Body could be business voice

As some Downtown Economic Development Corporation members convene today to begin searching for a permanent executive director, downtown business owners are keeping a close watch.

While many downtown business owners disagree on the effectiveness of the group so far, several have expressed enthusiasm for its future.

Antoine Puech, who owns several retail buildings on Franklin Street, said the corporation has become a visible force downtown.

“People are very, very aware of their existence,” he said. “The DEDC brings together three major players: the University, the merchants and the downtown (community). Each has a profound effect on what goes on downtown.”

Charles House, owner of University Florist, said he thinks the group will provide a voice for downtown. “The downtown is the core of the community, and there needs to be a presence that will represent it.”

But Robert Poitras, owner of the Carolina Brewery, said that while the downtown group might be necessary, it has not been beneficial — yet.

“I think the idea is good,” Poitras said. “But it is not quite there yet. Once they get the right person in there (as executive director), they can gain momentum.”

Chairwoman Andrea Rohrbacher said the corporation has achieved several goals in its first six months.

“We did have some accomplishments, although a lot weren’t visible to the community,” she said.

She added that obtaining meeting space, organizing the group’s structure and hiring interim Executive Director Nick Didow all contributed to what will make the group a visible downtown entity.

Critics have cited recent controversies, including the group’s violation of N.C. Open Meetings Law at a November meeting and former Chairman Bob Epting’s subsequent resignation, as reasons the group has not performed as some expected.

But the hiring of a permanent executive director in March could open a new chapter for the corporation, Rohrbacher said.

“When we get an executive director, we can start working on our tasks, some of the more long-term goals,” she said.

House said establishing lines of communication with businesses and consumers is equally important.

Poitras said downtown — after going through what some perceive to be a tumultuous period — soon will be able to further rely on the group.

Puech said additional parking, lighting and police presence are needs the group should address.

Rohrbacher said that through the corporation’s infancy, its members have kept its mission intact. “I think it’s important to bring all parties to the same table to keep a downtown area that citizens will visit.”

Contact the City Editor at citydesk@unc.edu.