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Walnut Creek council adopts downtown BID assessment reports, schedules April hearings
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Summary
The council accepted the annual assessment reports for the Downtown Walnut Creek business improvement districts, approved levying FY2027 assessments and set public hearings for April 7, 2026, after hearing a detailed WCD annual report on events, marketing and reserves.
Walnut Creek City Council on March 17 adopted resolutions accepting the annual reports for the Downtown Walnut Creek Business Improvement District (BID) and the Downtown Walnut Creek South BID, approved levying assessments for fiscal 2027 and set public hearings for April 7, 2026.
Economic Development Manager Mike Neiman introduced the item and WCD representative Kathy presented the annual report, highlighting events and programs such as Headwest Marketplace, Locust Street Festival, Oktoberfest and the recent wellness event. Kathy said the WCD invested in a new data platform and described a Downtown 365 vision focused on walkability, outdoor dining and year-round activation.
Kathy said the WCD projects assessment revenue of about $213,000 and a projected reserve around $18,000 for the upcoming year, and noted the organization has transitioned many events and services into a 501(c)(3) structure for operations. She also described an entertainment-zone concept under study to allow open-container drinks within a limited event footprint during WCD-sanctioned events.
Council members questioned WCD about partnerships with the Farmers Market, use of Measure O funds and whether assessment increases beyond the standard 3% would be palatable for small businesses. Kathy said the WCD finance committee is evaluating potential adjustments but that the 3% increase remains comfortable for many members.
Council member Darling moved to adopt the reports, levy assessments for FY27 and set the public hearings; the motion was seconded and approved unanimously. The public hearings are scheduled for April 7, 2026.
