The Batesville City Council heard a request at their meeting Tuesday night from Main Street Batesville (MSB) for financial support for 2019.
Suzanne Magouyrk, president of the MSB board of directors, and Mandi Curtwright, MSB executive director, appeared before the council to make the request.
The organization requested the same amount of funding — $20,000 — it has received in previous years: $10,000 for operations, $5,000 for special projects, and $5,000 to provide mini-grants to Main Street businesses for small projects, including sidewalk improvements.
The special projects for next year include the purchase of more cigarette and trash receptacles for the street, and hiring a landscaper to help maintain the streetscape beds.
The mayor and council will consider the request as it begins work on the 2019 budget.
Magouyrk also recapped MSB’s accomplishments in 2018. The organization increased its online presence with an expansion of social media, a new website, and a blog. The Pocket Park and The Loft continue to provide affordable event spaces for the community. Six new businesses opened this year and the Food Lot has seen great participation by food vendors. The new county library and one office space opened on Main Street. She said the first three downtown loft apartments, a luxury hotel, and a community space are currently under construction.
In other action, the council approved a resolution endorsing Arrowhead Steel Company to participate in the state’s Tax Back program. The Tax Back program provides sales and use tax refunds on the purchase of building materials and taxable machinery and equipment to qualified businesses investing at least $100,000.
After an executive session, the council announced the reappointment of Kirk Warden to the Airport Commission, and Robb Roberts to the Public Facilities Board.
The next scheduled council meeting will be Nov. 20 at 5:30 p.m. The mayor will be attending the National League of Cities meeting on Nov. 13, when the council would normally meet.
Reporting by Bob Qualls
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