By an overwhelming majority, voters within the boundaries of the recently formed Central West End Business Community Improvement District (CID) have approved a proposed 1% sales tax, revenue from which is to be used to improve and promote the Euclid Avenue business district north of Lindell Blvd. (See map of District). Other areas of St. Louis City and County that have CID's in place include The Loop, South Grand Business District, Brentwood Promenade and The Boulevard, among others.
Funds generated by the tax are to be used primarily in two categories: physical improvements and marketing, advertising, and promotion. Examples of the former may include capital improvements such as new sidewalks, beautification, landscaping, lighting and routine maintenance such as regular trash, litter and leaf collection, and snow removal (and is this welcomed news, especially on the treacherous sidewalks along Euclid). The second category will include coordinated advertising, events, and improved Holiday decorations.
Management of the CID is the responsibility of a seven-member commission comprised of business owners and property owners within the District. Initial appointees are Jim Smith (Chase-Park Plaza), Trip Straub (Straub's), Derek Gamlin (Sub-Zero), Todd Gannon (Centro), Aaron Teitelbaum (Herbie's), Pete Rothschild (Rothschild's Antiques), and Jim Dwyer (commercial property owner and resident, and yes, we are related).
Following official notification to the Missouri Department of Revenue and routine administrative processing, the tax will become effective starting July 1. Funds are expected to be available to the CID beginning in September.
According to proponents of the measure, the goal is to introduce new energy to the commercial district, befitting its role as an important component of the CWE neighborhood, and to ensure its ongoing vitality.
Oh, in case you were wondering--there will be no additional property tax or special assessment on real estate. So good news, and thanks to all who voted in favor of this initiative!
"and is this welcomed news, especially on the treacherous sidewalks along Euclid"
Seriously!? We get a whopping 18 1/2" of snow annually.
Posted by: cwe resident | 04/02/2010 at 10:05 AM