CENTER CITY COMMITTEE
MEETING MINUTES
June 17, 2008

Present: Marshall Field, Theresa Park, Russ Smith, Steve Syverson, and Terry Williams

The meeting opened at 8:4 0 A.M.

Marshall started off the meeting by informing the Committee that Garber Travel, located at the corner of Merrimack and Central Streets, will be closing as of October 1st.  The closing is a result of changes in the way travel reservations are made.  The space is 2,500 square feet and Marshall stated it is a prime location for a retail business.

Steve Syverson talked about his participation in the Best Retail Practices program run by the City of Lowell.  His grant will be used to improve his outdoor sign and to expand his framing business. 

Russ mentioned that he has been corresponding with the group InnerCity Entrepreneurs (I.C.E.) concerning a MOU to establish a regional office in the Lowell Small Business Assistance Center’s office space.  Theresa Park of the City’s Division of Planning and Development has been working with I.C.E. to bring its entrepreneurial training and mentoring program to Lowell.  I/C/E works with small business owners whose companies have annual revenues ranging from $250,000 to $10 million.

Marshall noted the improvements being done to MCC’s park on Middle Street.  Trees have been cleared away, railings have been painted, and MCC student artwork is being installed on the side of 88 Middle Street.  New lighting will also be put in highlighting the artwork. 

Theresa Park stated that to date one letter of intent is being signed for retail space at the Early Garage on Middlesex Street.  Several other businesses are showing a strong interest in the other retail spaces.  Theresa mentioned that the establishment of the Irish pub at the garage will create additional interest for other businesses to locate in the area.

Marshall added that the Eastern Canal is the other frontier for change in the City.  Several new businesses are expected to open along the canal.  Russ Smith pointed out the importance of building awareness in the city of that area since it is not in a central location.  Marshall brought up the idea of having a deck built over the canal for restaurant space.  It was agreed that this could be a good idea.  Marshall said he would contact John DeAngelis who owns the building along the canal.

Steve talked about the Jambraree street festival which took place at the Early Garage over the weekend.  Jerry Beck had mentioned to Steve he thought about 500 people showed up for the event, a good number considering it was the first time the event was held.  Jerry had also mentioned his concern that there still is not enough activity in the downtown area.  The Committee discussed possible reasons for the lack of activity including the persistent view of outsiders of Lowell being less than desirable.  Ways to promote activities in Lowell were discussed.  Marshall suggested posting upcoming events in garages in Lowell for both visitors and those who have recently moved to Lowell but commute to work elsewhere and may not know what events are going on in Lowell.  Marshal suggested talking to Chuck Carney about this idea.

Steve said that COOL was about to launch its new website which will be a portal to other websites related to the arts and culture in the Lowell area.  Marshall mentioned a new Italian comedy would be filmed in Lowell, and Steve brought up the concern that with the increasing number of films being made in the area, communication with the City’s events coordinator, Andy St. Onge, needs to be increased.

The meeting adjourned at 9:25 AM.