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Media Contact
Jennifer Flachman, Public Information Officer
FlachmanJ@cityofmerced.org, (209) 564-0235
City of Merced Launches Efforts to Establish Downtown Merced Property-Based Business Improvement District (PBID)
Merced, Calif – Leaders from the City of Merced and the Merced business community are working to create a Downtown Merced Property-Based Business Improvement District, commonly known as PBID, a public, private partnership dedicated to the future vitality of downtown Merced.
This PBID would replace the current Maintenance District and would eliminate double business license fees. A Community Engagement Team supported by professional staff would manage enhancements and promotions dedicated to revitalizing downtown. This team would support enhanced safety services intended to deter illegal activities such as vandalism, trespassing, and public drinking and connect those in need with appropriate social service agencies. Additionally, a Clean Team would evolve to maintain tree wells, provide sidewalk pressure washing services and serve as an additional watch or safeguard for the downtown area.
"The PBID would do more than provide clean and safe services,” stated Matthew Serratto, Mayor of the City of Merced. Our downtown community is experiencing a renaissance and a PBID would further support its success. A partnership between the City and downtown property owners would allow us to be a driving force for our downtown revitalization, stated Matthew Serratto, Mayor of the City of Merced. "Through these enhanced services, the PBID would galvanize the voices of property owners to set the stage for change, said Serratto.
A public/private partnership would govern the program. A property owner's board of directors would control what services are provided and how the budget is spent. The City would not requisition these funds.
"Vibrant downtowns don't happen by accident and I see this as the only way to take great steps forward. If we want a welcoming downtown, those invested have to make it that way," said Doug Fluetsch, community member, business owner, and downtown property owner. “The good news is the City and many private property owners agree and are willing to invest. A PBID gives us the tools to improve our downtown as many of our neighboring cities up and down the state have over the past years" concluded Fluetsch.
The City and PBD Committee is interested in the community's input. Petitions are circulating within the downtown area. Downtown property owners are encouraged to participate. Downtown business owners and operators are encouraged to speak with their landlord. Merced citizens are encouraged to connect with their council representative to provide input about the impact a revitalized downtown would have on the future of Downtown Merced.
The community can participate in upcoming Plan Review Workshops. These workshops are open to the public.
Plan Review Workshop Dates and Times:
655 W. Main Street
Merced, CA 95340
Downtown Merced PBID Steering Committee:
Robin Donovan – El Capitan, Mainzer and Tioga
Doug Fluetsch – Fluetsch and Busby Insurance
Eric Hamm – Next Door Real Estate
EJ Lorenzi – Property Owner
Grey Roberts – Roberts & Allan Accountants
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