Main Street Program Manager Tina Israel told her board that they will be absorbing the Historic Commission during their special called meeting on Oct. 27.
“I just don’t know how the commission operated and what our duties would be,” said Main Street Program board chair Tami Savage.
“In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever been to one of their meetings before either.”
“We’re going to have to schedule a workshop and review their bylaws and procedures – that’s for sure,” said Israel.
Israel said that Historic Commission board members Michael George, Tammi Tinnin, Scott Peden, Jennifer Bishop, and Sara Huebner were also invited to join the Main Street meetings.
Tinnin already is a Main Street board member.
“Previously, in years past, the commission was under Main Street as part of its design committee,” said Bay City Community Development Corporation Administrative Assistant Karen Stephens.
“Main Street would be taking it over again and continuing the work by the commission.”
Stephens also brought a certificate of appropriateness (COA) request from Southern Beauty Spa to the board for approval at the meeting.
Southern Beauty Spa is at 2244 Avenue G in Bay City.
“The business owner approached BCCDC about getting a grant for their sign and that board made it contingent upon the Historic Commission’s approval before being able to release the funds,” she explained.
“Basically, the owner has requested an $800 grant to reimburse money spent on the sign and BCCDC is willing to match $400 of that if you approve it.”
“Well, I wouldn’t even know where to begin since I have no idea what the criteria are for approval,” said Savage.
“But, I suppose since the sign has already been bought and paid for then we kind of have to approve it, don’t we?”
The board approved the Southern Beauty Spa COA request unanimously.
Israel also updated the board on “Christmas Around the Square” activities later this month.
“We’re focusing on doing one good night rather than trying to coordinate two,” she explained.
“I’ve got three choirs signed up for live entertainment Thursday night and am looking for one more.”
Christmas Around the Square is scheduled for 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18 and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21 downtown.
The event also features the first-ever hay bale design contest.
“We dropped off three hay bales each per school in Bay City, minus Cherry Elementary,” added Israel.
“Next year, we’re hoping to open up to all school districts. They’re due Wednesday, Nov. 17, so we can put them on display on the square and begin voting for the favorite. The winning school class or group will be notified after voting has ended.”
Israel added that downtown merchants were preparing their own special sales and treats.
“Everyone seems very excited about it this year and I’m glad to hear it,” she said.
To access content, please login or purchase a subscription.