Staff is researching ordinances from other cities who have created entertainment districts in their downtown. An entertainment district is a zoning overlay which can allow for open containers in restricted public areas. The districts also can regulate special events in the public areas, hours for elevated noise levels related to special events, sidewalk dining, and other activities. The purpose of Entertainment Districts is to drive further downtown development and enhance restaurant businesses by attracting more foot traffic. The districts, as well as the regulations governing the district are established by action of the city council. The goal of the district is business growth and new business development. Staff plans a presentation on entertainment districts to the city council and Economic Development Corporation Board soon.
Nearly 10 years ago a plan for the development of Smokey Row was created. The plan was to develop Smokey Row into a downtown entertainment venue. As some of you are aware some work was completed but never finished. Staff is researching the plans and designs and developing estimates to complete the work. We will be proposing some changes and additions in the designs. These will include public restroom facilities, taller and more structurally stable lighting poles, permanent seating, possible shade structures, and landscaping. Staff will develop a plan with cost estimates for design and construction. A project such as this will have a significant cost but will also create more interest in downtown and hopefully improve visitor traffic. We will also be exploring funding options as we work through the planning phase.
The EDC board will meet on the 29th to consider some requests for assistance from local businesses. The Board will also discuss participating in a cost share for land planning services for land development plans for the city lake and for the north corridor projects. Both projects are in the city’s strategic plan and have been a part of the joint efforts of the franklin County Industrial Foundation, MV EDC, and MV City Council over the last three years. Completed land development plans will provide the city opportunities to attract housing and commercial developers. They will also provide the city the ability to control the development so that it complements the historic and cultural values of the city. The plan will take 6 – 9 months to complete and will include public involvement.
We have identified an possible candidate who is willing to serve as the city’s municipal judge. The candidate has strong local connections, and long history of public service in Franklin County. We believe we could have him on- board by July 1.
We have identified a candidate for the position of part-time code enforcement officer. We will be meeting with the individual next week to finalize the details about the position and expectations. The candidate has experience in code enforcement as well as fire code enforcement and has ties to Mont Vernon. If things work out, he will start July 1.
Staff will begin council workshop on the 2027 Budget in early July. The budget must be approved by Council no later than September 30. Our goal is to have it passed by September 15.
I have attached an article from a Texas Municipal League publication concerning the cost of public safety. Public Safety is the largest position of any municipal budget. This article provides insight into the costs associated with operating police and fire departments.
