Skip to content
Downtown Business Economic Development Survey
Please take this short survey to assist the City with economic development in the City
1.
Do you own or want to own a business in the City? (Check all that apply)
I own a business in downtown (Historic District)
I own a business outside downtown but in the City Limits
No, I do not own a business in the City
I don't own a business in the City, but am interested in starting a business
Other (please specify)
2.
If you own a business downtown, how long has your business been operating in the downtown area?
Less than 1 year
1-5 years
6-10 years
More than 10 years
3.
Why do you visit downtown? (Select all that apply)
To Eat
To Shop
To Work
To Visit the Park
To Walk
Other (please specify)
4.
What factors do you believe are most important for economic development in the downtown area? Select all that apply.
Reduce vacancies
Improve appearance of buildings
Marketing and promotion
Business incentives
More signage
Parking availability
Needs a wider variety of businesses
Other (please specify)
5.
What challenges do businesses face in the downtown area? (Select all that apply)
High rent costs
Low customer traffic
Competition
Regulatory issues
Other
6.
What suggestions do you have for improving economic development in the downtown area? (Check all that apply)
Economic Incentives for business owners (e.g., grants, loans)
Enforce the Vacant Building Ordinance
Encourage more community events in the historic district
Hire an economic development coordinator
Establish a small business incubator site for new businesses
Provide educational services for existing and start-up businesses (e.g., marketing etc.)
Other (please specify)
7.
What type of business do you operate?
Retail
Restaurant/Cafe
Service
Office
Other
8.
If you own a vacant building, what would encourage you to rent or sell the building? (Select all that apply)
Funding to upgrade the building for occupancy
Finding a responsible tenant
I live out of town and need a locally based property manager
Other (please specify)
9.
What other types of businesses or establishments do you think would stimulate business in the historic district? (Check all that apply)
More restaurants
A business incubator for start-up businesses
Locations for people to meet and socialize
A recreational activity for youth
A recreational activity for adults
More retail shops
More history-based activities
Other (please specify)
10.
I would like to be included in future efforts to plan economic development for downtown. My contact information is: