Title
Update on 2020 Downtown Hanging Flower Baskets
Recommended Action
Information only. No action required.
Report
Issue:
Discussion of the 2020 Flower Basket program
Staff Contact:
Max DeJarnatt, PBIA Staff Liaison, CP&D, 360.570.3723
Presenter(s):
Max DeJarnatt, PBIA Staff Liaison
Background and Analysis:
For the past several years, the PBIA has purchased hanging flower baskets to be hung throughout the City’s downtown core. These baskets help to contribute to an inviting and vibrant retail atmosphere and are regularly cited by citizens and business owners who appreciate the PBIA’s efforts. The PBIA has previously used probation labor to water the baskets. In 2018 the PBIA changed direction and hired temporary City employees under the direction of Probation Services to provide watering services.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The downtown business community has cited hanging flower baskets in past PBIA ratepayer surveys as an amenity that they appreciate and hope to see in the future. Citizens and tourists have also remarked favorably about the program and the beauty it brings to downtown.
Options:
1. Proceed with the purchase of 74 hanging baskets and hire a temporary watering employee for 2020 season
2. Re-imagine hanging flower basket program to include individual basket sponsors/waterers
3. Suspend hanging flower basket program for 2020
Financial Impact:
2020 Flower baskets will be $4,334. 2019 watering costs were $15,061. PBIA budgeted a combined $23,400 for flower baskets in 2020.
Attachments:
Downtown Flower Basket Map