Clovis Main Street reports downtown gains; commission approves site‑use agreement for county parking lot

Clovis Main Street leaders reported measurable gains for downtown Clovis during a presentation to the Curry County Commission and the commission approved a site‑use agreement to formalize Main Street’s continued use of a county parking lot.

Paul Tankersley and Executive Director Lisa Pellegrino Spier summarized 2025 accomplishments: 15 businesses opened downtown (net 7), 23 building renovation projects generating approximately $828,000 in private investment, and about $3.485 million in grant funding for public‑infrastructure improvements tied to the Great Blocks beautification project. Pellegrino Spier said Food Truck Fridays and a restaurant‑accelerator program supplied incubator space and helped several entrepreneurs open storefronts.

Following the presentation, County staff presented a site‑use agreement that grants Clovis Main Street access to the lot on the east side of Main Street for events and green‑space programming. Packet language listed the contract term and included operational rules (use limits Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. except by county authorization) and a $2 per day fee for electrical outlet usage, half of which would be remitted to the county at the end of the term. County staff told commissioners Main Street is currently in compliance with prior cycles and recommended approval.

Commissioner discussion touched on ramping up tourism opportunities, the potential impacts of unrelated projects such as a proposed racino, and ensuring equitable access for smaller long‑standing businesses as rents rise. The commission moved to approve the site‑use agreement by motion and roll call.

Next steps: Clovis Main Street will continue downtown events, report annually to the county on activities under the agreement, and county staff will monitor compliance per the contract terms.