Board debates replacing formal DDA with citizen-led advisory committee

Several board members suggested a citizen-led advisory committee as an alternative to the DDA's formal structure, arguing it could be less costly, less administratively burdensome and still advance downtown projects and resident input.

"A citizen led advisory committee could be something that could be much simpler," a board member said, outlining fewer formalities, lower costs and the possibility of residents and business owners collaborating informally and relaying ideas to township boards and commissions. Proponents said the advisory model could still generate ideas and shepherd projects to the appropriate township bodies while avoiding the contract, staffing and contract-end matters tied to a formal DDA.