The City of Novato is stepping up in a big way to support its downtown businesses. Facing a budget shortfall, the Downtown Novato Business Association (DNBA) will no longer carry the full financial burden for its signature beautification program, including holiday tree lighting and planter maintenance.
Instead, the City of Novato will take on these efforts. This move should help keep the heart of Marin County’s northernmost city vibrant and attractive.
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The Novato City Council approved the decision unanimously. Their vote offers much-needed relief to the DNBA and keeps essential community improvements going without interruption.
Novato Council’s Commitment to Downtown Vitality
At a recent City Council meeting, the DNBA laid out its annual report and the fiscal challenges it faces. Executive Director Stephanie Koehler explained that while the association’s proposed $323,000 budget for 2026 showed only a $3,000 deficit on paper, the reality looked more dire.
Depleted reserves and cuts in holiday promotions revealed the growing strain. The city’s willingness to take over the beautification program — including the expensive $93,000 annual expense for holiday lighting and planter upkeep — is a major lifeline.
Leadership Recognition and Collaborative Vision
Mayor Tim O’Connor praised the DNBA’s work and acknowledged the financial strain many organizations in Marin County are feeling these days. Councilmember Kevin Jacobs suggested the Department of Public Works should step in to handle beautification duties.
This idea gained traction when City Manager Amy Cunningham confirmed that Measure M funds had boosted the department’s capacity to take on more. Councilmember Pat Eklund also voiced strong support for the plan.
Why Beautification Matters in Marin County Communities
Downtown Novato, like the retail districts in San Rafael, Mill Valley, and Tiburon, depends on a welcoming and visually appealing environment. That’s what brings in visitors and keeps local businesses afloat.
Seasonal holiday lighting, tidy planters, and clean streets all help create a lively atmosphere. Merchants, restaurateurs, and residents benefit from that energy.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Beautification isn’t just about looks. It helps boost property values, draws in tourists, and builds a sense of place — something communities from Fairfax to Larkspur know well.
In Novato, these efforts are closely tied to community events, which the DNBA has worked hard to maintain even through tough times.
Direct Benefits of City Intervention
The City of Novato’s takeover brings several clear advantages for downtown businesses and residents:
- Financial Relief: The DNBA no longer has to shoulder the $93,000 annual cost for key beautification projects.
- Stable Assessments: Business assessments and vendor fees will remain unchanged for the upcoming year.
- Enhanced Capacity: Measure M funding has given the Department of Public Works more resources to manage these projects effectively.
- Community Preservation: The change safeguards beloved traditions like holiday tree lighting.
Collaboration Between City and DNBA
Koehler stressed that city staff should lean on the DNBA’s deep experience to keep standards high. This kind of partnership could be a model for other Marin County cities, like Corte Madera or Sausalito, where downtown vitality depends on both volunteer energy and municipal support.
Looking Ahead: Stability and Growth
By taking on this critical role, Novato’s city government frees up the DNBA to focus on its core mission: supporting local businesses and promoting downtown as a destination.
With less financial pressure, the association can start rebuilding reserves and restoring community events, all while keeping downtown looking sharp. Here’s hoping this move sparks new energy downtown—it’s about time.
A Model for Marin County
This collaborative approach between city leaders and business associations could inspire other towns in Marin County to rethink how they keep public spaces going. Healthy downtowns in places like Belvedere, Ross, and Greenbrae often depend on similar partnerships.
These efforts help keep main streets welcoming and lively all year. It’s not just about flowers or holiday lights—it’s about preserving the heart of the community for the future.
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Here is the source article for this story: Novato rescues struggling business association with staff help
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