HEART OF OUR CITY REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE

AGENDA

DATE: Wednesday, July 9, 2014

LOCATION: Culver City Room

TIME: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

1. Approval of Agenda

2. Adoption of Minutes a. April 9, 2014 (Attachment 1) b. June 9, 2014 (Attachment 2)

3. Strategic

a. Sub-Committee Reports i. Downtown Incentives

ii. Infrastructure & Parking (Attachment 3) iii. Regulatory Change (Attachments 4 & 5)

b. Branding and Marketing Update

4. Operational a. Budget Status

5. For Information

6. What’s Happening in Downtown

a. Festival Summary (Attachment 6) b. Summer Ambassador Program c. Around the Table

7. Next Meeting

a. August 13, 2014 in Culver City Room

8. Adjournment

MINUTES of a meeting of the HEART OF OUR CITY REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE, held on Wednesday, April 9th, 2014, at 4:00 p.m. in the City Hall Culver Room of the City of Lethbridge with the following in attendance: CHAIRMAN: Mark Bellamy, Citizen-at-large MEMBERS: Ken Nakagama, Downtown BRZ Belinda Crowson, Lethbridge Historical Society Grace Duff, Chamber of Commerce Suzanne Lint, Allied Arts Council Joanne Weadick, Citizen-at-large

Patricia Luu, Citizen-at-large Kate Connolly, Citizen-at-large Ryan Parker, Councillor

OTHERS: Jeff Greene, Director of Planning and Development

George Kuhl, Downtown Revitalization Manager Cidnee Lorenz, Recorder ABSENT: Ken Harvie, Urban Development Institute ___________ __ ____ CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Agenda was approved as circulated. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Ken Nakagama moved that the minutes of March 12, 2014 meeting be approved as presented.

CARRIED

STRATEGIC: Fee-For-Service Agreement with DBRZ:

Council ratified the Fee-For-Service Agreement with DBRZ and it will be in effect until December 31, 2014.

Assuming that the level of funding will be maintained and that the Committee would like to proceed with the same model, early in the fall HOC will need to prepare a similar agreement for the next four (4) years.

Sub-Committee Reports: Downtown Incentives:

Stan Dilworth, Assessment and Taxation Manager attended the Sub-Committee meeting and provided information about the Revitalization Levy.

Revitalization Levy Overview: o Downtown Housing:

An area would be defined and the education portion of taxes would contribute to the cost. Any new buildings education taxes within the defined area would ultimately go towards the payment of that specific Downtown Housing fund.

The Province would agree to forgo the education portion of the taxes and there would be a twenty (20) year pay back.

For informational purposes, Revitalization Levy information to be included with the minutes.

Downtown Housing and possible locations were discussed.

The importance of branding and marketing was discussed and there was a consensus that it should be a priority.

Infrastructure and Parking:

Next Sub-Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2014.

Regulatory Change:

Joint meeting between the Regulatory Changes and Downtown Incentive Sub-Committee was held on March 19th to discuss the Streets Bylaw. Other items discussed during the joint meeting included outdoor patios, bicycle racks and mid-street crosswalks. Further details of this meeting can be found in the minutes.

o The Transportation Department will be taking comments from outside stakeholders such as the HOC into consideration during their review of the Bylaw.

o Timeline - COL is just beginning the process however expects to have a draft for review before summer and it will be available for viewing prior to going to Council.

Sub-Committee will be continuing on with the Compass Downtown Guide and the current drafts are being reviewed. As well, the group would like to work on one for businesses as well as one for developers.

Discussion took place on road closure and whether signoff is needed by entire block affected or just two thirds.

o Administration to check and follow-up.

Common Initiatives:

Branding and Marketing: o George and Mark have a meeting booked for tomorrow with COL’s Branding and

Marketing Manager to discuss what kind of support/recommendations she could possibly provide.

o Have begun to create a standardized presentation along with basic tools which can be used for HOC presentations.

HOC – DBRZ Joint Meeting:

For the purpose of keeping communication lines open and to better understand each other, a breakfast meeting between HOC and DBRZ will be scheduled within the next month.

DBRZ AGM – Mark Bellamy provided an update: o There was a very good turnout and a lot of excitement within the group. o There is a new Board and Chair.

o The group is really interested in HOC key initiatives which include the parking strategy, infrastructure, the incentives program and regulatory changes.

Marketing – DBRZ has been doing a good job, and HOC could possibly leverage some of their tools.

DBRZ Fee-For-Service Agreement: o As per discussions during the previous HOC meeting, there will need to be a

HOC committee member that will act as a representative on the DRBZ Board. Conclusion:

Kate Connolly proposed that Ken Nakagama act as the HOC representative on the DBRZ Board.

CARRIED

ACTION:

ADMIN:

Include Revitalization Levy information with minutes.

Confirm road closure requirements; sign off by entire block?

OPERATIONAL: Committee reviewed the Proposed New Initiatives which were provided in the Agenda Package. Additional points of discussion included:

Budget: o Base is currently $465,000 and this includes some incentive top-ups. o Once a New Initiative has been approved by City Council, it remains in effect

until a Council member brings forward a resolution to have it removed. o First Friday:

Discussion/reevaluation regarding First Friday should occur as part of the contract discussions around DBRZ for next year.

Heart of Our City Housing Incentive (HOCHI): o Under “Background”, wording to be changed from “affordable housing” to

“obtainable housing”. o Focus on student housing would be beneficial. o Discussion took place on how to present the requested amount; full $1,200,000

upfront or $300,000/year.

Heart of Our City Branding and Marketing Strategy: o Discussion took place on the wording of “special events” and Committee feels it

is important that wording is much broader. Conclusion: Under “Background”, wording “special events-based” to be removed. Under “Proposed Implementation Strategy”, wording “focus on special

events” to be removed.

Modified Main Street Program: o This program is used to help incentivize changes we would like to see in the

Downtown One (1) and Two (2) Districts and is a revised program. o Applies to the facade of the building.

Building Adaptive Reuse Grant (BARAG): o Applies to the guts of the building and foundation. o Discussion tool place on possibly combining the Main Street Program and

BARAG.

If combined, it would be important to keep the Main Street name as it has national recognition among the industry. Lethbridge is seen as one of the flag ships of the Main Street program.

Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Program (TRIP): o This is more of a retention tool versus an attraction tool and the benefit would be

to the person who owns the unit, as they would receive the tax benefit for four (4) years.

o Conclusion: Take a look at this incentive in four (4) years during the next budget cycle.

Incentive Versus Capital Project: o After discussion, the Committee agreed that the following Proposed Incentives

would fall under Capital Funding instead: Gateway Plan Public Loos Galt Gardens Master Plan Phase 3:

Possibly could be considered as a 2017 Sesquicentennial as Galt Gardens was started by the Father of Confederation.

Possibly roll it back and just do a conceptual drawing.

Galt Garden’s Funding: o Galt Garden’s is a much higher priority for the Downtown

Revitalization than the Parks Department. o Downtown Revitalization is more about creating and the

Parks Department is more about funding. o From Belinda’s perspective Galt Gardens is more of a

historical landscape then a park and it is a big part of the HOC Master Plan. It is important to make sure that it is being approached differently than the typical park.

o The Parks Department tends to look at things from a maintenance perspective; possibly have them change their design standards and add this as a “Square”.

o Although the above are not being submitted as proposed incentives, continue to work on how to advance these for the next CIP.

Possibly mention them so that they are in Council’s minds for the next CIP.

Eligibility: o Programs aren’t meant to be mutually exclusive; if a recipient qualifies for one of

these grants, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will or won’t receive another grant.

Priority of Proposed Initiatives: o Some Committee members are not comfortable with prioritizing initiatives. For

recording purposes initiatives will show priority discussion, although all Proposed Initiatives will be presented to Council and discussed.

Conclusion: o Proposed initiatives listed in priority order are as follows:

Proposed New Incentive Proposed Amount

1. Heart of Our City Housing Incentive Program

(HOCHIP) New $ 1,200,000

2. Branding and Marketing Strategy New $ 150,000

3. Heart of Our City Activity Grant (HOCAG) Top-up $ 350,000

4. Building Adaptive Reuse Grant (BARAG) New $ 1,000,000

5. Business Improvement Loan Program (BILP) Top-up $ 150,000

6. Modified Main Street Program Top-up $ 350,000

Motion by Suzanne Lint that the HOC acknowledges the importance of the above proposed initiatives and that they be presented to City Council for consideration.

CARRIED

ACTION:

GEORGE:

Edit HOC Housing Incentive as per above.

Edit HOC Branding and Marketing Strategy as per above.

FOR INFORMATION:

Downtown Bicycle Racks: o George has found some bicycle racks that can be bolted to the existing parking

meters. Details: Cost approximately $110.00 each. Available in different colors. Each rack holds two (2) bikes.

o HOC would be responsible for the cost. o The Transportation Department feels that they would work well and would take

care of installation. o George would like to move forward with purchasing one hundred (100) bike

racks, however prior to proceeding, the Committee would like to have a look and discuss at the next HOC meeting.

George will bring a bicycle rack to the next meeting for review. o Consider putting a sticker on them that says “Compliments of Heart of Our City”. o This is a Low Hanging Fruit and would be a step toward creating a walkable

downtown.

ACTION:

GEORGE:

Bring bicycle rack to next meeting for review.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE DOWNTOWN: Round the Table:

Suzanne Lint: o Suzanne provided everyone with CASA’s Annual Report as well as the new

CASA Guide.

o May 14th is the one (1) year anniversary of CASA and there will be a celebration that day along with a Film Festival in the evening.

Kate Connolly: o Spamalot the Musical will be at the Yates from April 15th to April 20th. o Shakespeare in the Park is going to be commencing rehearsals in early May.

Joanne Weadick: o Joanne has heard good feedback regarding the Sunday Brunch that is available

at the Umami Shop.

Patricia Luu: o Taste of Downtown is May 7th and consists of a walk throughout the downtown. o As well, there is Taste of Lethbridge on Saturday at the Soccer Complex and it is

put on by 5th on 5th.

Mark Bellamy: o Reminder for George to put in a time change for the decorative clock. George

has put in the request but will follow-up as it has not been completed.

George Kuhl: o George attended the Chinook Country Tourists AGM yesterday and one of the

things that they are promoting is the South West Tourism Awards. George feels that it would be worthwhile to have HOC nominated under

the Events category since HOC has sponsored many events in the past two (2) years.

Nomination is not needed until August.

Councillor Parker: o Councillor Parker is looking forward to the HOC/DBRZ breakfast meeting as he

feels it will be good to come together and share ideas.

ACTION:

GEORGE:

Follow-up on time change request for decorative clock.

NEXT MEETING: The next regular meeting, will be held Wednesday, May 14, 2014 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: Belinda Crowson moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:45 p.m.

CARRIED CHAIRMAN _________________________ CLERK

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MINUTES of a meeting of the HEART OF OUR CITY REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE, MARKETING AND BRANDING FACILITATED SESSION, held on Monday, June 9th, 2014, at

4:00 p.m. in the City Hall Culver Room with the following in attendance: CHAIRMAN: Mark Bellamy, Citizen-at-large MEMBERS: Belinda Crowson, Lethbridge Historical Society Grace Duff, Chamber of Commerce Suzanne Lint, Allied Arts Council Patricia Luu, Citizen-at-large

Kate Connolly, Citizen-at-large OTHERS: Jeff Greene, Director of Planning and Development

George Kuhl, Downtown Revitalization Manager Cidnee Lorenz, Recorder Nicole Mitton, Strategic and Community Initiatives Manager

Graeme Woods, Strategic Initiative Coordinator Alex Luu, DBRZ Ted Stilson, DBRZ Wallie Deruisseaux, DBRZ

ABSENT: Ken Harvie, Urban Development Institute Ken Nakagama, Downtown BRZ

Joanne Weadick, Citizen-at-large Ryan Parker, Councillor

___________ __ ____ CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 4:06 p.m. OVERVIEW:

The HOC Committee has identified the need to focus on branding and marketing the Downtown and have asked Nicole Mitton and Graeme Woods to facilitate this session.

WELCOME, INTRODUCTIONS AND AGENDA REVIEW:

The purpose of this meeting is to get a clear understanding of what the key initiative is by identifying the needs today, responsibilities, problems and solutions.

o It is important to be mindful of the existing Downtown marketing strategy which was created by the St. Clements Group in January 2012.

Group introductions took place and information was gathered on the different organizational roles; summary is as follows:

o DBRZ: Fundraise, initiatives, contracts, programs, events and promotion,

advertising and social media. o City of Lethbridge (COL):

COL provides branding, marketing, promotion, issues permits, regulatory, funding, advocacy via Council member on Committee, website and staffing resources.

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o HOC: Committee members roles include – Lethbridge Historical representative,

fund events, connect to downtown, voice for the arts and UDI, Chair brings awareness to community and liaison, Chamber connection and representative and City Council representative.

Nicole and Graeme gathered information from the group. Points of discussion were as follows:

o Group discussed how Downtown related events and/or activities connect with the HOC.

Via George, City of Lethbridge The web Belinda Crowson

o Other groups that market and promote Lethbridge as a whole include EDL, Chambers and South Country Chinook Tourism.

Committee would like to develop a stronger relationship with the above groups.

DBRZ has shifted focus from branding specifically the DBRZ, to branding the Downtown.

DETERMINING OUTCOMES AND PROJECT OBJECTIVES:

The group discussed what outcomes they would like to achieve and points of discussion were as follows:

o There is already a base group of people that know the Downtown and understand what it is about, however the group would like to reach the people that don’t know that experience.

o Changing the current perception regarding safety in the Downtown is very important to the HOC Committee.

o Educate the Community that things in the Downtown have changed for the better.

o Create recognition that the Downtown is the heart of Lethbridge; tie HOC and Lethbridge together.

o Market downtown in a way that inspires investment, specifically for housing and residential development.

o HOC and DBRZ need to work together since both groups are passionate about the Downtown.

ST. CLEMENTS GROUP DOWNTOWN MARKETING STRATEGY:

St. Clements was hired to create a marketing strategy for Downtown Lethbridge and the report was completed in January 2012.

The group discussed St. Clements strategy and points of interest are as follows: o Only one aspect of the report was really utilized (First Friday). o There are other strategies in the document; however one of the challenges is the

need for people resources, as well as an increase in permanent funding. o Although the existing report has some good research, it is more of a supporting

document and would not be considered a marketing plan. o It is a nice SWAT Analysis which identifies the issues, however is very general.

DBRZ’S CURRENT MARKETING INITIATIVES:

Representatives from DBRZ informed the group that they are already working toward some marketing initiatives. Examples include:

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o Expansion of the network for their current website and social media. o Creation of branding videos which are already out for viewing. o Currently discussing capitalizing on a successful campaign that was done by

Apple. WHAT IS THE “NEED” (PRODUCT, PERSON, STRATEGY, ACTIONS, ETC.):

Group discussion took place on the following: o If the perfect plan was in place, it would be considered useless without strategy,

people resources and funding. o The group discussed the idea that Downtown Lethbridge needs an identity which

also ties into general Lethbridge. o Although the people in these Committees are aware of the major improvements

that have taken place in the Downtown over the last ten (10) years, how do we share this information with the rest of the Community?

o When referring to a marketing plan, the group would like advice on how to campaign better and actual guidance.

The challenge in the past with regards to initiatives, was finding the resources that are fully dedicated to a project. The Committee would like to be strategic, however have an outside dedicated resource to do the work.

Nicole and Graeme provided a summary of what they have heard the group say: o The plan is about everything in the Downtown; living, working, shopping, and

playing. o The group wants an entire package which includes a strategy, advice,

development of a strategy and a kick start to the campaign.

Tracking: o It is important that there is an end goal with continuous traction and the ability to

prove/track growth, via increased dollars and increased investors. o Discussion took place on tracking, measurements, statistics that are currently in

place.

Logo and/or Slogan: o Discussion took place on whether the creation of a logo would be useful or

necessary. o The group discussed significant places or events such as 17th Avenue, Calgary,

the Stampede, or White Avenue, Calgary. When thinking of these, it is the experience that comes to mind, not the logo.

o A concept and message is what is needed first and perhaps a logo will fall into place later.

DBRZ/HOC Partnership: o For this to be a success there needs to be a partnership between DBRZ and

HOC. o Discussion took place on whether the DBRZ and HOC have the same intent for

marketing and branding the Downtown. DBRZ members expressed that they are focusing on the overall

Downtown experience and not the businesses. o Although it is important to keep Chamber and EDL in the loop, the reality is that

only the DBRZ and HOC are exclusively focused on the Downtown. o DBRZ informed the HOC Committee that they had held back on their budget for

this year and would like to use some funds for implementation of this plan.

Basic steps:

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o First draft of the initiative has already been seen by the City Treasurer. o Request for funds will be made to Council in late 2014. o If funds are approved, George will prepare the Request for Proposal (to hire a

firm). o Selection of the successful firm will be a joint partnership between DBRZ and

HOC. Discussion took place on the importance of bringing in local talent who

has knowledge of the Community and its current perceptions.

Discussion took place on why the St. Clements plan was not successful and what needs to be different this time.

o Outcomes and expectations need to be very clearly defined. o Local knowledge of Community perceptions is important for great success. o Local commitment.

Cost: o George clarified that $50,000 is allocated for development and $150,000 is for

implementation ($200,000 over two years). o To avoid the COL procurement process, try to keep selection below $75,000.

NEXT STEPS:

The group needs to decide specifically what their needs and wants are. o Define the end outcome. o DBRZ and HOC should get together prior to Council presentation to clearly

define the end outcome, wants and needs.

Councillor Ryan Parker needs to be brought up to speed as he is the Committees liaison.

Decision needs to be made whether a new branding and marketing sub-committee should be created or topic just discussed during full committee meeting?

o Regardless of funding approval, this initiative needs to move forward. NEXT MEETING: The next regular meeting, will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2014 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m.

HEART OF OUR CITY (HOC), INFRASTRUCTURE AND PARKING SUB-COMMITTEE APRIL 22, 2014, 3:00 P.M. - CITY HALL, MAGRATH ROOM

In attendance: Suzanne Lint, Ken Nakagama, George Kuhl and Val Fellger Regrets: Grace Duff ___________ __ ____ ADOPTION OF AGENDA: Agenda approved. PARKING MANAGEMENT: Transportation Department Parking Meter Replacement Program:

Val Fellger provided the group with an update: o The Transportation Department has received approval from the City Manager to

move forward with the Project Procurement Plan to hire a Consultant. Consultant will then come back with other municipalities best practices

and provide recommendations on technology. Val would like to bring the Consultants ideas to the major players such as

Chamber, HOC and BRZ prior to going to the public for feedback.

The group feels that as this process moves forward, it will be important for the HOC to collectively speak as one voice, build support and educate people.

o Phase two of this process will consist of a public consultation process in which comments will be taken into consideration.

Pros and cons type of feedback would be more useful than a rating system.

o Timing: Goal is to have the information from the Consultant within the next four

(4) to five (5) months. Public Consultation to take place at the end of 2014 to the beginning of

2015. Installation of new technology within one (1) year following final approval.

OPERATING BUDGET – NEW INITIATIVES: Additional Comments on Proposed Initiatives:

Gateways and Public Loos were removed from the Proposed Initiatives list at the Main HOC’s April 9th meeting.

o Gateways: The group would like to prepare a workable Gateway Plan that can be

brought forward during the next CIP process.

Prepare this plan in-house versus hiring someone.

Possible gateway component could be linked to HOC’s branding and marketing message.

Once the sites have been determined, possibly involve the Public Art Committee to help establish the themes and/or artistic component.

o Public Loos: Possibly speak with Social and Community Development for the purpose

of partnering. Possible Locations Discussed:

Location near the Southern Alberta Ethnic Association.

Bompass lot where there is currently a half constructed parkade. o Parkade – There is enough space on Bompass Street for a

new parkade.

Galt Gardens: o Galt Gardens would be a sizable project and more along the CIP realm.

Branding and Marketing: o George has arranged to have Nicole Mitton, Strategic/Community Initiative

Manager and Graeme Woods, Strategic Initiative Coordinator attend HOC May 14th meeting to act as facilitators and set out parameters for branding and marketing.

o Group feels that it is important to obtain dedicated resources and invest in a company that would be engaged in the process from start to finish.

o What is the brand? What do we want to say? Share the message that the “Downtown has changed”.

INFRASTRUCTURE: BCF Application for 3rd Avenue:

There is a new application format and George will be devising a template which should be complete mid-May.

Bicycle Racks:

George has a demo coming in this week and the Transportation Department will be experimenting with it. Val provided the group with details.

Considering the future parking meter changes, if there ended up being a central pay station and meters were no longer used, they would be capped and could still be used with the bicycle racks.

Colors would coincide with the domes, for example the green ten (10) hour meters would have a green rack.

Cost including delivery is approximately $113.00/rack.

Policy will need to be made for items such as car dings and locks or bikes being left. OTHER:

Gateways Project and Public Loos - Discussed above. COMMITTEE REPORT TO HOC:

Suzanne will provide the Main HOC with a brief report of today’s discussions.

Overlap – If George is seeing overlap regarding discussions within Sub-Committee’s, then that item should be discussed at the Main HOC meeting.

NEXT MEETING: Monday, May 27th, 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

HEART OF OUR CITY (HOC), REGULATORY CHANGES SUB-COMMITTEE

APRIL 22, 2014, 4:30 P.M. - CITY HALL, MAGRATH ROOM In attendance: Belinda Crowson, Ken Harvie and George Kuhl Regrets: Patricia Luu and Grace Duff ___________ __ ____ STREETS BYLAW: Referrals from Sub-Committee members (Chamber of Commerce/BRZ):

Grace has not had a chance to talk to the Chamber yet. Street Vendor Policy:

This allows for tables and chairs outside the establishment and no fence is needed.

The City has not done any promotion, but George expects that word will travel fast. TRANSPORTATION BYLAW:

George provided a printout of the new Transportation Bylaw.

Group reviewed and discussed portions of the new Transportation Bylaw and additional discussion took place on the following:

o Pedestrian Crosswalks/Jaywalking: There used to be four (4) streets downtown that were legal. Was this missed? Or intentional?

George will speak with the Transportation Department to clarify. o Parade:

Looks like an organized group of people regardless of the size, now requires a permit.

George will speak with the Transportation Department to clarify. o U-turns in intersections.

ACTION:

GEORGE:

Talk to the Transportation Department to clarify jaywalking and parade changes in new Transportation Bylaw.

OPERATING BUDGET – NEW INITIATIVES: Additional Comments on Proposed Initiatives:

Belinda was happy with what was discussed at the Main HOC April 9th meeting and has nothing to add.

OTHER:

With the exception of staff time, George does not foresee any addition budget items.

There may be a small cost to complete the Red Tape Navigation project; however it would be covered under existing resources.

NEXT MEETING: Next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27th at 4:30 p.m.

HEART OF OUR CITY (HOC), REGULATORY CHANGES SUB-COMMITTEE

MAY 27, 2014, 4:30 P.M. - CITY HALL, ROOM 421 In attendance: Grace Duff, Belinda Crowson, Patricia Luu and George Kuhl ___________ __ ____ ADOPTION OF AGENDA: Downtown Bylaw (Omnibus), Red Tape and Landuse Bylaw were added to the Agenda and should be on future Agenda’s as well. ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Minutes of March 31st, 2014 and April 22nd, 2014 were approved. TRAFFIC BYLAW:

Jaywalking: o Belinda was certain that the old bylaw allowed for jaywalking in a certain area,

specifically Festival Square. The new bylaw does not seem to have this same allowance and if this is the case she feels that this will be a problem.

Belinda will go back to the old bylaw and take a look. NEW BUSINESS:

Joint Breakfast Meeting With DBRZ: o This meeting will take place at the DBRZ office on May 29th at 7:00 a.m. o George provided the group with the proposed Agenda items:

Update on each organizations role and the current state of the relationship.

Discuss vision and key initiatives moving forward for each organization. Identify opportunities for improved communication and collaboration. Investment in new, as well as maintenance/repair of existing public

infrastructure. Safety concerns due to increasing number of transient/homeless

population in the downtown. Joint branding/marketing campaign. Ways to discourage on-street employee parking, especially on Saturdays. Issues with the current parking meter system, i.e. meters that do not

register coins. Collaboration on a project ($75,000 in DBRZ funds available) i.e. LED

sign, gateway project

Branding and Marketing Facilitated Meeting – June 9th: o Some of the group has concerns with regards to combining HOC and DBRZ’s

marketing and branding. The two (2) groups have different mandates. DBRZ tends to have a retail business focus and the HOC more represent

the cultural facilities downtown; branding may have a different purpose. Prefer to create our own individual branding and marketing and then tie in

the DBRZ where branding message overlaps.

o There is also the view that the DBRZ and HOC should work together. o Discussion took place on EDL and its role.

Based on Patricia’s discussion with EDL, her impression is that EDL’s focus is on bringing business into Lethbridge however, not a focus on downtown.

Possibly set-up joint meeting between HOC and EDL in the future?

OTHER:

Downtown Bylaw (Omnibus): o Belinda does not have any updates; she had sent out the Navigation Compass,

which will need to be updated due to the new Bylaw. o Although the Omnibus Bylaw is a good idea, there needs to be buy in from City

departments otherwise it will be a lot of effort for nothing. o Group concluded that it would be better to proceed with the Compass and keep

the Omnibus on the back burner. o Navigation Compass Next Steps:

Belinda needs assistance with the Business portion and the Developer portion.

Patricia will take on the Business Compass.

Grace will take on the Developer Compass. Both ladies will compile notes and e-mail to everyone prior to next

meeting. George will send both existing out again when received. Discussion of all four (4) components should take place at the next

meeting. Group will need to determine how to share them with the Community and

who the audiences needs to be.

ACTION:

PATRICIA – Work on Business Compass and e-mail notes to group prior to next meeting. GRACE – Work on Development Compass and e-mail notes to group prior to next meeting. GEORGE:

Include Downtown Bylaw/Compass, Red Tape and Landuse Bylaw on every Agenda.

Send out existing Compass work to group when received.

Landuse Bylaw: o This is currently being worked on by Ken.

Budget: o Budget/New Proposed Initiatives are currently with the Senior Administration for

review. o There will be public consultation days in the fall and Council approval will not

take place until December. o For the first time this will be a four (4) year operating budget.

Round Table: o Belinda:

Belinda had a class of Education students and one had made mention of an old law that previously dictated that there was a limit to how many First Nations could walk together in Lethbridge at one time. Belinda wondered if anyone had ever heard of this; George had not.

o George: Historic Beer Tour:

George informed the group that there will be a historic beer tour in Downtown Lethbridge this summer, which will be hosted by DBRZ, HOC, Lethbridge Historical Society and Southern AB Ethnic Association.

Raise the Teepee:

Activity Grant - If the aboriginal Raise the Teepee doesn’t go ahead, than the money may be used to buy flags to put on the street in the square.

FIFA World Cup:

This will be located in Festival Square and sponsored by Telegraph Tap House.

There may be a beer garden; Joseph is checking into whether he can extend his license into a specified fenced off area.

The Southern AB Ethnic Association and DBRZ will be involved and Ted is currently looking for a sponsor so that a large screen could be obtained.

Discussion took place on the possibility of putting together a list of all the summer time activities that will take place in the downtown. Possibly discuss at Thursday’s breakfast.

o Belinda: Canada Winter Games:

On August 22nd the Canada Winter Games Bid Tour is coming to Lethbridge and located in Galt Gardens.

Belinda wondered if HOC had spoken with Canada Winter Games at all and thought that it would be good to get in touch with Susan from the Sports Council.

o George recommends Belinda brings this up at the breakfast meeting.

o Patricia: Branding and Marketing:

Patricia had spoken with a U of L professor regarding the Urban Regional Studies program. As well, she had spoken with a student of this program who has an internship at the City of Calgary. She wondered if the COL has done this type of thing.

o Patricia feels it would be beneficial for the HOC to go this route for branding and marketing.

George explained that the City has done this type of thing in the past and informed the group of the pros and cons involved in hiring an intern.

o These types of ideas can be discussed further at the Branding and Marketing facilitated session on June 9th.

o George will send out the Marketing and Branding Agenda again prior to meeting.

o Other: Shuttle Service:

Group discussed the possibility of having a shuttle service for downtown events.

Road Closure:

Discussion took place on whether road closure for large events really affects businesses and their sales. .

This is something that will need to be considered, especially with the closing down of 3rd Avenue in the future.

o What is our messaging going to be? Group believes that this needs to be prepared ahead of time.

ACTION:

GEORGE – Re-send Branding and Marketing Agenda prior to June 9th meeting.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, June 24, 2014, 4:30 p.m. in Meeting Room 421

Activity Grant 2014 Event Summary

Event & Contact Date Event Description Project

Duration

First Friday Lunch and Listen Concert Series Margaret (Peggy) Mezei mezei@uleth.ca

Jan. 3-Dec.

5, 2014

This is a monthly, First Friday event organized by the U of L Conservatory of Music. Held at CASA, this free, noon-hour performance allows attendees to bring a lunch and enjoy the concert that will feature the diverse talent of the Conservatory of Music and its faculty. http://www.uleth.ca/music-conservatory/community-outreach

12 days

Happy Hour Jess Fehr jfehr@saag.ca

March-

November 2014

'It's finally Friday and there’s no better way to unwind after a long week at the office than SAAG’s Happy Hour! From 5 to 7 PM relax and catch up with friends over a glass of wine or frosty beer, tasty snacks and sensational music. While you are at SAAG, check out our bold contemporary art exhibitions. Come on now – get happy! Visit www.saag.ca/events to view our timeline for Happy Hour dates.'

5 days

Pretty, Witty & Gay Festival Richie Wilcox richie.wilcox@uleth.ca

March 22-29, 2014

This will be a week-long cultural event that features a variety of artistic venture: poetry night, improvisation comedy night, an original theatre production, a social dance and a cabaret performed for and by community members that celebrate all sexualities and the freedom of expression. www.theatreoutre.ca

7 days

Monty Python’s Spamalot Sheri-Lynn Taylor LethbridgeSpamalot@shaw.ca

April 15-20,

2014

This event features 8 performances of the Tony®Award winning Best Musical – Spamalot. Lovingly “ripped-off” from the classical film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. A bevy of local, talented and beautiful “show-girls”, not to mention cows, killer rabbits and comedy for all, will be featured. www.lethbridgespamalot.ca

6 days

The Electric Eye Music Festival James Phelan eemusicfest@gmail.com

May 10,

2014

The Electric Music Festival will be a non-profit fringe music festival which will showcase the best emerging and independent artists from Lethbridge and surrounding areas. The event will take place at 6 different downtown venues: The Slice, Owl, Telegraph Tap House, Blueprint, ANAF Veterans Hall, SAAG. Organizers will also be holding a fundraiser at The Slice, Saturday April 5th. http://eemusicfest.wordpress.com https://www.facebook.com/events/358832100926101/

1 day

The Missing Body Cindy Baker cindeb@populust.ca

June 26-Sept. 6,

2014

Local galleries and cultural institutions will be partnering to bring together a major, locally produced curatorial project focused on expanding discourse around the nature of performance: The Missing Body: performance in the absence of the artist. Several performances, interactive projects, and displays are planned throughout downtown Lethbridge that will help unite the exhibitions taking place in galleries throughout the core, bringing the project together as a summer-long multi-organizational festival. http://southernalbertamagazine.com/component/ohanah/the-missing-body-performance-in-the-absence-of-the-artist?Itemid=0

28 days

Exploration Expo Kali McKay kali.mckay@uleth.ca

June 7, 2014

Celebrate ideas, innovation and invention at the first ever University of Lethbridge Exploration Expo, June 7, 2014 in Galt Gardens. Designed to encourage conversation by stimulating people’s minds and passions through interactive displays, research presentations and performances, Exploration Expo will help connect the University to the broader southern Alberta community. Bring the whole family for a day of exploration, creativity and fun.

1 day

Jazz Festival Don Robb donrobb@telus.net

June 8-14, 2014

This is a festival designed to create many opportunities for audiences to gather at various downtown locations to experience and enjoy an amazing array of musical talent from our own community, from other parts of the province, our country and other parts of the world. http://lethbridgejazz.com/

7 days

Building Our Tipi Amanda Scout a.scout@acleth.com

June

20,2014

This is a one-day event as part of the annual Lethbridge Aboriginal Awareness Week. 4 tipis will be erected to represent community and the four directions of life. The event will include cultural knowledge sharing, traditional games, hand-drumming and song, round-dancing, a naming ceremony, cultural entertainment, hoop dancing, resource fair, Inuit Traditional Fashion Display and a community b-b-q.

1 day

Lethbridge Shakespeare Performance Society Kate Connolly kate.connolly@uleth.ca

July/

August 2014

This free event creates a vibrant cultural experience involving 12 performances of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Actors and a creative team comprised of current U of L drama students and community theatre members, bring the beauty and delight of Shakespeare’s plays to a wide audience. Audience donations are welcome. https://www.facebook.com/LethbridgeShakespearePerformanceSociety?group_id=0

12 days

Pridefest Glen Herbst gherbie@telus.net

July 2-5,

2014

This event is intended to educate about and, promote and celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, two-spirited and queer lifestyles and involves a flag-raising ceremony, an outreach society awards night, a family dance, a parade, dance, variety show, bouncy castles, face painting and beer garden. http://lethbridgepridefest.com/?page_id=36

4 days

“The RITZ- Hits of The Big Band” Natascha Hainsworth www.newwesttheatre.com

July 3-26,

2014

2014 is a monumental year for the arts in our city. Not only is New West Theatre turning 25 years old, the Lethbridge Big Band has been bringing sounds of jazz and swing to Southern Alberta for 50 years! In celebration of these incredible milestones, we're coming together to bring audiences THE RITZ Hits of the Big Band this July. Dean Martin, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra. We know their names. We cherish their songs. Watch New West Theatre's performers put a fresh spin on your all time favourites combining crooner classics with witty comedy and amusing antics. This unique production will feature a special guest performer every week that has contributed in the past to both New West Theatre and the Lethbridge Big Band.

21 performances over 18 days

Electronic Music Festival Jose Streeter streeter@lemf.ca

August 16,

2014

This is a one-day event show-casing the vibrant local and regional electronic music community /artists to residents of Lethbridge. The event is free and open to all ages. There will be 24 acts – 12 from Lethbridge & 12 from out of town. www.lemf.ca

1 day

Love and Records Love & Records 2014 CKXU Radio Society Project Manager: Curtis Goodman (projectgoodman@gmail.com) 403-329-2180

September

13, 2014

Music Festival & Record Fair held in Downtown Lethbridge on the second Saturday in September featuring: Art, Food, Live Music, Raffles, and Record vendors from all over Alberta - this event is fun for the whole family starting at 11AM in Galt Gardens! This year celebrates 10 years on the FM dial with CKXU 88.3FM! www.LoveAndRecords.ca

1 day

The Word On The Street

Sept. 21,

This is an award winning festival and one of the top literary events in 1 day

Festival Bonnie Mikalson-Andron bonnie.mikalson-andron@lethlib.ca

2014 Canada. It brings the community together with literacy and literature, creates opportunities for new ideas, new experiences and an increased understanding of one another. Authors are able to share their works with new audiences and share their ideas and experiences about writing. Attendees not only learn about a new author, but also about what the author writes about, whether that be a culture they know little of or a topic that sparks their interest to learn more. In addition, the festival also offers a marketplace, live local music and activities for all ages, making The Word On The Street a festival with something for everyone. http://www.thewordonthestreet.ca/wots/lethbridge

Lethbridge Arts Days Muffy McKay projects@artslethbridge.org

Sept. 21-28,

2014

Arts Days is a week-long celebration of the arts in Lethbridge, bringing together artists from a variety of disciplines, presenting their work to the public in a free, accessible and inclusive event. The Allied Arts Council produces Art Walk, On the Streets, Artisan Market, Live in Lethbridge and Family Affair on the Square, as well as collaborates with other groups and organizations to include their events in the overall Arts Days program. http://www.artslethbridge.org/aac-initiatives/lethbridge-arts-days.html

7 days

Bright Lights Ted Stilson ted.stilson@gmail.com

November

21, 2014

The Bright Lights Festival is the yearly signal to kick off Christmas shopping in the downtown. Midnight Madness will take place on the same night and a live radio remote will remind visitors about the event and what else is happening in the downtown during the evening. Businesses are encouraged to keep their doors open later to allow shoppers to start their Christmas shopping. As usual the DBRZ will be providing free hayrides, coffee, popcorn, apple cider, Christmas movies and visits with Santa.

1 day