The meeting was called to order by president, Sherri Mewha. Eleven members were in attendance. Introductions were made, and it was announced that Kim Behmer has been accepted as a board member of the DDA.

Minutes- the minutes for the previous meeting are posted on the DDA website for member access.

Treasury Report-Beverly Lindeen provided an up to date status report on the use of funds for the NCBA. It was approved by Kim Behmer and seconded by Ed Fleming. A list of current members was also provided, dated 8-8-05. The NCBA currently has 59 members, which is an increase from 41 as of January 2005.

Sidewalk Sale Recap-The Sidewalk Sale was discussed by the membership present and the following feedback provided.

-Overall, the membership felt the event was very positive.

-A comment was made that some businesses did not have goods on their sidewalks, though some businesses do not lend themselves to putting goods out of doors or on clearance (such as food and some art items).

-Janet Bloom went over the sidewalk sale budget. She suggested that next year be limited to Friday and Saturday, as several businesses close on Sundays and were closed during the sale.

-There were seven craft vendors. Two did very well and the rest did "so-so" in regard to sales.

-The food vendors and children’s activities were well received.

-A survey will be sent to the entire membership to fill out and return to Sherri Mewha. Feedback is needed from the business owners in order to plan next year’s event.

Banners- The NCBA board had requested that a banner be hung across the street near Main and Centre, advertising the Sidewalk Sale. Janet Bloom took this to the City Council, who refused the request. The Chamber and the NCBA members need to pursue having banners approved, as they are a vital selling tool for town events, and create excitement. Sherri suggested a letter-writing campaign for owners, directing the letters to the Council. The current City Council policy bans large banners, and needs to be changed. The result of the discussion was that Sherri would compose a letter for all for all of the members to sign, requesting a new policy on signage downtown.

Victorian Festival-The festival was discussed and changes announced. They are:

-A Victorian Saloon (beer tent)

-There will not be a stage placed by the Starting Gate Saloon this year (as it was too congested last year)

-The 17^th Michigan, Co. E Infantry will provide a Civil War reenactment of a "recruiting station" on the green next to the library, and will march in the parade.

-The Senior Center has volunteered their restroom facilities for the event

-A Civil War Brass Band will perform.

*The Chamber is currently looking for antique cars to be displayed during the 2006 event. If you have any contacts, please notify the Chamber.

Coupon Book- The coupon book is now in printing and will be available for distribution shortly. Each business that advertises in the booklet will be given 50 copies to distribute to customers; additional copies may be available at a minimal charge. .

Sept. 29^th- This date has been set for a special event day at The Farmer’s Market-more info will be forthcoming.

Oct. 8^th- This Saturday has been designated to celebrate Italian Day in Northville. More info will be forthcoming. All merchants are invited to participate. Mark Trudeau and Orin Mazzoni will be coordinating the event.

Lighted Parade- Last year’s winner of the Lighted Parade was Pear-aphenalia. Pat Finnegan from the store spoke on creating a float and the effort involved. They started planning last January, especially while shopping at The Michigan Gift Mart for holiday items. The biggest step was the actual commitment. The parade this year will be on Nov. 18^th. NCBA members and all downtown businesses are encouraged to consider creating an entry for the parade. It is a worthwhile event that brings a lot of traffic to downtown Northville- it would be great if we could make it an even larger event.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00am.

The next meeting is Tuesday, Sept. 13^th, 2005, 6-8:00pm, at The Senior Center in the Russell Room.