Committee Touts 13 to Business Improvement Steering Committee

A Business Improvement District is closer to formation in downtown Lansdale.

The Economic Development Committee on Monday unanimously recommended council approve a 13-member sterring committee for the BID.

The members recommended to the committee are:

• Charles Booz (owner of )
  
  
• Mike Butrica
  
  
• Jay Daveler 
  
  
• Kevin Dunigan (Lansdale planning commission member)
  
  
• John Ernst (Lansdale Director of Community Development)
  
  
• John Felton (landlord of various borough apartments)
  
  
• Mary Schwalje (owner of )
  
  
• Richard Strahm (vice chairman of Economic Development Committee)
  
  
• Scott Walton (owner of )
  
  
• Chris Flyzik (owner of )
  
  
• Councilwoman Mary Fuller (Chairwoman of Economic Development Committee)
  
  
• Candy Pack (owner of )
  
  
• Peter Prescott (president of board of directors for )

Businesses in a BID pay an additional tax or fee to fund aesthetic improvements within the boundaries. 

Businesses can take advantage of incentives, like tax abatements, or grant programs to assist in required BID fees. These incentives can also bring in new businesses.

The branding survey

Fuller said Monday night that the steering committee will strengthen the partnership between Lansdale and businesses of Lansdale.

"A partnership dedicated to making our community a place that welcomes people to enjoy all that Lansdale has to offer," Fuller said.

She said the steering committee will look to the branding survey for guidance on making the borough a destination and establishing the foundation for a new Lansdale.

Fuller touted the efforts of borough committees, the borough manager, the Department of Community Development and North Star Destination Strategies for working to improve the look of the town.

Fuller also touched on the wayfinding effort being spearheaded by councilman Dan Dunigan and the Lansdale Parking Authority.

is Discover Lansdale's baby now. Fuller said the event will dress up the downtown with music, creativity and activities.

"Discover Lansdale will also help shepherd that Business Improvement District along with creating more events through the hiring of a coordinator," Fuller said.

The Economic Development Committee is comprised of Fuller, Strahm, Mayor Andy Szekely, Walton, Lansdale Business Association President Doug DiPasquale and Councilman Steve Malagari.

It operates under the Department of Community Development, headed by Ernst.

At present, the EDC is working with major projects, Fuller said:

• (28 units)
  
  
• (20 units)
  
  
• (174 units)
  
  
• (200 apartments/54 townhomes/30,000-square-feet commercial space)
  
  

Fuller said the Department of Community Development (DCD) and the zoning hearing board are reviewing these developments.

Fuller's statement on the future of business in Lansdale wasn't without its praise of the DCD.

She said the department has made it easier to start a business in Lansdale now. It reviews applications and clearance for zoning and use, and even meets with the business owner.

She said the committee and council are working toward attracting new businesses to town.

"As you do so," she said, "introduce them to the Director of Community Development immediately, as the department stands ready to be of assistance and assure that clear and proper direction is given to each business owner."

Over the last two years, the department has worked with the following businesses, according to Fuller:

• (South Broad Street)
  
  
• Cosmo Motors (Blaine Street)
  
  
• Dynamic Marble & Granite (West Main Street)
  
  
• Homesite Remodeling (South Broad Street)
  
  
• (West Main Street)
  
  
• (West Main Street)
  
  
• (South Broad Street)
  
  
• PA Northeast Railroad (West Main Street)
  
  
• (South Wood Street)
  
  
• Scelta Restaurant (West Main Street)
  
  
• (South Broad Street)
  
  
• (West Main Street)
  
  
• Tabora Farms (West Main Street)

Fuller also mentioned a number of businesses that have relocated in the borough:

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• On Stage & Off/Theatre and Kids
  
  

"I challenge these committees to continue their commitment to keeping Lansdale on the move by strengthening their resolve to developing a well-thought-out economic development plan, and to be ready for significant business and residential investment now and into the future," Fuller said.

"I deliver this message tonight," Fuller continued, "to help us see all that we are doing now. I also deliver this message so that we keep the energy high to keep Lansdale on the move. It is worth the investment."