The City of Tybee Island has an interest in moving toward becoming a Better Hometown Community!
The process begins with support from the city, businesses, the community at large and a Better Hometown Coordinator. Passion and dedication from all parties involved helps the process tremendously.
As part of the Community Development Office, the Better Hometown Coordinator will be working directly with businesses in the South End Business District, North End businesses as that district evolves and non-profit event-driven organizations.
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs' Office of Downtown Development (ODD) coordinates the Georgia Main Street and Better Hometown programs. Attached is a
PDF presentation detailing the program. This presentation was provided at the August 28, 2008 City Council meeting by our Regional Department of Community Affairs Representative.
The Better Hometown program is a comprehensive self-help approach to revitalization of a commercial district. Communities are expected to work within the context of historic preservation and the National Main Street Center's Four-point Approach to Downtown Revitalization™. This approach carefully integrates the four points that brings about fundamental changes in the community’s business economy and improve "downtown's" quality of life.
The “Four Point Approach” consists of organization, promotion, design and economic restructuring.
• Organization (COLLABORATION!) - "Building consensus and cooperation among the many groups and individuals who have a role in the revitalization process."
• Promotion (EXCITEMENT!) - Marketing the traditional commercial district's assets to customers, potential investors, new businesses, residents and guests.
• Design (ATTRACTIVENESS!) - "Enhancing the physical appearance of the commercial district by rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging supportive new construction, developing sensitive design management systems, and long-term planning."
• Economic Restructuring (BOTTOM LINE!) - "Strengthening the district's existing economic base while finding ways to expand it to meet new opportunities and challenges from outlying developments."
Updates will be provided as we continue to get closer to the start up application process.
The City appreciates the businesses and the community support of and passion for this wonderful piece of paradise we call Tybee Island.