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Candidates propose incentives and resident outreach to boost retail revenue
Summary
Candidates suggested incentives, increased outreach to business owners, and resident surveys to fill vacant retail space and raise sales‑tax revenue without increasing property taxes.
Candidates urged policies to make Highland Village more attractive to businesses and to retain local stores. Hogan Hevington proposed working closely with the Highland Village Business Association and said the city should reach out to property owners and tenants to learn their problems and objectives. "What are your problems? What are the issues that you're facing right now in the city?" Hevington asked, saying those conversations would guide potential incentives.
Lori Hill said the city should ask residents what types of businesses they want to see and focus on bringing stores people will actually shop at. Dan Jaworski urged creating a friendlier environment for businesses and cautioned against rent increases that push out small retailers; he said the city should signal it is "open for business." No specific incentive plan was proposed at the forum; candidates favored targeted outreach and partnership with existing business groups.
