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CRA outlines 2026 retail recruitment plan, agrees to forum with downtown businesses on vacancies and permitting delays
Summary
Staff previewed a six-point 2026 retail recruitment strategy and an updated market vitality report; the board agreed to hold a forum with downtown businesses and realtors to gather direct input about vacancies, permitting delays, and recruitment strategies.
The Community Redevelopment Agency discussed downtown vacancies and a proposed retail recruitment strategy on Feb. 4, with staff promising a fuller briefing at the next meeting and the board agreeing to convene a forum with downtown business owners.
Board member Shuhan asked for an update on a downtown vacancy study and was told CMED and CRA staff have identified a consultant and are finalizing paperwork; staff also posted an updated market vitality report to the city's website. Board members said they want direct input from local brokers and business owners before spending more on outside consultants.
Joanne Hussey, director of communications, marketing and economic development, said staff will present a detailed "2026 retail recruitment strategy" at the next meeting. "It's a 6 point plan that touches on all the things that you have been discussing up here," Hussey said, and added the work will include reviewing regulations, assessing foot traffic and data, and connecting businesses to property owners rather than just listing available spaces.
Board members also praised a one-way conversion on 19th and 20th streets that legalized narrowly spaced parking and created four additional parking spaces. Several board members raised persistent complaints reported by realtors and prospective tenants that certificates of use and building permits are taking weeks or longer to process; members urged staff to meet with realtors and property owners, and the board reached consensus to host a workshop or forum to solicit solutions from downtown stakeholders.
Staff said they will prepare the recruitment strategy presentation for the next meeting and coordinate logistics for a downtown-focused forum with business and property owners.
