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DDA adopts 2026–27 budget, approves street-sign pilot and Washington Street surface work
Summary
The New Baltimore DDA approved its 2026–27 budget including $15,000 for grant writing, $21,000 for a street-sign pilot, and $70,000 added for completion of the Washington Street brick/paver project; the board also moved funds into a CD and closed a money market account.
The New Baltimore Downtown Development Authority on April 8 approved its 2026–27 budget and several downtown improvement projects. The board approved the budget as presented; minutes record the motion (Miller moved; Stockwell-Colombo supported) and state the motion carried, but a roll-call vote tally is not provided.
The approved budget includes $15,000 for grant-writing services (to pursue waterfront funding), $21,000 to complete the first phase of a street-sign replacement project and an additional $70,000 to finish the Washington Street brick-to-concrete project. Chairman Higgins said the DDA will move $250,000 into a certificate of deposit at Huntington Bank and leave $105,000 in checking; Secretary Ralph DeBucce said the money-market account is being closed.
On the Washington Street project, the board agreed to remove engraved brick pavers and replace them with colored concrete finished with a broom texture; engraved bricks will be preserved and relocated. The minutes note the board expects the project to be completed in sections and that unexpected curb or sidewalk issues could increase costs.
Secretary DeBucce presented a street-sign design proposal for 18 signs using decorative black poles and flag-style signs; after a review that included discussion with DPS Director John Kay, the board approved the first-phase $21,000 expenditure (motion by Byrum, supported by Stockwell-Colombo; motion carried). Chief Blackburn demonstrated the Flock camera system the DDA funds and described cases where the cameras aided city responses. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.; minutes were submitted by Ralph DeBucce, Secretary.
