STAFF REPORT

BUDA – The stage for Buda’s possible membership in the Texas Main Street program moves to the Buda Economic Development Corporation meeting tonight, where Buda business leaders will attempt to land partial funding for the program.

The city council declined to apply for the Main Street program last week, citing budget concerns due to an anticipated shortfall of $500,000 in sales taxes for the present budget year. The program would cost $62,500 for the first year, which would include $40,000 in salary and benefits for a full-time Main Street administrator as required for membership.

Though the council didn’t vote on the Main Street application last week, Councilmember Cathy Chilcote said the matter could be kept alive if the EDC agrees to fund the program.

Downtown business owners are concerned that absentee property ownership, empty storefronts and lightly traveled sidewalks are on the verge of crippling Buda’s Main Street. Advocates for the Main Street program say its proven expertise could help bring downtown back to life.

The Texas Main Street program numbers 88 cities. Among them are San Marcos, where the program helped stimulate $47.5 million of downtown reinvestment in 20 years after the city joined in 1986.

Also on the EDC agenda for tonight is discussion and possible action regarding an updated contract for Executive Director Warren Ketteman, whose contract expires in September. The item includes discussion concerning the executive director’s goals and objectives.

RELATED IN THE MERCURY:

• Buda EDC talks contract with Ketteman, passes Main Street resolution | July 10, 2008
• Budget woes back Buda off Texas Main Street program | July 2, 2008
• The Myth of Jones: The slow path in downtown Buda | July 18, 2008
• Buda wants page from
  San Marcos playbook | May 6, 2008
• Groundhog Day | February 12, 2008