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y downtown
muskegon
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Meeting Agenda
Sept. 27, 2019
8 a.m.
Muskegon City Hall
933 Terrace, Muskegon, MI
Room 103
Call to Order
Consent Agenda
a) Approval of Agenda
b) Approval of Minutes from the meeting June 28, 2019 (special)
c) Approval of Minutes from May 28, 2019
Public Comment (on an agenda item)
New Business
a) Acceptance of financial statements as of Aug. 31, 2019 and review financial position
b) Transfer Letter of Letter Intent for BID staff from DMN to DDA through 2020
c) Review of 2019-2020 winter snow removal agreements
d) Marketing and events update
e) Discussion of future of BID after 2020
Other Business
a) Downtown project and Midtown streetscape updates
b) Next meeting is scheduled for Friday October 25, 2019 at 8 a.m. in Muskegon City
Hall, room 103
6) Adjournment
To: Downtown BID board
From: Dave Alexander, Muskegon business development manager,
Re: BID agenda items for Friday Sept. 27, 2019 \ ul
Date: 9-24-19 (lL
Sorry for the long agenda packet but there was a lot | wanted to share with you as
the BID board has not met since June. Remember that you have decided to meet
at Muskegon City Hall on the last Friday of every other month at 8 a.m. Thus, you
will have this month’s meeting at Muskegon City Hall, Room 103, 933 Terrace,
Muskegon, MI 49440 starting at 8 a.m.
Financial report: | have the financial report for the BID as of the Sept. 24. It shows
a cash reserve of $137,874. Bills that aren’t paid include $21,000 for the DPW
summer landscaping services, $20,000 for the Terrace and Third parking lot
paving, $5,000 final payment for the community Christmas Tree in Hackley Park,
$1,500 for the Wood Radio live remote this Thursday morning, $9,000 for
downtown Christmas decorations this season, a $12,500 administrative payment,
$2,500 to support Holidays in the City and about $20,500 winter snow removal for
a month and a half at the end of the year. The expected expenditures of $92,000
would leave a fund balance of approximately $45,500. The BID was at about
$53,000 fund balance at the end of 2018. This year’s fund balance includes the
additional $20,000 for the parking lot that was not budgeted. | have included a
2019 budget and work plan in your packet.
BID-DDA letter: Please find the Letter of Understanding between DMN and the
BID for staff services through 2020. The updated letter in your packet transfers
the work and the $25,000 annual payment to the DDA and city staff.
Winter snow removal: | have put in your packets the agreements in place for
downtown snow removal for this coming winter with the city DPW for sidewalks
and Summit for parking lots. An additional $2,400 would be spent on Midtown
parking lot snow removal at 1144 Third, the old auto dealer lot used by the
district. The BID has a status quo plan for this winter just like last winter when the
BID spent $68,414 on winter snow removal (including snow trucking and salting
by Summit) which is $6,586 less than the $75,000 budgeted. | plan to contract
with TerraScape for Midtown snow removal at the same price as last year.
Marketing and events update: The $15,500 marketing, promotion and events is
over spent $5,281 but is covered by the under spending in snow removal. | am
very happy with the efforts such as print ads, Livability, billboards, radio remote
along with the standard tri-fold maps, tear-off maps, website and social media
among other efforts. My strategy has been to partner on various marketing buys
that support the BID, its businesses and its property owners/investors such as the
radio, billboard and Livability in which we picked up a portion of the cost for
advertising outlet we could never have afforded on our own. As for Livability, |
have put a proposal in your packet for 2020 going from a city/BID/DDA effort for a
four-page pull out ad in as the back cover of the magazine to a two-page brand
story. | would see us spending less than the $5,000 we did last year, maybe just
half of that as we split the cost with the city of Muskegon. Year two would be out
of next year’s marketing budget of the BID.
Future of the BID: | have provided you with background materials in your packet
for your discussion. | will come to the meeting with the current budget of the
DDA, which | think plays into your decision. If at the end of the discussion, | could
get a reasonable consensus on the direction you want to go, | would then bring
you back a specific plan — if you want to extend the BID — for your October
meeting.
Information: In your packet are my economic development reports to the DDA
for the past three months and the initial information on the Midtown/Third
streetscape project now under construction.
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Meeting Minutes
Special meeting
June 28, 2019
380 Western Ave., Suite 202 Muskegon, MI at 4 PM
1) Call to Order: 8:01 AM
Attendance: Bob Tarrant, Gary Post (Vice Chairman), Bruce Lindstrom, Doug Pollock
Chairman), Phyllis Watson-Laudermill, Frank Peterson and Mike Hennessy (
Excused Absent(s): John Riegler.
Guests: Dave Alexander, Downtown Muskegon Now director,
Public Comment (on an agenda item) — The board chose to leave the floor open for the
whole meeting allowing attendees to participate as they like.
New Business
a) The Downtown Muskegon Development Corp., owners of the parking lots along Morris
Avenue from First to Second streets, has put together a plan to repave the parking lot
- used as free public parking downtown that is maintained during the winter by the BID.
“Ina three way split of the $60,000 cost of the paving project, DMDC proposes the BID
pays $20,000, the Downtown Development Authority pays $20,000 and the DMDC
pays $20,000. The contract with Ravenna Sealcoating is being handled by the DMDC.
The DMDC and the DDA have already approved the cost share. A Letter of
Understanding among the three parties on how costs would be accounted if the
parking lot is used for development prior to the end of the seven-year anticipated life
span of the repaving. If the parking lots are developed before the end of the seventh
year, the three parties agree to an accelerated depreciation schedule to determine the
amount owed the BID and DDA. The $20,000 comes from BID fund balance.
Motion to approve the $20,000 parking lot expenditure and letter of understanding:
Frank Peterson
Support: Bruce Lindstrom
Vote: All voted in favor
b) The BID board discussed the board opening with the resignation of Clyde
Whitehouse. Board members will suggest a potential new member to Chairman
1
Doug Pollock and a recommendation will be forwarded to the Muskegon City
Commission for appointment.
4) Other Business
a) The BID board discussed it next meetings through the end of 2019. The board
members found a Friday at 8 a.m. to be a better meeting day and time. The BID board
meetings in the chamber would be moved to Muskegon City Hall as DMN goes out of
business and the city DDA will eventually take over staffing the BID. The next two
meetings will be Sept. 27 and Oct. 25, both at 8 a.m., at Muskegon City Hall, 933
Terrace, Muskegon, MI 49440.
5) Adjournment
8:27 AM
No Objection
Minutes produced and submitted by Dave Alexander, executive director of Downtown
Muskegon Now. |
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Meeting Minutes
May 28, 2019
380 Western Ave., Suite 202 Muskegon, MI at 4 PM
1) Call to Order: 4:01 PM
Attendance: Bob Tarrant, Gary Post (Vice Chairman), John Riegler, Bruce Lindstrom and
Frank Peterson
Excused Absent(s): Doug Pollock (Chairman), Phyllis Watson-Laudermill, and Mike
Hennessy.
Guests: Dave Alexander, Downtown Muskegon Now director, Muskegon DPW director Leo
Evans, and Dennis Lohman.
2) Consent Agenda
Approval of Agenda; Minutes from the meeting Nov. 27, 2018; acceptance of financial
statements as of April 30, 2019 and review financial position; formal vote on 2019 landscaping
LOU with city DPW from March 26; and mal vote on 2019 planter agreement with Barry’s
Flowers from March 26.
Motion: Frank Peterson
Support: Bruce Lindstrom
Vote: All voted in favor
omment (onan agenda item) — The board chose to leave the floor open for the
whole meeting allowing attendees to participate as they like.
4) New Business
a) With the new streetscape plans for Midtown — Third Street from Muskegon to Merrill —
the city DPW has asked to put that work into the BID summer landscaping agreement
with DPW for 2020. The cost would be estimated at $2,000 more than the BID is
currently paying (not to exceed $21,000) the city for summer landscape services.
Motion to approve the additional landscaping costs of $2,000 for Midtown in 2020:
Frank Peterson
Support: John Riegler
Vote: All voted in favor
b) With DMN going out of business and merging with the Downtown Development
Authority as of July 1, the board agreed a new Letter of Understanding with the
DDA on staffing through the end of 2020 was needed. The $25,000 annual
administrative fee would go to the DDA. Dave Alexander will bring that to the DMN
board at a future meeting. Bob Tarrant emphasized it was important in the merger
for the BID assessment payers to continue to get their money’s worth in services.
Communications are important going forward, he said.
c) With the move to staffing through city staff and the DDA, the board agreed to move its
meetings in the future to Muskegon City Hall, 933 Terrace, Muskegon, MI 49440.
d) The BID board discussed potential replacements of Clyde Whitehouse for the
remainder of his term.
e) A discussion of the future of the BID beyond 2020 brought out the division of opinion
on that subject. John Riegler said the BID has served:its purpose and should go away
as it was opposed by several from day one. The DDA should continue doing the BID’s
work. Frank Peterson argued that the BID brings a significant amount of value to
downtown, just consider the look of downtown in the summer and snow removal in the
winter. Gary Post said that there are too many organizations downtown and there
should be a consolidation into one, the DDA. If the BID were to be extended beyond
ies and special assessment rates need
to reflect “benefit” as the BID
ndful:
of Michigan Tax Tribunal appeals that did not go the BID’s way.
5) Other Business
a) Dave Alexander gave an update ‘on downtown projects.
6) Adjournment
4:40 PM
No Objection.
Minutes produced and submitted by Dave Alexander, executive director of Downtown
Muskegon Now.
Expenditurs Revnus As ets
EqFuintdy Liabltes
1/1
09/24/2019 10:29 AM GL ACTIVITY REPORT FOR CITY OF MUSKEGON Page: /L
user? Dekh. Lewis FROM 297-70803-5202 TO 297-70803-5352
DBs BRSKEDOD: TRANSACTIONS FROM 03/01/2019 TO 09/30/2019
Date JNL Type Description Reference # Renits Credits Balance
Fund 297 DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON BID
01/01/2019 297-70803-5201 OFFICE SUPPLIES BEG. BALANCE 0.00
05/20/2019 AP INV MISC ONLINE VENDOR 05/05/2919 246.18 246.18
AMZN MKTP US MN7TLSEB1 AM - sidewalk
05/20/2019 AP INV MISC ONLINE VENDOR 05/13/2019 246.18 492.36
AMZN Mktp US MN9J66dT2 - sidewalk ch
07/91/2019 2019-20 Fiscal Year Begin 9,00
09/30/2019 297-70803-5201 END BALANCE 0.00
Cumulative Net Debits and Credits: 492.36 0.00 492.36
O1/01/2019 297-70803-5346 CONTRACTUAL SERVICES BEG, BALANCE 58,185.00
01/09/2019 AP inv SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 35005 225.00 58,410.00
GAN 2019 SHOVELING INSTALIMENT
01/09/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 35006 1,110.09 $9,520.00
SNOW PLOWING INSTALLMENT
01/23/2019 AP INV TERRASCAPE ARCHITECTS INC 1805 1,200.00 60,720.00
SNOWPLOWING 1144 THIRD ST
02/06/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 35603 2,080.00 62,800.00
JANUARY SALTING WITH LIQUID
02/21/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 34837 1,280.00 64,080.00
SALTING NOV 2018
02/21/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 35744 225.00 64,305.00
FEB 2019 SEASONAL SHOVELING
02/21/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 35745 1,110.60 65,415.00
SEASONAL SNOW PLOWING FER 2019
04/10/2019 AF INY SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWELOWING 36663 960.00 66,375.00
5 SALTING MARCH 2019
~ 04/10/2019 AP INV DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON NOW 2237 6,703.28 73,078.28
REIMBURSEMENT FOR INS, EVENTS, MARKE :
94/30/2019 GI JE TO MOVE BID MONEY TO THE GF FOR WINT 5041 48,500.00 121,578.28
05/09/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 36364 4,314.30 225,892.58
SALTING FOR FEBRUARY
05/09/2019 AP inv SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 349396 420.00 126,372.58
SALTING DECEMBER 2018
05/09/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 36386 1,119,909 127,482.58
SEASONAL SHOVELING MARCH 2019
09/09/2019 AP INV SUMMIT LAWNCARE & SNOWPLOWING 36335 225.00 127, 707.58
SEASCNAL SHOVELING MARCH 2019
06/12/2013 AP INV BARRY'S FLOWER SHOP 6/6STMT 9,550.00 137,287.58
BID SUMMER FLOWER PLANTERS AGREEMENT
06/12/2019 AP inv BARRY'S FLOWER SHOP 6/6STMT 1,900.00 136,257.58
BID SUMMER FLOWER PLANTERS AGREEMENT
O6/12/2019 AF INV BARRY'S FLOWER SHOP 6/6STMT 400.06 138, 657.58
BID SUMMER FLOWER PLANTERS AGREEMENT
06/30/2019 AP INV DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON NOW 2238 12,500.60 181,157.58
STAFFING SERVICES FOR BID JAN-JUNE 2
06/30/2019 AP INV DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON NOW 2239 4,245.25 { 155,402.83
INSURANCE, EVENTS, MARKETING WESITE
06/30/2019 AP INV BARRY'S FLOWER SHOP 63019 1,300.00 156,702.83
DOWNTOWN PLANTER MAINT AND REPLANTIN
07/01/2019 2019-20 Fiscal Year Begin 0.00
09/26/2019 AP INV MISC CREDIT CARD VENDOR 08/14/2019 50.00 50.00
WOWLE HOSTING - monthly Downtown Mkg ;
08/30/2019 297-70803-5346 END BALANCE 50.00
Cumulative Net Debits and Credits: 98,567.83 8.00 98,567.83
01/01/2019 297-70803-5352 PUBLIC RELATIONS BEG, BALANCE 7,042.49
OL/14/2019 AP Inv MISC CREDIT CARD VENDOR 01/04/2019 5,000.90 12,042.49
JOURNAL COMMUNICATIONS - LIVABILITY
07/01/2019 2019-20 Fiscal Year Begin 0.00
08/07/2019 AP INV MUSKEGON LAKESHORE CHAMBER OF COMM F424 333.00 333.00
SHARING COST OF ADVERTISING DOWNTOWN
09/30/2019 297~70803-5352 END BALANCE 333.00
Cumulative Net Debits and Credits: §, 333.00 9.00 $,333.00
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
2019 Budget Recommendation & Explanation
Date: Nov. 21, 2018
To: Business Improvement District Board
From: Dave Alexander, DMN executive director
Budget Recommendation:
This is a proposed fourth-year budget for the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement
District. Based on a two tier assessment where “Class A” Properties pay $0.08/sf annual and
“Class B” Properties pay $0.04/sf annual the Downtown Muskegon BID can expect to generate
$161,647 during 2019. This revenue amount has been adjusted by a series of Michigan Tax
Tribunal decisions in 2018 on assessment appeals.
Proposed 2019 BID budget
2018 BID Estimated Fund Balance $50,000
2019 Revenues $161,647
2019 Expenditures
Snow removal ($75,000)
Landscaping ($30,000)
Marketing, promotion, events ($15,500)
Streetscape ($13,000)
Administration ($25,000)
Contingency ($3,147)
Total ($161,647)
Estimated Fund Balance Dec. 31, 2019 $50,000
Budget Note:
The BID Board in 2016 appointed Downtown Muskegon Now as staff and managers of the BID.
A Letter of Understanding between the BID and the DMN board was signed, having the budget
and general spending categories established by the BID Board and work plans carried out by
DMN. The administrative fee of $25,000 per year was established for 2017. The letter of
understanding was extended through 2020 as was the $25,000 administrative fee.
All unused funds go to cash reserves in fund balance.
Budget Explanation:
Snow removal: The BID’s largest line item is dedicated to snowplowing and salt application
along sidewalks within the BID where the majority of the Class A properties are located along
portions of W. Western Ave., Clay Ave., Morris Ave., Terrace St., Jefferson, 15, 24, 3°, 6 & 7%
Streets. Funds will also be used to clear parking areas which are generally used by the public —
specifically the two lots between 2TM and 3% Streets accessed off of Morris Ave. and in the
former Mattson Olds parking lot in Midtown. The BID board approved a extension of the
sidewalk service for Clay from 7" to 9" streets (southside only) and 9" Street from Clay Avenue
to Webster (eastside only).
The BID has signed three-year agreements with Summit Landscaping and Snow Removal for
downtown parking lots and alleys, Terrascape Architects for Midtown, and with the city DPW for
sidewalks.
Landscaping: The Downtown Muskegon BID in 2017 contracted with city of Muskegon Public
Works Department to provide a high level of landscaping service after seeking bids from private
contractors. The BID secured a three-year contract to provide these services 2018-2020.
Downtown planters are being serviced by Barry’s Flowers. Summer Landscaping includes the
wedding and fertilization of common areas throughout the BID (grass cutting is done by the
city). This line item also includes the planting and maintenance of flower planters throughout the
BID (this item could be completed by a different vendor than the one doing the landscaping and
clean up). Fall clean-up will consist of removal of leaves from the BID district and preparation of
the planning beds for the winter. The BID board significantly increased the landscaping portion
of the budget vs. 2016 with the intention of furthering BID landscaping services to Terrace
Avenue, Clay Avenue and Pine Street as funds allow.
Marketing, promotion, events: The BID was used to launch the highly successful First Fridays
events in the downtown, and in 2018 and again in 2019 those monthly events are Chalk the
Walk in conjunction with the Lakeshore Art Festival, Street Performers in August and Touch the
Truck in September. Beyond events, the BID is supporting an updated Downtown Muskegon
website, a revised downtown email list, an annual tri-fold downtown map/brochure, direct and
indirect advertising among other marketing and promotional activities.
Streetscape: This is a broad spending category that allows the BID Board to improve downtown
Muskegon through new holiday decorations, public art projects, banners,
directional/informational signs, benches, trash receptacles, sidewalk repairs, new planters,
public space maintenance such as Olthoff Stage and Alcoa Square and like expenditures. The
2019 budget includes an additional $5,000 for the new community Christmas tree.
Administration: Downtown Muskegon Now provided the staff support to design and establish the
Downtown Muskegon Improvement District in 2015 and 2016. As promised to the Muskegon
City Commission for 2016, there was no BID funds expended for “salaries and benefits” —
administrative costs. The BID requires staff time and effort. Going forward DMN needs to be
compensated for its time and effort. Thus, administrative line-item in the 2019 budget continues
until 2020.
Contingency: The 2019 BID budget has $3,147 in unbudgeted revenues. This contingency fund
is in addition to the carry-over fund balance from 2018.
Letter of Understanding between Muskegon Downtown Development
Authority
and the Muskegon Business Improvement District
e The Muskegon Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a city of Muskegon tax increment
finance district designed to support downtown Muskegon. It took over the work of Downtown
Muskegon Now (DMN) on July 1, 2019. DMN had a 2018-2020 Letter of Understanding with the
Muskegon Business Improvement District (BID) that has been terminated.
e The Muskegon Business Improvement District (BID) was established by the city of Muskegon in
2015 as a self-assessment district providing services and improvements in the downtown area.
The BID was renewed for three years at the end of 2017 by the Muskegon City Commission.
e Since Jan. 19, 2016, the BID Board of Directors selected DMN to provide staff services, which
continued through July 1, 2019.
e With the three-year extension of the BID, DMN was to receive $25,000 annually for 2018, 2019
and 2020 from the BID for administrative services. DMN collected its administrative fee for 2018
and half of it in 2019. The DDA and city of Muskegon staff will step into the DMN position to
provide staff services to the BID. DDA will receive $12,500 for the second half of 2019 and
$25,000 for 2020.
e The DDA Board with the help city of Muskegon staff will carry out the 2018-2020 BID budgets
as part of the three-year renewal process. The BID board can establish specific expenditures of
BID funds through the annual budget process, with the DDA board providing oversight of the
BID’s marketing, events and promotions line items.
e City staff will expend the funds and report at least quarterly to the BID board on the work
completed. The DDA will provide semi-annual reports to the BID and downtown community.
e Over the next year and a half, the BID Board in conjunction with city staff will work on
expanding the BID services beyond West Western Avenue and having the BID Board provide the
Muskegon City Commission with a recommendation for the BID beyond 2020.
e This letter of understanding is for the 2018-2020 BID as approved by the Muskegon City
Commission and may be terminated with 60 days’ notice by either party.
Approved by the Muskegon Downtown Development Authority board Oct. 8, 2019
Signed:
Martha Bottomley
DDA chair
Approved by the Business Improvement District board Sept. 27, 2019
Signed:
Doug Pollock
BID chair
Letter of Understanding between Downtown Muskegon Now and the
Muskegon Business Improvement District
* Downtown Muskegon Now (DMN) is a non-profit corporation focused on economic
development, marketing and events in downtown Muskegon, Mich.
* The Muskegon Business Improvement District (BID) was established by the city of Muskegon in
2015 as a self-assessment district providing services and improvements in the downtown area.
On Jan. 12, 2016, the Muskegon City Commission unanimously approved the final district
property assessments to launch the BID. The BID was renewed for three years at the end of
2017 by the commission.
© Atits Jan. 19, 2016 meeting, the BID Board of Directors selected DMN to provide staff services
to the district and renewed that arrangement in January 2017. For the past two years, DMN has
administer the operations of the BID and has been the liaison to the city of Muskegon and its
staff.
® With the three-year extension of the BID, DMN will received $25,000 annually for 2018, 2019
and 2020 from the BID for administrative services.
° The BID Board with the help of DMN staff established the 2018-2020 budgets as part of the BID
renewal process, which DMN will carry out on behalf of the BID Board. The BID board can
establish specific expenditures of BID funds through the annual budget process, with the DMN
board providing oversight of the BID’s marketing, events and promotions line items.
e DMN staff will expend the funds and report at least quarterly to the BID board on the work
completed. DMN will provide an annual report to the BID and downtown community each
January.
® Over the next three years, the BID Board In conjunction with DMN staff will work on expanding
the BID services beyond West Western Avenue.
© This letter of understanding is for the 2018-2020 BID as approved by the Muskegon City
Commission and may be terminated with 60 days’ notice from either party.
Approved by the Downtown
yeas ee board Feb. 8, 2018
Signed:
Andy Maciejewski
DMN president
Approved by the Business i al trict board Jan. 23, 2018
Signed: Ca file
he.
Doug Pollock i
BID chairman
Letter of Understanding
City of Muskegon DPW and Muskegon downtown Business Improvement District
This is a Letter of Understanding between the Muskegon downtown Business Improvement District (BID)
and city of Muskegon Department of Public Works (city) concerning the snowplowing of downtown
sidewalks for the winter seasons from Nov. 15, 2017 to April 15, 2020. City and BID officials will work
together to provide superior snow removal services the most efficient, cost-effective way.
For each snow season Nov. 15 to April 15, the BID will pay the city a total of $48,750 ($9,750 per month)
as a retainer to provide the outlined services below for Monday through Saturday. Sunday sidewalk
services for the three years will be requested on an “as needed” basis and billed by the city for time and
materials.
Monthly costs and invoices will be sent to Downtown Muskegon Now as managers of the BID and paid
by the city Finance Department with BID funds to the DPW. Muskegon DPW will provide DMN a monthly
accounting of the downtown sidewalk activity and expenses, reports that will be shared with BID board
members.
Sidewalk snowplowing, salting (as needed) and snow pile removal (as needed) will be provided by the
city when fresh snow accumulations are 2 inches or greater measured at Third Street and West Western
Avenue each morning. The goal with overnight snowfalls is to clear the sidewalks by 8 a.m. the next
morning starting along Western Avenue, if possible. The goal on Saturdays is to have the sidewalks on
the main streets of Western, Clay, Morris and Third cleared by 8a.m. or as needed. Sidewalk
snowplowing services provided by the city on Sundays and holidays will result in higher charges due to
overtime and will be triggered by downtown needs. Sidewalk snow clearing is more limited on
Saturdays-Sundays and holidays as outlined below.
The area of sidewalk snow removal services is shown on the attached maps.
Sidewalk Snow Removal for weekdays (Monday-Friday map)
- W. Western Ave. between 7" Street and Spring Street
- W.Clay Ave. between 3° St. and Spring Street.
- Webster Ave from 3% St. to Pine St.
- Morris St between 3° St. and Terrace St.
- Apple Avenue from First Street to Jefferson Street.
- Muskegon Avenue from First Street to Pine Street
- 7 Street from W. Western Ave. to W. Clay
- 6 Street from W. Western Ave. to W. Clay Ave.
- 4 Street between W. Western Ave. & W. Clay Ave
- 3" Street from the parking lot behind the Hume Building (at Morris) to Merrill Ave.
- 24 Street between Morris Ave & Webster Ave.
- 1% Street between Morris Ave & W. Apple. Ave.
- Jefferson St. between W. Western Ave & Walton Ave.
- Terrace St. between Shoreline Dr. & W. Muskegon Ave.
- Pine St. between W. Western Ave. & W. Muskegon Ave.
- Spring Street between W. Western Ave. and W. Clay Ave.
Sidewalk Street Crossings
- All efforts should be made to keep sidewalk entrances to streets clear
3° & W. Western Traffic Circle
- Thecross walks in the traffic circle at 3 and Western should also be cleared
Sidewalk snow removal for Saturdays-Sundays and holidays (weekend map)
- W. Western Ave. from Terrace to 7" St., both sides of the street.
- Morris Avenue, Terrace St. to Third St., both sides of the street.
- Clay Ave. from Third St. to Terrace St., both sides of the street.
- Third St. from Morris Ave. to Merrill Ave., both sides of the street.
Sidewalk Street Crossings
- All efforts should be made to keep sidewalk entrances to streets clear
3° & W. Western Traffic Circle
- The cross walks in the traffic circle at 3° and Western should also be cleared
Salting and snow pile removals
- Salting of sidewalks and crosswalk entrances will be done when they are treacherous and
weather conditions for salting are favorable.
- Snow pile removal will be done when needed in coordination with piles from street plowing.
City DPW and the BID have the right to review this letter of understanding at the end of each season.
Issues concerning the daily sidewalk snow plowing services will be handled jointly by Dave Alexander,
executive director of Downtown Muskegon Now on behalf of the BID or BID board members residing
downtown on weekends and holidays and city Public Works Director or a designee.
On behalf of the city Department of Public Works:
pip vate: DIT
Frank Peterson, Muskegon city manager
On behalf of the downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District:
om Lobe Date: uf2lt7
Doug Pollock, BID board chairman
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Letter of Understanding
City of Muskegon DPW and Muskegon downtown Business Improvement District
This is an update of the Letter of Understanding between the Muskegon downtown Business
Improvement District (BID) and city of Muskegon Department of Public Works (city) concerning the
snowplowing of downtown sidewalks for the winter seasons from Nov. 15, 2018 to April 15, 2020. This
letter updates the price of the service BID will pay to the city and updates a new sidewalk area to be
serviced for the 2018-2019 and 2019- 2020 winter seasons.
For each snow season Nov. 15 to April 15, the BID will pay the city a total of $50,125 ($10,025 per
month) as a retainer to provide the outlined services below for Monday through Saturday. Sunday
sidewalk services for the two years will be requested on an “as needed” basis and billed by the city for
time and materials.
Additional Sidewalk Snow Removal for weekdays (see attached map)
- Clay Avenue from 7" Street to 9"" Street, south side sidewalk only
- 9 Street from Clay Avenue to Webster Avenue, east side sidewalk only
On behalf of the city Department of Public Works:
Li nate DML 8
Frank Peterson, Muskegon city manager
On behalf of the downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District:
Doug Pollock, BID board chairman
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377 W. McMillan Rd
SUMMIT Muskegon, Mi 49445
LAW CARE $f SNOW PLOWING ne. Tel: 231-798-2932
Complete Outdoor Property Management Fax: 231-799-8140
info@summitlawncare.net
www.summitlawncare.net
Date: November 10, 2017
To: Dave Alexander Service Site: Same
Company: Downtown Muskegon Service Address:
Billing Address 380 W. Western Ave Service Address:
Billing Address Service City, State, Zip
City, State, ZIP Muskegon MI 49440 Site Contact:
Phone: 231-724-3180 Contact Phone:
Fax: Contract Start 11/15/2017
Email: dalexander@downtownmuskegon.org Contract End: 4/15/2020
Proposal: Snow & Ice Management 2017-20 Season (prices valid for 30 days)
Includes services drives
Snow Plowing 2017/2020 Seasons .
Snow season dates: November 15, 2017 - April 15, 2020
Snow and Ice Control Services
Frequency Description
Per event services
Snow plowing and Shovel billed inS monthly installments
of $1,110 reach beginning November 1 $ 5,530.00" Total Seasonal
nan
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550. 1 i
15"-2" shovel. watks + billed
biled i in 5 monthly installments
install of $225 $ 1,225.00 |Total Seasonal
beginning November 1
Parking lot deicing per event $ 160.00 [Billed Per event
Services by request
Client approval {Loader for stacking snow or loading truck $ 150.00 jHourly
,Clientapproval 150 yard dump truck for hauling snow $ 85.00 |Hourly
Snow will be plowed at the discretion of Summit Lawn Care & Snow Plowing, Inc. Customer understands that if snowfalls exceed 5" trucks may
only plow throughways then return later to clear lots. We will make every effort to have snow removed before business hours; however, this
may not be possible if 2" of snow has not fallen before 4 am. When customer agrees to parking lot deicing as needed, deicing will occur at the
discretion of Summit Lawn Care & Snow Plowing, Inc. to designated areas when slippery and/or icy conditions warrant, regardless of snowfall
totals. If customer elects to have deicing agents applied at their request, customer understands that the service will occur the next time a truck
js in the area. If snow stacking or hauling is necessary, the customer will be notified for approval and will be charged at an hourly rate. if diesel
or gas prices go over $4.50 per gallon we may find it necessary to apply a fuel surcharge. Requests to return to clear entrances after city plows
may be counted as a fulll service visit. Snow clearing during extreme snow events of 8" or more in a 12-hour period may count as multiple visits.
Salt prices are based on 2015 pre-purchase prices negotiated by Summit Lawn Care & Snow Plowing with suppliers. In the event an unexpected
salt shortage occurs due to extreme weather demands or government salt seizure, customer may be notified regarding price increases. In the
event that salt prices decrease, customer may be notified of the price decrease.
Billing occurs once a month with an option to be billed twice a month. Payment terms are net 30 days. After 30 days a 10% late fee may be
imposed. Any additional services will be performed upon the request of the customer. Option for electronic billing is available, Please call our
office 231-798-2932 for additional service requests.
Snow contracts are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability is limited. A fax copy of the agreement is acceptable.
For multi-year contracts there will be a annual review in which both sides have the opportunity opt out if itis deemed necessary.
Summit Lawn Care & Snow Plowing, Inc.
A Michigan Company
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Michael B. Weiler, President
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From: Scott Young <syoung@livmedia.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 11, 2019 8:56 PM
To: Dave Alexander
Subject: Analytics or Livability Muskegon Lakeshore
Sorry I forgot to send this earlier!
Top Cities Where sessions originated
Muskegon, Detroit, Georgetown Township, Norton Shores, Gloucester, Scottsdale
Key Points
e The Muskegon Livability landing page rank #1 in Google Search for “move to Muskegon.”
e The Muskegon Livability landing page hosts the digital magazine plus
7 custom articles with direct links to local businesses and attractions.
Top Content By pageviews
1. Muskegon, MI | Livability landing page
2. “More Than Meets the Eye: Discover the Arts Scene in This Hidden...”
3. “Discover the Beauty of Muskegon Lakeshore Neighborhoods”
4. “Business Initiative Helps Drive Economic Growth in Muskegon”
5. “Enjoy Some (Or All) of Muskegon Lakeshore's Local Food Favorites”
6. Norton Shores, MI | Livability landing page
Digital Magazine
TOTAL PAGE VIEWS: 19.78K
TOTAL VIEWS 634
Scott Young
Executive Integrated Media Manager
https:/Hivability.com/muskegon-lakeshore
syoung@livmedia.com
(256)394-1068
| Content Marketing
Showcase your brand and extend your reach in print, online and via social media.
Content Marketing is a way for you to engage your audience by giving them legitimate
information they want while positioning you and your brand as a trusted resource.
SPONSORED CONTENT
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¢ CHOICE OF 8-PAGE OR 16-PAGE IN PRINT AND DIGITAL: Choice of full-page or digest size
e 1,000 OVERRUN PRINTED COPIES
¢ STAND-ALONE DIGITAL VERSION: Distribute through email and social media, and embed
on your website as additional content!
e MARKETING LANDING PAGE ON LIVABILITY.COM WITH STATE OR CITY PAGE PROMOTION
¢ FEATURED DIGITAL CONTENT WITH PAID PROMOTION: Digital translation of one to two
articles in Livability voice that will be in a fixed position within the main article river
sitewide. Articles are categorized within the city section, based on the content topic and
will be optimized for paid promotion on various social media and content channels.
*Upgrade available
BRAND STORIES
Tell the story of your business or organization through a Brand Story, a special
sponsored article written and designed in the overall tone and style of the publication.
e CHOICE OF FULL PAGE OR TWO-PAGE SPREAD IN PRINT AND DIGITAL
¢ FEATURED CONTENT ARTICLE: The content will be included as an organic article within
the appropriate city/region state section on Livability.com.
e 25 MAGAZINE COPIES
e¢ 100 OVERRUN PRINTED COPIES AND HIGH-RES PDF
Here are a few of our
advertising partners.
Livability Magazine 2020
Brand story
1 page spread 300 words $7,730
2 page spread 450 words $10,895
Theme: Center of the Action along the Muskegon Lakeshore, where to play as you work, live and stay in
the city of Muskegon.
Location: Downtown to the beach
Talking points:
e Food & Drinks
o Highlight a few places in both downtown and Lakeside
o. Possible ideas:
= Pigeon Hill
= Unruly
= Wonderland Distillery, Bryl and Sprig, Rake (new)
= Se4sons
= Timbers
= Lake House
= The Deck
= Fricano’s
= Dockers
e Recreation
o. Bike trail
o Bike share program
o Pere Marquette
o McGraft Park
o Muskegon Country Club
e Accommodations: Delta, Shoreline Inn, Pidge Inn, Bed and Breakfasts, numerous vacation
rentals and Air B&Bs
e = Arts and Culture
o Highlight art and culture institutions from downtown to the beach
o Including MMA, Hackley Library, H-H Homes, Lakeshore Museum Center, LST 393,
Muskegon Heritage Museum, USS Silversides
e Events
o Burning Foot
Lakeshore Art Festival
oo00000
Rebel Road & Bike Time
Unity Music Festival
Parties in the Park
Shoreline Jazz Festival
lrish Festival
© Polish Festival
o Latino Festival
o Taste of Muskegon
Deadline to submit talking points, quotes and images: November 1*
JOURNAL Journal Communications inc Contract 1D: 086502
Wy COMMUNICATIONS ole Naan Advertiser1D: 10005344
ZA CiS*CAA MEDIA, COSTON CONTENT, Franin TN 92967 PO. NONE
725 Cool Springe Bed. Sine ae
Frashin, Teremsane 27064
61S 271 0 «han BI INON
Dave Alexander, Frank Peterson Mo Contact
City of Muskegon
833 Terrace Street
SAS EIR
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{225} Scott Young
“Publication: Livabildy Muskegon Lakeshore, Michigan
Contract Status: Proposad-Sent Gut
- Contract Description: 2 Page Srand Story + ondne MR
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Special instructions Total Surnenary
Space: $40,080.00
ADI / DISC : 25.00
| Sales Tex: $0.00
Contract NET: $10,985.00
DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
SPECIAL ASSESSMENT BENEFIT ANAYLSIS SUMMARY
PREPARED BY THE MUSKEGON COUNTY EQUALIZATION DEPARTMENT
August 25, 2017
August 25, 2017.
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Board
933 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49443
Dear Board Members:
In accordance with your request, I have examined the proposed special assessment district for the
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District. The purpose of this analysis is to document
the reasonableness of this special assessment district by identifying and quantifying any accrued
benefits. It is subject to the normal governmental restrictions of escheat, taxation, police power and
eminent domain. The effective date of this analysis is August 25, 2017.
The proposed special assessment district encompasses all classes of properties. The Downtown
Muskegon Business Improvement District Board has provided per parcel cost estimates in
accordance with the City’s Special Assessment Policy and all project-related costs.
The three year project is estimated to have a first year assessment of $179,933.
The amount of money to be spread is based on a per parcel rate of $0.08 per square foot of lot size
for a “Class A” Property and $0.04 per square foot of lot size for a “Class B” Property as defined by
the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Board in their Bylaws. The Downtown
Muskegon Business Improvement District Board is solely responsible for these figures.
In conclusion, it is my opinion that the special assessment amounts as provided by the Board justly
and reasonably represents the accrued benefits to the properties encompassed by this project. The
amounts reflect the sum of the immediate estimated value enhancement and the intrinsic value that
will accrue from an overall increase in property values due to an improved quality of life created by
the proposed project. Simply stated, the rate of $0.08 per square foot of lot size for a “Class A”
Property and $0.04 per square foot of lot size for a “Class B” Property as defined by the Downtown
Muskegon Business Improvement District Board in their Bylaws for the above mentioned project
area appears reasonable and equitable based upon the data presented by the Downtown Muskegon
Business Improvement District Board, and supporting office records.
Sincerely,
(Dong. Vorndde
Vanr
Donna Vandervries, MMAO
City of Muskegon Assessor
West Western Avenue and 3"4 Street
Equalization Departmentfile photo
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Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
2018 - 2020 Assessment
Regarding: Assessment for 2018, 2019 and 2020
Date: Aug. 11, 2017
To: Muskegon City Clerk/City Commission
From: Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Board
Overview:
After separate public hearings, the Muskegon City Commission approved the Downtown Muskegon Business
Improvement District on Nov. 24, 2015 and the district assessment rolls on Jan. 12, 2016. The approval was
for one year. Again in 2016, the Muskegon City Commission had a status quo renewal of the BID for 2017 after
public hearings Sept. 27, 2016 and Oct. 25, 2016. The BID Board used 2017 to study and review the BID
District and the assessment structure, coming to a recommendation for 2018 and beyond.
Following a review of requested and needed services within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement
District, the BID Board recommends to the Muskegon City Commission to extend the Downtown Muskegon
Business Improvement District for an additional 3 YEARS with an assessment be established for the 2018,
2019 and 2020 calendar years.
The BID board recommends the Business Improvement District boundaries be slightly increased to better
reflect downtown activities and benefits of the district. The BID board also recommends changes to the
assessment rates, property classifications and maximum assessments to more fairly spread responsibility for
downtown services. Like in 2017, the assessments would be placed on the winter property tax bills for 2018 -
2020.
2018 - 2020 Assessments:
- “Class A” Properties, as defined in the BID Bylaws, shall be assessed an annual assessment of
$0.08/sf with no assessment to exceed $4,000. Contiguous properties with the same use and same
owner shall be assessed as one property. Property lot size on record with the County Assessor shall be
used in determining the square footage of properties.
o Inthe instance of a condo property the master dead shall be used in determining the percent of
the assessment that an individual property owner would be assessed.
- “Class B” properties as defined in the BID Bylaws be assessed an annual assessment of $0.04/sf with
no assessment to exceed $2,000. Contiguous properties with the same use and same owner shall be
assessed as one property. Property lot size on record with the County Assessor shall be used in
determining the square footage of properties.
o Note that the BID Board on April 25, 2017 voted to amend the BID Bylaws to define a “Class B”
property as: “Properties located within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
which are currently use for, or zoned for industrial or manufacturing.” The word “automotive”
was removed from the definition, moving that category of property to “Class A.”
- Based on this assessment structure, approximately $179,933 can expected to be collected for services
to support businesses and property owners within the BID in 2018.
(A budget recommendation & explanation is attached as a separate memo.)
- The assessment shall be placed on the 2018, 2019 and 2020 winter property tax bills.
- The 2018 -2020 BID district, assessment rolls and collection methods were discussed at BID Board
meetings Jan. 24, March 28 and April 25, 2017. A resolution supporting the above recommendation
was voted on at a May 23, 2017 BID Board meeting. Due to a number of absent board members, a
revote was taken at the July 25, 2017 meeting. The vote result of the same resolution at the two
meetings was as follows:
2017 BID Extension Vote:
Nlember No Abstention Motion/Support Absent
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Chair Doug
Pollock
VC Gary Post Support
Bruce Lindstrom
John Riegler (at May 23)
Phyllis Watson-
Laudermill
Motion
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Frank Peterson
Clyde Whitehouse
Mike Hennessy
Bob Tarrant
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Budget Recommendation & Explanation
Date: Aug. 11, 2017
To: Muskegon City Clerk/City Commission
From: Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Board
Budget Recommendation:
This is a proposed third-year budget for the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement
District. Based on a two tier assessment where “Class A” Properties pay $0.08/sf annual and
“Class B” Properties pay $0.04/sf annual the Downtown Muskegon BID can expect to generate
$179,933 during 2018.
Proposed 2018-2020 BID budgets
2017 BID Estimated Fund Balance $25,000
2017 Estimated Revenues $179,933
2018 Expenditures
Snow removal ($75,000)
Landscaping ($30,000)
Marketing, promotion, events ($24,000)
Streetscape ($13,000)
Administration ($25,000)
Contingency ($12,933)
Total ($179,933)
Estimated Fund Balance Dec. 31, 2018 $25,000
Budget Note:
The BID Board in 2016 appointed Downtown Muskegon Now as staff and managers of the BID.
A Letter of Understanding between the BID and the DMN board was signed, having the budget
and general spending categories established by the BID Board and work plans carried out by
DMN. The administrative fee of $25,000 per year was established for 2017.
All unused funds go to cash reserves in fund balance.
Budget Explanation:
Snow removal: The BID’s largest line item is dedicated to snowplowing and salt application
along sidewalks within the BID where the majority of the Class A properties are located along
portions of W. Western Ave., Clay Ave., Morris Ave., Terrace St., Jefferson, 1%, 2", 3% 6&7"
Streets. Funds will also be used to clear parking areas which are generally used by the public—
specifically the two lots between 2" and 3” Streets accessed off of Morris Ave. With plenty of
fund balance for snow removal, the BID Board will attempt to expand the snow removal services
as the budget allows for 2018 and beyond.
Landscaping: The Downtown Muskegon BID in 2017 contracted with city of Muskegon Public
Works Department to provide a high level of landscaping service after seeking bids from private
contractors. The BID will likely seek a three-year contract to provide these services 2018-2020.
Summer Landscaping includes the wedding and fertilization of common areas throughout the
BID (grass cutting is done by the city). This line item also includes the planting and maintenance
of flower planters throughout the BID (this item could be completed by a different vendor than
the one doing the landscaping and clean up). Fall clean-up will consist of removal of leaves from
the BID district and preparation of the planning beds for the winter. The BID board significantly
increased the landscaping portion of the budget vs. 2016 with the intention of furthering BID
landscaping services to Terrace Avenue, Clay Avenue and Pine Street as funds allow.
Marketing, promotion, events: The BID was used to launch the highly successful First Fridays
events in the downtown, 6-8 p.m. family-friendly gatherings that have included a family dance
party, two hugely popular street performance events and a “touch the truck” event. Beyond
events, the BID is supporting an updated Downtown Muskegon website, a revised downtown
email list, a new downtown e-newsletter and an annual tri-fold downtown map/brochure, direct
and indirect advertising among other marketing and promotional activities.
Streetscape: This is a broad spending category that allows the BID Board to improve downtown
Muskegon through new holiday decorations, public art projects, banners,
directional/informational signs, benches, trash receptacles, sidewalk repairs, new planters,
public space maintenance such as Olthoff Stage and Alcoa Square and like expenditures.
Administration: Downtown Muskegon Now provided the staff support to design and establish the
Downtown Muskegon Improvement District in 2015 and 2016. As promised to the Muskegon
City Commission for 2016, there was no BID funds expended for “salaries and benefits” —
administrative costs. The BID requires staff time and effort. Going forward DMN needs to be
compensated for its time and effort. Thus, administrative line-item in the 2017 budget continues
for 2018 and beyond.
The 2018 — 2020 BID budget and work plan was approved by a vote of the BID Board on May
23, 2017. Due to absent members a revote of the same motion was taken at the July 25, 2017
meeting. The combined results were:
2018 -2020 BID Budget Vote:
Member Yes No Abstention Motion/Support Absent
Chair Doug X
Pollock
VC Gary Post xX Motion
Bruce Lindstrom
John Riegler x (at May 23)
Phyllis Watson- X
Laudermill
Frank Peterson X Support
Clyde x
Whitehouse
Mike Hennessy Xx
Bob Tarrant X
Bylaws
Of
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Adopted April 29, 2015
Amended April 25, 2017
Purpose
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District was created to promote economic
development in downtown Muskegon and enhance services to existing businesses located in
Downtown Muskegon through marketing activities, common area maintenance and
beautification.
Article 1
Property Classifications
Class “A” Properties
Properties located within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District which are
currently used for, or zoned for commercial, office, retail or other similar activities not listed
below
Class “B” Properties
Properties located within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District which are
currently use for, or zoned for industrial or manufacturing
Class “C” Properties
Properties located within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District which are
currently used for nonprofit or religious activities
Class “D” Properties
Properties located within the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District which are
currently used for, or zoned for educational or governmental activities.
Article 2
Governing Board
Section 2.1 —- Composition
The Downtown Muskegon Business Impro
vement District Board shall consist of nine (9)
members. Board composition shall be consis
tent with the State of Michigan enabling legisla
tion,
Act No. 120 of the Public Acts of 1961. Statue
allows for between seven (7) and fifteen (15)
members. Board membership may be increased
or decreased by a recommendation of the BID
Board at the first quarterly annual meeting in Januar
y with the new board composition taking
effect the following January 1.
Section 2.2 —- Board Terms
Each board member will be appointed to a three
(3) year term with no more than half of board
seats expiring in one year. For the initial board,
board members will drawl lots to determine what
members will serve one (1), two (2) and three
(3) year teams. Board terms end on December
31
of the expiring year. The first year term for inaugu
ral board members will expire on December
31, 2016 following the first full year of service.
Section 2.3 —- Board Openings
Nominees for annual openings shall be indors
ed by the Downtown Muskegon Business
Improvement District board at its fall quarterly meetin
g and then sent to the Muskegon City
Commission for formal appointment.
Section 2.4— Regular Openings
Individuals seeking nomination/appointment to the
board should complete an application of
interest. If more individuals express interest in
open positions than there are positions the
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement
District may conduct an election by mail.
Section 2.4.2 - Voting Eligibility in Elections
Assessable property owners within the Downt
own Muskegon
Business Improvement District are eligible voters
for the Business
Improvement District Board.
Section 2.5 — Vacancies, Resignations and Remova
ls
Vacancies which occur between fall quarterly meetin
gs shall be filled by appointment via a
recommendation of the Business Improv
ement District Board to the Muskegon City
Commission.
Section 2.6 —- Compensation
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Board members shall not receive any
compensation for their services.
Article 3
Officers
Section 3.1 — Appointment of Chair and Vice-C
hair
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement
District Board shall annually select one of its
members to serve as Chair and Vice-Chair.
The Chair shall preside at all meetings.
The Vice-Chair shall act in the capacity of the Chair
in the absence of the Chair. In the event of
a vacancy in the office of Chair, the Vice-Chair
will assume the office of Chair and the Busine
ss
Improvement District Board shall select a successor
to the office of Vice-Chair at the earliest
practical time.
Section 3.2 — Secretary
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Board shall designate a qualified
member of the downtown Muskegon services office
staff to serve as secretary of the Business
Improvement District Board. The Secretary shall file
a detailed record of all proceedings in the
downtown Muskegon services office and take all
other action as necessary for the proper and
expeditious execution of all board actions.
Article 4
Meetings
Section 4.1 - Open Meetings Act
All meeting of the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District
Board shall be
conducted at a public meeting held in compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings
Act, Act No.
267 of the Public Acts of 1976. Any property owner or business owner located
within the
Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District shall be given the
opportunity to be heard.
Section 4.2 — Meetings Held
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Board shall
meet a minimum of once
per quarter. Additional meetings may be called between standing
meetings with no less than 48
hours notice.
Standing quarterly meeting should cover:
- 41 Quarterly Meeting — Annual report/selection of chair & Vice-chair
- Qn Quarterly Meeting — Discussion of following year’s services
- 3 Quarterly Meeting — Discussion of assessment based on recommended services
= 4? Quarterly Meeting - Recommendation of Assessment & recommendation of new
board members.
Section 4.3 — Notice of Meetings
Notices of all meetings (regularly scheduled and special) shall be posted
a minimum of two
weeks in advance on the City of Muskegon’s website and the appropriate
downtown Muskegon
organization's website.
Section 4.4 — Amending Bylaws
The Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District Bylaws may be
amended by a simple
majority vote of the board.
Article 5
Administration
Section 5.1 - Records
All records of the Downtown Muskegon Business Improvement District board
are available to
the public in compliance with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Meeting
agendas, board
packets, meeting minutes and annual financials shall be posted to the administer
ing agency’s
website.
Section 5.2 — Annual Meeting
At the first quarterly meeting of the year an annual report shall be presented
which provides an
overview of the previous year’s activities and budget expenditures. The
annual report will be
publically available via the administering agency's website.
Business Improvement District Bylaws were amended as of April 25, 2017 by
a
unanimous vote of the BID board.
To: DDA board members
From: Dave Alexander, Business Development Manager
Re: Economic development/events monthly report
Date: 7-9-19
Despite all of the events, vacations and activities, interest in downtown Muskegon has not
waned at the beginning of this summer.
Convention Center — The Clark construction trailer is in place behind the LC Walker Arena and
the contractor is ready to begin underground utility work for the convention center. The
Muskegon City Commission has approved its last changes to the development agreement and
the bonding resolution. The county should be doing the same as subcontractors are secured.
The project timetable still is to have the convention center open the first quarter of 2021.
794 Northtown - The former Al Perri Furniture store has been transformed into a mixed use
facility with Redmon’s Kitchen opening and Aldea Coffee and Rake’s Brewing not far behind.
Third Street Dock— As the city and Mart Dock continue pursuing a land swap — Fisherman’s
Landing for the Third Street Dock — community development leaders and city staff quietly plan
public use of the space between Mart Dock and Shoreline Inn, including how to link downtown
to the waterfront using Third Street. It is a great location for a needed second cruise ship dock
and provide shopper-dock access to the downtown.
Lakeview Lofts — The first residents of Lakeview Lofts moved in last week with more coming
this week. The planned Boomtown Market has moved to the first floor of Lakeview Lofts and
hopes to open a small store yet this month while construction continues. Work progresses on
Lakeview Lofts Il with construction expected this fall.
Opportunity Zone — Investors from the Grand Rapids area are parading through downtown
looking to become involved in the Lakeview Lofts Il and Foundry Square OZ developments of
Great Lakes Development Group.
Retail-Restaurant-Office — All existing businesses, a Mexican restaurant, women’s clothing
store and dental office are looking for space in downtown Muskegon, among other prospects.
Western Place — Construction is well underway on 15, three-story, three-bedroom town homes
at Jefferson and Western Avenue. The units will be priced from $299,000.
Watermark — Moses Gross from Brooklyn, N.Y. gave it his best effort to redevelop 1 million
square feet of former office furniture industrial space into mixed-use residential. He has stalled
in those efforts and will now have the Watermark property up for sale.
EVENTS: Report from Ryan Cummins in the city clerk’s office
Taste of Muskegon — Taste of Muskegon went great! We had an increase in revenues — the
largest Taste in its history -- despite poor weather on Friday. We had strong and steady crowds
throughout the day on Saturday. The cooking demonstrations were well attended and the Kid’s
Area was a great attraction. We heard great feedback from patrons and our food vendors.
Food Truck Rally — The first Food Truck Rally of the year also had a great crowd. We had a good
variety of food trucks. Many enjoyed the music and the extended drinking area. Many people
are asking for more of them. The next two are July 24 and August 21.
Chalk the Walk/First Fridays — Chalk the Walk was a huge hit on July 5 and the Lakeshore Art
Festival. We have partnered closely with the Chamber and prize giveaways were Lakeshore
Community Cash.
150" Celebration — The 150 Committee is working hard on the final touches. We are in
communication with the bands to finalize details and are promoting the concerts and the free
community gathering heavily. The free community gathering will include kid’s activities,
presentation by local officials, live music and a flyover.
Street Performers/First Fridays — The Street Performers event planning is going well with a
great variety of performance types planned. We are finalizing the locations and map for each
performer but so far there has been great interest on Facebook. More flyers will also be going
out with Kids Food Basket distribution. The event is Friday Aug. 2 6-8 p.m.
To: DDA board
From: Dave Alexander, Business Development Manager/DDA
Re: August monthly development/events report
Date: 8-13-19
Here is an overview on a few critical issues | have been involved with over the past month:
Marketing downtown: | met with Don Kalisz from the DDA and partner in Revel. We discussed
various ways in which the DDA and the city can accomplish its marketing and promotion
activities. | am putting on hold any DDA discussions and my recommendation for moving
forward until the budget is clarified for 2019-2020.
The Leonard: Corey Leonard and Sweetwater Development has completed the final land deal
for the DMDC corner lot at Second and Western. He is putting his final financial package
together and hopes to be under construction on a six-story mixed-use building by early fall.
BoomTown: Dana Precious has opened the much requested “downtown market” with
BoomTown on the first floor of Lakeview Lofts. Please patronize her business. It needs to be
successful as she builds out her space and begins offering grab to go and fresh items. This is
business in progress.
Pine Street: Nipotes is open as are some of the businesses in NorthTown 794. Please check
them out. Pine Street is becoming a small and thriving commercial district within the downtown
as has Midtown along Third Street.
Investors: The city’s economic development team continues to meet with investors interested
in downtown Muskegon, many of them drawn by the Opportunity Zone incentives available.
Small business inquiries also continue as shop owners looked to establish new businesses or
relocate existing businesses into the downtown. A case in point is the new cocktail bar of West
Michigan Rum Company’s Burl & Sprig outlet in the Nobel Building, hopefully opening yet this
month.
Cruise ships: There has been a lot of discussion among the private and public sectors, including
city, chamber and county leadership on how to handle the potential explosion of Great Lakes
cruise ship activity. A second cruise ship dock beyond Heritage Landing is key to that planning
as is the logistics/security and onshore experiences as we ramp up for 32 daily ports of call in
2020 and potentially up to 50 by 2021 or 2022.
Port meetings: The city, county, chamber, WMSRDC and others are hosting two groups of state
officials on Thursday Aug. 15 as they explore Muskegon port development and cruise ship
operations as the Pearl Mist is in town that day. The groups will end their time here with a
lunch and cruise of Muskegon Lake on board the AquaStar.
Morris-Third parking lot: Repaving of the parking lot being paid for by a collaboration of the
DDA, DMDC and BID is underway this week. We should have an improved parking surface by
week’s end, if not sooner.
Tours/presentations: | continue to provide tours and presentations on downtown and our
historic transformation. Just two most recently were educators from around the county
exploring downtown through the MAISD training sessions.
EVENTS
An update from Ryan Cummins, city clerk’s office/events:
150*: We had a great birthday party! Things went smoothly. We received excellent feedback
from those who attended the concerts and free community gathering. Many people
commented about how much they enjoyed themselves and how much the event reminded
them of the Muskegon Summer Celebration days.
First Fridays August Street Performers: We had a great turnout for the Street Performers event
and many different kinds of performers for all ages. The sidewalks were filled with people and
many people stopped into downtown businesses during and after the event. Next year we will
be considering whether to close the street to ensure safety with the large crowds and space
limits on the sidewalks.
First Fridays September Touch the Truck: Touch the Trucks will be happening on 9/6 from 6p-
8p. We have a wide variety of trucks from police cars, fire trucks and ambulances to semis and
tow trucks. The trucks will be spread out along Western Avenue.
Halloween events: The Halloween Bash is scheduled for October 19 at the Farmer’s Market and
Western Market.
Western Market: We are working with many chalet owners on their event ideas. A Pet Parade
is tentatively scheduled for 9/7. A dinosaur dig is scheduled for 9/21 in the back sand area. We
are also working on a possible move tonight with the movie being projected onto the 333
Western Ave building wall that abuts the sand area. Also, there is Ashley Cooper’s City Hop idea
as well.
Food truck Rally: The final rally of the year is set for August 21 from 5p-8p. Let There Be Rock
will be the band.
Farm to Table Dinner: The Farm to Table is scheduled for 9/5 from 6p-9p. Chef Jack Page will be
cooking a delicious meal that is focused on Michigan ingredients and using several vendors
from our Farmers Market. The menu and tickets are available through EventBrite.
To: DDA board members
From: Dave Alexander, downtown manager
Re: September economic development/events report
Date: Sept. 10, 2019
We have a tremendous summer in downtown Muskegon in terms of events, visitors, continued
interest from businesses and investors and an overall buzz that continues to grow.
Parking lot: Resurfacing the DMDC public parking lot at Third and Morris was completed and
looks great. Thanks for the DDA participation.
Construction: The convention center is under construction with a potential completion in the
first quarter of 2021. Three other projects are in line to be under construction yet this fall ... the
second phase of Lakeview Lofts, The Leonard and a new Mircotel by Wyndam. Lakeview Lofts
and The Leonard both should be on the October Michigan Strategic Fund agenda and with state
approval of a Community Revitalization Program grant/loan should be under construction.
880 First: On the city commission agenda tonight will be a recommendation to pursue a
proposal from Joel Furgeson/Brianna Scott for redevelopment of the former AmeriBank
property. It would be mixed use with commercial on the main floor and residential. Above.
There are already two interested commercial parties out of Lansing, one for a restaurant and
the other an entertainment/event space.
Samaritas: The large Grand Rapids Christian non-profit is pursuing a 53-unit affordable senior
housing development at Spring and Clay behind Northtown 794.
Midtown: The Third Street streetscape project is now underway and Third will be closed from
Merrill to Muskegon for the next two months. Brad Martell has provided Midtown parking from
his lot at 1144 Third, the former Mattson Olds property.
Former Olds property: Brad Martell would like to find a development partner for an extensive
redevelopment site on the old Mattson Olds property. As a Redevelopment Ready Community,
the city of Muskegon is in line for significant state assistance to help Brad and the city get the
property in a position to seek requests for proposals.
Social Districts: The concept of carrying a beer down Western Avenue is not dead but needs
state enabling legislation. We will work with state Rep. Terry Sabo’s office in pursuing such
legislation in Lansing after the state budget has been settled.
No smoking: The number of cigarette butts at PM Park, other city parks and along downtown
sidewalks is obnoxious. The city hopes to clean up that mess by banning smoking in city parks
and along sidewalks and public right of ways in the downtown. The idea is to get the smokers
out of the front of businesses and into the back of them. The issue was discussed at Monday’s
commission work session.
Business interests: The interest in downtown locations remains strong. In the past months
downtown is being looked at by a two-dentist office, a new physical therapy practice, a soup
producer/retailer, an Italian pastry business, an established hair salon, two bakeries, two
Mexican restaurants ... those are the business interests | am aware of and working with.
Downtown remains a hot product.
Presentations: In the past month, | have had extensive meetings with bankers from PNC and
Huntington wanting to know what is going on in downtown and how to engage better in the
community. | also presented to the Muskegon Women’s Club and welcomed the final cruise
ships.
Ryan Cummins event report
Farm to Table Dinner: We had a sellout Farm to Table Dinner this year! Chef Jack Page
prepared an excellent meal with 89% of the ingredients coming from within 30 miles of the
market. Many people commented about how well things were decorated. We had many
generous product donations from area businesses and market vendors for the silent auction
and dinner ingredients. Overall the fundraiser was a great success and support for the market.
Touch the Trucks: We had a fantastic turnout for Touch the Trucks. Over 25 trucks were placed
along Western Ave from the Farmer’s Market to Pigeon Hill. A number of businesses reached
out and wanted to be a part of the event. Many people have commented and messaged us
saying this year’s event was the “best ever” and how they appreciated a free family friendly
event. Another person commented about how the restaurants and shops had “amazing”
hospitality as well. Thank you to Ramos Towing for making this event happen.
Dinosaur Dig: A dinosaur dig is scheduled for 9/21 from 11a-2p at the Western Market sand
area. This was the idea of a Western Marker vendor, Tatterweave. This is a free event where
children can dig in the sand to find dinosaurs toys, fossils, and eggs. Prizes will be given away
for those who find golden eggs.
Halloween Bash: The Halloween Bash is scheduled to take place on October 19. The event will
include games, children activities, and prizes. There will be princesses and super heroes to
interact with children as well as pumpkin decorating. Trick or Treating will take place at the
Farmer’s Market and Western Market.
Christmas: Planning begins now on Small Business Saturday, Christmas Tree Lighting and
Holidays in the City.
New Midtown era begins this fall with streetscape project;
Third Street closed through Nov. 1
MUSKEGON, MI - (Aug. 30, 2019) The Midtown commercial district is prepared this fall to
become a stronger link between the City of Muskegon’s near-downtown urban neighborhoods
and Downtown Muskegon.
The city will embark on a significant streetscape upgrade of the historic Third Street business
district from Muskegon to Merrill avenues. Third Street will be completely closed to vehicular
traffic starting Sept. 3 through Nov. 1, according to Muskegon Director of Public Works Leo
Evans.
During the street and sidewalk reconstruction, all Midtown businesses will be open and easily
accessible from free public parking lots on the east side of Third Street from Houston Avenue to
First Street on the former Mattson Oldsmobile property. Blue and white signs will be placed
throughout the district directing customers and visitors to “Midtown parking.”
Those driving to Midtown will be able to cross Third Street at Houston Avenue and can access
Midtown businesses and residents using First and Fourth streets. Pedestrian access to the Third
Street businesses and residences will be maintained throughout the construction.
The scope of the approximately $900,000 project will include water main and service line
replacements, street reconstruction, sidewalk widening, new decorative streetlighting,
landscape plantings, a bus stop shelter, and street furniture. The goal is to blend the look of
Midtown with downtown’s West Western Avenue, Evans said.
The prime contractor for the Third Street project is Jackson-Merkey of Muskegon. Funding is
coming from a $200,000 Consumers Energy Foundation grant, a $40,000 Community
Foundation for Muskegon County grant, $40,000 in federal Community Development Block
Grants, $400,000 from the city’s water fund and $220,000 from the city’s major street fund.
The Midtown project comes at a time of transformation of the business district.
“As the upgrades to Midtown are made this fall, the business owners and investors in the
district are beyond excited to be on Third Street,” said Lighthouse Property Management’s
Kathy Dennison, a Midtown property owner. “It is amazing to see what has evolved in the last
couple of years. The passion and energy is contagious ... we are rising together. “
For more information contact:
Muskegon DPW Director Leo Evans, 231-724-6920
Muskegon Downtown Development Authority’s Dave Alexander, 231-215-8827
Third Street/Midtown Streetscape Construction
September 3 - November 1 2019
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- Third Street will remained closed to traffic through the construction
- All Midtown businesses will remain open and accessible
- Patrons and customers can park in the former Mattson Olds parking Roads open during
lots Midtown construction
-The intersection at Houston and Third will remain open through the
construction
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