Trustee Di Cicco Brings Experience and Enthusiasm to the DDA Team!
On December 1, 2020, in Shelby Township, Michigan, I was unanimously appointed as the Board Liaison to the Shelby Township Downtown Development Authority (DDA) during the Board of Trustees meeting. The DDA's mission is to enhance and support the business community along the Van Dyke Corridor in our township. I take pride in the DDA's initiatives, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic constraints imposed by the Governor in Lansing.
The DDA committee demonstrates immense heart and enthusiasm in promoting Shelby Township. Their initiatives included collaborating with Best of Detroit for social media advertising to boost local businesses. Their persistent dedication despite continuous state-imposed challenges speaks volumes about their commitment to the prosperity of our local business sector.
It is widely recognized that 2020 was a challenging year for various businesses, particularly for conventional dine-in restaurants and bars. It was crucial to support local business owners by returning to our cherished spots for a meal with family and friends. This support extended not only to the businesses and their owners but also to the dedicated employees whose livelihoods depend on our patronage.
I rolled up my sleeves and got to work with the Shelby Township DDA. The DDA corridor cuts through our Township along Van Dyke and comprises the core of our retail and restaurant businesses. The primary purpose of the DDA is to support economic growth of existing and future businesses by reducing blight, creative marketing and promotional campaigns, and much more!
“As a longtime resident, it is a natural fit for me to work with the DDA and bring my experiences as attorney and business owner with me. It is important that we get back to work and find innovative ways to support our local business community.” – Lucia Di Cicco, Shelby Township Trustee
After becoming a member of the DDA in 2020, we worked together with the township to facilitate community events like Christmas a Glow.
The Christmas A Glow event features a visit from Santa, appearances by the Grinch, and local students performing beloved Christmas songs. This festive occasion, suitable for families, has expanded to include carriage rides, hot chocolate, a reindeer petting zoo, and other activities. In 2023, a drone show was introduced to add yet another layer to this already popular family event.
Shelby Township was renowned for its spectacular fireworks show! When the township realized that the fireworks display had become too small for the community, the DDA did not lose hope. Instead, they saw it as a new opportunity to organize an event that would showcase the town's patriotic spirit and bring the community together.
The concept evolved into a two-day event that combined the Summer Kick Off event, previously held at River Bends Park, with a patriotic celebration featuring the Macomb Symphony Orchestra and a drone show. This event is taking place on June 28, 2024, and June 29, 2024! I hope to see you at the township municipal campus.
I encourage following the DDA on Facebook and sharing their posts to support our community, neighbors, and friends. A flourishing business community benefits the entire township.
- Trustee Lucia DiCicco
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