October 20, 2026 DDA Board Meeting

The GCTVHD DDA Board meeting on October 20, 2026, addressed several spending and maintenance matters. The board considered the annual English Gardens agreement for Christmas tree setup, takedown, and storage, with costs not to exceed $8,428.11; the motion was approved. Members discussed whether the existing tree could be repaired or needed replacement, noting a preliminary estimate of about $28,000 for a 25-foot tree, but no replacement decision was made. The board also considered sidewalk repairs involving five sections near downtown businesses, including an additional $11 per square foot for added work and an MDOT permit to close a turn lane. Members discussed whether property owners might repay or otherwise share the cost; the transcript indicates a favorable vote on the sidewalk recommendation, but does not clearly identify the contractor or final amount.

The board set its 2027 meeting and event dates, including moving the January meeting to January 12 and establishing the Chili Cookoff for the last Saturday in September. A motion was made and seconded to cap the director’s November conference expenses at $4,000, with per diem rates of $12 for breakfast, $13 for lunch, and $25 for dinner when meals are not provided; the transcript does not clearly capture the final vote. Other updates covered downtown events, sidewalk and drainage improvements, and phased tree-safety work. No other contract awards or purchasing decisions were clearly identified.