University Hill commission names interim representatives to DDA advisory group

The University Hill Commercial Area Management Commission voted on Sept. 2 to appoint interim representatives to the advisory group convened to explore a potential Downtown Development Authority (DDA).

Commission members moved and seconded appointments of Tel Jones and Danica (last name not specified on the record) to attend initial advisory-group meetings, including a meeting anticipated Sept. 16. Commission members discussed that appointments could be interim and swapped later if needed.

City staff said the consultant Puma has been retained to advise the DDA exploration and that the advisory group is expected to meet monthly through the summer of next year to align with the timeline for placement on a November ballot. Staff said the group will finalize meeting days and times after getting members together. The commission discussed whether to take a formal vote to appoint representatives; a motion was made, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Several commissioners raised concerns about continuity and terms. Staff clarified that a commissioner’s seat ends when a replacement is appointed to that seat and that an interim appointee can be replaced later if the commission chooses. Commissioners agreed appointing interim representatives to attend early meetings and then reconsidering representation at a later date was appropriate. The commission did not take any action beyond the appointments.

Staff said they would circulate meeting materials and asked the commission to consider who should represent UCAMC on the advisory group going forward.