Business corridor plans approved, but not financing

Business-revitalization plans for the North Carson and East William street corridors won preliminary approval Thursday from the Board of Supervisors, but financing questions were left in limbo.

The plans basically covered items city government, in cooperation with businesses, might improve. Sidewalks, landscaping, better signs and other public amenities that make the areas attractive were the focus. Both presenters talked of leaving an impression on locals or visitors that will draw them back.

“The memory will create loyalty,” said Jaswinder Dhami, CEO and director of operations for Holiday Inn Express & Suites and the presenter of North Carson ideas.

Jonathan Boulware, Gold Dust West Hotel & Casino general manager, made the East William presentation first and also sounded the memory theme as he told of a recent trip to the Bay Area. He said the trip had the travelers looking for an attractive area with services near the freeway to get off for services.

On hand for the presentation were representatives of the Downtown 20/20 group, which brought forward a business-revitalization plan for downtown. They voiced support and offered to partner with the corridor business-revitalization efforts.

A letter from Linda Barnett, operations director for Eagle Operations & Adventures based at the Hampton Inn on North Carson, voiced opposition to a higher sales tax in Carson City.

Malkiat Dhami, hotelier and a member of Carson City’s Planning Commission, testified in favor of the North Carson plan as well.

“This is not only for business,” he said. “It’s for all of Carson City.”

Mayor Robert Crowell asked him whether street-maintenance needs or the business-revitalization plans should get the revenues from a sales-tax hike.

“It’s the city’s job to find the money,” Dhami replied. “It’s not my job.”

The board’s unanimous decision merely accepted the plans and instructed city staffers to investigate options for action later. Another plan for the city’s South Carson street corridor is expected later.