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.