Consultant summarizes DDA strategic‑plan survey; board to hold workshop to set priorities

Giffels Webster consultant Joe Tangari presented results from a DDA strategic‑planning survey at the July 16 meeting, summarizing responses from 13 participants on mission, vision, strengths, weaknesses and priorities.

Tangari said the top vision‑level responses were: stronger advocacy for downtown business and economic growth, a well‑known hub for events and cultural activities, and a financially sustainable organization with diversified funding. Integrity and improved two‑way communication with businesses and property owners emerged as recurring themes. Respondents placed the DDA’s current mission fulfillment in the midrange: most answers clustered at the middle of a 1–5 scale, indicating room for improvement.

Survey respondents identified top operational priorities for the next five years: enhancing public spaces and streetscapes, supporting and attracting businesses, and hosting events and placemaking activities. The largest barriers named were limited funding/resources and lack of a clear vision or strategy; respondents also cited internal governance and communication challenges. Fundraising, volunteer management and training (fundraising, communications, Main Street best practices) were identified as key capacity needs.

The consultant recommended a focused self‑directed workshop to convert the survey findings into strategic priorities and an annual work plan. Board members agreed; Tangari suggested allocating about 90 minutes for a workshop session to avoid “wheel‑spinning,” with follow‑up work plans to guide the DDA’s 2025‑26 activities. The DDA will schedule the workshop in the coming month, targeting an evening session to allow fuller participation.