New Director gives City DDA update

Businesses continue to locate in town

 

IMLAY CITY — Members of the Imlay City Downtown Development Authority board reviewed the annual report, highlighted by news of new businesses coming to town.

Newly hired DDA Executive Director Chuck Bennett says although he is just settling in to his new role, he has hit the ground running and is excited for the opportunity to serve the DDA.

“It’s a great opportunity for me,” Bennett said. “Imlay City is a great little town with a ton of potential and possibilities and I can’t wait to get deeper in to the job and see what we can do to promote the city and bring tax revenue here.”

In the annual report, bennett stated, “Even though I have only been here a short time, I am already inspired by the pride, passion and kindness that defines this community. Imlay City has a downtown with heart – a place where history and opportunity meet and where people truly care about seeing their city grow.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Bennett shared, “I’m energized by the possibilities ahead. The year will be about listening, collaborating and building momentum. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with our business owners, community partners and residents as we shape the next chapter of Imlay City’s downtown. Together, we can continue to make this a place to visit, invest and call home.”

Among the goals for the new year are to continue to assist the city in becoming a Redevelopment Ready community; continue conversations with the railroad to improve viaduct lighting, painting and beautification; Assist the city in completion of the Community Center; continued planning to utilize pocket parks and continue research of creating a Community Podcast.

Since January of 2025, the DDA has approved nearly $15,000 for facade and sign improvement programs.

Among the grants were $5,000 each to The Print Shop and the Imlay City Eagles while Third and Main and Imlay City Pharmacy were granted $1,500 apiece.

Work on obtaining grants continues for the city is on-going. The DDA was successful in receiving a $3,700 grant from Four County Community Foundation for work on the pavilion project. Two other grants, totaling over $560,000 were not approved but work will continue to be done to try and reapply for those grants.

The DDA TIF District collected $347,000 from business owners tax payments and another $36,300 from Lapeer County.

They took in $4,000 worth of donations for the Rotary Park project, added another $4,000 worth of revenue from the Farmers Market project and ended the year with $12,000 of total grant revenue.

Projected budget expenditures for the new year include total wages of $80,890; total benefits of $37,360; operating supplies of $11,000 with another $36,500 to be spent for utilities.

Among other major expenditures is $73,100 for maintenance and repairs, $24,000 for the facade grant program, another $12,000 for seasonal decorations and $19,300 for the Farmer’s Market and concert series.