By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
A long-awaited wish is coming true for Decatur Main Street, which will soon be operating with a salaried director.
Taylor Braun was selected from a group of applicants and approved by the Main Street board on Dec. 11. She will begin her new duties on January 7.
“I’m excited to work alongside local businesses, volunteers, and community leaders to support downtown growth, promote events, and help to continue to create a welcoming and vibrant downtown experience,” she said.
At its meeting Tuesday night, city council approved a one-year lease for office space for Braun in City Hall.
Earlier this year, Decatur Main Street was designated as an Aspiring Indiana Accredited Main Street (A-IAMS) program. The A-AIMS designates are within one year of meeting all Accreditation Standards set forth by Main Street America.
The Accreditation Standards level allows groups with that designation to achieve grants to further and expand their work.
However, the designation requires the Decatur organization to hire a full-time, paid director, necessitating a need for $75,000 (salary, office space, etc.), Miller recently told city council a couple of months ago.
City council recently voted unanimously to contribute $25,000 to the organization, which had $25,000 of its own. Following that, the city’s redevelopment commission designated $25,000 for each of the next three years to help fund the director’s post.
Decatur Main Street is a volunteer group of local residents who promote the downtown area and organize and hold numerous events, such as Downtown Decatur Day.
The group is responsible for the holiday lighted additions currently situated on the Madison St. Plaza.
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