I have owned (and owner occupied until moving one street east) a property directly next to North Ave businesses since 2017. It has been awesome to watch North Ave really come to life since then and how hard all these small businesses work to have big impacts. I have read the plan and think this is a great next step for them. North Ave is ready and especially overdue for some of the cohesive aesthetic changes, signage, parking education, etc. Great plan for all who live here or visit.

I also emailed this to Zach Kessler:

Dear Mr. Kessler,

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed East Tosa Business Improvement District (BID) on North Avenue. While I am unable to attend the Plan Commission meeting on Monday, September 8, I wanted to ensure my voice is heard in favor of this important initiative.

The establishment of a BID would provide our neighborhood with the dedicated resources and a structured plan needed to enhance the vitality of East Town. The benefits for both residents and business owners are clear and compelling. A BID will lead to cleaner and safer streets, creating a more welcoming environment for everyone.

Beyond the daily improvements, a BID would foster a stronger sense of community pride. The planned investments in public art, new plantings, and seasonal events will make East Tosa an even more vibrant place to live and gather. It will also provide a unified and professional voice for the neighborhood, allowing us to advocate more effectively for important city projects like safer crossings and improved streetscapes.

Finally, the BID will directly benefit the local small businesses that we all cherish. By providing a framework for marketing and promotions, the BID will help bring more customers to the doors of our favorite restaurants, shops, and services. A thriving business community is the heart of a healthy neighborhood. Some of my favorite shops - including M. Sheahan Studio, Camp Bar, and Rocket Baby, will be enhanced by this initiative.

I urge the Plan Commission to approve the formation of the East Tosa BID. This is a critical step toward building a more beautiful, safe, and connected community for all of us.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Shola Vaughn (1127 Kavanaugh Place, 53213)

As an East Tosa resident and someone who runs a small business on North Avenue (Firefly Counseling), I’m writing in full support of the proposed East Tosa BID. This is an important step toward creating a stronger, safer, and more vibrant neighborhood.

I care deeply about this community—not just as a business owner, but as a neighbor. A BID would bring the structure and support needed to help North Avenue thrive, benefiting everyone who lives, works, and visits here.

I hope the Plan Commission will vote to move this forward. East Tosa is worth the investment.

I am writing to express my strong support for the creation of the East Tosa Business Improvement District (BID). As a resident, I can attest that our vibrant community of local businesses is a primary reason my family and I chose to live here. The walkability of the district, and the unique, independent businesses that line the streets, are what make this neighborhood so special.

However, even in a thriving area, there is always room for improvement. I believe a BID is the perfect vehicle to provide a cohesive system of support for our existing businesses while also encouraging new ones to sprout. A formal organization will ensure consistency with crucial elements like marketing, events, and festive decorations. It will also provide a unified voice to advocate for improvements to infrastructure and address ongoing needs like cleanliness.

After reviewing the proposed budget, I believe the suggested assessment is a reasonable and necessary investment in the future of our neighborhood. This is not just about helping businesses—it's about protecting and enhancing the very character of East Tosa that we all love. Please vote yes to establish the BID.