Gray Downtown Development Authority members brainstormed their vison for a new business in the heart of downtown during their April meeting. The April 13 meeting was called to order by Chairman Sherri Rollins, and DDA member David Tufts led the opening prayer.
Members looked over the financial report that showed all items on budget, and the report was unanimously approved. Old Business consisted of a discussion of the lease for the Business Development office at 102 E. Clinton and a discussion about the future of the 104 Eatonton Highway property, commonly referred to as “the crossing.”
Rollins began by stating that the opening for the garage door would be done that week, and the plan is for the door to arrive the next week.
“That will officially start the renovation. My question to you is, ‘What do you visualize to go in that spot?’” the chairman asked.
She commented that another restaurant might not be the best choice at this time. Rollins said it needs to be something that could pay the lease, and it would be nice to also create foot traffic.
The idea of a fresh market was pitched that could include vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, maybe flowers, honey, eggs and even fresh meats. The vendors could split the expenses to make it affordable.
DDA member Anndrea Lumpkin said it is hard for people to get healthy without healthy foods being available. The consensus of the DDA members was the idea of a fresh market was worthy of being pursued.
Rollins said marketplaces like that are in a lot of downtowns. Main Street Director Ashley Roberson said she would talk to FFA instructors at the school about getting students involved.
The chairman said public input would be appreciated including other ideas for the use of the space.
Butler Hall update
Roberson said five contracts were received for the venue since the March meeting, and five events are scheduled in April.
“We’re getting into the wedding season,” she added.
The members agreed that the entire Ross Street area is looking good.
Roberson reported that the Keep Jones Beautiful Commission was the last to choose its branding logo, and now the process can move to the next step, which is the creation of a tag line for the county.
The director reminded board members that the Main Street Strategic Planning Session is scheduled April 28-29. She said the Main Street Gray Spring Festival is April 25 beginning at 10 a.m.
She said the festival will have live music all day with food trucks and a variety of vendors. One new addition to the festival is a dog pageant that promises to be entertaining.
At the conclusion of the agenda, the meeting adjourned to enter closed session.
Anyone who would like to contribute ideas about their vision for the future of the crossing building may email Roberson, ashley@grayga.us.
