The DDA Streetscape plan is nearing its final stages after multiple rounds of public engagement. A draft plan has been submitted to the DDA and is to be finalized in the February meeting.
The Streetscape Plan offers a playbook on potential projects, costs, and priorities for improving our downtown and making it more inviting to residents and visitors. There were many ideas brought forward by members of the public, and many of them are included here. It was exciting to see so many people engaged in the future of our downtown.
The DDA Board will begin deliberating on the priorities and next steps moving forward. This will take collaboration from the city and other stakeholders. Please stay engaged on the future of our downtown.
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Marc Miller, our Director of Economic Development, has accepted a position with the University of Illinois and his last day with the Manistee Area Chamber will be Friday, February 2, 2023. |
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While we are sad his employment is coming to an end with the Chamber, we are excited for this opportunity he has for the future of his career and to be closer to family. Marc has been a true asset to the economic development program, and we appreciate his almost 4.5 years of dedication to this work building momentum and positive incremental change for our community.
“The economic development program has built a foundation of solid momentum in recent years, and it is moving forward in 2024,” said Marc Miller. “Economic development is a collaborative team effort, and there are many important players - the Economic Development Council, Chamber Board of Directors, governmental leaders and officials, strategic partners that build capacity, and the staff of the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce. I have enjoyed personally working with everyone while making positive, incremental change, and know that these leaders will continue making strides in Manistee County.”
The Chamber is currently working on a transition plan, and we're thankful we have an economic development intern, Nicole Kaminski, who's on staff until the middle of March to assist with some of Marc's role.
We wish Marc all the best in his new position, and will miss him!
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Frostbite Winter Festival & Chili Cookoff
Saturday, February 17th, 12:00 - 5:00pm
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Join us at Downtown Manistee on February 17 alongside several local Manistee businesses and organizations for a lineup of activities, live entertainment, and a chili cookoff. |
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Business Awards Gala 2024
Friday, March 8th, 5:00pm
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The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business Awards sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Chamber of Commerce, the business community, and the quality of life in Manistee County. The winner will be announced on Friday, March 8th at the Awards Gala event.
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Downtown Business Connection Meetings |
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We invite and welcome everyone to participate in the monthly Downtown Business meetings which are held in person on the third Tuesday of the month at 8:30 am.
Location: 400 River Street, Manistee MI, 49660
They are a casual conversation with your fellow merchants where you can receive updates, discuss new ideas/challenges, or ask questions.
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From the owners that brought Port City Emporium, Riverside Toys will bring a selection of unique major brand-name toys for children. Programs will be available all year long such as the Stewie Birthday Club and a once-a-month toy giveaway.
The grand opening for Riverside Toys will be February 1, 2024.
A public ribbon-cutting will take place on February 1st at 11:00 am.
Let's give them a warm welcome to the business community and Downtown Manistee!
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If you know an entrepreneur who wants to start or expand a business, please contact us at the Chamber, or visit our website.
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Facade Grants: Finished for the Fiscal Year |
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The DDA was successful in leveraging its Facade Grant funds with MEDC Grant funds. The DDA received over $150,000 grant to assist five shovel-ready projects |
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The shovel-ready projects are, Spicer Group, Inc, Dwelling Realty - KW Northern Michigan, Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar, The Golden Stag, and Manistee Elks Lodge #250.
All funds for the current fiscal year are obligated, and no further grants will be issued for the fiscal year. A new fiscal year will begin July 1, 2024, and the DDA Board will be putting forward a budget to city council in the coming months. Because of the great interest from building and business owners, the DDA Board will attempt to approve a budget with additional funding.
Please stay tuned for updates as the process continues!
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"The Stee" Social District
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OPEN EVERY DAY from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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This is a designated area, opened last year by the DDA and Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, where patrons ages 21 + can purchase an alcoholic beverage from participating establishments in a logo cup and can carry/consume it outdoors within the parameters of the district. |
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PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS
- Northern Channel Brewing Co.
- Fricano's Manistee River
- The Ramsdell Inn & TJ's Pub
- The Historic Vogue Theatre
- Taco 'Bout It Mexican Fusion
- The Golden Stag
- Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar
- Third Life Brewing
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PLEASE NOTE: All State of Michigan and City of Manistee laws apply, including but not limited to those prohibiting public intoxication, impaired driving, open containers, and serving alcohol to minors.
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SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL FROM SIDEWALKS |
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The owner or occupant of any occupied or unoccupied business, building, or vacant lot within the Central Business District, as defined in this section, shall keep sidewalks adjacent to his or her property clear of snow and ice and not allow the same to accumulate for more than twenty-four hours.
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