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Nancy Jean Brinker
DDA Director
Email: njbrinker@imlaycity.org
150 N. Main Street
Imlay City, MI 48444
Phone: 810-724-2135
Fax: 810 724-1861
Established in 1976, the authority is under the supervision and control of a board consisting of a chief executive officer of the municipality and no less than eight, or more than twelve members as determined by the governing body of the municipality. The function of the authority is to propose, finance and implement public improvements in the downtown development district.
The Imlay City Downtown Development Authority is ultimately responsible for the revitalization of the downtown district as it is defined by Imlay City ordinance. The need to revitalize downtown commercial districts is clear. A healthy, viable downtown is crucial to the heritage, economic health and civic pride of the entire community for several reasons. A healthy downtown retains and creates jobs. A healthy downtown also means a stronger tax base; long-term revitalization establishes capable businesses that use public services and provide tax revenues for the community. A revitalized downtown increases the community’s options for goods and services, whether for basic staples like food, clothing, and professional services or for less traditional functions such as housing or entertainment. Finally, revitalized downtowns are symbols of community caring and a high quality of life, factors that influence corporate decisions to locate to a community.
In order to assist in the revitalization of the downtown district in Imlay City, the Imlay City Downtown Development Authority has identified the following priorities in establishing a more vibrant downtown. The Imlay City DDA is responsible for enhancing the visual quality of the business district. This means attention to all physical elements: buildings, storefronts, signs, public improvements, landscaping, merchandising displays, and promotional materials. The quality of the designed environment more than any other aspect demonstrates to the public the other qualities of the district. The DDA is also responsible for creating a positive image of the business district to attract customers and investors and rekindle community pride. Promotion includes the development of sophisticated, joint retail sales events, festivals and the creation of a consistent image through graphic and media presentation. Promotion also includes target selling of the district to investors, developers, and new businesses. Finally, the Imlay City DDA is responsible for assisting in all aspects of economic restructuring, including strengthening the existing economic base of the business district while diversifying its economic base. Activities include retaining and expanding existing business, recruiting new businesses to provide a balanced mix, converting disused space into productive property and sharpening the competitiveness of Main Street’s traditional merchants. | 
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