Downtown Development Authority

Overview

The St. Ignace Downtown Development Authority (DDA) was created in 1981 through an ordinance passed by the City Council. The City Council recognized a need to halt property value deterioration and to promote economic growth. The Ordinance outlines the legal description of the DDA District.

Since the creation of the DDA, the downtown area has seen many development projects including the Huron Boardwalk, a major streetscape project, the development of three downtown waterfront parks, and the purchase of the railroad property which led to City's construction of the Little Bear East Arena. There have been many improvements to the Museum of Ojibwa Culture and grounds area, and two major partnerships with private investors to fill anchor stores in the DDA District.

DDA Board meetings are held the 2nd Friday of each month at 8:00 a.m. in the City Council Chambers. The DDA's bylaws can be viewed here. 

The DDA is governed by a 9-member Board, including the Mayor who is a statutory member. The other members of the board are appointed by the Mayor with approval by the City Council. Each Board member holds a 4-year term.