DDA Prepares for Summer Kickoff
Monticello Downtown Development Authority members are busy preparing for their Summer Kickoff Party and Downtown Bounce event planned for Saturday, May 21 on the Square.
The event will kickoff a lists of events planned each month through December including Downtown Live music concerts and movies on the Square. The kickoff event will begin at 4 p.m. and include inflatables for the kids at a cost of $10 for a wristband, music, balloons, concessions and the Kona Ice truck.
Steve Simmons, Visions In Action Director, made a brief introduction to the authority members about his organization. The Jasper County native, who lives in Virginia, told the authority that he was a member of Jasper County’s first integrated class. His organization aims to close the achievement gap between black and white students in Jasper County.
“I am very encouraged by the good work the DDA is doing and look forward to possibly collaborating in the future,” said Mr. Simmons.
The Chairman’s Report from Wendell Yoder included an update on the authority’s plan to improve the area parks. He noted Sands Park needed some sprucing up and Funderburg and West View Parks needed signs replaced.
He also announced that the DDA has three office space rentals available and that the new business Downtown Monticello is not a DDA sponsored venture.
Mayor Gail Harrell thanked the DDA members for the Commerce Mural recently completed and reminded everyone of the community clean up event set for Saturday, May 14 beginning at 8:30 a.m. on the Square. Breakfast will be provided at 8 a.m.
Treasurer Daniel Jeffries provided the monthly updates for the DDA, The Shoppes, and the profit/loss statement for the year thus far.
Authority members approved funding for one DDA Scholarship to be awarded in the amount of $500.
DDA Director Jackie Garland reported that the business packets had been revamped including the facade grant application.
In-depth budget discussions were planned for another time as the DDA’s overall budget is contingent upon the city of Monticello, which has not approved a 2022 budget.
