Rochester Downtown Development Authority Meeting - Feb. 20, 2019

The Rochester Downtown Development Authority’s Feb. 20, 2019 meeting included a unanimous vote to approve its proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year and forward it to City Council for consideration on March 11. The budget directs more than 60% of revenue to capital, including $250,000 for street-light replacement and $50,000 for parking capital improvements. The DDA also plans to continue setting aside funds for infrastructure, with a potential 2019–20 project on Romeo Street discussed. Trash service is budgeted at $108,000, following an estimated $140,000 in current-year costs; staff reported that scheduling and logistics work with the contractor is expected to help contain expenses. No contract award or vendor selection was reported.

Members also discussed the Downtown Development Authority’s $150,000 annual support for the Principal Shopping District and a proposal for the district to resume funding the New Horizons supported-employment cleanup crew three days per week. The proposal was described as a future request to City Council, not an action approved at this meeting. Other discussion included zoning amendments affecting downtown districts and the city’s 14th consecutive Main Street accreditation.