The Davis Downtown Business Association (DDBA) Board of Directors voted at their board meeting on Tuesday, March 13 to move ahead with implementing the goals set forth in the recently adopted Restructuring Task Force Report. 

 

The twenty year-old organization is returning to its roots, streamlining its operations, and refocusing on its mission to actively lead the downtown as the primary business, entertainment and cultural center of Davis.  Part of the refocusing involved the decision to not request supplemental funding from the City, thereby creating a reduced budget that relies primarily on income from member Business Improvement District (BID) fees.

 

As a result of this budget change, the current two full-time positions will be eliminated and replaced with the equivalent of one full-time position.

     "We wish to commend both Laura Cole-Rowe, executive director and Melissa Martinez, assistant executive director, for their exemplary contribution to the organization.  Their creativity, vision and guidance is greatly valued," acknowledged Maria Ogrydziak, DDBA President.  "However, in recognition of the DDBA's new priorities and needs, the Board is looking to create a new position with different responsibilities as well as consider flexible options. Current staff will be invited to re-apply.  To supplement services the Board may seek partners for specific projects on a contract or sponsorship basis."

    Laura Cole-Rowe, the DDBA's outgoing Executive Director, states, "It has been my pleasure serving downtown Davis for nearly ten years. I am proud to have been a part of a city and downtown that has grown and improved immensely since 1997. Davis has become a second home to me," continued Cole-Rowe.  "I have made many friends and contacts because of this organization that will last a lifetime.  The many experiences of downtown management and creation of programs during my tenure I wholeheartedly consider a worthwhile and important part of my career."

    "Laura Cole-Rowe helped tremendously to create a valuable and strong organization during her tenure. We are looking forward to building from the solid base she is leaving behind, to further strengthen the voice of the downtown," stated Ogrydziak.