In light of the current kerfuffle over signage in the Woodstock Village–– The look and style of sinage would be typical of an issue that Business Improvement District members would be likely to discuss and bring to a vote. That is to say, if Woodstock had a B.I.D. in existence, the members of the business community would decide amongst themselves what would be appropriate signage for the village. (And by law, such decisions requires input from each and every person in the BID district). (see legal) |
| Many have said over the years that we need to make Woodstock more attractive to visitors both thru town beautification projects and by creating and promoting more events. Volunteers do much to help this process but there is rarely enough time or money. So, how do other do other communities solve this? Often by creating a Business Improvement District which collects a small amount of money from each and every single business within the agreed upon area. Business & property owners within that area then decide how best to use that money to make the area more attractive to visitors. |
What is a Business Improvement District? How does it work? Who administers it? Where would it be? |
Pros |
Cons |
| A good way to build, over years, a reserve fund for major district wide projects such as artist-made street lighting poles with underground utilities. The method of financing improvements through BIDs is well tested and respected
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Could become just another contentious bureaucracy that moves at a snails pace. It normally takes a considerable amount of time, volunteer energy and, in most cases, money to establish a B.I.D.
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Much more info on Pros & Cons |
NOTES: If anyone knows of another small town with a successful Business Improvement District it would be helpful if their representative could come and speak. |