DDA approves grant for April "Sunday Funday" to benefit downtown businesses and housing charity

Chris Jensen of downtown lender Let's Talk Mortgages asked the Downtown Development Authority on Monday for an activation grant to support "Sunday Funday," a community event he plans to hold from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 19.

Jensen told the board the event would activate a parking lot behind his office at 900 Waterway East, include local vendors and tie fundraising to City House, which provides housing for single mothers coming out of homelessness or abusive relationships. "The goal of the event is to really continue to bolster community within our immediate geographic location downtown," Jensen said.

Board members expressed broad support but asked to see a clearer budget and financials. One member said it was reasonable to expect documentation when public dollars are involved and requested detailed spending plans.

Board Chair moved approval and a motion to authorize the grant was seconded and approved by voice vote. The motion passed unanimously.

The board and event organizers said the grant is intended to be a modest public investment to activate the East side of downtown and drive foot traffic for nearby merchants. Jensen said organizers will share an invitation with board members and that the site has "plenty of space" to host the event without inconveniencing neighbors.

Next steps: staff will finalize the grant paperwork and the DDA will monitor event budget and outcomes as part of standard grant reporting.