Amy M. Jimenez

The subcommittee meeting involved a general discussion of proposal responses received for wayfinding systems from OCBA (O'Boyle, Cowell, Blalock, & Associates, Inc.) and Corbin Design. Although the proposed plans and products were deemed comparable, a significant price difference was noted. The subcommittee offered a motion to recommend that the contract award be given to OCBA, with a cost not to exceed $25,300. This recommendation is to be forwarded to the DDA Board, Parks & Recreation Committee, and Village Council, as the expenditure is intended to be shared equally.

The key discussion topics for the meeting include the Treasurer's Reports, specifically the approval of the Revenue & Expenditure Report ending January 31, 2026, and consideration of Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendments. Under unfinished business, the DDA is scheduled to review and adopt the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget based on the Budget Committees' recommendation. Furthermore, the committee will review and approve an amended Façade Grant award recommendation for the Hard Times Family Restaurant. The meeting also featured a presentation from OCBA Landscape Architects regarding a Wayfinding Systems Plan.

Key discussions included a resident's concern regarding zoning classification for properties near their residence, and an update on the School Street Development project, which involves 49 lots and future infrastructure needs. New business involved the adoption of Resolution 2026-005 for Red Woolfe Park Improvements Project, Phase II, and Resolution 2026-006 authorizing a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for N. Phelps Street Infrastructure Improvements. The Council also approved the purchase and utility installation for a new 2026 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor. Reports from Boards and Committees covered DDA activities, Planning Commission postponement, and Parks and Rec discussions on park improvements. Department reports included commendations for police officers on handling significant January incidents and updates on fire truck maintenance.

The committee meeting included reviewing and approving the current agenda and discussing unfinished business concerning entertainment and activities for Decatur Day '26. New business focused on approving the 2026 Meeting Schedule and Member List, discussing entertainment options such as a bingo tent and activities for children, and agreeing to only welcome vendors offering handmade, artisan items. The committee also discussed the need for hiring an event photographer and strategies for recruiting sufficient volunteers.

The board reviewed financial reports, including the Revenue & Expenditure report and the payment of bills. The primary discussion focused on the Michigan Main Street Program, including a presentation by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation regarding program structure, services, and participation requirements. The board assessed the time commitments and organizational benefits of the program, agreeing to review further materials before revisiting the topic at a future meeting.