03/17/2023
DASH Friends,
It was great to meet and share the latest with those who were able to attend our March social hour.
Although the intent was to gather informally, we certainly chatted about quite a bit. I will briefly recap below:
Budget:
We are nearing the end of the fiscal year (July 2023) and will look to identify events and potential projects for next fiscal year. (Think Fall/Winter holiday events, etc.) DAAB will get a financial update from the Planning Department and share it once we have details. This will guide future DASH discussions on events and other opportunities to utilize available funding for various activities and projects that benefit Downtown Aberdeen collectively.
Events:
Yes, yes, and yes. We want to take advantage of every opportunity to showcase our wonderful downtown businesses and outdoor activities. While we have nothing planned for Spring 2023 at this time, any planning for summer can and should happen NOW. Timelines are key, 60-90 days ahead should be the norm to ensure any necessary approvals and permits can be obtained. Send me your ideas and we can add them to our agenda for the April DASH and DAAB meetings.Keep in mind, Aberdeen Parks & Recreation also plans and executes events downtown, so we'll need to collaborate to deconflict with their schedule and routine events throughout the year.
Special Projects:
Social District is still ongoing and making its way through for discussion at the DAAB/Planning Department/Board of Commissioners levels. DAAB needs your feedback to include in determining final boundary lines and timeframe and submit recommendations to the Board of Commissioners in April.
Information on future projects will be shared as decisions are made. Please note that DAAB meetings happen once a month and DAAB meeting minutes are not finalized until the following month. I will share any project updates along the way as applicable and in accordance with DAAB guidelines.
Other special projects could include things like benches for downtown, marketing or promotional materials for special events, wayfinders, and things that contribute to the improvement of the overall appearance and experience of being downtown. We have a working list, but please send your ideas so we can review and present for consideration.
Next DASH Meeting Monday, April 10th, 930am-1030am. We'll meet outside of The X On Main to begin. As long as the weather cooperates, we will do our 2nd Annual "walkabout". This was a great activity last year for us to see from a first-hand street view what's going on outside our own walls as stakeholders and business owners. It also helped us establish our first project listing that we have used to make changes and improvements over the past year. Wear your walking shoes! If the weather turns for the worst, we'll delay the walkabout and have our regular DASH meeting at a location TBD.
Other things to know...
Downtown Aberdeen Website:
This is a work in progress. We'll keep you informed as changes and updates are made. https://www.downtownaberdeen.net/
DASH page:
Will post meeting announcements and share any business events/promos/specials that are shared with us. https://www.facebook.com/lovedowntownaberdeen
Town of Aberdeen Meeting Minutes:
Planning Board, DAAB and other meeting minutes can be found on the website. https://www.townofaberdeen.net/agenda.aspx?id=2146&catid=29
Please email any questions or inquiries before our next meeting so I can package and present all available information.
Have a great weekend!
🍀🍻🌈💚
