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Residents and organizers urge coordination as new downtown businesses open; Small Business Week slated for May 4–10
Summary
A public commenter urged better coordination between local groups promoting downtown retail and events; staff reported new businesses and reminded the board that Keep Friendswood Beautiful electrical-box art is moving toward installation. City staff noted Small Business Week is scheduled May 4–10.
During public communication, a resident urged the Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation to increase coordination with other community groups working to recruit boutique retailers and to support existing downtown businesses.
"There are other people helping you accomplish your goals," the speaker said, urging cross-pollination between groups. The speaker identified local organizations including FTFA and the CDC (as referenced in the meeting) and said those groups have initiatives aligned with the board's master-plan goal to emphasize the "heart of the city." The commenter also said one organization would forego fundraising this year to focus on program delivery tied to that theme.
Rebecca Hillenburg and board members noted the downtown groups' efforts. Hillenburg said the board appreciated the public input and that coordination could be beneficial. Board members highlighted an upcoming Small Business Week the board's staff said is scheduled for May 4–10; staff encouraged board members and downtown businesses to watch for opportunities to participate.
City staff provided an update on new businesses that have received certificates of occupancy in the downtown district in the past month. Staff listed: Game Day Men's Health (as reported), Pearland Coffee Roasters (occupying the former Dun Brothers site), Royal Liquor (reported as having taken over one boutique, possibly Luxyplomb), and Map Deals LLC (activity not specified in the report). Staff said Pearland Coffee Roasters is "busy" and that the district is seeing redevelopment of properties.
Board members and staff thanked the public commenter and encouraged continued collaboration among the various local organizations working to attract business and visitors to downtown Friendswood.
