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HomeMy Public PortalAbout20121017minutes.pdfApproved: November 20, 2012 Page 1 of 2 BETTER HOMETOWN BOARD OF DIRECTORS Meeting Minutes: October 17, 2012 Directors Present: Jim Glass, Amy Kagan, Vicki Hammons, Monty Parks Directors Absent: Bill Garbett, Peggy Stone, John Yarbrough, Dicky Trotter Guest(s): N/A CALL TO ORDER Monty called the meeting to order at 6:05pm. COMMITTEE REVIEWS Design Chantel and Jim reported that Sidewalk Improvements Project along Butler between 14th Street and Tybrisa and Commercial Recycling were discussed at the last Design Committee meeting (September 6). The City Manager, Diane Schleicher was present at that meeting to answer questions and provide feedback. The committee discussed questions regarding the construction project that they have and that Chantel has been asked by merchants. Diane confirmed that she will work to keep the existing loading zone at 14th and Butler. Businesses wishing to put items, such as benches, will be able to utilize the Merchandise Display application process. Signage notifying people that businesses are open during the improvement period can be put out, but it would have to come from the Better Hometown budget. Monies to purchase trash containers along these two blocks are not available through the city / project budget. Bicycling on the sidewalks is not allowed, but Diane confirmed posting a sign, similar to what is on Tybrisa, will be looked at later. Economic Restructuring Chantel reported that the Post Season Business meeting went well. Each department had a representative and Chantel provided a report on behalf of the Better Hometown Program. Attendance was down from previous meetings, but those that were there had the opportunity to ask questions and receive necessary information. Chantel reported that Ted Lynch came to the last Economic Restructuring Committee meeting and they discussed ideas for business celebrating milestone anniversaries next year. More committee involvement is needed and Chantel requested Directors provide assistance. Organization Chantel reported that Judy Malins and Stephen Palmer have officially stepped down as Directors due to time constraints and other priorities. Monty expressed his gratitude for their hard work and dedication to the program while they served. Chantel confirmed an advertisement for the two openings is posted. The deadline for individuals with an economic interest in the Main Corridor to submit is October 31. City Council will consider appointments at the November 8 meeting. Final details for Tybee Community Day were discussed. Monty confirmed the Tug-o-War and music were set. He also has a face painter coming for the day. Chantel reported that she will have a table with information about the program and an idea box available for attendee suggestions for next year. There are thirteen organizations participating with information tables including WastePro, Comcast and Georgia Power. John is ready for cooking. Gina with the YMCA has games lined up for throughout the day. Chantel confirmed set up will take place Approved: November 20, 2012 Page 2 of 2 at 9:00am and requested assistance from Directors with set up and / or teardown. Jim inquired about having Coke attend next year with a drink station. Vicki suggested having a reenactment event (i.e. WWI) and involvement from the Coast Guard (i.e. information about boating safety) next year. Promotions Chantel reminded Directors that Jeff Beasley – One Man Band is performing tomorrow for Third Thursdays on Tybee (TTT) at the Lot at Tybee Oaks. Annie Allman and Duane Damiani are performing for the November 15 Third Thursdays on Tybee. Chantel commented that a few businesses have starting participating by highlighting something during TTT in September and October. She posts this information on the TTT FB page and announces the information at the beginning of the performance. Chantel asked for input about the 2013 Third Thursdays on Tybee series re: continuation, more business involvement and sponsorships. Monty suggested they continue. This will be a topic at the next Board of Directors meeting. Chantel confirmed all is going smoothly with Tybee for the Holidays. She is updating the website as more information is made available (i.e. holiday dining, etc.). Monty is helping with Lights on for Tybee. Chantel will check with John again regarding the flat bed truck for the dancers’ stage. Chantel reported that parade application notices were sent. BETTER HOMETOWN BOARD OF DIRECTORS MINUTES: AUGUST 16, 2012 Jim made a motion to approve the Better Hometown Board of Directors August 16, 2012 minutes. Vicki seconded the motion. The minutes were approved unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS Jim discussed his concerns regarding the slow down for business during the winter season. Chantel confirmed that over the last two to three years more businesses are staying open during the winter months either with shorter hours or only specific days. Most owners do not like to let staff go during the slow time and try to do what they can to keep employees. Consistency is needed and businesses need to remain savvy with their marketing. Businesses are able to submit information for the monthly BHT newsletter. ADJOURN The meeting adjourned at 6:50pm.