On the agenda: Lansing Downtown Lansing, Inc. Board Meeting — Flock Camera (Sep 17)

DLI Board Meeting
September 17, 2026, | 11:30 am
215 S. Washington Square Ste. 100, Lansing, MI 48933

Agenda
1. Call to Order:
2. Citizen’s Comments (items not on the agenda) - None
The public may comment for up to three minutes.
3. Correspondence:
4. Consent Agenda Approvals
x Agenda September 10, 2026
x Minutes from August 13, 2026
x Committee Reports
x Monthly Financials – J. Durham
5. Old Town Updates:
6. Reports
x Director Report:
x President’s Report:
7. Action/Discussion Items
x
x
x
x
x

Big Red Ball Updates
Downtown Safety Meeting Next Steps
Business & Property Improvement Grant
Walk of Fame
Clean & Safe Ambassador Program

8. New Business:
9. Adjourn DLI Board Meeting (Motion Required for Adjournment):
Board Members:
x
Jen Estill, President
x
Josh Pugh, Vice President
x
Julie Durham, Treasurer
x
Jennifer Hinze, Secretary

x
x
x
x

Ozay Moore, Member
Alex Rusek, Member
Kris Klein, Member
Jesse Flores, Member

Board Advisors: Peter Spadafore, James Lenon

D O W N T O W N L A N SI N G

APRIL 9, 2026

BOARD MEETING

1 1 2 S . W A S H I N G T O N S QU A R E

DLII Board
d Meeting
g
August 13, 2026 | 11:30am
215 S. Washington Square Ste. 100, Lansing, MI 48933
Members
s Present:: J. Estill, J. Pugh, K. Klein, A. Rusek
, J. Flores, O. Moore
s Absent : J. Hinze, J. Durham
Members
Board
d Advisorss Present : James Lennon
d Advisorss Nott Present : Peter Spadafore
Board
Stafff Present:: C. Edgerly, K. Litwin, J. Markham
s Present: , Jason Kildea—Gillespie Group
Guests

Minutes
1. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:46 a.m. by J. Estill
2. CITIZEN COMMENTS: None.
3. CORRESPONDENCE: Cathleen Edgerly shared correspondence related to downtown safety,
including concerns from Abbey Weston, owner of Firefly Hot Yoga Barre Studio, regarding illegal
activity and the resulting loss of staff.
4. GUEST PRESENTATION: GILLESPIE GROUP
Jason Kildea of Gillespie Group provided a guest presentation regarding several projects in the PSD
including Brick Row, properties on S. Grand near new City Hall, and discussed new businesses moving
in on Shiawassee, including the former Sparrow Bloom location.
CONSENT AGENDA: Cathleen Edgerly reported that the second portion of the assessment
information was received between the Executive Committee meeting and the Board meeting. Final
reconciliation with the City and the accounting firm is expected at the end of the month.
Motion by A. Rusek, seconded by J. Pugh, to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion carried
unanimously.
5. OLD TOWN UPDATES
James Lenon provided an update on activities in Old Town. He reported that the district is midway
through a busy festival season and that the JazzFest experienced strong attendance. ArtFeast was
scheduled for the Saturday following this meeting, with organizers hoping to build on momentum
from JazzFest and recent Fish Ladder events. Approximately 6,000 people attended ArtFeast the
previous year.
Several business updates were also shared. ‘That Candy Store’ recently opened with an oldfashioned candy store concept and has been well received. Pablo’s restaurant rebranded as
Catalina’s under the same ownership and staff, with the new name honoring the owners’
grandmother. Good Truckin’ Diner received a Match on Main grant and plans to convert the adjoining
space into a full coffee shop. Discussions are also underway regarding another potential coffee shop
at the corner of Turner Street and César E. Chávez Avenue. Good Truckin’ Diner received final liquor
license approvals and planned to begin alcohol service during ArtFeast. The Unicorn is expected to
open within approximately two weeks and participate in the social district.

DOWNTOWN LANSING
G
BOARD MEETING
G

AUGUST 2026
6
215 S. WASHINGTON SQUARESTE.100
0

OTCA received a Certified Local Government grant to update the district’s design guidelines, which
were last completed in the 1990s. The PSD Advisory Committee will meet to discuss use of funds in
2027. Old Town’s rebrand is expected to be unveiled at the September 30 celebration marking the
organization’s 30th anniversary. Tickets will be on sale the week of 8/17.
6. DIRECTOR’S REPORT: C. Edgerly reported on the following:
Cathleen Edgerly thanked Board members who completed the Main Street America self-assessment
forms and reviewed the accreditation process. The Board also discussed historic preservation
advocacy and downtown murals.
The final Downtown After 5 event of the season is scheduled for August 20 from 5-7pm. Board
members were asked to attend and support downtown merchants.
Updates were provided regarding changes to the Tenant Improvement Grant Program. Two
applications have been received, and staff hopes to have the available funds committed by the end
of the calendar year. Two submissions were also received in response to the recent RFQ for the
Signature Streetscape Planter Initiative. Those respondents will be contacted regarding the next RFP
phase in coordination with the City.
The artwork/mural at the Grand Avenue parking ramp has been removed, and discussions are
underway regarding next steps. Staff is also obtaining estimates regarding whether the mural panels
on Michigan Avenue (near the Nuthouse) can be reattached.
7. PRESIDENT’S REPORT: No report outside of what will be covered further in the agenda.
8. ACTION ITEMS
New Board Member: The new Board member, Ozay Moore, was thanked for their interest, ongoing
service to the community, and welcomed to the Board. Members expressed appreciation for adding
the perspective of someone who has activated a downtown storefront.
Downtown Safety Meeting Recap: The Board reviewed the recap of the initial downtown safety
meeting facilitated with the City. Key concerns included increasing violence and illegal activity and
the impacts on downtown businesses, employees, residents, and other stakeholders. Members
noted that the meeting brought together diverse perspectives and allowed stakeholders to hear
directly from one another.
The Board discussed the importance of continued meetings with the City and consideration of
ordinances and practices used in other Michigan communities and elsewhere. The use of 311 for nonpolice issues was also discussed. J. Pugh expressed disappointment that much of the initial meeting
became an opportunity to raise both recent and longstanding concerns, but noted that the
commitment to future conversations was a positive outcome.
Board members emphasized that DLI’s role should include holding the City accountable for
convening future meetings and implementing concrete solutions. Questions were raised regarding
the City’s action plan, expectations for DLI’s role in this process, and whether patrol information
could be obtained from City Hall. Additional discussion addressed police staffing, enforcement,
effective ordinance options, conversations with City Council members, and potential use of the State
Capital City Allocation for health and safety initiatives.

DOWNTOWN LANSING
G
BOARD MEETING
G

AUGUST 2026
6
215 S. WASHINGTON SQUARESTE.100
0

Staff responsibilities discussed included continuing to research ambassador program options,
coordination of additional meetings, and collection of data from 311 and other reporting tools to
establish baseline information.
Big Red Ball: Board members were asked to assist with sponsorship outreach. A list of potential
sponsors was included in the meeting packet, and members were asked to notify staff if they could
contact any of the identified prospects. The print deadline is September 4. Cathleen Edgerly also
reviewed volunteer needs for event setup and teardown, noting that 97 volunteer roles need to be
filled.
Michigan Downtown Allocation. C. Edgerly and J. Estill reviewed updates made to the Michigan’s
Downtown allocation packet. Revisions were made based on current downtown strategic priorities
as shared by stakeholders at our State of Downtown workshop this past Spring, and built off our
Strategic Action plan. Also was created in consideration of the Downtown Allocation comprehensive
plan made by the Governor in Albany, New York. We’ve been collecting ongoing feedback from
stakeholders, shared with the Mayor, our council liaison, and will also work with the Chamber to get
this in front of the State. This will be a priority led by DLI and the Chamber, hopefully City lobbyists
and staff after the new year and newly elected leaders are sworn in.
CSO Marketing Proposal. The Board resumed consideration of the CSO marketing proposal, which
had been tabled at the previous meeting. J. Pugh referenced the prior discussion regarding
Redhead’s marketing proposal and the CSO plan and asked which components should be completed
first. The Board discussed whether portions of the proposed cost could be assigned to remaining
LEO grant funds. An extension of those funds has been approved, with potential uses including
improvements to the 100 block of South Washington Square, public art, and repair of flower boxes.
The possibility of applying the $39,950 marketing expense to that funding source was discussed,
although no definitive determination had been made. The Board also considered whether to proceed
with the expense if general funds were ultimately required.
Motion by J. Pugh, seconded by A. Rusek, to approve the first three items in the proposal
included in the packet, for a total of $39,950. Motion carried unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION:
Motion by K. Klein, seconded by J. Pugh, to enter into closed session at 1:00 p.m. to discuss the
Executive Director’s annual review. A roll-call vote was taken. Klein—Yes, Moore—Yes, Flores—Yes,
Rusek—Yes, Pugh—Yes, Estill—Yes. Motion carried.
Motion by A. Rusek, seconded by J. Pugh to end closed session at 1:35pm. Motion carried
unanimously.
Motion by A. Rusek, seconded by J. Pugh to re-open regular session at 1:36pm. Motion carried
unanimously.
Motion by A. Rusek, seconded by J. Pugh to approve an 8% salary increase for Executive Director
Cathleen Edgerly. Motion carried unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion by A. Rusek, seconded by J. Pugh to adjourn the meeting at 1:45pm. Motion carried
unanimously.

DOWNTOWN LANSING
G
BOARD MEETING
G

AUGUST 2026
6
215 S. WASHINGTON SQUARESTE.100
0

From: Norm Witte <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 28, 2026 12:52 PM
To: Lansing Mayor <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>; Police Chief <[email protected]>; Joy Witte
<[email protected]>; Allison Witte <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Downtown blight

Mr. Mayor, two things, both of which seem to be relatively new problems.

First, one of the worst properties downtown from an appearance and maintenance standpoint is this one:

I understand that a new City Hall is being built, but this is the current City Hall, and it speaks volumes that the City can’t
make even enough effort to keep these beds clean and attractive. I was in Fort Wayne a few weeks ago, and their
downtown is beautiful. After seeing their city hall and their downtown area, all I could think was what a complete dump
Lansing has become.
This leads me to the second issue. My office is at 119 E. Kalamazoo Street. The homeless population around here is
making the property uninhabitable. Every day brings some new disaster. I’m spending money as we speak to board up
an opening under my air conditioning units so that homeless people don’t use that space. There is trash everywhere.
The other day a drunk was laying in the alleyway where we park so that my staff and I could not leave without him
having to move. The property a couple doors down from me is constantly trashed from the homeless occupying the
entryway. The following pictures were taken today:

(While I was taking this pictures, one of the zombies across the street was yelling, “Whatcha takin’ a picture of?” as
though I shouldn’t be concerned with this.)

This is at then entrance to the alleyway.

Where we keep our trash cans next to Edge Partners.

This broken bottle has been here for a couple weeks.

I see this as a combined failure of the city, Downtown Lansing, and the police department. The problem down here has
become a daily scourge. We regularly have people trashing our building, hanging out overnight in the entryway. It is
completely unacceptable. The city has decided that this is a good area for homeless people to stay, Downtown Lansing’s
maintenance of the downtown area is laughable, and it seems that the police department does nothing to prevent these
people from camping out here. A few weeks ago, I got to the office only to find three people sleeping in my
entryway. They completely trashed the place.

This week my daughter and I had to dump my recycling can into my regular trash because the homeless had dumped a
bunch of rotting food in there, and if I were to put that out for pickup, Granger would threaten to pull my can. I suppose
I should be thankful that at least they saw fit to put it in the trash instead of dumping it in the alley, also a common
occurrence. It seems like they haven’t been stealing the trash cans as much but I had to buy a bike lock to chain them
together to keep that from happening.

I would suggest that patrol cars actually stop and roust people out of this area in the middle of the night. Maybe the
Downtown Lansing folks, who receive assessments I have no choice but to pay, could clean up the trash these people
leave behind. Maybe a real effort could be made to educate the homeless population to understand that this isn’t their
garbage dump.

I have owned this building since 2000. It has been a safe and clean place to work until the last year. I have four women
who work in my office and who have to worry about the people loitering around here. It’s no longer a safe and clean
place. It seems inevitable that we will move our business out of downtown, that the hundreds of thousands of dollars I
have invested in this building to make it nice will be wasted, and that this will property will return to the blighted
condition I found it in 26 years ago. I will probably lose a lot of money I invested in this building relying on its value to
enhance my retirement.

I used to be proud of my hometown. I’m not anymore because apparently the people who run this city don’t care. This
is completely unacceptable and I’ll be glad when I don’t have to come here again. Mr. Schorr, I hold you personally
responsible for letting things get to this condition. Do something.

Norman C. Witte
Witte Law Offices, PLLC
119 E. Kalamazoo St.
Lansing, Michigan 48933-2111

From: Norm Witte <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 3, 2026 11:21 AM
To: Lansing Mayor <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected] <[email protected]>; Police Chief <[email protected]>; Joy Witte
<[email protected]>; Allison Witte <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Downtown blight
Mr. Mayor, Downtown Lansing had some additional cleanup work done on East Kalamazoo and sent me a follow-up
letter. From your office, crickets.
However, I did notice when I went to 54A that the city’s weed patch has essentially remained the same except for
maybe accumulating a little more trash.
If you don’t care how this city looks, I don’t know why anyone else should. It’s shameful. Also, the entryway down the
block from me looked like this yesterday:

There are people hanging out in that entryway persistently at night and during the day, and they also constantly leave
trash there. What is the plan to resolve this problem?

Norman C. Witte
Witte Law Offices, PLLC
119 E. Kalamazoo St.
Lansing, Michigan 48933-2111
(517) 485-0070
Direct Dial: (517) 913-5104
Fax: (517) 485-0187
[email protected]
www.wittelaw.com

Organization Committee
Sept 2nd 8:00 a.m. via Zoom
Committee Members Present: Melissa, Alison, Chioma
‹ťÍƯϙ„ŘôŜôIJťϡϙVôIJôÍ

1. Call to order: Meeting called to order at 8:11 am
2. Approval of May Meeting Minutes: Motion to approve by Chioma, seconded by Melissa
3. Volunteer Hours: 15
4. Communication Team:
• MERCHANT NEWS: (ARTICLES DUE MONDAY, Sept 21)
o VôIJôÍϙſĖīīϙſŘĖťôϙťēôϙiaϙ[ŪČIJŪťŜϙÍŘťĖèīôϠϙaôīĖŜŜÍϙŜŪČČôŜťôîϙſôϙÍîîϙÍIJϙ
ŪťŪıIJ
cĺIJŜťŘŪèťĖĺIJϙŪŕîÍťôϟϙ
• E-NEWS - (ARTICLES DUE MONDAY, Sept 21))
o ŪŜĖIJôŜŜϙĺċϙťēôϙaĺIJťēϡϙŜôôϙÍæĺŽô.
o «ĺīŪIJťôôŘϙĺċϙťēôϙaĺIJťēϡϙXôŘĖϙ“ĺıÍèϠϙVôIJôÍϙſĖīīϙťÍŕϙXÍťôϙťĺϙſŘĖťôϙĺŘϙſŘĖťôϙĖťϙēôŘŜôīċϟϙVôIJôÍϙŜēÍŘôîϙ
XôŘĖЍŜϙſĺŘħϙĺIJϙťēôϙĺÍŘîϙÍIJîϙ„ŘĺıĺϙèĺııĖťťôôϟϙ
o
īĖŜĺIJϙſĖīīϙſŘĖťôϙÍϙŕŘôŽĖôſϙĺċϙ“i“‹
o VôIJôÍϙſĖīīϙſŘĖťôϙÍIJϙÍŘťĖèīôϙÍæĺŪťϙťēôϙŪŕèĺıĖIJČϙèēÍIJČôŜϙťĺϙ‡ôŪťťôŘϙ„ÍŘħϠϙťēŘĺſϙĖIJϙŜĺıôϙēĖŜťĺŘƅϙ
and vintage photos.
o CēĖĺıÍϙſĖīīϙſŘĖťôϙťēôϙŽĺīŪIJťôôŘϙŕôŘŜŕôèťĖŽôϙŕĺŜť
o aôīĖŜŜÍϙſĖīīϙèĺŽôŘϙťēôϙ͔͖͐ϙ‡ôŜťÍŪŘÍIJťϙ®ôôħϙÍIJîϙÍϙŘôèÍŕϙĺċϙťēôϙIJôſϙťŘÍƯĖèϙèĖŘèīôϙîôèĺŘÍťĖĺIJŜϙ
ÍIJîϙĺťēôŘϙ‹ŕĺĺħƅϙ‹ôÍŜĺIJϙĺƯôŘĖIJČŜϙîĺſIJťĺſIJϟϙ
5. Volunteers & Events: VôIJôÍϙŜēÍŘôîϙťēÍťϙťēôŘôϙĖŜϙÍϙČŘôÍťϙIJôôîϙċĺŘϙŽĺīŪIJťôôŘŜϙċĺŘϙ“i“‹ϙÍIJîϙ‡ϟϙ“ēôϙ
ČŘĺŪŕϙſĖīīϙŜēÍŘôϙīĖIJħŜϙſĖťēĖIJϙťēôĖŘϙèĖŘèīôϟϙVôIJôÍϙſĖīīϙôıÍĖīϙĖIJċĺŘıÍĖťĺIJ
6. Social Stats: VôIJôÍϙŜēÍŘôîϙŜĺèĖÍīϙŜťÍťŜϙċĺŘϙ
ŪČŪŜťϠϙťÍīħôîϙÍæĺŪťϙèĺIJťĖIJŪôîϙČŘĺſťēϙĺIJϙæĺťēϙŕīÍťċĺŘıŜϟϙ
8. DLI Board & Committee Updates ϼŜťÍƯϽϡϙVôIJôÍϙŜēÍŘôîϙŪŕîÍťôŜϙċŘĺıϙ"[IϙèĺııĖťťôôŜ and board
ĖIJèīŪîĖIJČϙIJôſϙæĺÍŘîϙıôıæôŘϙiƏÍƅϙaĺĺŘôϠϙŪŕèĺıĖIJČϙôŽôIJťϙŽĺīŪIJťôôŘϙIJôôîŜϠϙĖČϙ‡ôîϙÍīīϙŕīÍIJIJĖIJČϠϙ
[ôČôIJîÍŘƅϙ®ĺıôIJϙĺċϙ[ÍIJŜĖIJČ.
9. Motion to adjourn: aĺťĖĺIJϙťĺϙÍîĤĺŪŘIJ at 8:30am by Alison, seconded by Chioma. Motion passed.

WƌŽŵŽƚŝŽŶƐŽŵŵŝƚƚĞĞ DĞĞƚŝŶŐDŝŶƵƚĞƐ
August 12th, 2026
4:00 p.m. | DLI Office
Staff: Jenea M.
Present: Tony B., Mary T., Keri T.
1. Call to Order: 4:05pm
2. Approval of July Minutes: Motion to approve by Mary T., seconded by Keri T.
3. Volunteer Hours from July: Mary:1. Tony: 2, Keri: 1
4. Committee Projects & Discussion Items
x Downtown After 5: August 20th 5-7.: Mary will send out another email to ask for additional
vendors. She would also like to set up in the vending area, not in front of the Atrium. Jenea
will email volunteer link once again, Tony said he might be able to help with set up. Mary
volunteered to help as well.
x Downtown Day: Saturday, September 26th
o Jenea shared that we will be collaborating with OTCA on this event. Shopping
passport for both districts, prizes from DLI and OTCA, historical walking tours in both,
possibly get cider and donuts donated.
o Ideas: Committee would like to invite the REO Town merchants to participate in the
shopping passport. Tony’s wife will talk to her troop and Habibi about performing,
Mary suggested reaching out to chalk artist David Zimm, to see if he would come and
do art or lead a workshop. Jenea will investigate what the Capitol museum is offering
that day and/or ask for a collab. Mary suggested sharing the event with the Cherry
Neighborhood Association FB group. Jenea will update the Promo committee over
email as plans progress.
x Big Red Ball: November 21st
o Keri volunteered to meet with Jenea to work on the experientials. Volunteer link was
shared with the group.
x TOTS: Jenea shared updates on the progress of this event. Tony asked what new elements
are being added with the additional street closure. Jenea shared the entertainment options
that are being explored.
5. DLI Board & Committee Updates
x Jenea asked that committee members secure their tickets if they have not already done so.
Jenea shared reports from DLI committees.
6. Chairperson:
x Jenea shared that the Chairperson position is still available for this committee. She went over
what the position entails and asked that anyone interested please email her.
8. Motion to Adjourn: Motion to adjourn at 4:41pm by Mary, seconded by Tony.

 K t E d K t E  >  E ^/ E '
WZKDKKDD/dd Dd/E'

ƵŐƵƐƚ͕ϮϬϮϲ
Ϯ ϭ ϱ ^ ͘  t  ^ , / E ' d K E  ^ Yh  Z  η ϭ Ϭ Ϭ

Business Development Committee
September 3, 2026
12:00pm DLI Office, 215 S. Washington Square

Agenda
1. Call to Order: Meeting called to order 12:06 p.m.
2. Volunteer to Take Minutes: Jesse
3. Volunteer Hours from Last Month: 13
4. Approval of August 2026 Minutes: Motion to approve by A. Woodbury and second by J. Flores. Motion approved.
A. Woodbury also motioned to approve the July meeting minutes. Second by J. Flores.
5. Board and Committee Updates:
Board: The September Board meeting will be reschedule for September 17. Also Big Red Ball planning is going well with the final
details and sponsorship commitments being finalized this month. Tickets are now on sale at TheBigRedBall.com. Ending the first
quarter of our fiscal year. Discussing recent violence and activity downtown and especially on the riverfront.
Organization: Evening of Excellence held tonight at Jackson Field. Awards start at 6:00 p.m. Working on volunteer recruitment
over the next 2 quarters.
Promotions: Downtown Day September 26 in collaboration with REO Town and Old Town. Also Trick-or-Treat on the Square is
scheduled for Friday, October 30 and we are in need of 28 more volunteers. Sign-up on the event page. Pumpkins
Big Red Ball updates given above.
Design & Public Spaces: The Legendary Women of Lansing art files are all with the printer and we await installation later this
month or in October. The sculpture in on track for an October install. We still have $10,000 to fundraise. Also thanks to Big Red
Ball fundraising, we’re excited to have large stacked jack-o-lanterns, similar to the red ornaments, being installed next week for
Spooky Season.

6. Sub-Committee Discussion/Action Items:
x Block House Grant Application: A. Woodbury and C. Edgerly shared updates regarding review committee’s
recommendation on approving this business’s interior and exterior improvement application.
x R2R Technical Service Update for December 9 meeting. C. Edgerly reviewed what is needed in preparation for that
meeting and an general outline of the day’s activities. Reminder for the October 1 meeting. Kate Litwin to send out
calendar invites for October 1 and December 9.
x Grand Opening: Theoretical Tech opened last month
x Business Huddle: September 17, 8:00am
o Location: Starbucks
o Speakers Confirmed: Lori Lanspeary, Devils Day and Tiffany Marie Luke not confirmed yet!
x Michigan’s Downtown and R2R materials Business Resource Guide
o Window clings (collab with LEDC) in design phase w/ Redhead
o Deliverables for R2R 2.0 including a Business Recruitment Package in print and digital format.
o MEDC funding support
7. New Business: See you at tonight’s Evening of Excellence!
8. Motion to Adjourn: Motion to adjourn at 12:50 p.m.

Downtown Lansing Inc
Budget vs. Actuals:
DLI General Fund
August Financial Report
August
Financials

YTD

Budget

% of Budget

Revenue
Assessment Transfer Income

0.00

0.00

631,300.00

0.00%

Total Grant Income

0.00

0.00

1,000,000.00

0.00%

Match on Main

0.00

0.00

25,000.00

0.00%

Misc Income

0.00

1,000.00

500.00

0.00%

Business Development.

0.00

0.00

7,000.00

0.00%

Organization

0.00

918.51

6,000.00

0.00%

Promotions

9,379.32

12,379.32

135,000.00

6.95%

Design & Public Spaces.

7,108.03

7,108.03

121,000.00

5.87%

0.00

0.00

85,000.00

0.00%

16,487.35

$21,405.86

$ 2,010,800.00

0.82%

Salaries

24,423.09

52,807.73

432,600.00

12.21%

Fringes

1868.38

4039.8

26,800.00

15.07%

Information Technology

4,517.00

9,034.00

54,200.00

16.67%

1,867.00

3,734.00

22,400.00

16.67%

Operations Transfer
Total Revenue

$

Expenditures

Property Maintenance Allocation

52,371.70

131,766.90

769,600.00

17.12%

Business - Match on Main

0.00

0.00

25,000.00

0.00%

Business Development

0.00

4,008.76

14,100.00

28.43%

Design & Public Spaces

28,905.43

61,956.21

530,200.00

11.69%

Organization

4,540.00

5,927.02

19,300.00

30.71%

Promotions

1,670.74

1,970.74

116,600.00

1.69%

$275,245.16

$ 2,010,800.00

5.98%

Misc. Operating

Total Expenditures

$

120,163.34

Net Operating Revenue

-$

103,675.99

-$253,839.30

$

0.00

1,517,716.05

$1,405,035.00

$

500,000.00

$1,414,040.06

$1,151,195.70

$

500,000.00

General Fund
Net General Fund Balance

282.81%

&

DOWNTOWN LANSING INC.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DASHBOARD
Reporting Period: September 2026
MONTHLY SUMMARY:
With the year-end õyncial reports being completed by the City, we have received the second installment of the PSD
assessments, as well as the annual Operations Fund Transfer. Cathleen has requested a meeting with the City Budget
and Strategic Planning director to revisit the Property Maintenance Allocation that was added to our budget by the
City.
Speaking of city and continued updates regarding downtown safety & well-being concerns, you may have seen
updates regarding Council Member Kost introducing the removal of Flock Cameras being used within the city. This
action was approved. In addition, due to increases in violence and illegal activity in Rotary Park and along the
riverfront- as well as due to cooler air on the horizon and repairs needed, seating in Rotary Park has been removed.
We hope increased enforcement and patrols will be enacted along the river trail based on recent violence. We also
look forward to seeing increased enforcement dedicated activation of Rotary Park and the return of placemaking and
accessible public seating in 2027.
This week we look forward to new Spooky season décor coming to downtown, with jack-o-lanterns from Bronners.
This décor is made possibly thanks to Big Red Ball fundraising.

PROGRAM PRIORITIES & STATUS:
Key:
$FFRPSOLVKHG$FFRPSOLVKLQJ *RDO
= In Progress
= Challenges to Be Aware Of

Fundraising & Donor Relations:
Strategic Plan Goal & Objective: Goal #4 Build Sustainable Funding for a Sustainable Organization, Objective
#1 and #2
Staff Lead: Cathleen

x
x
x
x

To date, the Big Red Ball has generated 8 new sponsors and over $70,000 in fundraising.
To date, Legendary Women of Lansing has resulted in 12 new donors and $20,500 in fundraising.
Evening of Excellence resulted in 1 new donor for this event and $6,500 in fundraising
Trick-or-Treat on the Square has resulted in no new donors, and $8,000 in fundraising
Total New Donors: 21 Our Strategic Plan goal was to bring in 20 new donors
Total Fundraising this Calendar Year: $105,500

&

DOWNTOWN LANSING INC.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DASHBOARD
LEO Funding & 100 Block of S. Washington Square Redesign:
x
x
x

Strategic Plan Goal & Objective: Goal #3: Cultivate Active and Welcoming Public Spaces. Objective #1.
Staff Lead: Cathleen
LEO had approved our revised scope of work
LEO is reviewing our updated project scope and budget entered into their egrams system to include in the
funding agreement amendment.
SmithGroup has provided DLI staff a revised street design for the 100 block of S. Washington Sq ÒºʼnĂÒʼnç¡ÌÒ¡µœʼn
budget and matching funds provided by private projects taking place downtown. DLI and SmithGroup will
continue to work on this with the city for the project to be complete by September 2027.
Funding total left to expend: $1,308,000
Project to be completed by September 2027.

Ready to Recruit Technical Service:
Strategic Plan Goal & Objective: Goal #2 Nurture a Vibrant, Diverse and Robust Business District. Objective
#1 and #2.
Staff Lead: Kate Litwin

x
x

Technical service provided by Michigan Main Street to our Business Development Team.

x

Materials including cut sheets, property inventory, and business development materials are currently being
worked on for December 9 Pitch Challenge Date

x

MEDC has agreed to pay for a portion of recruitment materials including digity®ʼnĂ®Ìʼnyµ‹ʼndesign of business
development guide.

x

Next steps:
o Secure at least 3 bids for Business Development Guide materials.
o Finalize funding support from MEDC.
o Itinerary and planning for Pitch Challenge on December 9

Business Development Committee held 1 in person meeting with the consultant leading this service, and 3
virtual meetings have been held to tailor this service to the needs of Downtown Lansing, while also preparing
for our December 9 Pitch Challenge Day.

Michigan’s Downtown Allocation (State Funding Ask):
Strategic Plan Goal & Objective: Goal #4 Build Sustainable Funding for a Sustainable Organization, Objective
#2
Staff Lead: Cathleen

x
x

Final Draft of Michigan’s Downtown Allocation complete per the Board’s review.
Next Steps:
o Schedule dates to share with Chamber PAC Committee
o Start scheduling meeting with city and chamber lobbyist
o Board to provide any recommendations of who Cathleen should meet with.

&

DOWNTOWN LANSING INC.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DASHBOARD
Business & Property Improvement Grants:
Strategic Plan Goal & Objective: Goal 2: Nurture a Vibrant, Diverse and Robust Business District. Objective #1
Staff Lead: Kate Litwin
x 2 applications received to date
x Review committee approved 1 application or Board approval, totalling $50,000 in interior improvement
funding and $50,000 in exterior improvement funding.

x
x

Additional application still needs to provide cost estimates and other additional materials.
Next Steps:
o Board review and approval of committee recommendation.

UPCOMING EVENTS & PROJECTS:
Please mark your calendars and plan on attending, volunteering, or supporting the following
upcoming projects & events:
x
x

x
x

Downtown Day: Saturday, September 26 all day. Support downtown businesses, bring your dog (if
you have one) downtown from 11am-noon, and post your pics on social, send them to Jenea.
Legendary Women of Lansing Art Installs: Art wrap installation taking place with Foresight Super
Sign late in September-early October based on weather and installer availability. The sculpture
installation portraying Women Empowerment, and designed by Tiffany Marie Luke, will be installed
in October. All city department approvals have been completed, and õy®ʼnŏȴ¡ÒÌʼnâ¡®®ʼn ʼnĂ®‹ʼnµçÒʼn
week.
Trick or Treat on the Square: Friday, October 30 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. along Washington Sq.
We need 28 more volunteers
Big Red Ball: Saturday, November 21 from 7-10pm at the Michigan Historical Museum.
Purchase your tickets today! We also would like your help promoting our volunteer needs to your
networks.

Downtown After 5 Recap:
Downtown After 5 brought a noticeable boost in activity to Downtown Lansing on August
20, with 18,280 visits recorded in the Principal Shopping District that day. This represents a
38% increase over the previous Thursday and 12% over an average Thursday, providing a
great snapshot of the event’s ability to bring additional people and energy
downtown. Zooming in on Washington Sq., our reports show 147 people visiting the event
area. A special thank you to Jen & the team at Nelson Gallery for adding to the evening with
live music and a community crosswalk painting activity that gave attendees a chance to
leave their own colorful mark on downtown.

MARKETING REPORT DLI AUGUST 2026
DLI Google
Analytics

Earned Media

Active Users: 8.2K
How do they find us?
Direct Search: 5.6K
Organic Search: 3.0K
Referral: 163
Organic Social: 124
AI assist: 103
Top
T p Page Visits:
To
Home Page: 891
Events: 742
Big Red Ball: 243

Earned Media Placements:
Online: 10
Print: 2
Broadcast: 5
Earned Media Impressions:
29.7 million
Outreach:
Press Releases: 2
Media Advisories: 2

SOCIAL MEDIA
LinkedIn

Key Metrics:
Impressions: 1147
Engagement rate: 19%
Post Clicks: 127
Audience Growth: 10
50 Post Reactions
3 Comments
4 Reposts

Top Performing Posts
Business Huddle STD
Downtown After 5
Volunteer of the Month
Business of the Month

Facebook
Followers: 13,605
Key Organic Metrics:
Views: 130K
Engagement rate: 30%
New Follows: 142
Link Clicks: 254
Shares: 203
Content Reactions: 1.5K
Event Follows: 1208

Top Performing Posts
Theoretical Tech ribbon-cutting
Farmers Market promo Reel
Crosswalk painting
Relaxing spots Reel
Hidden gems Reel

Instagram
Followers: 13,666

LinkedIn

Key Organic Metrics:
Views: 71.8K
Engagement rate: 21%
New Follows: 128
Content Interactions:
1.2K
Total Reach: 5.8K

Top Performing Posts
Downtown Day promo
Downtown After 5 partnership Reel
Grand Concert promo
Theoretical Tech ribbon-cutting
Crosswalk painting

MEMO
TO: Downtown Lansing Inc. Board of Directors
FROM: Kate Litwin, Community Development Director
DATE: September 2, 2026
RE: Block House Lansing Grant Recommendation
DLI Staff and the Business & Property Improvement Grant Review Committee recommend approval of a
Business & Property Improvement Grant award of up to $100,000 to Blockouse Holdings, LLC for the
development of Block House Lansing at 505 E. Shiawassee Street. The award includes up to $50,000 for
eligible interior improvements and $50,000 for eligible exterior improvements.
The project represents approximately $793,000 in private investment to activate a vacant downtown
storefront with a new restaurant, bar, gaming and entertainment concept. Planned improvements
include a commercial kitchen, ADA and safety upgrades, customer areas, façade and masonry work,
lighting, signage and other exterior improvements.
The Review Committee recommends approval based on the project’s strong alignment with program
priorities, including vacant storefront activation, substantial private investment, increased downtown
amenities, new job creation, and additional daytime, evening and weekend foot traffic. The project also
includes sufficient eligible costs to support the full $100,000 award.
Requested Action:
The Business & Property Improvement Grant Committee recommends approval of a Business & Property
Improvement Grant award to Blockhouse Holdings, LLC in an amount not to exceed $100,000, subject to
compliance with all program requirements and reimbursement documentation.

1

Walk of Fame
HISTORY: The walk of Fame was originally a project of the Principal Shopping District (PSD)
before we were known as DLI and prior to our Main Street status. This project was the first
statewide walk of fame concept in the U.S., modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Featuring 23 plaques embedded in the sidewalks across Downtown Lansing, the Michigan
Walk of Fame inducted its first group of honorees during Michigan Week in May, 2006.,
Honorees included Honoring Michigan residents, past or present, who have made
significant contributions to the state or nation. The second installation took place in 2007
before the project was discontinued. We have no clear documentation of why this project
was discontinued.
PROJECT SUMMARY: We are looking to re-energize the Downtown Lansing Walk of Fame
because it provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the people whose contributions
have shaped Lansing, Michigan, and our nation, while strengthening Downtown Lansing's
role as Michigan's Downtown. The project directly supports DLI's public realm strategic
goals and connects with our Main Street framework for historic preservation, design and
telling the story of our community through its people and places.
Over the past two years, numerous individuals and community groups have reached out
to inquire about DLI reviving this important project—demonstrating both continued
interest and a desire to see Lansing's stories more visibly celebrated in our downtown.
Reimagining the Walk of Fame gives us an opportunity to build on that legacy while
creating a sustainable, long-term program for maintaining existing installations and
recognizing new honorees.
Ultimately, the Walk of Fame can become more than a collection or the basic rehab of
plaques. It can serve as a public storytelling experience that helps residents and visitors
discover the people, accomplishments and history that make Lansing unique—cementing
Downtown Lansing's role as the place where the story of our city, state and people comes
together.
For this project and the new nominees to be honored, nominees must have a meaningful
connection to Michigan, demonstrated through at least one of the following:
•
•
•
•
•

Born in Michigan
Resided in Michigan for a significant period
Educated in Michigan
Built a career or achieved major accomplishments in Michigan
Made a substantial contribution to the state or its communities

D O W N T O W N L A N SI N G

FEBRUARY 8, 2024

BOARD MEETING

1 1 2 S . W A S H I N G T O N S QU A R E

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN GOALS & OBJECTIVES:
Goal 3: Cultivate Active and Welcoming Public Spaces.
a. Objective 1: Develop a Downtown Lansing public realm plan for public
spaces, green spaces and street placemaking.
b. This project also addresses Goal 4 by helping Build Sustainable Funding for a
Sustainable Organization.
2. COMMITTEE STRUCTURE:
a. DLI Board: The DLI Board of Directors will provide budget and mission
oversight for this project, with regular updates from the Executive Director.
b. Project Planning & Advisory Committee: This 7-10 person committee
meets regularly to plan the framework of this project, review nominations
and narrow them down, issues RFP’s for the production of plaques or other
materials needed, works with the City for installation, and leads fundraising
in cooperation with CFA.
c. Nominations Committee: This committee will serve with the goal of 100+
individuals, with representation from across our city, region and state,
submitting their nominations via a nomination form that will be distributed
widely.
d. Selection Committee: This smaller committee will serve with a handful of
individuals who will select the final nominees for each installation, research
to ensure proper representation/look for any past history that would
disqualify a nominee.
3. TIMELINE
Sept-October: Lead Project Planning & Review Committee members determine
roles & Responsibilities of committees.
December: Announce return of the Walk of Fame at the 2026 Big Red Ball
December-Feb.:
-Build project webpage
-Complete Nomination form and distribute
-Start to Gather Nominees
Spring: Begin Sponsor Outreach
Summer: Sponsor Follow-up, final commitments due in August
End of Summer/Early Fall 2027: Install of current honorees in new style and public
announcement of new honorees
Spring 2028: Installation of Walk of Fame honorees.
Summer 2028: Determine next round of outreach for future Walk of Fame
nominations and honorees.

D O W N T O W N L A N SI N G

FEBRUARY 8, 2024

BOARD MEETING

1 1 2 S . W A S H I N G T O N S QU A R E

4. BUDGET
Personnel: $10,000 Per the Executive Director’s annual goals, all project budgets
will account for income covering a minimum of 10% admin costs.
Marketing & Communications: $12,000
Plaque Production: 57,000 for the updates to existing 24 honorees or we look at
budgeting $19,200 annually to include existing nominee plaques being installed and
a couple new honorees. (for up to 8 plaques annually at up to $2400/plaque).
Plaque Installation: $2400-5,000
VIP Unveiling reception: $10,000
Public Walk of Fame Event: $15,000
Project Webpage: $4,800
Total: $63,400 - $103,800

D O W N T O W N L A N SI N G

FEBRUARY 8, 2024

BOARD MEETING

1 1 2 S . W A S H I N G T O N S QU A R E

Clean & Safe Ambassador Program
1.

PROJECT SUMMARY: Based on the top priority shared at our State of Downtown
workshop, and via continued communications from our stakeholders, we have been
researching Clean & Safe ambassador programs across the U.S. A Clean & Safe
Ambassador program is the downtown development professionals industry name
for a supplemental program deployed in numerous urban city centers.
Ambassadors typically include visible, uniformed, and unarmed personnel focused
on enhancing the cleanliness, safety, and hospitality of downtowns.
These programs are typically managed by downtown management districts,
business improvement districts (BIDs), or local nonprofits like DLI – in cooperation
with city governments and specialized operators who hire ambassadors via
contractors such as Block by Block, StreetLife, or CiviCity. Some downtown
management agencies also build their own internal programs and employment
agreements. This is an option we could also model in partnership with our
downtown maintenance contractor as well as a local social service agency if they
have the capacity.

2. STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN GOALS & OBJECTIVES:
Goal 2: Nurture a Vibrant, Diverse and Robust Business District.
Objective 1: Reduce Downtown First Floro Vacancy Rate to 10% as this
program could lead to less businesses leaving, and newer businesses seeing
DLI as leading a cleaner & more welcoming downtown.
Goal 3: Cultivate Active and Welcoming Public Spaces.
Objective 1: Develop a Downtown Lansing public realm plan for public
spaces, green spaces and street placemaking.
3. TIMELINE: Spring 2027 at the earliest.
We would need the DLI Board and Staff, along with the City of Lansing
administration and public partners secure funding, determine liability coverage, and
employment model.
4. BUDGET: $250,000-$700,000
5. POSSIBLE FUNDING SOURCES:
x Council Liaison and 4th Ward Representative Peter Spadafor has taken this to
Council Committee for a $250,000 budget priority, utilizing existing state
funding supplied to the City.
x Michigan’s Downtown Allocation
x Sale of Macotta Club kitchen equipment

D O W N T O W N L A N SI N G

FEBRUARY 8, 2024

BOARD MEETING

1 1 2 S . W A S H I N G T O N S QU A R E