Panel Brainstorms on Plan for Downtown

Despite some concern about the lack of city money for a downtown revitalization plan, the city’s Planning Commission and council are still figuring out how to attract more businesses and residents to the area.

“Just doing one thing won’t make downtown fly,” said Commissioner Keith Millhouse. “It has to be government, citizenry and the business interests all working together to pull off the plan. It’s like a tripod. You need all three legs to make it work.”

After studying reports by a hired consultant and a citizens advisory committee, the five planning commissioners hope to pound out a resolution for a downtown revitalization plan in a session that starts at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in City Council chambers. The matter would then go to the City Council for consideration.

During a meeting Monday night, commissioners called for generating revenue by charging film industries a larger fee for shoots downtown.

“Other communities that are desirable as far as locations for filming companies were commanding much larger fees,” said John Newton, head of the advisory committee. “I think the conclusion was that the industry could afford it.”

The commissioners also discussed other issues affecting the area, including:

* Creating an architectural theme in the downtown area such as a Spanish mission adobe or Old West-style buildings.

* Staging art festivals or concerts.

* Changing the zoning in the area.

* Deciding whether to create a design review committee to assist business owners with the application procedure.

They also discussed whether to take action regarding day laborers but made no recommendation to the City Council.