News
DDA MILL LEVY ELECTION IN NOVEMBER
October 19th, 2009
Every four years property owners have the opportunity to renew the mill assessment on their property in the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) district. On Tuesday, November 3, 2009, you are entitled to vote whether or not to renew the current 16-mill levy for 2010-2013. The investment of your tax dollars provides the DDA operating capital to implement programs and enhancements, including, but not limited to security, maintenance, beautification, and promotional support.
In 1989, downtown property owners made a difference in the future of Downtown Casper by organizing and funding the DDA. Since 1997, DDA has worked within its 16-mill budget and has a positive record of fiduciary responsibility and downtown oversight. Your tax dollars have created a portfolio of services including a website listing available downtown professional and retail space, improvements for pedestrian safety and ambiance, and downtown business promotion.
Property owners who wish to vote absentee should contact the DDA office and a ballot and affidavit will be mailed to you. Property owners may also vote absentee directly with the Natrona County Clerk of the Court, 200 N. Center St., Casper, WY 82601, beginning October 10th until the election, Tuesday Nov. 3rd.
Going forward, we have positive plans for your 16-mill levy investment in support of the following known services and programs. We welcome your input in planning and implementation of future programs.
Ongoing
$5,500 for annual pigeon control services through the USDA/APHIS.
$13,000 for graffiti abatement and additional alley lighting - critical for downtown pedestrian-friendliness and safety.
$2,000 from the DDA, $2,000 from the City of Casper and merchant and professional sponsorships for the “Adopt-A-Planter” program.
$25,000 to promote and advertise downtown as a destination for consumers and visitors.
$2,000 to maintain, support and update existing DDA website which lists available downtown professional and retail space, DDA statutes, ordinances, by-laws, Board meeting minutes, calendar of public DDA meetings, downtown events, related links, Power Points and slide shows relevant to Downtown Casper.
$10,000 to sponsor and promote special downtown programs (in collaboration with the City, Downtown Merchants & Professionals, Nicolaysen Art Museum, Wolcott Galleria and Historic Preservation Commission) such as Crazy Days, NIC Fest, Wednesday Night Live, Trick or Treating, Farmers Market and Christmas.
Planned
$100,000 to complete Center Street Redevelopment. DDA voted to co-invest with the City of Casper for Center Street improvements that include enhanced streetscape and public safety elements.
“Adopt-A-Planter” program expansion to include connector streets such as Wolcott, Durbin, Midwest, Center and others.
Expansion of pedestrian and Christmas lighting to include side streets.
Assess downtown vacancy rates, both on the street and for upper levels, and partner with property owners and City staff towards a viable downtown loft market.
Prospective
Work with City and Chamber of Commerce to implement recommendations from 2009 DDA-sponsored study of aesthetics & safety of downtown-parking garage.
Property owners with questions, comments or concerns, may contact the DDA office or any Board member. DDA office hours are 8-5 Mon.-Fri.
Board Members to contact:
Drew Perkins, Chairman
Peggy Brooker, Vice-Chair
Cathy Carson, Secretary
Brettnee Tromble, Treasurer
Liz Becher, City Liaison
Kate Sarosy, Council Liaison
Jesse Helm, Member
Toni Lussier, Member
Richard R. Munroe, Member
Randy Pryde, Member
Charles T. Walsh, Member
Robert C. Ide, Member
