES February 13, 2007 PSD/EDC Conference Room 401 S. Washington St. Lansing, MI 48933 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Kevin McKinney (c), David Hayhow (vc), Bob Trezise, Richard Karp, Doug Johns, Jennifer Christian �,N � 6 . ; e . � _ SIC : Councilman Tim Kaltenbach OTHERS PRESENT: Phil Clacko, Fifth Third Bank; Kevin Green; Barbara Hicks; Andrea Ragan'.'..''., CALL TO ORDER: K. McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:02 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None. DISCUSSION/ACTION: K. Green stated he is part of the ongoing budget process at the city and that the city could be facing a 5 million dollar deficit next year. Departments have been requested to calculate, in 5, 10 and 15% increments, the effect a budget reduction would have on their departments. Any loss to the PSD would be difficult, however, if the PSD were to lose the entire $42,500 from the General Fund it would cause great loss to the organization in terms or programming and staff. Increasing assessments and expanding boundaries east of Clara's restaurant to include all of the Stadium District are potential ways to increase revenue for the PSD. However, due to the make up of the area the increase would be minimal. K. McKinney wants to have a board conference call presentation prior to making a decision regarding expanding or reducing the PSD boundaries. B. Trezise suggested the PSD mission statement should be reviewed to ensure that it stays focused and targeted before any boundary changes be made. A large portion of the PSD budget is committed to maintenance. K. Green has been in contact with Bob Rinck, SDMS, regarding doing an evaluation of maintenance services with regard to snow removal. The evaluation will give the PSD insight as to what is reasonable to achieve with the resources available. K. Green has received positive feedback regarding the Annual Board Meeting. People who had not been at The Firm were glad for the opportunity to see it and they were excited by Mayor Bernero's speech. Lansing Community College students who had volunteered to work the event were "pumped" by the whole experience and were excited about activities in downtown Lansing. The lofts that were toured during the annual have all been leased. K. Green informed the board that he has been meeting with Chris Conner, Vice President of Nation City Bank to create ongoing beautification programs in downtown Lansing. Some of the ideas included in the discussions are planting trees and flowers, some type of street sweep program and Adopt -a -Block. C. Conner has sent letters to property owners regarding these efforts, and is now working in collaboration with the PSD. K. McKinney suggested a "sophisticated" effort, which has also been requested by the mayor. He also suggested creating a strategic plan for beautification. D. Johns inquired if a landscape architect should be consulted. He questioned if a possible fundraiser could be organized to afford hiring a landscaping company. D. Hayhow suggested not using the same financial backer, and try to involve non traditional supporters. D. Johns asked about construction and whether beautification efforts were premature. K. Green explained that plans for specific areas were being implemented correspondingly with construction schedules. K. McKinney questioned if rain gardens required excessive maintenance. D. Johns suggested Chad Gamble be invited to the next PSD Board meeting to educate the committee on rain gardens and their maintenance. K. McKinney offered that beautification could be the DLI's next project. Snow Removal — K. Green is exploring pricing alternatives and more basic snow removal options. He will bring information back to the board. Web Site — Now that Andrea Ragan, Marketing Manager is on board a meeting will be taking place with Camron Gnass or Vision Creative regarding implementation of the new web site. Project Updates — Blues On The Square concert plans are moving forward. PSD staff has met with Citadel Broadcasting to develop a concert schedule and timeline. The plans have been revised to hold the concerts on Tuesday evenings instead of Thursdays to avoid conflict with Lansing Lugnut games. They will be held on the 200 South Washington Block, approximately 6-9:00 pm with the street being blocked off at 3:00 pm to begin set up. The concerts will be free to the public, but is estimated to cost $24,000 for the seven concert series. PSD is responsible for half the cost. Citadel will be responsible for the other half. The PSD is planning to raise funds from local businesses who will directly profit from the concert series. D. Hayhow asked the status of the Michigan Walk of Fame preparations. K. Green assured the board that plans are on schedule. Director's Report — K. Green updated the board on current projects that he has been involved with. A copy of the Director's Report was distributed to board members. T. Kaltenbach asked about the progress of the sign committee. K. Green informed him there was a meeting scheduled in the near future. The board discussed the closing of downtown businesses and the relocation of Michigania, which is relocating to 113 S. Washington Square. Way Station Books will close. Marketing Report — A. Ragan informed the board about "Linking Lansing & U" programs. One is a job shadow day in downtown Lansing businesses for MSU students that will take place in March. The other is an event at the Capitol lawn for MSU Fall Welcome that will promote downtown Lansing businesses to MSU students. Also, St. Patricks Day activities are planned to bring people into downtown Lansing for business specials. D. Hayhow recommended the Urban Planning Office be housed in an urban area enabling them to recognize and better identify the problems in that area. K. Green discussed the Beer Festival in Old Town stating that the format will be changed from last year. It will be treated more like the Festival of the Sun to prevent the problems encountered in its first season. Councilman Kaltenbach inquired if fagade grants were available to store owners for signage. K. Green responded that it is available in conjunction with restoration and not for signage only. Kaltenbach suggested the sign committee meet regarding the sign ordinance. He also stated that he has received a lot of negative feedback regarding the round about at Michigan and Washington Avenues. K. Green stated that he had received only one negative comment. D. Hayhow asked how safe it will be. His concerns focused on pedestrians crossing the street and vehicles yielding for their safety. K. Green stated the crosswalks for pedestrians will be in the same general area they are presently located but further away from the round about to allow for safety. Stop signs will not be used at the circle, but vehicular traffic will be slowed to maneuver it, lending to the safety of anyone crossing the street. Another concern was the size of the circle and the ability of buses and safety equipment as well as the vehicles that participate in Silver Bells, to make the tum. MDOT has assured there will be no problems. K. McKinney questioned if any forum was planned to address the concerns of people. Councilman Kalthenbach responded that it's the intention of the city to have Chad Gamble, City Transportation Office, meet and address any concerns. K. McKinney indicated we (the PSD) could assist and share information with the Board. K. McKinney left the meeting at 6:55 pm. D. Hayhow assumes the chair. Entertainment Express: Blues on the Square may be held on Tuesdays this year and possibly the Entertainment Express will extend its service to include Tuesdays. A survey to determine use of the Entertainment Express is planned to find out how many people use it, how they heard about it and which directions gets the most use. The question was raised about its success and how success is determined. It was stated that Saturday night participation is between 100 to 150 people. Eric Hart, LEPFA, is chairing a committee that will be handling an upcoming promotion that should provide insight. Financial Report: B. Hicks presented an amended September Financial Report that includes interest and fund balance carry over that was reported late by the city. She also presented the October, November and December Financial Reports, stating they were all on target with city reports. Copies of all reports are shared with K. Green and B. Trezise for their inspection. Motion to approve all Financial Reports and place them on file: Moved by Richard Karp, Seconded by Doug Johns. All board members present voted aye. J. Christian questioned the issue of way -finding. K. Green stated he had missed the last meeting because he was attending the CSO meeting. To date "Capital District" has been the favorite name considered. General consensus is that the name should include a reference to the Capitol building being it's the only one in the state, making it unique. In addition, the district logo will be the Capitol dome. The choice of a new name will have to be fmalized by the end of February. The meeting adj ourned at 6:10 pm Resile t 1 submitted, Bad ara Hic s, xecutive Assist t PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES March 13, 2007 PSD/EDC Conference Room 401 S. Washington St. Lansing, MI 48933 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: ^; Kevin McKinney, McKinney & Associates, Chairman; Bob Trezise, Economic':'-' Development Corporation, Treasurer; Richard Karp, Karp and Associates; Jennifer Christian, Rossman Group; Doug Johns, LDJ Leasing BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: David Hayhow, Prime Management,Vice Chairman ? ,,0 r ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Vince Villegas, Briarwood Realty OTHERS PRESENT: Kevin Green, Exec Director PSD; Andrea Ragan, Marketing Manager PSD; Phil Clacko, Fifth Third Bank; Barb Hicks, Executive Assistant PSD, Dean Johnson, Lansing Public Service Department; Jane Dykema, Lansing Public Service Department CALLED TO ORDER: Chairman McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm. PUBLIC COMMENT: None DISCUSSION/ACTION: Dean Johnson and Jane Dykema, Engineers, Lansing Public Service Department, attended the meeting to update the Board regarding reconstruction, the Michigan Ave. roundabout and rain gardens east of Larch St. and north on Washington Sq. Reconstruction, taking approximately six to eight weeks, will take place on Michigan Avenue from Capitol to Grand Avenues and is planned to begin mid April. Planter beds to green up the corridor are planned for both sides of Michigan Ave. This plan ties into a previous Mayor's Task Force. A roundabout is to be installed at the intersection of Michigan and Washington Avenues and provide a single lane in each direction for vehicular traffic. Concern was expressed about the location of pedestrian crosswalks. Crosswalks will be located further east and west on Michigan Ave. to divert crossing from the area people presently use. No stop I -1- signs are to be installed. Concern regarding the necessity of some type of signage was raised by the board. D. Johnson responded that drivers tend to slow down when approaching a roundabout and under Michigan law vehicles are to yield to pedestrians. J. Dykema stated the roundabout will be soil and seed and provide a safe area for pedestrians. D. Johns questioned the need for irrigation and if it should be installed at the beginning of construction. He also questioned who was going to be responsible for the maintenance. D. Johnson responded the City Public Service Department and Parks and Recreation are to be responsible for maintenance in the area from Capitol to Pennsylvania. A line item for this purpose is in the budget. Flowering Pears are to be planted. They have longevity and will provide good color. Per J. Dykema, the same plant material is planned for the 200 & 300 N. Washington blocks. K. McKinney inquired if concerns from stakeholders had been addressed. J. Dykema responded that Councilwoman Wood and Councilman Jeffries had met with stakeholders last fall. They had also received numerous e-mails. K. McKinney informed J. Dykema that the PSD had not been contacted by the concerned group. He asked if there should be a follow up meeting. D. Johnson responded there will be no more meetings. Questions have been addressed and there will be no individual responses. K. McKinney stated that K. Green should consult with Councilwoman Wood to put one final meeting in place. The PSD should do all it can to ensure all questions are answered. J. Dykema said updates would be e-mailed once construction starts. B. Trezise stated it would be good to post on the web that there will be no written responses to concerns. Dean indicated that a lot of people involved with Councilwoman Wood expressed concern about the trees coming down in the 200 & 300 N. Washington Blocks. J. Dykema stated there is no intention to transplant the trees; however, there is a lot of good plant material in those blocks. K. Green stated that the PSD previously tried to put together a program called the "Big Dig" to offer plant material to various organizations. Although that event did not take place, he would look at doing it again. The plants are public property and he feels they should go to public property as opposed to private use. D. Johnson informed the Board that the City Council had voted down a $266,000 dollar grant for the rain gardens in the 200 and 300 N. Washington blocks. The cost of maintenance was an issue to City Council. K. Green questioned what landscaping materials would be installed in these blocks if the rain gardens are not installed? There is a possibility the vote will come up for reconsideration at the next City Council meeting. J. Dykema stated that Gene Townsend wants to recycle the decorative panels that are presently located on the 200 & 300 N. Washington blocks. Nine of ten panels are in good condition. Also, the sculpture in the 300 block is going to be relocated to the Lansing Community College campus. It will remain a city owned sculpture, but it will be located on LCC's campus. The overhead structure that is in the 300 block, close to Shiawassee St. will be demolished. D. Johnson feels the opening of the blocks is an exciting project. It will stimulate commerce and facilitate traffic. Not everyone is aware that K. Green has been intimately involved in the opening of the 200 & 300 blocks. K. McKinney wants to call another informational meeting. D. Johnson will defer to the Mayor. Motion made and supported for a letter of support for the $266,000 grant addressed to the Lansing City Council from the PSD. The letter should state that: the PSD supports acceptance of the $266,000 grant as it furthers the PSD's beautification efforts downtown, requests that City Council reconsider the issue and that City Council formally accepts the grant. D. Johns questioned the concept of rain gardens and concerns that $266,000 could be spent over and over again on maintenance. K. Green expressed concern over the PSD's exclusion in a series of informational meeting that had taken place over the previous months. The Public Service Department had hosted a meeting earlier today and very few showed up. City staff, Tetra Tech engineers, City Council members, EDC and PSD representatives, while only about one dozen persons total, outnumbered the business and property owners. It should be posted on the web there will be one more coffee and Council people Wood and Jeffries should be contacted. PENDING CITY BUDGET: The city is facing a 5 Million dollar deficit. If the PSD loses its $42,000 General Fund contribution, budget scenarios include curtailing programs, projects and possibly a staff member. K. Green stated that while $42,000 does not begin to cover a city employee's wages and benefit package, it represents a position, benefits and programming for the PSD. K. Green does not believe that our General Fund contribution will be cut or eliminated based upon conversations with city staff. BEAUTIFICATION: K. Green informed the Board that Chris Conner, V.P., National City Bank is moving forward with a clean up program scheduled for April 26t'. Kevin is attempting to contact the city gardener or other landscape architects to create a Washington Square Master Plan for landscaping. SNOW REMOVAL: K. Green has contacted SDMS to analyze the snow removal portion of the maintenance program. The PSD is looking at what it might cost to provide a 42 inch path down the sidewalk, as well as clear crosswalks and handicapped spots rather than 100% curb to building costs. No information is available at this time. WEB: K. Green has to meet with Camron Gnass; however, he is pleased with the prototype. The PSD will need to write the text for the new Web site and will need to schedule the time to do so. The PSD will be able to do updating on the new site. PROJECT UPDATES: The PSD will have to come up with $4,000 to $12,000 to pay for the planned blues program. Eric Hart, LEPFA, had requested blues on Tuesdays so not to conflict with Lugnut games. However, based upon restaurant owner and Citadel Broadcasting feedback, it was decided that Thursday is the best night to hold them. The events will take place from 6-10:00 pm and will be located on the 200 S. Washington block. Streets will be closed beginning at 3:00 pm. The businesses we have spoken with to -date are alright with the timing. K. McKinney suggested putting a team together to assist with this project. He questioned if restaurants have been requested to stay open later in the evening? Also, how does the PSD communicate with businesses? K. Green responded that the PSD does mailings and/or direct contact. D. Johns asked if the brown bag is still going happen. K. Green responded they will take place someplace on Washington Ave. The actual location has not been determined. K. McKinney acknowledged all the meetings K. Green attends and in an effort to free up some time, wanted to know which are crucial. K. Green informed the Board there have been and are a number of projects moving forward within the city that impact the PSD or requires the PSD to be involved. With staff turn over since August, K. Green needed to be involved or people would make decisions on behalf of the PSD. K. McKinney questioned if Board volunteers could attend some? K. Green replied that he is turning participation on many of the committees over to A. Ragan. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: K. Green outlined his written report that was included as part of the Board packet. MARKETING REPORT: A. Ragan, PSD Marketing Manager, outlined the upcoming St. Patrick's Day light show and specials businesses are offering. She told the Board the Walk of Fame sponsor letters were hopefully going out this week. K. Green stressed the importance of having a good signature. Some of the names the Board offered were Paula Cunningham, Jim Epillito, former Governors Blanchard and Milliken. This year might be easier to get someone on board after the success of last year's event. K. Green stated the spokesperson is not paid. OTHER: K. Green informed the Board the entire PSD staff volunteered at the memorial service for Robert Busby. V. Villegas expressed two areas of concern: 1. Purpose of the web. It should serve as a benefit, bring more value to people we serve and be a business resource. There should be an intranet system to tie in with the web. 2. With regard to opening the Washington blocks, angle parking should be analyzed. K. McKinney, V. Villegas made good points. B. Trezise discussed trying to get business people to serve on the board. D. Johns suggested a letter to solicit members and suggested Kris Elliott be considered. K. Green said Kris is under consideration now. Phil Clacko, Fifth Third Bank, shared that he understood maintenance on rain gardens is low. He also stated he had been on the web and couldn't define who's in the PSD, that it was not easy to read. N D. Johns, a goal should be to have two or three present board members look at possible new members. With no further items for discussion, R. Karp moved to close the meeting. This was seconded by R. Trezise. The meeting adjourned at 6:28 p.m. Respectfully Submitted,- LI ubmi i ed, LI41cs, Execut e Assistant -5- PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: April 10, 2007 PSD/EDC Conference Room 401 S. Washington St. Lansing, MI 48933 Kevin McKinney, McKinney & Associates, Chairman; David Hayhow, Prime Management, Vice Chairman; Bob Trezise, Economic Development Corporation, Treasurer; Doug Johns Jr., LDJ Leasing BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: Jennifer Christian, Rossman Group; Richard Karp, Karp and Associates ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Vince Villegas, Briarwood Realty OTHER PRESENT: Kevin Green Exec. Director PSD; Andrea Ragan, Marketing Manager PSI);- Tim;} -' Kaltenbach, City Councilman; Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Director Old Town'Main- Street; Barb Hicks, Executive Assistant PSD ` CALL TO ORDER: Chairman McKinney called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENT: None Approval of Agenda and Minutes: Motion to approve made by D. Hayhow, second by D. Johns. Motion carried. Financial Review: K. Green outlined the January financial report. He explained that this fiscal year the PSD carried over approximately $28,000 from the previous fiscal year. It is usual to maintain a $10,000 fund balance carry over. K. McKinney questioned why the Board was reviewing the January report. B. Hicks explained that in order to present financial reports to the Board, the PSD's totals have to match the city's reports which weren't available prior to the Board meeting. DISCUSSION ACTION: Pending City Budget: K. Green informed the Board the PSD's Budget Hearing regardi%the allocation of $42,000 from the General Fund will be before City Council on April 26 at 10:30 a.m. Although no problems are anticipated, Board member attendance at the hearing is encouraged. Beautification: K. Green had hoped to hear from Site Design Management Systems (SDMS) regarding their assessment of work and associated costs for sidewalk snow removal in downtown. That information will not be available until the week of April 16th. He has also not been able to connect with a landscaper in mid -Michigan. Issues will need to be discussed in regards to the north Washington blocks being remodeled over the next few years. K. McKinney asked what information the PSD is looking for from landscapers. K. Green responded, he's trying to assess a program the PSD can use and identify types of plant material that will provide a colorful environment. He expects to have information to share with members by the May Board meeting. V. Villegas suggested using students from the MSU Landscape Architecture Program to consult on projects for their portfolios. D. Hayhow suggested using LCC students for the same purpose. D. Hayhow suggested consulting a project planner. T. Kaltenbach suggested city involvement in any official architectural design decisions. The Capitol City Clean Sweep will be taking place on April 26, 2007 from 3-5:00 pm. The exact geographical area is yet to be determined. However, it will extend beyond the PSD boundaries. The Clean Sweep will not include the sloped grass area on 1496, because it is too dangerous to clean and it is MDOT's responsibility. Representative Joan Bauer has pledged to address getting that area cleaned. K. Green shared details of the Clean Sweep in reference to its similarity to other clean up efforts such as Adopt -A -River, Adopt -A -Highway, Earth Day, etc. Blues on the Square will take place several Thursday's throughout the summer, from June through August and is being planned as a family event. It will cause S. Washington to be closed from Washtenaw to Allegan. The blues program is expected to bring large numbers of people into downtown Lansing. Parking concerns were discussed by Board members with K. Green stating there are 7,500 parking spaces in the downtown area to accommodate attendees. Also, the issue of alcohol consumption was raised. K. Green stated that alcohol will only be available at the bars and restaurants. It will not be served on the sidewalk except at restaurants that are permitted to serve alcohol at the outside seating areas. All other attendees will be encouraged to bring their own seating. D. Johns asked if the trolley hours could be extended to accommodate Blues on the Square. K. Green answered that he believes the trolley is committed to another organization during week days, but A. Ragan will inquire. K. Green initiated discussion regarding the August/September 2006 Michigan Ave. CSO co-op ad sponsored by the PSD. T. Kaltenbach raised the question about the visibility of co-op advertising. V. Villegas asked D. Johns on behalf of business owners, whether ads are advantageous. D. Johns responded that any increased signage with the construction should be beneficial for businesses. J. Schriner-Hooper stated that Old Town added signage for the businesses on detour signs when construction on the bridge was taking place last summer. T. Kaltenbach said, as a patron he would prefer signage as opposed to an advertisement. B. Trezise agreed noting the important of strategic placement of signs. D. Hayhow stated advertisements are beneficial also, because they create an incentive for patrons to visit downtown if they aren't already in the vicinity of the businesses. B. Trezise asked how many businesses on Michigan Avenue closed as a result of the construction last summer. K. Green responded that none had closed as a result. The Mobile Gas Station had closed due to a problem with underground storage tanks, not as a result of construction. Website: V. Villegas asked the total cost of the web -site. K. Green responded $9,000. K. Green also stated that website development meetings are underway with Vision Creative staff. Project Updates within the PSD: Projects were discussed prior to this point in the meeting. Director's Report: K. Green gave a update on the Michigan Walk of Fame, noting the date of the event has been changed to June 27th. Downtown Lansing Inc. is trying to create individual plaque sponsorship opportunities. K. Green also informed the Board the City Assessors Office is conducting a complete review of all PSD properties and assessments. Marketing Report: A. Ragan stated that the new website is actively being developed. She also discussed creating a guide to the Michigan Walk of Fame so patrons can have self guided walking tours. She is also updating the Downtown Business Directory and the PSD data base to include e-mail contact for PSD businesses, as discussed at prior Board meetings. City Council Report: T. Kaltenbach inquired about the trolley rider -ship. He was informed the trolley survey results would be available by the next PSD Board meeting. B. Trezise mentioned signage would be added at trolley stops. This includes overhead and sidewalk stencils. T. Kaltenbach informed the Board a hearing is planned at the Liquor Control Commission on Tuesday, April 17th to review the liquor license transfer at the Downtown Party Store. K. McKinney moved to oppose the transfer, R. Karp seconded, all present voted aye. Motion passed. Old Town: J. Schriner-Hooper announced Tom's Antiques is being liquidated by new owners who are hosting a Huge Sale event. The building will be converted to house three new businesses. Grand Openings planned in Old Town are: Polka Dots Bead Boutique, Bella Rio Salon, Mama Bear's Cafe and Ciesa Design. Other events taking place in Old Town are: Spring Clean-up, Historic Walking Tour, Farmer's Market. J. Schriner-Hooper announced that there is $4,000 in the OTCA Robert Busby Memorial Fund. Other Business: T. Kaltenbach announced the resignation of Council member R. Williams, 3rd Ward. His position on Council will be filled soon. D. John's asked if the rain garden grant acceptance had been approved by City Council. T. Kaltenbach responded yes. K. Green stated that per the Board's direction at the March meeting, he wrote a letter of support for accepting the rain garden grant. K. Green reported Silver Bells in the City may end up becoming a to the PSD event due to city and state budget cuts and recent state grant freeze. The possibility exists that the Arts Council might sell their building and relocate out of downtown. K. McKinney expressed the fact that Silver Bells in the City meets our mission. K. Green informed the Board of the positive response he has received regarding the St. Patrick's Day Light Show. D. Johns suggested making it an annual event and market it as a party venue and not a family event. Meeting adjourned at 6:46 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Barbara Hicks Executive Assistant J. Schriner-Hooper announced that there is $4,000 in the OTCA Robert Busby Memorial Fund. Other Business: T. Kaltenbach announced the resignation of Council member R. Williams, 3`d Ward. His position on Council will be filled soon. D. John's asked if the rain garden grant acceptance had been approved by City Council. T. Kaltenbach responded yes. K. Green stated that per the Board's direction at the March meeting, he wrote a letter of support for accepting the rain garden grant. K. Green reported Silver Bells in the City may end up becoming a to the PSD event due to city and state budget cuts and recent state grant freeze. The possibility exists that the Arts Council might sell their building and relocate out of downtown. K. McKinney expressed the fact that Silver Bells in the City meets our mission. K. Green informed the Board of the positive response he has received regarding the St. Patrick's Day Light Show. D. Johns suggested making it an annual event and market it as a party venue and not a family event. Meeting adjourned at 6:46 pm. Respectfully Submitted, fz V Barbara Hicks Executive Assistant PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: May 8, 2007 PSD/EDC Conference Room 401 S. Washington St. Lansing, MI 48933 Chairman; David Hayhow, Prime Management, Vice Chairman; Bob Trezise, Economic Development Corporation, Treasurer; Doug Johns Jr., LDJ Leasing, Regina Bell, AT&T, Jennifer Christian, Rossman Group; Tim Kaltenbach,., Lansing City Council C BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: " - Kevin McKinney, McKinney & Associates, Richard Karp, Karp and Associates- ..... -rv. ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Vince Villegas, Briarwood Realty r } tet; OTHER PRESENT: Kevin Green Exec. Director PSD; Andrea Ragan, Marketing Manager PSD; Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Director Old Town Main Street; Barb Hicks, Executive Assistant PSD, Kevin Johnson, Total Lawn Care; Dan Bowers, Total Lawn Care CALL TO ORDER: David Hayhow called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENT: None Approval of Agenda and Minutes: Motion to approve made by D. Johns, second by J. Christian. Motion carried. Financial Report: None DISCUSSION ACTION: Pending City Budget — Hearing Results: K. Green informed the Board the PSD's Budget Hearing went well. No objections were made; however, no vote was taken due to lack of quorum Beautification: K. Green outlined the PSD plan to plant Petunias throughout downtown to provide immediate color. He discussed the necessity to create a plan for longevity to extend down Washington Sq. that addresses now and through the year 2010 for the South blocks. Twelve thousand dollars will be spent on Petunias for this summer's project. Preliminary conversations are underway with Kevin Johnson, Total Lawn Care to plant and maintain the flowers. Hanging baskets will be placed on light poles and K. Johnson will be responsible for watering and maintenance. D. Hayhow questioned the difference between $28,000 and $12,000 in budget placement between 2006 and 2007. K. Green elaborated on the cost of installation and maintenance processes and the allocation of funding for each. V. Villegas questioned the clarity of the maintenance plan after the planting. It was mentioned that the cost of plants did not include any cost for installation because installation is part of the contract with Total Lawn Care. D. Johns suggested that the PSD connect with the MSU Master Gardner program as a landscape design resource for minimal cost. K. Green explained that the timeframe that the PSD is working in for beautification in 2007 did not align with the start of an MSU semester, but that contact with that program will be made for future PSD landscaping projects. R. Bell suggested that the PSD also contact the landscape architecture program at LCC. T. Kaltenbach asked whether the PSD submitted an RFP for the project. K. Johnson responded it is unwise to take a bid on a landscaping project, such as this, because it is difficult to determine the quality of the product that is being purchased. Discussion followed highlighting the benefits of purchasing the plants locally and using multiple vendors and neighborhood associations. D. Johns moved for the PSD to proceed with price comparison; seconded by B. Trezise. Motion passed. Snow Removal: D. Johns brought up the issue of snow removal in reference to the use of salt and whether it would kill any newly installed plants over the course of the winter. K. Green responded that in 2007 the PSD would only be planting perennials, not annuals, so salt would have no lasting impact on beautification efforts made this year. K. Green also mentioned that the issue of snow removal as a budget item was reviewed carefully at the PSD's budget hearing with City Council. Website Update: K. Green noted that the PSD staff had met with Camron Gnass at Vision Creative and that the next step was for the PSD staff to create a desired flow chart of how the new website should be laid out before pursuing another meeting with Vision Creative to have a site map established. V. Villegas inquired about a deadline for launching the new PSD website. K. Green responded that the new site should be implemented before the end of the current fiscal year. Discussion followed regarding best practices for site maintenance and management and whether the PSD will be paying a hosting fee for the new website. It was concluded the site should be maintained in-house as much as possible for the sake of timely updateability and fewer maintenance fees. Project Updates: K. Green reported that Blues on the Square plans have been moving forward. Citadel Broadcasting has been responsible for nearly all of the stage production planning and lining up performers. He also noted that because Blues on the Square is a special event, it has different city policies in place for the evenings the concerts take place. B. Trezise inquired about a project operating budget for Blues on the Square. K. Green stated that the PSD could acquire that information from Citadel Broadcasting. It was suggested by the board that the PSD make a list of possible contributors and seek sponsorships to financially support the PSD's responsibility to Blues on the Square. D. Johns commented that the downtown establishments were not pleased with the fact that market and food vendors will be present at the concerts. A. Ragan responded that the PSD ensured that the participating vendors would not compete heavily with existing establishments and presented the board with names and menu items of possible food vendors. V. Villegas suggested that additional directional signage may be a beneficial addition to the event. A. Ragan offered to arrange a meeting with the Department of Parking and Transportation regarding Blues on the Square. Director's Report: K. Green reported that the Capitol City Clean Sweep was a success and that the PSD received many positive comments from volunteers. Discussion followed regarding recruitment of similar volunteers for other beatification efforts and future programs. K. Green also noted a Clean Sweep follow-up meeting was scheduled with Chris Conner, chair of the planning committee, about next steps and how to strengthen clean-up efforts in the future. Marketing Report: A. Ragan reported that the Entertainment Express trolley, of which the PSD is a financial sponsor, is creating a marketing plan that will include a major prize give-away promotion and that ridership is continually increasing. A. Ragan also reported that the Linking Lansing & U program will be featuring downtown PSD establishments at upcoming networking events for student interns in Lansing. OTCA Report: J. Schriner-Hooper reported on the first Old Town Farmer's Market, which fell on the same day as the 1St Sunday Gallery Walk, and stated there were several thousand people present. She also clarified that the Old Town Farmer's Market is limited to grown foods only, and no craft sales are permitted. J. Schriner-Hooper reported that the OTCA has purchased danglers for the bottoms of vertical banners in Old Town. OTCA businesses are entitled to purchase a dangler for $150 and the danglers will hang for one year. Upcoming events in Old Town include National Health and Fitness day, a Fashion Show featuring Old Town businesses (proceeds go to the Busby Memorial Fund), Pickin' in the Park, and a mass ribbon -cutting ceremony for nine new businesses (creating over 100 new j obs). An R.E.Olds sculpture has been donated to the OTCA and they are looking into a Public Arts ordinance before making plans on placement and installation. New Business: B. Trezise inquired as to whether the board would be adopting the PSD budget at the current meeting. T. Kaltenbach noted that the City budget would not be adopted until May 21. Discussion followed regarding specific budget items and their pertinence to the PSD such as snow removal, printing of monthly newsletters, trash can purchases, and other items. Meeting adjourned at 6:52 p.m. Respectfully Sub fitted, Andrea Ragan Marketing Manager PSD MINUTES BOARD MEETING BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: June 12, 2007 PSD/EDC Conference Room 401 S. Washington St. Lansing, MI 48933 Chairman; David Hayhow, Prime Management, Vice Chairman; Bob Trezise,-,.-, Economic Development Corporation, Treasurer; Doug Johns Jr., LDJ Leasing,,,,;; Regina Bell, AT&T; Richard Karp, Karp and Associates; Jennifer Christian, Rossman Group BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: Kevin McKinney, McKinney & Associates OTHERS PRESENT:,; Kevin Green, Exec. Director PSD; Andrea Ragan, Marketing Manager PSD; Barb Hicks, Exec. Assistant PSD; S. Pawloski, Intern PSD; Vince Villegas, Briarwood Realty; Jamie Schriner-Hooper, Director Old Town Main Street CALL TO ORDER: David Hayhow called the meeting to order at 5:10 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENT: None Approval of Agenda & Minutes: Motion to approve made by D. Johns, second by B. Trezise. Motion carried. Financial Report: B. Hicks presented the February, March and April 2007 financial reports to the board. She noted there is a $6.08 discrepancy in the total expenses and income/expense categories due to journal entries in February 2007 that effected the months of September and December 2006. Those months will be amended to include the additional charges. D. Johns moved to place the financial reports on record. J. Christian second. All voting aye, the financial reports were accepted. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Approve PSD 2007/2008 Budget: D. Hayhow informed the board that this item should read "Discuss" rather than "Approve". K. Green requested the budget discussion be delayed until the July board meeting to represent a different approach to show where the PSD is going and what it wants to do. B. Trezise agreed with the concept. V. Villegas questioned how much would be available to work with, since the money for the maintenance contract is in place. K. Green indicated somewhere between $20,000 and $40,000. It was noted that there is not much flexibility in the budget. No board action was taken. Beautification: K. Green informed the committee that 3,000 Petunias and other plant material had been planted on Washington Square. Brackets were installed on the 200 South block of Washington Sq. for hanging baskets. A beautification committee is being created. A banner program is being developed. D. Johns inquired if the banners would be a source of revenue for the PSD. J. Schriner- Hooper stated that they charge $150.00 per year for danglers that hang from the banners. Banners remain the same, but danglers can be changed. Web Site: A. Ragan reported that she met with Vision Creative to produce a rough layout and the next meeting with them will fine tune the site. V. Villegas questioned the cost of hosting fees. A. Ragan said PSD will update the site. She will ask about hosting fees. Blues on the Square: K. Green reported that things are coming together very well. People have been calling regarding the event. Hours are 6-10 p.m. and the street will include the Showmobile and 14-15 vendors. Connections Comedy Club will rent chairs for $5/chair. Approximately 20 businesses will remain open. Alcohol will not be available in the street and there is expected to be a large crowd. There are advertisements running in Noise, What's On, City Pulse and Sunday's LSJ. Queue Creative developed the logo. D. Johns questioned the Michigan Ave. roadblock. K. Green stated that there will be signs on Grand to direct to free parking. All areas will have direction. Security, Fire Dept. and Emergency measures are all in place. Director's Report: K. Green reported that over three years of CSO issues are moving ahead. The placement of the Dumpster Alley concrete pad is a couple of weeks behind schedule but is looking to be completed soon with a ribbon cutting to reintroduce it. The city is potentially proposing a re -naming contest for the alley. Bob Smith of Hobbs & Black has offered to design a screen to block the view of the dumpsters. Marketing Report: A. Ragan reported that the Rossman Group is providing strategies to help businesses in regards to CSO and other issues going on downtown. She also announced that the PSD is working with the EDC on Mayor Virg Bernero's Linking Lansing & U initiative. There are three intern networking events scheduled for the summer with the first one being held at the Lansing Art Gallery. She stated that The ZD Clean Sweep event has wrapped up and we are looking to turn it into a twice a year event. Invitations will be sent out for the after party and visibility will be raised with more advertisement. She announced that the PSD has hired two new interns for the summer; Barbara Finateri and Sara Pawloski. D. Hayhow questioned the general attitudes of establishments and businesses concerning construction. A. Ragan stated that they are getting better with the delivery of more information. K. Green said that 300 and 400 block businesses are doing very well still. D. Hayhow said that the good communication is great. J. Christian questioned how well we have been reaching out to tenants. A. Ragan stated that we haven't very much but we are welcome to new ideas for reaching out to them. K. Green mentioned that we are working on updating the loft and apartment database. J. Christian has seen that some tenants are frustrated with not having enough information. D. Johns suggested an online blog. K. Green suggested resident mailings and E -source distribution. B. Trezise suggested guerilla marketing type strategy using MySpace or Facebook. A. Ragan announced that there is no June Principal Source due to water damage from the flood in the PSD office. OTCA Report: J. Schriner-Hooper announced that 100 new jobs have been added to Old Town. Mamma Bear's Caf6 is set to open. New condos and lofts are also under development. She also stated that they are glad that the Salsa Festival came close to breaking even despite the rainy weather. Upcoming events in Old Town include Festival of the Sun, Festival of the Moon, and Pickin' in the Park. Both tickets for Fest. of the Sun and Fest. of the Moon can be purchased together for $20. She also announced that they have just recently hired Shannon Rolley as full time Communications Director. Other Business: K. Green thanked R. Karp and his staff for their help with the flood. He announced that there is an assessment hearing on Monday, June 18. He doesn't anticipate any problems but the board's attendance there is appreciated. K. Green also announced the groundbreaking on the 200 and 300 blocks of N. Washington at Shiawassee. They are starting to cut trees and hope to have this area open to traffic this summer. He announced that it was D. Hayhow's last PSD board meeting and thanked him for all he has done. V. Villegas announced the VIP reception at Troppo for more information on the Stadium District will occur on June 21 at 5:30 p.m. The District will be open for occupancy this spring with 20 condos for sale and 30 apartments for rent. A. Ragan proposed a promotional piece for the new PSD website. Possibly a poster piece. Meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m. ResRpetfully Submitted, )TF) ffi-))") Barbara Hicks, Executive Assistant PSD BOARD MEETING MINUTES December 11, 2007 Conference Room 401 S. Washington Sq. Lansing, P✓II 48933 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Bob Trezise, Jr., Doug Johns, Terry Carella, Kris Elliott, Vince Villegas, Stacy Wallace ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Phil Clacko BOARD MEMBERS EXCUSED: Richard Karp, Farhan Bhatti OTHERS PRESENT: Tim Kaltenbach, Kevin Green, Barbara Hicks, Andrea Ragan, CALL TO ORDER: Bob Trezise called the meeting to order at 5:10 pm PUBLIC COMMENT: None. _J C.,-" '-- �. s y i t i U1 APPROVAL OF AGENDA & MINUTES: Motion to approve minutes from June 12, 2007, moved by D. Johns, seconded by V. Villegas. Motion passed unanimously. FINANCIAL REPORT: B. Hicks explained the year end report matched with the City of Lansing financial report as of June 2007. She further explained that monthly reports are balanced with the city's on a monthly basis. B. Trezise stated that the PSD was in the black for the 06/07 fiscal year. K. Green outlined the income of the PSD through the City of Lansing's Special Assessment that funnels into a specific PSD account. He explained the PSD rolls over $10,000 each fiscal year and that in fiscal year 06/07 there was an additional $11,625 at year end. B. Trezise asked if there were any questions regarding the 06/07 financial report. There were none. B. Trezise asked for a motion to approve the 06/07 year end financial report. Motion made by D. Johns and was seconded by T. Carrella. Motion passed, all voting aye. K. Green explained the 2007/2008 PSD budget in comparison to the 06/07 line items, including year end funding and salary of the PSD staff. Green led the board through a line by line description of each category and answered related questions asked by new board members, including questions regarding the marketing budget, maintenance contract, the cost of Blues on the Square and whether Blues should be a separate line item in the budget. B. Trezise asked for a motion to approve the proposed 2007/2008 PSD budget. Motion made by D. Johns and seconded by T. Carrella. Motion passed, all voting aye. DISCUSSION/ACTION: Board Officer Nomination Committee: B. Trezise suggested forming a three member board officer nomination committee. The committee should meet during the next month to present a slate of officers at the next board meeting which will be held on January 8, 2008. Members of the nomination committee are: V. Villegas, D. Johns and T. Carrella. They will be contacting potential officers before the January 8th meeting. Introductions: Each member of the board introduced themselves and their position and investment in the Principal Shopping District. B. Trezise suggested a comprehensive strategic planning session for the 08/09 budget and annual plan take place as soon as possible. The need for this session is to refocus on the need for retail development, work with the emerging merchants association and redefine the mission of the PSD and address the need to incorporate downtown residents. T. Kaltenbach stressed the sense of urgency to refocus the PSD. K. Elliott inquired how best to get involved with the downtown merchants. B. Trezise reiterated the sense of detachment between the merchants and the PSD Board of Directors, and is interested in developing a better level of communication. B. Trezise suggested a meeting with the PSD Board and staff and all downtown retail merchants to communicate a proposed strategic plan as a result of a comprehensive strategic planning session to be held by the Board. B. Trezise suggested the Board also create a Personnel Committee to examine the compensation and job performance of the PSD staff and to create a future evaluation process. Director's Report: The report was submitted to Board members in written form. T. Carrella inquired about the progress of the Michigan Walk of Fame program. K. Green responded that plaques will be installed for the 2007 inductees and that other program development details will be discussed in depth at future meetings. Marketing Report. The report was submitted in written form. B. Trezise suggested a future discussion regarding changing the PSD Board meeting time to accommodate new Board members. Adjourn: 6:05 V. Villegas moved the adjourn, seconded by T. Carrella. Res ectfully Submitted: B. Hicks, Executive Assistant