TownHallProceedings of Concession Street BIA Town Hall Meeting
Sunday, February 19, 2024, 3:00 PM Townhall Social Eatery, 581 Concession Street Attendees associated with the Concession BIA:
Informal gathering of attendees began well before 3:00 PM. Terry Rhodes of Penny Pincher Costumes was dressed as the Transformers character, Bumblebee, setting the informal and entertaining tone of the occasion. A coupon for a free cup of coffee was given to each attendee. Eva Martens gave welcoming comments a few minutes after 3 PM. Eva also introduced the new Executive Director, Doris Sanchez, to a round of applause. Doris spoke, calling attention to the good turnout for the event, as well as inviting input from the community in the days ahead. Doris told the gathering to expect many new initiatives this coming spring and fall. Eva spoke again regarding Streetfest, remarking that the aim was to return Streetfest to its earlier format, the operative adjective being “legacy.” It was also noted that the children’s attractions will be returning to the west parking lot of 555 Concession, including the bouncy castle for which there may be a sponsor to cover the cost. Doris also stated that something being pursued is acrobats. Doris said all the main players are in place for Streetfest; all we need now is good weather. At this point, the proceedings were opened to the floor. The first commenter was community member, Marilyn, who had some creative ideas regarding the plantings and street ornamentation. In response to this, Marilyn was urged to join the Beautification Committee. (The BIA’s desire for community participation by way of committees would be a theme throughout the discussion.) Marilyn also mentioned that possibly some of the street décor items had been stolen in the past. Eva was uncertain about this but stated that items are changed and contents in planter boxes are removed as a matter of course. It does happen that items may get disturbed in planter boxes. Marilyn also suggested that there be more reporting regarding finance, perhaps a quarterly report. Eva answered that the budget for 2023-2024 is now set, but also mentioned that the BIA Board has been without a treasurer for some time, a situation that has now been resolved and that regular reporting, even on a monthly basis would be possible. Eva also mentioned that annual audits of the finances are a requirement. In connection with finances and spending, Eva did mention that a movement towards other sources of funding is being considered. The next question came from Maxine, asking how many musicians are expected at Streetfest. Doris answered that there will be two stages, but the recorder of the proceedings did not catch how many acts will be performing. Doris then returned to Marilyn to inform the gathering of the project to refurbish the coach lights on the street. The next comment came from an unidentified community member who described her involvement with a Christmas event, involving Santa Clause and decorated cars, but was hoping to see more enthusiasm generated by the BIA. Again, community involvement via committees was urged. Eva mentioned that the Executive Director spends as much as three months on Streetfest alone, so participation of the community is key. The discussion moved to community resident, Janet, who noted that in recent years there seemed to be a reduction in the number of outside vendors, who pay to participate. Doris stated that there will be 50 vendors at this year’s Streetfest. It had been mentioned earlier by Doris that the vendors will be situated in such a way not to impede participation by the street’s merchants. Janet mentioned the importance of events like Streetfest, mentioning that she works on Locke Street and that since Locke ceased holding its street festival, things have not gone as well for the street. [Editorial note: In the discussion of the recent Streetfest celebration, no mention was made of the effect of the recovery from the COVID pandemic on how such a festival is planned.] At this point, Eva and Doris brought attention to the Suggestion Box. Feedback sheets for this purpose were provided. The rebranding project was mentioned, so taglines or slogans for Concession Street were encouraged. People were invited to provide their email addresses. Of note, Eva mentioned the involvement of Councilor Esther Pauls in the current development of the Concession BIA and its initiatives. Eva asked the gathering for immediate feedback regarding this town hall event, and it was positive. At about 3:30, the meeting broke up into informal person-to-person and group conversation. Given the nature of the event, there was no formal adjournment. Baked goods were then provided by the BIA in association with the Town Hall Eatery. People began to leave the premises at about 3:50. -END- |
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