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Hi Charlie,

I think many people might be unaware of the longevity and success of the National Main Street program and the 1,600 communities across the nation that have used this structure for success in downtown revitalization.  The Main Street approach does require cooperation, partnership, support and concensus building. Isn't that what we would all want for a strong community with strong leaders? 

In the late 70s and 80s, when Baker City was suffering a local depression, we had no choice but to find solutions.  The Main Street approach gave us structure, tools, and a program focused on preserving and revitalizing downtown.  If anyone questions the potential effectiveness of the Main Street program, please send them our way.  For 26 years we've been hard at it. It hasn't been easy or fast but certainly rewarding and certainly effective.

Ann Mehaffy, Program Director, Historic Baker City, Inc.

posted 4 years, 1 month ago
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Baker City is one of only four communities in Oregon having the status of Performing Main Street Community. Historic Baker City, Inc.,  Baker City's downtown revitalization non-profit organization, has been focused on its historic downtown, streetscape amenities, preservation of historic buildings, and economic restructuring for 26 years.  Our historic downtown is a major tourist attraction, a source of community pride, and the reason many people move (and move their business) here.  It goes without saying, authentic historic downtowns are a great asset for a community.  This is a time to preserve and protect our assets, not let them lose value.

Ann Mehaffy, Program Director  Historic Baker City, Inc.

posted 4 years, 1 month ago
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