Staff presented options for a downtown sidewalk program and asked the board whether to explore a commercial community improvement district for larger, multi‑year work.

The board retreat directed staff to explore the downtown sidewalk replacement idea; staff said the existing residential program uses a 50/50 cost share with property owners, and proposed applying similar rules in a defined downtown boundary such as the central business district. "We have identified more than 30 issues in the downtown area, and an estimated cost will be a $120,000," the presenter said, and noted that roughly half of that cost would be the city’s responsibility under a 50/50 approach.

Nut graf: in addition to a phased 50/50 pilot, staff recommended exploring a community improvement district that, if property owners agree and a vote passes, could raise ongoing revenues to pay for sidewalks and other downtown improvements. Staff recommended the CID be considered for inclusion in the 2027 budget process and that city staff coordinate with Main Street and business owners on outreach.

Staff clarified program rules: the city would pay 100% for sidewalk failures caused by city infrastructure (stormwater, utility holes) and for ADA ramps; the 50/50 cost share would apply to other qualifying sidewalk repairs. Property owners in a selected downtown area would be offered enrollment and would sign an agreement before staff procures work; owners may hire their own contractor but projects must meet city permitting and inspection standards.

Funding options presented included phasing the work across multiple years using available budget, or exploring a CID that could fund sidewalks and additional downtown amenities. Staff pointed to the need for outreach and property‑owner votes for any CID; Megan Miller of Main Street was identified as a potential partner to help evaluate a CID. The board asked staff to research the CID approach and report back during the fall budget discussions for possible inclusion in the 2027 budget.

Staff will return with a proposed boundary, cost breakdowns, outreach plan and timeline for a CID if the board wants to proceed.