Tuesday, September 29, 2009

SWOT Analysis - THREATS

Please post potential THREATS to downtown Camden.

For example, a potential THREAT could be the high cost of bringing building up to code for new businesses to occupy them.

We will synthesize the results of the SWOT analysis to generate alternatives for an Action Plan for the Downtown Camden Guild to pursue with respect to the revitalization of downtown and the economic development of Camden.

Wade

SWOT Analysis - Opportunities

Below please post an OPPORTUNITY for downtown Camden.

For example, there exist a large number of infill redevelopment sites downtown.

Look for ways which we can maximize our potential based upon what already exists.

Remember, strategic planning is an interactive process. Your opinions and ideas will shape alternative solutions for revitalizing downtown Camden.

Wade

SWOT - Weaknesses

Please post what you consider a WEAKNESS for downtown Camden.

For example, the lack of daily foot traffic in downtown is a weakness.

The strategic planning process will help us generate alternatives to solve this problem.

Your input is vital to the process.

Thanks,

Wade

SWOT Analysis - STRENGTHS

Please post your comments with regard to what you feel are the STRENGTHS of Downtown Camden.

For example, the existing architectural character of the buildings.

Remember this is an exercise in getting familiar with the blog site while also completing the strategic planning process.

Wade

Monday, September 28, 2009

September 28th Meeting Agenda

Downtown Camden Guild
Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, September 28th, 2009
8:30 AM
1011 Galleria

I. Welcome
II. Vision Statement Vote
III. SWOT Exercise
IV. Upcoming Events and Projects:
V. Interim Officers
VI. Committee Organization
VII. Meeting Schedule
VIII. Adjournment

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Broad St. Trick-or-Treat Committee Minutes

DCG / Events and Planning Committee
Meeting Minutes

September 21, 2009 at 3:30 PM

Meeting held at the Chamber of Commerce

Present: Liz Horton, Marta Tomdsy-Herman, Mei Bremer, Edward Hinson, Lisa Casey, Jamie Bennett-Bane, Amy Schofield, Edwin Kohn, Ginger Goodale, Robert Dabney, Joanna Crailo, Carol Jellenik, Jan Marsh, and Mike Stone

Next meeting: October 5, 2009, 3:30 p.m., Chamber of Commerce


I. Agenda

• Welcome
• Naming Discussion
• Overview of Event
• Activities
• Fundraising/ Sponsorships
• Marketing
• Street Closing Procedures
• Schedule Next Meeting Time
• Adjourn

The meeting was opened by Wade Luther, City Manager. He introduced himself as well as all members attending and he concluded the opening with a thank you to the members for coming.

II. Discussion
1. Names for the event: Wade came up with Broad Street’s Trick or Treat. There was also Broad Street’s Trick or Treat Event, suggested by Ginger Goodale; as well as Downtown Haunt, suggested by Mei Bremer. After discussion the group unanimously voted on Broad Street’s Trick or Treat.

2. Overview of Event: The event will be held on October 31, 2009 from 3-5 pm.There will be a subcommittee formed to solicit all businesses; they are Lisa Casey, Jamie Bennett-Bane, Amy Schofield, and Ginger Goodale. There are some liability issues that Wade will look into and get back to the members at next meeting. The group decided that this event will be simple yet fun. The event will be held rain or shine

3. Activities: There will be a costume contest; the logistics are still being worked on. Wade spoke to the radio station and they agreed to promote the event on the radio, and Brittany Stewart will host. The possible judges: mayor, chair of city council, and a principal from one of the elementary schools. There was a lot of discussion about age groups and prizes. We discussed a contest for best store front window, dunking booth, bobbing for apples (which can not be done for health reasons) face painting. We collectively decided that each business will be responsible for dispensing candy to the children and whatever activity they so desire. We will obtain a list of all participating businesses. We are looking at having music, Liz Horton will check on that. A haunted house is not possible; unless it’s held in a private business. (liability reasons)

4. Fundraising/sponsorship: are still being worked on

5. Marketing: Edward Hinson from Truvista will run it on the local cable network. Wade and WPUB will design posters for businesses. Jan Marsh spoke with the local churches and they said that they will put an announcement in their church bulletins as well as send youth volunteers. Jan will follow up with them. Robert Dabney will promote at the schools, and try to recruit teachers or administrators to participate in the dunking booth. Besty Greenway will promote in the Camden Chronicle.

6. Street Closing Procedures: the streets will be closed one hour before and one hour after the event. The closing will affect Broad street up to York street.

7. Next Meeting: October 5, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce


Meeting was adjourned

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Action Items for September 17th

The posts made today feature the DCG's Organizational Structure; the Vision, Mission, and Goals; and the presentation from Tuesday's meeting.

With respect to officers - please inform me of your interest to volunteer for an Officer of Director postion no later than Monday, September 21st by Close of Business (COB).

With respect to committees - participation is highly encouraged as we do not collect sizeable dues or any for that matter. Your efforts are more valueable in the infancy of the DCG. Please email me your desired committee committment by Monday, September 21st COB. I hope to designate meeting times for each committee next week.

The Executive Committee will begin making plans to hold their first meeting before the entire group meets again at 1011 Galleria, Third Floor, 8:30 AM on Tuesday, September 29th.

Thanks again for all of your contributions.

Wade

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Meeting Materials from September 15th

Meeting materials distributed at today's meeting will be posted throughout the week. I am also emailing you all with the aforementioned materials attached.

Thanks,

Wade

Meeting Minutes from Tuesday, September 15th

Downtown Camden GuildMeeting Agenda Minutes
Tuesday, September 15th, 2009 8:30 AM
1011 Galleria

1.-Welcome – W. Luther
2. Reviewed comments from questionnaire
3. Reviewed mission statement
- solicited suggestions for improvement, received none
5. Reviewed vision statement
-solicited suggestions for improvement, received none
6. Reviewed goals
-solicited suggestions for improvement, received none
7. Reviewed Christmas events and possible Halloween events
-discussed potential Halloween carnival / trick-or-treating downtown
-to be discussed in further detail at future time
8. Reviewed committee structure and participation
-after discussion, approved structure of committees
-Voted (approximately 16-1) to NOT allow ex-officio board members the right to vote
-Added library as ex-officio member of board
9. Discussed importance of committee participation
-brief debate over whether participation should be required of members
10. Introductions around the room upon request of a member
11. Took volunteers for board of directors (counsel, treasurer and secretary)
12. Adjourned

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Welcome

As Downtown Manager, I would like to welcome some new businesses to our downtown. The Travis Salon and Happy Memories Fudge & More have recently opened.

The Travis Salon is located in the first floor of 1011 Galleria. You can make an appointment with Travis Vincent by calling 803-272-0575 or just stop by and welcome him.

Happy Memories Fudge & More is located on the western end of Rutledge Street across from the Farmer's Market. I tried some of ElizabethDixon's turtles today - they were delicious. I also had an orange, pineapple, strawberry, mango smoothie - only 350 calories and a meal in and of itself! Please stop by and welcome her to downtown.

Also opening soon is the Broad Street Catering Company in 1011 Galleria. They will be having a ribbon cutting next week.

I wish all of you the best of luck and hope to see you at our upcoming meetings!!!

Wade Luther
(803) 432-2421
wluther@camdensc.org

Agenda for Tuesday, September 15th

Camden Downtown Guild
Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, September 15th, 2009
8:30 AM
1011 Galleria

I. Welcome
II. Summary of Comments
III. DCG vs. DoCa Guild?
IV. Visioning Exercise
V. Ex-Officio Membership
VI. Committee Organization
VII. Upcoming Events and Projects:
a. Blues Festival, Halloween, Colonial Cup, Christmas, After Hours, Girl’s Night
b. Market Analysis; Form-Based Code Design Charrette
VIII. Adjournment

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Many Thanks

I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who participated in yesterday's kickoff meetings for the Downtown Camden Guild. I think it was a very positive, informative experience, and I hope that everyone will choose to take an active role in the organization and it's pursuit of downtown revitalization, marketing, and representation efforts.

Remember it's not too late to participate. Our next meeting is two weeks away.

Tuesday, September 15th, 8:30 am - 1011 Galleria, 3rd Floor

Please come out and participate in the Visioning Process!

We also hope to hit the ground running by getting everyone involved in organizing committees to better the downtown environment in Camden. If you have a suggestion please feel free to let me know.

Wade F. Luther, II
Downtown Manager
City of Camden
wluther@camdensc.org
(803) 432-2421