The Tacoma Economic Development Committee received an insightful update on the Hilltop community's development during its recent meeting, led by Andres Mantilla from Uncommon Bridges. The presentation highlighted significant progress in community engagement and the evolving proposal for a Business Improvement Area (BIA) in Hilltop.

Since the initiative began in 2022, Uncommon Bridges has engaged over 130 community members through approximately 50 meetings. These discussions included a diverse range of stakeholders, such as business owners, residents, and nonprofit organizations, all contributing to a collaborative vision for Hilltop's future. The feedback gathered has been instrumental in shaping the proposal, particularly regarding the types of services needed and the boundaries of the BIA.

One notable change is the introduction of two residential rate structures: a market rate and a subsidized rate, reflecting the community's desire for inclusivity. The committee also discussed the definition of "clean and safe" services, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspectives from both businesses and residents.

Additionally, the proposal now includes a legacy business fund aimed at protecting long-standing businesses in the area. This fund will allocate resources to support these businesses, which are vital to Hilltop's identity. The discussions around what constitutes a legacy business have sparked considerable dialogue, focusing on the criteria for inclusion and the community's commitment to these establishments.

As the project moves forward, the committee is committed to incorporating ongoing community feedback to ensure that the final proposal aligns with the needs and aspirations of Hilltop residents. The next steps will involve further refining the proposal and continuing to engage with the community to foster a thriving and inclusive Hilltop.