Welcome to the Elk Rapids DDA
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is tasked with analyzing the impact of economic changes in the downtown district and developing plans in coordination with the Village Council and Planning Commission to promote orderly economic growth in the downtown development district. The most recent Downtown Development and Tax Increment Financing plans were adopted in 2011.
Photo of Downtown Elk Rapids during an Evening on River Street event during Harbor Days by 2021 Summer Intern Lauren Benitez.
FY23 TIF District PA 57 Annual Report
To check out the DDA’s annual report as required by PA 57, CLICK HERE.
DDA Funding Requests
The DDA encourages qualified organizations and businesses that are planning events and activities within the DDA district to apply for funding support. For more information, please download the DDA FUNDING REQUEST GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORM (PDF).
FOR MORE DDA RESOURCES, PLEASE VISIT THE DOCUMENT CENTER
2023-2024 FAÇADE GRANT APPLICATIONS NOW LIVE
The Downtown Development Authority is excited to announce that the 2023-2024 Facade Grant Applications are open! Applications are due September 29, 2023 (updated as of August 28, 2023).
The Elk Rapids DDA Façade grant program is intended to encourage private investment through the rehabilitation and improvement of façades within the DDA district, with a focus on supporting historic preservation practices. By improving the appearance of the building façades, the program serves to improve the economic viability of the DDA District.
The program encourages design that will serve as a quality example and to preserve the architectural character that is distinctive to Elk Rapids. Designs should be compatible with the building’s historic character and with the adjoining buildings.
The reimbursement grants are provided to property owners/commercial tenants to encourage the positive impact that individual building improvements can have on the overall appearance, quality, and vitality of Elk Rapids.
Program Description
This competitive program provides a matching grant for façade improvements within the DDA district (map below, district in purple). The number of projects receiving grants in a fiscal year is based on the program budget, with a new funding cycle beginning March yearly.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROGRAM (EXTERNAL LINK)
Project Application: 2023-2024 FACADE GRANT APPLICATION (.DOCX)
TO VIEW THE FAQ, OR TO SUBMIT A QUESTION, PLEASE CLICK HERE.
TO VIEW THE PROJECT RATING SCALE THAT WILL DETERMINE HOW AWARDS ARE MADE FOR THIS GRANT, CLICK HERE.
MONTHLY DDA NEWSLETTER
Check out the DDA newsleter! Each month, the DDA will share important information and decisions being made in the district, and how you can be part of it all. If you would like a particular update, please reach out to the DDA.
Want to get these updates in your email inbox each month? Sign up below!
DDA MAP
Here is a map of the Downtown Development Authority in Elk Rapids:
DDA Members
The DDA meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Government Center (315 Bridge St., Elk Rapids, MI 49629).
Barbara Matthews – Chair │ Term ending 2025
email: bmatthews@elkrapids.org
Doug VanCura – Vice Chair│ Term ending 2024
email: dvancura@elkrapids.org
Becky Lancaster – Secretary │ Term ending 2026
email: blancaster@elkrapids.org
Jaquelyn Bos │ Term ending 2024
email: jbos@elkrapids.org
Sandy Ehlers │ Term ending 2026
email: sehlers@elkrapids.org
John Petrovich │ Term ending 2026
email: jpetrovich@elkrapids.org
Janet Rentsch │ Term ending 2027
email: jrentsch@elkrapids.org
Susan Tysklind-Sweet │Term ending 2025
email: ssweet@elkrapids.org
Scott Epskamp │ Term ending 2027
email: sepskamp@elkrapids.org
Amy Bay │ Term Ending 2027
email: abay@elkrapids.org
Karen Simpson- Village President – Council Representative
email: ksimpson@elkrapids.org
WANT TO VOLUNTEER ON THE DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY?
The Village of Elk Rapids is always seeking dedicated individuals to volunteer on boards and commissions. If you are interested in such a position, fill out an application form and either turn it in to the Village Government Center or email it to vllgclerk@elkrapids.org. Your application will be kept on file for one year. Vacant seats on the commissions and boards are usually filled in the month of April.
COMMISSION APPLICATION FORM (EXTERNAL LINK)
Please note that the DDA has specific requirements to be member, including being a business owner, having a business interest in the district, or being a resident of the district. For information on time commitments, requirements, and other general information about this commission, please read through the bylaws:
