Ortonville- Main Street is back on track.
The village’s economic development program met all 10 criteria in an annual evaluation April 16, earning national accreditation.
‘We’re doing what we’re supposed to, to revitalize the downtown,? said Main Street Manager Molly LaLone.
The village became a Main Street community in 2004. The 10 criteria used to evaluate progress in Main Street communities are broad-based community support; vision and mission statements; historic preservation ethic; paid, professional DDA/Main Street Program Director; program of ongoing training; reporting of key statistics; Main Street Network membership; comprehensive work plan; active board and committees and adequate operating budget.
Last year, the village fell short in the latter three areas, but LaLone said improvements have been made. Upcoming plans for Main Street include a collaboration with the library to do a business assistance lecture series. Merchants are being asked to fill out a priority survey to determine the top two or three subjects they would like help on.
A seminar will be held once per quarter, beginning this fall and ending next June.
The Main Street program is also distributing grants for businesses through the Downtown Development Authority, offering up to $1,500 per business to update facades.
The DDA will host a Town Hall meeting at 7:30 p.m., May 27, at the Old Town Hall, 480 Mill St.
All businesses and area residents are invited to discuss projects and upcoming events including Creekfest, Beets, Beats & Eats and the Cruise to Ortonville. Details: 248-627-8070.