Downtown Painesville Organization reports growth, events and membership retention for 2024 and outlines 2025 calendar

Renee Fitzgerald Palacio, executive director of the Downtown Painesville Organization, updated Painesville City Council on the DPO's 2024 results and plans for 2025 at the council meeting Monday.

The DPO reported high member retention and expanded public programming. Palacio told council the organization retained more than 95% of its members in 2024, hosted about 45 events including 14 car cruises and Art in the Park, and estimated total event attendance at roughly 5,000 people. She said volunteers contributed about 465 hours—valued at just over $15,000—and that Heritage Ohio calculated economic impact for DPO activities at about $96,000 on its one‑page summary of accredited programs.

Palacio said Heritage Ohio has standardized a one‑page annual snapshot for accredited Main Street programs and that a statewide snapshot is forthcoming; she will share it with council when available. She cautioned that the DPO reports completed investments (for example, the tower and the former Dollar Bank building) and that some infrastructure projects begun in 2024 may not be reflected until they are completed.

Looking ahead, Palacio said the DPO will work more closely with the chamber to coordinate after‑hours networking, start Friday Walkabouts in April to extend outreach beyond Main Street and State Street, and pursue personal reengagement with former members and sponsors. New or returning 2025 events she cited include a Bourbon fundraiser at the Manor House (new), PAC prom (April 5, 21+ fundraiser), a suffrage revitalization trolley tour with Lake Erie College and the historical society (with associated events in August and September), and plans to pilot a Christmas market after Shop and Stroll.

Palacio said the PAC board has formed, launched social media and is planning fundraisers and community events; PAC and DPO will also pursue art and culture grant opportunities for public art, including murals. She noted DPO will resume monthly “DPO Connect” meetings at 8:30 a.m. beginning March 11 to help merchants coordinate promotions, and encouraged council participation and membership.

Palacio closed by asking council to expect periodic updates and to look for the statewide Heritage Ohio snapshot when it is released.

Ending: The DPO presentation concluded with council members thanking Palacio and noting they look forward to DPO events this year.