Digesting My CDA Notes ~ Highlights…

Our conversations over the past couple days reflecting on the first general membership meeting of the new Centralia Downtown Association have us more motivated than ever about our decision to invest in the heart and soul of Centralia – the historic Hub City core.  Let me preface my thoughts by first saying that it is our style to often elect to perceive things in a wider broader big picture manner as opposed to being overly judgmental, nit-picky and critical in most cases.  For us, it is often the bigger vision that leads the way and less influence is given to the small details which can some times hinder or cloud the bigger vision that is staring us in the face.  With that said, getting directly to the point, our impression of the CDA is not focused on who forgot to introduce who, who is or is not a public speaker, who did/did not dress the part, who followed or broke protocol…  Our focus is and will remain in a positive manner on the features and benefits of how the CDA organization as a functioning body can further the cause of all who depend on the economic success and community vitality of the Hub City historic district.

It was obvious that those who were in attendance on Wednesday night were enthusiastically desiring to learn more about the features and benefits of the CDA, in addition to learning more about the National Main Street program benefits.  This is such an exciting time to be a part of the evolution that is in progress with the CDA bringing a new vehicle to partner with one another for greater success.  In no particular order, here are some of the bullet points I outlined in my notes from the presentation:

• The successful formation of the CDA will establish ONE distinctive voice for all CDA members.  The banding together as “one voice” will have a greater impact through which we can resolve challenges and instigate progress. The CDA will serve as a liaison to the City of Centralia representing the Hub City historic district specifically.
• The CDA will be separate and apart from the Centralia/Chehalis Chamber of Commerce and Centralia City Council in that the CDA organization will directly represent the cause and concerns of the issues specific and exclusive to the historic Hub City downtown core.