The Hastings City Council Work Session held on October 21, 2024, focused on the development of a strategic plan for the city's creative district. The meeting outlined a structured approach to achieving specific goals over various time frames, emphasizing the importance of marketing and community engagement.

The session began with a presentation detailing the goals divided into three time ranges. The first six-month goal centers on establishing rules and regulations for the district. This includes creating a template to evaluate project outcomes against the strategic plan's objectives, as well as a retrospective analysis of completed projects.

The second goal for the initial six months is to enhance marketing efforts. Feedback from a recent survey and SWOT analysis highlighted a significant gap in community awareness regarding events, often learned about only after they occur. The council aims to develop and implement a comprehensive marketing plan to address this issue.

Looking ahead to a one to three-year timeframe, the plan includes two major goals: the promotion of artistic and creative projects, such as sculptures and murals, and the support and creation of annual events. The council is also considering a "percent for art" ordinance to help fund these initiatives.

For the three to five-year goals, the focus shifts to district cohesiveness and improving the pedestrian experience. This involves developing a wayfinding and signage plan to enhance accessibility in downtown Hastings, alongside an outdoor beautification plan that includes improvements like sidewalks, painted crosswalks, and artistic utility box wraps.

The strategic plan was submitted for certification last week, and the council is awaiting a response. If certified, the city expects to receive a $10,000 grant to support marketing initiatives and plans to apply for additional creative district development grants in the future.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions, indicating an openness to community input as the council moves forward with these initiatives.