Currently, Lakeville City Council and the Mayor have no official master plan for Master Plan for revitalizing downtown Lakeville. It needs to be completed and very soon,. If elected mayor i would immediately implement a master Plan for Downtown Lakeville with an emphasis on aesthetic appeal and local business retention. A Downtown Master Plan helps Lakeville capitalize on its rapid population growth by transforming its downtown into a premier community destination. By strategically incentivizing the retention and recruitment of businesses, Lakeville can boost local tax revenues, create walkable community spaces, and meet resident demands for diverse dining and shopping options.
A comprehensive, localized strategy for downtown offers several key advantages for the city:
- Responding to Community Demand: Surveys from the city’s recent planning efforts show that residents overwhelmingly desire more local dining, shopping, and entertainment options downtown to match the city's growth.
- Capitalizing on Regional Growth: With Lakeville's population booming, a master plan ensures the city doesn't lose local consumer spending to neighboring communities.
- Leveraging Economic Incentives: Utilizing tools like Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Redevelopment Incentive Grants (RIG) can mitigate the risks for small businesses, making it financially viable for unique local shops and restaurants to operate downtown.
- Enhancing Infrastructure and Aesthetics: Downtown plans address essential user experiences like parking availability, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, wayfinding signage, and outdoor gathering spaces.
- Fostering a Distinct Identity: A targeted plan positions downtown as a cultural hub, helping the city maximize the impact of assets like the Lakeville Area Arts Center.