Fernandina Beach Main Street activities update

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

March 6, 2020

Arlene Filkoff

Fernandina Beach Main Street Executive Director Arlene Filkoff updated the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) on her organization’s activities during the previous quarter at the FBCC March 3, 2020 Regular Meeting.

Filkoff reported that the state has reaccredited the Fernandina Beach program and characterized it as “a highly functioning Main Street program,” using metrics such as training through webinars, conferences and networking; reporting quality; board engagement; planning and budgeting.

Two additional downtown business owners — Scott Moore and Theresa Duncan — have joined the Main Street Board.  Main Street is accruing revenue by staffing with volunteers the Southern Living Idea House through March and proceeds from the sale of the book “Saving Fernandina,” which was launched at a fundraiser in December.

Main Street organized and sponsored the Sip and Shop event for 26 participating downtown businesses, and based upon the event’s success will sponsor another one in the future.

Third quarter objectives include:

• Initial report on downtown engineering project to improve downtown lighting
• Securing FBCC approval to expand Main Street boundaries and recommit to financial support
• Ongoing orientations with candidates for FBCC seats
• Second Islandstock concert with an ’80’s theme
• April fundraising event
• Determining cost/feasibility of protection of hexagonal pavers
• Expanding efforts to sell “Saving Fernandina”
• Official launch of new website, which will include the capability for online contributions and sales as well as improved communication tools.