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BID approves application to WEDC Main Street onboarding cohort; board members to help meet participation requirements
Summary
The BID approved a motion to apply for WEDC's new Main Street cohort program; the program requires multiple local participants, training webinars, an in-person session, and criteria such as a minimum budget and dedicated staff time.
The Downtown West Bend BID voted to authorize staff to apply for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation's (WEDC) Main Street onboarding cohort, a training and technical-assistance program for connected communities seeking Main Street designation.
Staff explained the cohort model includes about 10 virtual webinars, an in-person training, two on-site visits, and a demand that communities provide committed local participants. The program requires communities to meet criteria such as having a dedicated staff person and a budget above $70,000; staff said the BID meets many criteria but needs board participation for training and site visits.
One board member moved that staff apply and the motion was seconded; the board approved the motion by voice vote. Staff said the program offers benefits including free design services for facades and other technical supports that could help downtown property owners. Staff volunteered to lead application work and travel where required; the board approved the application with the understanding that multiple local participants will have to attend required webinars and on-site events if selected.
No funding obligation to WEDC was required to apply; staff will submit the application and notify board members about upcoming training commitments should the BID be selected.
