Downtown Improvement District "DID" Meeting

may disagree but will be respectful to one. Another will direct. All comments issues will avoid personal attacks. So full of meaning minutes. It's for the special meeting of the March $0.20. I move to approve a second all in favor. Aye. So the first step this morning, we have our general manager of Parking Mister Braxton Harvey. That's going to give an update >> Parking in presentation that he did to the city Commission. A few meetings an outline what city Commission has and suspected him to as we move forward and give us a status of the elevators on State Street. Good morning. The presentation is live, correct? Thank you. >> I am Broxson are regional manager parking for the City of Sarasota. Just for the record so I just want to give an update on where we in regards to the state of in the City of Sarasota I can do is one of 2 ways I could either go to the presentation that will take about 20 minutes. just give you all overview what was actually presented. So it's just totally up to you all. If you want to go back to tournament is overview. Got it. Okay. on March 23rd actually went in front of city Council. I'm Sorry City Commission regarding the state of Parkey we a broad rate analysis and the reason for the rate analysis was basically to go over what the state of parking looks like currently what it should look like in the future. We still have not recovered from the Hurricanes of 2024. So revenues are decreasing in our expenses are increasing. And that's not a you know, formula for success in any business model. So some of the operational challenges down spoke about were again, a decrease in revenues that they mainly came from the flooding. Saint Armands. We collection of parking fees for 3 Saint Armands of for like 2 months downtown where we actually had no citations written as well. Increased expenses due to replacement costs. We had park and equipment in Saint Armands garage on the street meters that got flooded elevator issues that we had over at Saint Armands where they were flooded as well. Other fees that are increasing the garages. All all of that being said, the garages are still being underutilized. When I first got here, the garages around about 2 thirds now the between. 35 to 40%, the which garage we're at now. The good thing about it is this past March with spring break. We come out, seen a return to normal, but we're not sure that's going to sustain itself. It was just because of spring break or is it? You know, I'm getting back to normal. Only time will tell. We also have the repayment of debt to the general fund and then we're also looking at almost a million dollars of funding for the trolley as well. So all those things gather are reasons why I actually went to the front of commission for rate increases and solutions to the parking some major capital expenses that we're looking at. are going to be elevator replacements. Right now. We've just been putting Band-Aids on these elevators they're older, they're obsolete. And it's just very hard and difficult to get parts. going to give you an update on these elevators a little bit later on the so that's going 2027. We're going to replace elevators at State Street garage we're going to have move to tap, to pay it in a 2027. So basically you won't be inserting credit cards and machines anymore. You actually just tap like you do Publix and that's just a better secured system. And it's also going to be PCI compliant as well. License plate recognition. We're going to have to put license plate lpr on the vehicles replace vehicles that are about $100,000. And that's all in 2027 2028, we're looking at replacing elevators and palm garage and then also replacing all on street meters throughout the city as well because now that will be coming up on to a 10 years old. And they're just at the point where they have to be replaced. debaters for to elevate was about $750,000 and replaced meters about 6.50. We're looking at, you know, between a million to 1.5 million dollars worth the cost that we want to be able to pay for ourselves out of the Enterprise fund. And with the Enterprise Fund were basically supposed to be able to support ourselves and not have to borrow from the city's general fund. What I did is I came up with some solutions. I basically said basically that we were actually projected to lose money year-over-year. And with these increases, of course, that will make the loss even more. So what do you do? You have to look at ways decrease expenses or increase revenues and short of, you cutting staff or read a reduction in our services which we don't want to do the only other option was to try to find a revenue sources. So presented to the city Commission, 3 options. The first option was going to be too increase. The citation rates just about $5 across the board. The second recommendation was permit rate adjustments and the last one was adjustment of the parking race themselves. So I did a comparison on the the citation rates without comparable Saint Pete in Tampa and it shows that we under the rate of what citations are within central Florida. That was city commission to increase those citations about $5. So instead of between 25 and we're actually going now be 30 to $40. And that's going to give us an increase of around $300,000 a year. What was not approved was the employee the permit rates become. The commissioner felt that now is not the right time increase the rates again as we are recovering as well. Other business owners and employees are recovered as well. And we don't want to put that burden on the employees. And we do know that even though was a small $10 increase per month. Those small changes do add up for the end user and the commission chose not to use that revenue source as a way to get a parking into the black. But what was I gave the commission to different options as far as the rates on street and the first one was actually. Keeping the hours as they are. And I'm sorry, keep into rates as they are and increasing the hours. So that one would have shows which was recommend this recommendation. Number 2. That 2.7 million dollars in additional revenues and the other option was to. Increased the rates, but keep the existing hours. And that really would have taken on the street from a $1.50 an hour to $2.25. an hour. A man in the garage. Is it worth one dollar an hour to a $1.50? again, commission chose not to put that burden of the increased rates and finds on the the business owners and their customers. So what was chosen was the extension of the hours. So the extensions of ours, her instead of enforcing on U.S. streets now from 10:00AM to 08:00PM. The new hours sorry would be 08:00AM until midnight. And that is going to also include Sundays as well. So that's where at 2.7 million dollars of extra revenues is going to come from. Along with the $300,000 from the increased permit fees. So we should now be able to. Number one, not have to go back to commission for a while. I'm saying that we need to do anything because these revenue sources should be able to support the parking industry and to the offer, seeing future. And also with that being said, we're able to now take care of these capital projects I mentioned earlier with the elevators being replaced with vehicles, that staff actually utilizes being updated. Lpr also replacing all the meters on the street because, again, they're getting older people walking up to him. Sometimes they're working sometimes or not. And we try to replace them as much as possible. One by one. But it comes a time that you have replace the whole entire inventory. Also, what I did mention as well and 2029 in 2030, we're looking at far as far as capital projects as well. Directional signage. We want to actually have like a marquee sign on the corners that actually direct our drivers to be vehicles. So that will be a cost. About $230,000 for downtown and 230,004 Saint Armands. And what I'm picturing is when a person is riding up and down Main Street or entering Saint Armands. Instead of looking for on-street spaces, they will now be able to see OK, State Street garage has. 35 spaces on level 5. So you know that right now it does not have every level and what's different is. Now you have to actually go inside the garage is to know how many spaces are there right now? You're going to be block away or 2 blocks away. And it's going to point you to the direction of the garages, which is similar to what they have in Saint Augustine, where, you know, people are actually standing in line trying to go to garages and when they get there, they say they find out that the garage is full. So you don't have to, you know, worry about those type of issues and more with the marquee signs. That's what was approved on March 23rd where we are right now is that I'm working with the city attorney to actually update 2 ordinances the or ordinances. We have to come back for first and second reading and then after first and second reading who actually go into effect and what I'm trying to aim for is Early-to-mid summers on looking at least by July first, no later than July, the 15th with the implementation of the extension of the hours. So that's that's it. In a nutshell, what I actually spoke to commission about, which was actually approved on March 23rd. Now to give you updates on. The state of the garages and where we are elevators, which big topic at State Street Palm The elevators are actually working right now. State Street garage, we've been without elevator elevator access for about a month now. And we've been working with the vendor departs actually were supposed to be here 2 weeks ago. supposed to be here Friday. The and I thought I was going to have good news when I came this morning because their school start the repairs this morning for one elevator. So I got e-mail maybe about 15 minutes before I walked in that stated that the part did not come on Friday was scheduled to come today. And there. I'm hoping that it becomes early enough that they can start working on repairs by this afternoon. If not tomorrow morning. So that's going to be elevator number one, elevator number 2, they're scheduled to start repairs on April. The 20th. So I'm knocking on wood, but hopefully by the end of this month, we have 2 functioning elevators at State Street garage. And again, we're looking at replacing these elevators with them. The next 2 or 3 years. So that hopefully they'll be able to function properly for the next 2025 years without any issues. Also what we did at State Street garage as well as we actually completed exterior painting of the State Street garage. So that was completed maybe about 2 weeks ago. So now the facade of State Street garages look a lot fresher and cleaner the stairwell painting. I actually have Colts in. I know that there's a concern about the stairwell stairwells, a dirty and they don't seem to be clean even though we pressure wash on daily and stained. So what we're going to do is we're going to actually start wells maybe like a concrete gray and that it actually has the the grains in it so that you don't slip. So it's going to look a lot better is going look a lot cleaner. A lot need or but I could not do it. I cannot take away a stairwell. We don't have to love right? So I have to make sure that the elevators, a backup and running before can actually shut down the stairwells to actually pay them. So that's going to be coming in the near future. Restoration at the Palm Avenue Garage. So that has been a project. We phase number 2 of the 5 year project. So we're and year 3 and a half for so that work started December and it is expected to be completed by the end of this month. They're 90% complete. All they have to do now is just finish some of the top coating in the seal coating on the second and the 4th levels. And that coding is to actually to protect those levels in to reduce any type of water that may true to the expansion joints. And I think that is my last item that I want to cover have elevators. I hear about outspoken about the elevators and at this time open up for any questions or comments. Thank you so much. That was really a presentation. I have a couple questions. Yes, first, major disconnect. The field between what the public talks about from parking to >> And what the city seems to mention on regular basis. I was in the board meeting on the other side a year ago and the comment was the parking garages are under utilized. And you said that there are about a 3rd last year. The laws. What is the average across all the parking utilization? You have any idea. Okay. So is it varies. Actually have those numbers. >> Santa the lowest because again, they have not bounced back. So say on around about 40%. And I would say the downtown lots are between 50 to 55. Still under that 2 thirds that we actually had, actually, we prefer to have a garage is to operate around about a 90% occupancy. But that is not that that has not Since I've been here. I think you're on something. You know, when you mention the directional signage, that should definitely help, because I think some people probably. >> not interested in driving to rush. Find us. Well, I think the general perception is always full. So that's an interesting But I think that's good idea. The second item was going mentioned was something that we sort of joke around in my office. Have you guys ever considered doing a subscription model, for example, if you're a resident of the city review for the city, pay 200 bucks or 300 bucks a month. For a membership to basically allow you to park in city parking. Sure. I guarantee you're going to generate more revenue than we are generating. Not because even for me, I'd like to have it for the peace of mind. Getting $30 ticket, every cup church or that it would just be so streamlined and realization of the parking >> So so that is something that we have have in the I forget what it was called. It was more like a flex pass but was only extended for ADA users that they were able to utilize. The garage is across the board throughout the city. But that's definitely a great recommendation. I can look at expense. Yeah, of course. Because redo license plate that it's all very much. She So you don't worry. One point all your staff have the had healthy. Also when this kind of license plate easily pop up and say. I that the directional talk about revenue streams of the city's interested in advertising for the local. If your local ties to the directional, no screens, you can do that pretty easily, too. That's all from me. have a few questions. >> You mentioned in the beginning that you could considered all the different ways you can raise revenue. And I was wondering if you I as a business owner when I'm running down revenue, one of the things I do consider is staffing you. I need everybody on the time the hours that they're working. Sure. I don't know what percent. That's a question that person is first your wages. Because run it like about 30%. So I don't know if you look at what your percent is, I know you have spent, you know, shirts are so so payroll is a big piece of the of the budget. >> but we do have our repair maintenance that a large costs. We the saint arms. We have a debt. We the the city actually parking for downtown. We actually still have that as well where we actually borrowed money from the general fund to actually implement the meters for the first time back in 2019. But but to answer your question, yes, definitely look at, you know, all of the expenses, including payroll and not just the payroll but the load, right? Because this is employees have benefits and no other things that retirement that actually goes and then into in the fact is that as well. But what we have done as we've been able to reallocate a lot of our employees to other positions. >> to me, because been on a meeting all along. was so you're if yours? I don't know where how that affected your personnel rate. But yes, there's been a lot of automation which should help in that area to wreck. >> Yes, so what what what happened with that was we actually removed a lot of the staff will not a lot, out of. 10 employees were moved to to enforcement and 2 other pieces because now that were automated. Now there there's a need for more enforcement because now. There's not a gate. There's not a You know, everyone is not going to, you know, abide by the policies and rules are in place. So that and then also were able to now utilize that staff to actually go out because we have wider than just area that we have to cover. So now we're able to actually go out and get some of those calls because you want to believe that we get a lot of phone calls about, you know, my neighbors blocking this, sir. Money was blocking a dry. We're going parking on the street. The car's been there 4, you know, a week and we want to know because we can't drive every single street. So we kind of, you know, a lot can help in that Yeah, that that's what I would expect. That to some change elevator repairs. You're replacing the elevators on State Street. By the way, I'm so happy because I'm sick of being upset about that. But >> they long they've been there 10 years, maybe. It's a lifetime like watching the >> No, no. elevators are supposed to last. From from what I've heard at least 20 years. So they have not been there for 20 years. So replaced both of them and state Palm is the oldest palm is the oldest but we will. Those are the ones that we're having the most issues. So. Whenever acts, I'm not sure if it's because it's all war because expose because there is not there are enclosed. I'm not sure of the the right grating was use when they were installed because I mean, I know that there are inside elevators. Are our picks to real evaders but you know, this is what I inherited. So. >> Well, I know he walked into that, but does surprise me because refrigerators lasted longer than that. Exactly. But but what I am looking at is when we do get them back up and running >> maybe. Changing the the of how fast they go up and down because I know people want fast elevators, but I would rather have a right? Maybe when a little slower. I and actually work. Correct. You have a cost effective? Yeah. looks to me just in general, the revenue increases required that a great deal of as a result of the Hurricanes. Yes, but you're also using the opportunity to upgrade over all services in my correct on that. So it isn't just a response to that. >> Well, it is a response, but why were? We're while we're looking at? Getting back in the black bears, other expenses that need to be taken care of as well. That we're coming along regardless of whether we. Increase rates or not, these expenses were going to. Again have us even more So this is a response to the current words like directions, which, by the way, I think it's great so we're upgrading and replacing and doing a lot. >> Do you have an end time on this? >> 2000, 31. And also it's going contingency as well. That's in there because right now we're not operating in a contingency. So if there's ever any other, but the hurricanes know God forbid, like we had last time, we need to be able to, you know. Survive for at least 3, 3, to 4 months. My question and >> you mentioned the trolley. Yes. Can you that to us about the trolley expense that you sure certain So that's the next thing is once we come out clear, we pay for all these capital improvements. >> With these changes, the parking division should be able to fund the trolley because right now it's been. Almost 100% funded. I would see 100% funded between economic development and the did so. >> Right now is a county that change with the county >> fact so it our costs went down from 1.4 to about 900,000 with the county taking over because there's a there was a cost savings for the pair of transit, which is about $20200,000 a year because they already have their paratransit system and the other cost savings is that they have a cheaper hourly rate than what we have negotiated. So again, it's about we going from 1.4 to about 900 and I think 80,009, 20 saying again, that a little bit there a little relation there, correct? Yeah. And did that already go into effect? >> The summer when it did, yes. I think that's all I have. Thank you. The Thank you very much for for making the city safe is a not for its citizens tourists alike. >> I have a question or not more of a statement this is a shortfall in revenue. I know you the commission with 3 options would be naming rights on a long-term deal for the garages as did some likes to cities in Chicago, Boston, they're starting to. Do that with a corporate accounts to to get to 10 additional revenues. That does not evening. I I've looked at, but it's something I can definitely look into. I know that one point time we're looking at advertising. >> For the Bay Runner Trolley and I think that there was a a concern with that because that we that was partially about federal I'm sorry by state but that that is definitely something we've gotten. I've gotten parking lots here you can look for corporate door. Other business advantages to have a naming rights for the parking garages as well as interiors advertising space in front of. >> And front of the parking on the on structure walls, advertising space. So I think you could to be very surprised that you could probably the by doing that sure. The airport has is. yeah, we have front of every part of this picture, electronic as or even or just poster has. But I think more importantly, a long-term 10 year deal for naming rights. Sure. >> When I was in the sector, that was something that we actually did do was a naming rights. But we did have an advertising and there are next to the elevators and have boards message boards so Amy Rice is definitely something that I can actually get with the city attorney's office and say we can best again for a few good If you could, maybe over the next give us Sure what you find out next month. >> Okay. The money was the government would hold the Mike Well. One of the want to say couple of things. was that I was on the parking committee for 8 years. 6, something I know a little about. It was but service wasn't about making money. It was but providing the service of turnovers. 2 people. I don't know how this going to be working on turnovers. If you've got one person with big pockets, they can just take the meter all that now doesn't help the merchants of all. We need turn over. Is there any thought they were and been? Then you did say that so we said in the beginning like but raising revenue to pay expenses. Well, if you totally. Not really serious limited parking division. It wouldn't is anything. And that was still the lowest on the street, which is what is right. It not much better now. So I think that my vote would be like going expect you me. We go back to the 2 hour. Free parking because under was turnover and most people can do whatever they want to downtown in 2 hours, pushed themselves. So I'm sure I don't know. It seems like the hard to more money we pay. The bigger problem parking is and it really is a problem right now at all here all day long. Not a problem for me to go to parking place, but all I hear all day long as that. And then people in the short while Mike Park Kings up show. So if we surprise that with elevators down. In an area where we have an elderly population. I'm not surprised revenues down cause. If you're 85 years whatever 80 or have some infirmity, you can't even climb a flight of stairs. Liverman 4 flights of stairs. Sure. So like I wish you luck and hope it. Improved because it is really the problem. >> So so I was going to say So turnover. So what we accomplished turnover is, you know, right? So we rates higher on the street and cheaper in the garage. So we want the people that are going to be for long term to actually park into the garages. That's was a dollar in a dollar-fifty. So they're probably a little bit more of a buffer. But, you know, that wasn't approved. But that's how we try to turn over. And I know you said that, you know, the 2 hours. That most people can do everything within 2 hours, but we have like salons and other people, they they they say that the 2 hours is not enough. >> We'll let them park in the Certainly have won correct? Correct. layers something. And just just just too confirmed that even the of parking was free. They're still cost are associated with the right. The garages was still the elevators. If it was for him to elevate, still go down, that you still have the insurance that you have to pay me. You all. You still have all these other factors to have staff. You still have was that? >> So was able to they will decrease. It. Would it would possibly? I mean, but again, to have these costs and the revenues that we take in are able to, you know. You know, the majority of these of these expenses. >> Anyway, on a nicer note, thank you for to the 20 minute to is really good. good for the could become the strike that area could nobody have? They don't understand that keep tell me is coming. But. >> Sure. So I've been working with the So I'm trying to get that. Up to code it's not just as easy as going out to striping ahead. I actually want to paint the curb. And I I couldn't do that. And I want to But it can only be like 2 strikes because if it's like hashed out and you can't park and you put 2 strikes, you can. So we're kind of going back So so, but but but is these were the people sing for the whole? >> Area, though, fly? exactly. Exactly. And I'm sure, you know, I'm trying to come up to see if we have to actually change verbiage on the to make sure that it's. >> It specifies this one particular space. So thank you. This. It's nothing else. Thanks so much Appreciate we've had such a fun time. I know. >> I just want to go back and state the record that we did not have any public input. Next step and your unfinished last meeting you. Approved a budget of $15,000 for a American to 50 celebration. So we next mark here to present its awesome my dears get some feedback and decisions of how the board wants to move forward. If your state your name for the record. >> Yeah, absolutely. JD president next Mark. That's blank Space. Madrid. Next. she okay. So what we're proposing discussing is July 3rd event, the spirit of 76 presented by the Sarasota did a couple things that we want to hone in on during, you know, that today's presentation totally up for discussion, If anyone has any ideas, we want to make sure that we go through it and make sure that when we hear all the input so on so forth, we do have some proposals and things that we, you know, see work best in the past and ultimately carry that over into to this July 3rd event couple things to that. We want to kind of on. So first off is the time. And our proposal is for the 07:00PM to 10:00PM time slot. >> We went back and forth on We really wanted to be an Americana family themed event. It's just July during our weather during July's tough everyone now. So we find that 7 to 10 would be the perfect time slot for this. A set of attendance, wise beat the heat. Beat the reign of the afternoon showers and ultimately have that 7 in 10 kind. A little bit of darkness and as well, let light up the the park is where we're going to propose this. And I think approved upon as well. couple other things to during this this presentation is that we really wanted to focus in on Americana and the theme be Americana to learn 50. You're strong. You'll see that in the logo. You'll see that the actual date is in the logo because it is in July 4th, right? It is July 3rd. So we really want to hone in on that date being July 3rd. That's why it's a part of the love, though, here. At the top. You'll see the Sarasota did presents as well, making sure that we know who's funding this and quite frankly, who's putting this on. We also call out a sponsorship opportunity for this later as part of the local to so could be the spirit of 76 presented by, for example, is as a potential revenue for for the den. Any questions thus far? >> So is this. Is it my It looks orange. It's it's supposed to be read. I know because been a little yeah. The Orioles are know. It is read. It is of It's my printer. Yeah. It's a Red Oak. A red Sure. Definitely. The red. White and blue. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Because important. What we're thinking is alive and live music being able to have. >> More of rock and roll Americana country theme would be best the stage being the main portion of the event. We find that that is going to be very much hands on sound and sight and ultimately want to make sure there's a main stage a good way to present sponsors as well. We do get any sponsors, dancing, making sure that know that there's going to be live music at this event going to be key as well. Some of the things that we anticipate being kind of extras, if you will recall at next marked. But ultimately we found some great ideas to incorporate a little bit of a younger one being a tie, dye shirt opportunity again. Another sponsorship opportunity that we proved you don't giveaway kind of white T-shirts that they can tie dye that families can enjoy ultimately face painting is another. You'd be surprised how participants come from a face painting perspective. It's it's unbelievable. A photo opportunity so that we can gather this on social spread, the word via social as well since it is a new event and then some yard games as well. Again, fitting that Americana theme. So a lot of different activations that we tend to activate the park in the park is actually kind of the physical space is the largest space that we have to work with downtown. So there's different ways that we can activate those side streets in the main street of the park, but ultimately want to activate throughout the park is is the key here. Couple other ones that we found again, just kind of the extras. Just an fleed side of things again, presenting more of that family atmosphere for you and a couple ideas here just as as extras. Well, like I said, the park is is ultimately the the biggest footprint that we have available to us. We really want to start activating the park. You'll see on the right hand side, the means to be shut down Central Avenue there with multiple vendors It would allow us to kind of create kind of like a food teasing assembly, if you will, on the right hand side there while the park is meant for the activation. So that tied, I'm sure the photo opportunity, a lot of different activations that we can do throughout the park almost as if you're kind of working your way kind of left to, right. So you grab a drink, work your way left all the way up to the main stage there. That pathway leads you to the main stage on the on the right hand side. There. That's kind of the thought process on what the map would look We've used this footprint in the past. It's worked very well and ultimately shutting down that Central Avenue should something that we should consider. As part of our permitting process. Well, another thought process with this is to create. I'm more of a backyard barbecue theme from a vendor perspective. We partners throughout the deed that, you know, quite frankly, are our great partners of fresh Fridays and ultimately want to carry that over into you into event here. Some more of that Americana theme, backyard barbecue hamburgers, hot dogs, more kid friendly. Ultimately providing maybe even an ice cream vendor. Something that we haven't done in the past created more kind of like a tasting aspect of things as well. I think one of the discussions that we should have today is whether we should open this up to vendors outside of the day in our philosophy on this is to really incorporate the did first and then get a better idea if there's any outside vendors that, you I need to be a supplement to the din vendors that we have already, if you will. And then finally, some sponsorship opportunities and how we can make sure that people know who's who and you know where low those can be. Ultimately, we've gathered quite a bit of great sponsorship opportunities in the past year. Main stage. So having a back a backdrop there, activation sponsorships as well. So that tied it And then creating a step and repeat as well as a great way to have sponsors come in and have a background of their logo along with the hashtag and not allow them to share it on social as well. Like I said, one of the things that we we've discussed in kind of want to open up. The idea is how do we get outside people outside sponsors to engage this type of event since it is new right now we're thinking from a food vendor perspective fried. So allowing, you know, they did only has so many restaurants and vendors that are available for that July 30 is going to be interesting guy to work with. So how do we get outside vendors to potentially participate from a food perspective is the way that we want to do it almost like a taste of Sarasota Bradenton, if you will bring it downtown. That was our thought process is to open it up a little bit. Have vendors be the first right of refusal and then from there open outside vendors from a fit perspective, that was our thought process. Another way to engage outside the community as well. Okay. Thank you No, that's it. That's all. I had open up the floor. Like I said that we want this to be a discussion. Just our initial ideas for that July 3rd event. Well, thank you very much. Very thoughtful presentation. >> The one comment I have is all the talk about timing. I understand the logic behind it, but it seems to be very kid focused and I have younger kids and their sleep by like a So I wonder how we're going to thread that needle. It is based painting and all the stuff. >> It's that overlapped, right? agree with you. My little one goes back 7.38, as well. So ultimately it's kind of that turnover. So the 6 o'clock reservation happens. That's when kind of the young adults and adults come out around, you 39 that last hour, if you're on kids kind of engage in that 1st half of things, I think we can open up even sooner if we wanted to as well. Maybe that 5 o'clock start time I just think that over a 3 hour event, I think you're going to see kind of bits and pieces. You're going have a turnover from the band perspective, you're going to turn over from vendor perspective as well. So that 3 hour time slot is is my brother and the fast and Okay. Any questions? >> Yes, comes with price. or vendors. me not. know, we thought it would be just simply a flat fee. >> It also depends on how the permitting process works as well. So if there is an open container thought process and nonprofit has to be involved and there's a kick back to that nonprofit sponsor. So it depends on how we want to do the how the permitting process would work, too. Personally. I'd like to see it really. Members, you know. People in the does rest front, we have plenty of them. So I'd like to see you not be able to get enough of those before, I did and is doing it. >> We should be supporting Lee restaurants in the and so on another little thing, which mean may not be important. But when we were doing, we just do it. The TSA is Vince downtown before the did never existed. And though we used to use the sheriff's department horses and since this is the 3rd, not the 4th you might be able to It's a fabulous drop That's a great idea that the fund. Yeah. I do think resources are little >> What I've been told from a July 4th overall weekend. But this being 3rd could be a great for Absolutely. And that's what we want to call out like this isn't July 4th. This is actually Saturday. This is Friday. So it's a a little bit of a marketing aspect of things as well. That will have to kind of build this being July 3rd and center July that were here. Some correct, correct. And really want to hit on that Americana theme. The yeah. Have a couple First of I love. I love the whole feel of the whole spirit of the 7. >> The sick. The whole thing. I like it a lot. The whole thing too. I think that the point of conversation that you brought up about bringing vendors in from out of the I would totally agree that we could. We should. See if any of our did vendors would be interested. It's really hard for me to say this is a good question to appy asking now whether or not you plan to be open on July 3rd. Yeah, yeah, I don't know. I really it's kind of a question and this, but this may prompt them to open them. So. And and I do understand that there will be other things like maybe an ice cream vendor or some other thing that you feels crucial to this. This particular event where we could have other people if no one in the did can help out that just sometimes are to be honest as a restaurant is involved in the did a lot. Sometimes I don't have the staff. I just I can't support it. I want to. But I can't get I can't let 2 people go to cover something like this on a Friday night from the restaurant. So for me, I would say this, I guess what we're all saying underscore that get the opportunity to did first. Exactly. Yeah. And then from there, we'll get account right what we can serve, what we can do. You drink wise food wise and up their You know. >> I think is going to be a solid partisan. Yes, think my opinion is exact same. Know if you haven't noticed. Let's not get caught up between did not. This is a celebration for the city for the 250 years of United States of America. >> Right. Of course, did first if we can. Yeah, but let's make sure its success. Let's make sure it's a great event. And this picture arrives. >> Be on the fact that we gave some money to the event and it's just going to open up the doors a little bit on the part participates shun perspective, attendee perspective. I think it would open up the door I think it goes back to my comment last meeting which was let's find a way to drive marketing. We're all doing these great things in these chambers working hard and you guys are doing a great job catalog. Know these ideas, but whether it's a 250 celebration or the conversations we're having, we need to have a flow through to the market to the media, to PR, talking about the things that we're trying to not because they shouldn't go unnoticed because if they are notice that we're not getting the bang for the buck and what I'm striving for as it did board member is to get national attention to the city. We need more eyes on our city from commercial standpoint, I don't mean shops and stores and I mean businesses and, you know, things that are important to keep Sarasota growth. We've critical point. I think now the future is very bright for keep pushing. Now. >> And I'm yes, told proponent of strong PR strong market and even for the city and I I've said this before, think the city There are a lot of things. The city doesn't agree with, but a lot of things that that they do groups. And I think that the general community doesn't even realize that core things that go. And unfortunately, I'm just by and we don't know. But, you know, city did it. Yeah. What we think from an hour's perspectives. I want to revisit that. Like I said, it's just more. >> Capitalizing on what we did We do want to draw more. That family atmosphere is well, but, you know, I am totally open to the idea of a, you know, starting in early doing some sort of a pivot to that. I just think from a weather perspective, that was our thought process and having some of the night time reservations come through is it is also our thought processes. Well, I think I think you're on to something. I feel like almost more data needs to be derived for us to Good. >> Suggestion I I I this is not my area of expertise, but I will say what they would like not to do is compete for the businesses that are surrounding us. So earlier might be better because people come here how the Gulf and take their families to dinner. 7 to 10 might be the prime time for all the rest of us. But again, July 3rd, are you even get to that crowd? So I think you might have some resources. >> Christie, would play with that whole timing thing? I agree. I think. 5 sounds right like early and it's always run to 5 o'clock. What they Yeah, I think it would be good to get just right now, some kind of an idea of what restaurants or even into the open. The shops might be not be open late. I don't know that even if not open it, if you're encouraged to keep the lights on and make a nice. But with that the standard. That's the standard now. We know that we We try to get to the retailers, but let's see what's going on. Crews are restaurants open on Friday on the 3rd. I don't really know. We haven't. I haven't discussed it with our operations world that speak in sugar is open on Friday night, but we're not open Saturday on that right? Right now. The 4th of we wouldn't be frankly, but they're speaking July 3rd, historically, yeah, was never been nothing. No operating. It's the 4th that typically reckless Joe and and I don't know people are treating this differently right? So want do survey and find out. Yeah, don't know. I will say during our research. We did not find a lot of July 3rd events. To be honest with you. I'm is the city having fireworks in July 4th? >> The baby is the day so and I know I know there's. >> There's a quite a bit of police presence there at that particular day. And I know there's also. For street maintenance that they're putting up some type of barricades. >> It be great if you if if you connect with as maintenance, if they'll >> of man hours and manpower and and guardrails. And what if if that would affect vision of permitting people will of the event office will also have that kind of They have won right Yeah, especially if there's a pray July 4, right? So make sure that the streets are available. Guardrails are available. Securities available. Yeah. And the day I think it's going to come down to the marketing effort. It's July 3rd, right? >> I think it's all about educating people making. No, that's there. My safe was even 6.30, 9.30, sure it's good could we not? Can we not integrated into the July 4th? >> The city of Moines doing nothing other than that based. So can we not do it on and like we do on Saturday, top prior to prior to people trying in. Yeah, they're already getting already getting a large. You're already a large crowd coming in for July 4th, what we have a 3 hours prior to when those events are starting. So people come even longer we're just discussing. Yeah, they're the July 4th day wouldn't be an option because there's already. permits for events in the downtown. Plus, the resources from the city are all going to be at the bay. So they do ours as well. Would not overwhelming. Yeah, I checked planning and that the events team year 2 and keeping the Friday was the better of the resource And that's the other thing is when we're looking at hours. Because part of this, we are going to have to go to city commission to ask for the time services. So the longer your hour, the more expensive commission has to make that decision. So I think at this point there is some direction I would like to motions from the board. One. It's for somebody to volunteer to work with the next mark in refining the hours the businesses, the event, not type of stuff said that that can happen outside and we don't have to wait for the next meeting. So that would be the first motion. The second motion would be have the chair into war. Somebody from this board go to the city Commission meeting on May 2nd. No May 4th. To ask for those in kind services. So those would be the 2 things that that we would look for. We have a new year. I'd be I'd be happy to to work with next marketing. >> Yeah. One of things I might suggest we found this out with Black Friday is that that the hotels would be getting full? Yes, and that there are really good marking place to have information that let them know because they want to know their their guests to know there's a big party tonight. that's why 3rd is good, especially if we do the right marketing effort because it gives this downtown more of a fighting chance to compete with other cities to draw people here. Right? We have a of us are beaches and our beautiful day and all the stuff that come with that from a geographical staff will point out our downtown can can be there's nothing on July 3rd, it could be a draw. Absolutely. People will be coming in. I think it's problem. I think it is, it's a more of a marketing efforts. Running can can lead absolute, really coming up with some interesting ideas that make sense from the hours and we end up yeah, it's great right? Choice. Let's have our go. The city Commission will do a minute. And just in case he does not believe >> I I just need to the motion to be the chair or a member of the board so I can go other board members, or another person >> Okay. So the motion will be to its. >> to have. >> Either on the board chair or any member of the board representatives with City Commission. Yeah. And to have we have to get a approval in there. >> And Ronnie to have the same A motion. >> Yeah, that's fun to be the point person. To work with our marketing company. The details for our event that July 3rd event. Is there a second? The second? All in favor. Aye. Aye. Perfect possible. Thank you all. When think it and let's really get together this marking stuff outside this event. I really want spice this up a Okay. So. >> Next step we 2 items that kind of correlate with each other. There continue discussions for my last meeting. When we your budget for next fiscal year, the first is in regards to Flower basket program. we know that the board made the decision. >> Not fund it for next fiscal year and put that money into more of the streetscape and beautification project. So the decision is, you know, what do you want to do for their balance of this fiscal year? Because we have now in through September. So the first discussion is what do we want to do between now in the end of that fiscal year, this fiscal And then the next topic. Which is kind of corleydid. I was asked to provide some funding sources. >> For the trees. >> Well, obviously, if we just continue. Some of the services on the flower baskets. We will have some of those funds to find other projects >> with the flower baskets. Again, if the board is deciding. To phase out the program, we would have to have a phased approach. We would need to inform City Commission of that choice because again, did board members aren't necessarily going to get any phone calls. The city would. So we just want to let them know what are what we're doing, what direction we're going in. You know, the program was started by the board back in 2016 so that they have been up for about 10 years. So so I'll leave it with that in, you know, for the what? >> Thought processes. So with bit. So I think there's I've been doing a lot of walking a look at these 5 baskets. And I think we're on track. I think I think that is we have are going to be lot more valuable to the downtown experience them are currently. We're paying for it. But there's a there's a distinction. I realize that there's 2 far baskets, some of their call and some of mice just would be too face it based on the height. First, get rid of the tall ones that less visible to the general public before we and hard maintain exactly and more expensive. that's a price to >> Really well in same place because the average out so that logic for we'll hire people can be about that because I know that be definitely average. It. I right. But Comey about that if we those was can we get some reduction? No, the contract is based. >> Yet we with what we do now was we pay per basket for them to maintain. So if we remove 100 baskets, we're only paying the 134 that remaining but it's very frustrating for me imagine in the middle of a tall still pay the same rate. >> Yeah, because >> they've been on the total unit of 234 baskets regardless of where they were just terrible. >> And then what about I know there's also removal, right? We have to contend with 2, which was rather expensive, but it was about $90,000 for remember, correct? >> It's $100 a basket to remove. That to repeal up that contract. But there is to remove it. one question. And that is, is a Palm Avenue merchants were to want to take responsibility. >> For the basket, some Palm Avenue would you with this? But consider. But the longest to do that? >> I would say, unfortunately, not my my my purview because that would give each. Shop owner. >> The ability to put whatever they want to you were of know not individual I'm open-minded I. They want to take care of it. I feel I've be the sensible thing to that we should be doing. Well, it takes a whole lot. So if you go to Main Street, they say personal Main Street that that was fact. But I know Palm Avenue I think is very close to all the all the retailers there. I chair home and you are >> What's that? I have the chair of other. >> So the Palm Avenue just to be sure understand that the Merchants Association, somehow the contract would be bifurcated. You get to the Can they do that? We did They would have to be We did our lights on Palm Avenue long before anyone else. I know years ago. not. one thing is what we pay for. Also to it. that that we paid we have lights on. I knew long before anyone else downtown. We question was Palm Avenue would have to contractual contractually get their own craft vendors at this is would be helpful to us guys because you have to pay for removal drive to limit. We just cease to pay. The contractor longer exists for us. >> And you guessed the merge gets to do whatever they want with it. >> And you give But we did get the best guests. owners. Yes, voters rather throw them out. I think we can great. That's great. Yeah. Okay. Good. That's what one think. That's one piece. Yes. So that's one piece. That's because let's move forward on. OK now, the last time we met, we voted to eliminate them all. So we just have to have a motion now. Well, we are one of the for this year. Next year. We limited them. All right. >> Well, that's what I'm asking you that are the only once that we are eliminating now are the ones on Lemon Avenue where with the A farmers market is the ones that are up high. There's probably about 10. >> I don't know. My vote is let's just rip the Band-Aid. Let's get them all off its. I think this is is if we can, if we can, if we can figure out a way to have people in the city take block by block and relieve it from the cost of removing them. And that just makes me feel terrible that we're spending money or moving them. But I maybe I'm just being cheap. So know that I think what that afternoon. I think that I think terms of pure kind of mess of work goes to how long it's in >> the filing is part of this. The president of the association live. But I think we just. >> I mean, your cause to remove is less than one month. talk to your the Otherwise, let's remove all and move on. >> Okay. So the motion is going to be too. For me, too. Terminate the contract with the vendor. Through the appropriate channels and 2 have the chair. remember this board to go to city commission to let them know. The decision has been made. >> it's just said it. Vice kind of we just want to let you know, are we asking permission? >> It's probably too full. >> So they can they can vote against it. Technically, yes, however, viewing it as it comes. I think if one of them, however, think if the if the chair is going to present it, that the financial burden that it is how you going to reinvest the It's for the city to to pick up. Yes, that could be enough to play that of that year. Now that's a brilliant idea. One more thing would like to add is we should talk about the savings are going to have for the rest of the year. >> And have a really solid game plan. How are investors going to talk about that at the next >> agenda item? Yeah. And then we can have That is a cause for visual representation of how hardworking if we just remove. >> They're going to get the job public what it should be upset if we have a plan to start showing some movement on better bettering the downtown, then I think it helps reduce the fears of the general public, which is important. >> What does and does PR take over? Let people know what's going on. >> That's what sure. But but but sometimes I think you can talk to face. Action says 1000 words. Action is more important. >> Okay. So I just need somebody make that motion. I said to motion. The funding the basket program. Immediately. >> With all prior notices that are required. With the exception. >> With the exception of Palm Avenue, which Eileen, our board member. >> Who is the chair of the Palm Avenue. Birch Association to they will maintain the baskets at their own cost. >> And the chair or another member of this board to win points to end the chair of this board form a the city commission on our of removing the basket and our plan on using the for other beautification within the downtown area. >> Perfect. Perfect second that approve. >> You can't can on second all I moved. I OK, I You're the chair this time. So you can. You can them. So the he did it. This is part of the differential equation. >> Haha. Okay. >> So now on to the tree lights at the last meeting. You issued the $32,000 to redo 5 points park that P o is pending. The contractors working on permitting. So hopefully within the next week or 2, we should start to see some movement on that project. Obviously, the goal in the hope is to have it done way before the of July celebration for that 3rd of July celebration. So that can be in place. At that meeting. I was also instructed to. See what funding could find within your budget to do other phases. Now, this can be done for the other phases and or other projects. So if you see on the bottom page, 14 of your agenda materials. I have approximately $131,000 worth funding that. Includes when I'm estimating about $80,000 from the Flower Basket budget is included in that. That could be reallocated to another phase of the lighting and more a different project. >> That's great. I think this is great. Thank you for being put together and I I would recommend that we continue our lighting that. He's housing first, why let me just >> interject this because this is removing the $10,000 that we had in budget for the park activation in the summer. So that would be eliminated. Then. That's Jen. It was the Activision program that was actually I guess, during the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce from to do something for summer for Big August and September months when it so. And in the in the city that we do something in the park. On a Sunday, the merchants are open every Sunday from 12 to 5. Typically so around that time have something happening in the in 5 points apart. Games and ice cream vendors and just family kind of yeah. Rock music just to get people out in downtown because the most dire months for business. So and we had allocated 10 K of our money grant money to that effort. So that would come out of the ad if we should kept the budget the way it was. All right. I'm in agreement with So we have 70 to work with. Yeah. So I think 70 well, you would have that the total amount is 131. So you would still have. >> 100 in 21. They're right? I think I think, you know. >> closer we get to the holiday season, the great as we can take some of those main parts of downtown. We're going to activate them there. I think on Avenue P rate that activates a partial Avenue. We break that activate a portion of a street to break that activate to redo the first block from. walk from the lights. >> Yeah. If you go on to Page 15 of agenda materials, yeah, there's you know, there's the 3 core pieces of Maine. >> Total cost to do that is 78,000. So you could do. Those 3 activations of of Maine and you'd have $53,000 I know that there has been talk about repainting the light poles once removed the baskets, which is a wonderful idea. You know, around some of those like yeah. And as I spoke to a really earlier, >> you'll stay within the city problem or is an issue been initiated? part of pain at all. Those holes lack. So that may just take care the yeah. I think we just how so if you do want your is your So I think we I think that the funds panned up those some sort every so often. I mean, I thought that was only. It decided to paint the black. We put it in. The don't be regularly checked with the guests that has a day. It has been. Yeah, the is That's a problem with which is not unusual when the did takes on something that includes make maintenance. >> Because we don't do maintenance. And weekend. We're better investing in the front and getting things done and getting agreement on maintenance. Yeah, of course. Absolutely. We'll switch and doesn't to need for them to up. Now. >> So I guess what, what what do I mean? That's a decision. >> So if the if the goal is, >> we could do the core of of Maine. I will verify that the I want to make sure the timing Co inspires with the upgrades that they're doing to Maine because I don't want us to put our lights of while they're taking that up. I'm told that it's supposed to be completed this summer. So if that gets done to meeting today. Know this a with the yeah. This this is what public works. The so I can check that. But I would suggest the motion would be use the fiscal year 25. 26 funding to fund the core. Intersections of Main Street, which would be main impact at main and Palm. >> Maine and pineapple. Main in lemon. >> So those 3 areas total would be 78,205. That gives you a balance of 53. We know we want 10 for, so that would be 43 and I can come back and tell you what it would cost to the polls. And then we can decide what to do with the remainder of the fund. really what happens for over budget. I get yelled at him. We Have Suisse left extra money. >> Yeah. But remember, you use that extra money next year or next or of suspects here? So, yeah. But it is what is. Yeah, but I know we're going do our best, but correct. So that would be the motion to set fund the 78,000 come back with a cost to do the polls. >> Make a motion. I move that we use the convention to you and trash can. That is But can't do that because that's not on the agenda. I can come back with a price to do those to this is to do the thing, the polls and come back with a price to pay trash cans which are also split that black. I don't think this is the I think we're talking about that. It relates Let's I thought we go No, no time the most. It is to fun. Tree Lights core which is made a pineapple mint and lemon for 78,200 and then come back with other I feel move a second. All in favor. Aye. He's obsessed Daughter >> She was the biggest shock of this weekend. My daughter >> with your budget, I will have another update of where we're at now that we're spending all of items. But you will see I did add to this, the decision she made last right week, which was the landscaping, which has started today. So you will start to see let the late new landscape and are out there. We'll try to get some pictures do some posts and those as well as I do have the tree Light funding card out of this to say, you know, see that on us. And by the way, the first one that the plant is close NATO's well as being Let's say 9th. >> I couldn't hit the on planters. Those huge pledges that rope broke and that is yes, one is done. The one here. This is as a result of that meeting that we That's thanks to run. Yeah, it was well covered. Yeah. And Wayne brought in and of course, you know. They want it. Yeah, know, made a difference. Sure. Yeah. Director's comments. Okay. so I don't know if I have anything, but I want to state for the record. Given sunshine laws are so prohibitive for us ever discuss anything. We need to be able to talk openly in this forum be