Annette has supported and worked on the following initiatives to change the focus of Highland Park and emphasize economic development via
- Introduction of Economic Development as a priority of the City. By raising Economic Development to the status of a pillar, core value of the City, the Council puts funding into programming and staff resources into the expression of this value.
- Beautification of business districts, especially Second Street renovation, to enhance vibrancy including business district streets and furniture in the central business district and elsewhere
- Actively participated in the business incentive initiatives for outdoor beautification of all businesses
- Closely monitored and assisted in developing Food & Beverage Interior Improvement and Expansion Grant Program through incentives
- Assisted with review of all incentives and covered projects for restaurant attraction, improvement, support and enhancement
- Adding additional staff to enhance support of our business community
- Encouraging and fostering a thriving business community through visits, walkthroughs, discussions and inquiries regarding retention and attraction of businesses
- Ensuring that all business districts are viable and well-supported
- Streamlining permitting and ease of “doing business” policies
- Bringing many systems online to expedite processes, referring to staff explanation of procedures and answering any questions
- Review of zoning and fee structure including encouraging more feet on the ground and getting rid of restrictions on the Central Business District
- Insisting that staff find ways to get to YES
- Support social media and online communication with community as a whole as well as business owners to ensure maximum participation