It isn't often that I agree with Joe Morrier. I think he has taken financial advantage of the City of Yakima on more than one occasion and is the cause of much of his own problems regarding the closing of the downtown mall.
But in reading about the fees assessed on him and other business owners in the Downtown Improvement District, I can certainly see why he is opposed to supporting it. A whole lot of money has been collected and spent, and I don't think those who have paid have seen value for that much money. (Morrier's portion has been $28,440 a year since '08.)
Who's to blame? The 'Committee for Downtown Yakima'. With a budget of $360,000 a year, their claim to fame is being responsible for a 77 block area, sweeping sidewalks, caring for flowers and removing graffiti. Oh, and paying an 'administrative staff' to handle promotional duties. Ah, I think I see where there is some fat that could be cut from the budget!
Funny how when Morrier balked, they offered to reduce his payment by 32% to $19,352. (But he is standing firm, wanting it lowered to $10,000.)
Yakima's downtown is on shaky ground. The core is looking pretty good and businesses are moving in. But move just a few blocks in most directions and you can find the problem areas. (No amount of money is going to improve these areas... well, unless you hire a lot more police to crack down on the gang crimes.) I do think there is a need for the Downtown Improvement District. But how about getting rid of the paid 'administrative staff' and instead install a board of volunteers from local affected businesses. Put the money on the ground where it belongs.
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