HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-08/14/2017COUNCIL WORK SESSION
August 14, 2017
4:45 p.m.
Harold E. Getty Council Chambers
Members present: Powers, Lind, Amos, Schmitt, and Welper. Absent: Jacobs and Morrissey
Moved by Schmitt seconded by Lind that the Agenda, as proposed, be approved.
Objective: Update from Main Street Waterloo.
Tavis Hall, Main Street Waterloo, provided a recap of activities for the last year. Main Street
Waterloo held 22 days of events with an estimated total of 39,000 attendees, reviewed and
approved signage and facade requests for 21 locations, added a new event, Mayor's
Independence Day Festival, and are working to establish a downtown marketing co-operative to
benefit downtown businesses. He further explained that the Iowa Downtown Conference will
happen in Waterloo next year and is an excellent opportunity to showcase downtown Waterloo.
Mr. Welper questioned if the boundaries of Downtown Waterloo have changed.
Tavis Hall explained that the boundaries of Downtown Waterloo, which would include locations
such as Young Arena.
Mr. Schmitt questioned what the boundaries of Downtown Waterloo include.
Tavis Hall defined the boundary lines.
Mr. Schmitt questioned where the conversation is today regarding expanding the boundaries.
Tavis Hall explained that they are working to put together an expanded SMID package.
Mr. Schmitt questioned if there is a reason not to expand the SMID District.
Noel Anderson, Community Planning and Development Director, explained the original SMID
was planned based on who was in favor of creating the district. He further explained the criteria
that must be approved and considered to create a SMID District.
Mr. Schmitt questioned what specific things have been done to get businesses to come to
Downtown Waterloo.
Tavis Hall explained recruitment efforts to bring businesses and activities downtown.
Mr. Amos questioned how many store fronts are available for new businesses.
Tavis Hall explained that they have 210 active businesses and he would need to speak with
developers and property owners to get the actual number of vacancies.
Mr. Schmitt stepped out at 5:03p.m.
With no further business before the Council, it was moved by Amos seconded by Powers that the
meeting be adjourned at 5:04 p.m. Voice -vote Ayes: Four. Motion carried.
Kelley F[chle
City Cle