The overall recommendation is that the organization shifts from the role of event promoters and into the role of property managers, focusing on economic development, business recruitment and maintenance of The District. This doesn't mean that event promotion will be eliminated completely, it simply recognizes that changing dynamics make economic development issues such as business recruitment and retention a priority.

Specific strategies include:

• Economic Development
  Business Recruitment and Retention
  Developer Recruitment
  Business and Investor Marketing
• Public Realm
  Clean and Safe Programs
  Beautification and Pedestrian Connections
  Downtown Master Plan Involvement
• Organizational
  Leadership and Advocacy
  Increased Staffing
  Increased Communications
• Resources
  Expand Member Services
  Explore New Assessment Options
  Explore Community Improvement District (CID)

Increased services and a broader role for the organization will clearly require more resources, both staff and financial.

In our member surveys nearly 55% of members said "definitely yes" or "probably yes" when asked if they'd be willing to pay for this increase in services. Only 10% said "probably no" or "definitely no."

This provides a good start for exploring the possibility of changing from a Special Business District—which can only receive revenues from property taxes and business license fees—to a Community Improvement District (CID)— which can also generate sales tax revenue.

A CID is created by and requires approval from the members. To that end, the Board of the SBD is in the process of forming a Community Improvement District Exploratory Committee to determine if a CID is right for us.

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Downtown Columbia Strategic Plan - Working Draft
Review the entire Strategic Plan for restructuring our downtown organizations. This is a working draft and we are still asking for feedback so some aspects of the plan may change.

Strategic Plan Presentation
Download the presentation made at our recent town meetings. If you're looking for a quick summary of the plan, this should be your first stop.

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CID proposal garners 63% of the vote. Thank you so much for your support!
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What will a nickle get me? Learn what types of programs and services we're proposing.
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Sample Ballot. What will the ballot I receive in the mail say?
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CID Map. If only residents can vote, how do I know if I'm in the CID?
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Q & A. Frequently asked questions.
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Coummunity Improvement District Management Plan. Read more about the new downtown CID.
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Downtown sales tax moves toward fall vote. District's residents would receive ballot.
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Downtown group begins planning for tax. "It gives us the opportunity to provide the level of service downtown deserves."
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