Council committee reviews proposal for ED! work plan receives briefing on code updates

The Edmonds City Council's Committee of the Whole reviewed a proposal from the Edmonds Downtown Alliance (ED! ) for a three- to five-year work plan aimed at improving operations within its Business Improvement District (BID). ED! President Sheila Cloney shared updates following the council's adoption of Resolution 1543 in April 2024, which sought to ensure the BID's alignment with best practices. ED!

has worked with the consultant Uncommon Bridges to address concerns and develop the proposed work plan. Cloney requested $8,000 from ED! ’s reserves to fund the consultant's efforts in completing the work plan. She indicated that without council approval, the ED! board may have to consider disbanding, a decision made after careful deliberation.

Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the BID's contributions and recognized the challenges faced by the volunteer board amid economic difficulties. The proposed work plan will include a sunset clause to establish a term for the BID, addressing the lack of duration noted in the council resolution. The BID serves as a local funding mechanism for businesses to enhance marketing, security, and beautification efforts in downtown Edmonds.