City of North Bend release – The North Bend Main Street Board recently hosted a Main Street Mixer to connect downtown property and business owners while showing appreciation for their participation in recent events. The North Bend Main Street Board introduced themselves and shared why this program is vital to them. Attendees were asked to consider applying for committees after briefly describing Main Streets Four-Point Approach. The event featured resource organizations such as CCD, SBDC, SWOIB/Recruit Hippo, Business Oregon, and the Ford Family Foundation. These resource organizations were informative and an excellent addition to the event. The mixer ended with a “Name Your Main Street” interactive discussion. Mayor Engelke was attending the event and was invited to participate. She was asked to share one word to describe her ideal Main Street; the Mayor’s word was “Lively.” She then walked around the room to allow others to share; terms included thriving, colorful, safe, growth, and communication. The North Bend Main Street Board appreciates everyone who attended the event. The energy in the room was contagious, and such a delight to see the businesses and building owners visiting. North Bend Main Street program will host a similar discussion session in June called Talk of the Town on June 22, 2023. This event will be open to North Bend citizens and all North Bend businesses. Talk of the Town will introduce the Main Street Board, share upcoming events, and provide the opportunity to interact with resource organizations, a one-year overview, a Q&A session, and refreshments. North Bend Main Street applied for a Micro Grant through the Ford Family Foundation. They were awarded the grant, covering the cost of both events. This Main Street Mixer was at Wildflour Public House, Talk of the Town location will be announced soon. The North Bend Main Street Boundary Map is determined at a State level. The map includes a primary focus area with walkability in our historic downtown district. Although the map is limited and not determined locally, North Bend Main Street finds creative ways to include other businesses. If you are located within the boundary map and have not received an email from us, please send your contact information to swilson@northbendcity.org. If you are not on the Main Street Boundary map, please know about other available opportunities and support. Please visit https://www.northbendoregon.us/URA to review the Urban Renewal Agency; this program offers façade match grants. In addition to the previously mentioned organizations, the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce is another excellent resource. Event participation opportunities for businesses not on the boundary map will receive an email from the City of North Bend with details when applicable. Applications for our Four-Point committees are now open. Please email swilson@northbendcity.org for an application. Please get in touch with swilson@northbendmainstreet.org for any additional information.
