SANDPOINT — A pair of workshops on the future of the Sandpoint Business Improvement District are planned for the coming week.

The workshops — set for 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, June 22; and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday, June 23 at the Tango Cafe, 414 Church St. — will present information gathered during seven separate listening sessions and more than a dozen individual interviews were conducted May 15-24 as part of an independent review of the structure and performance of the BID. The review was authorized by the Sandpoint City Council as part of an intensive public input process to inform the council decision as to its future. The city has contracted with Roger Woodworth of Mindset Matters to engage stakeholders in assessing the current situation and developing consensus recommendations as to any changes, city officials said in a press release.

During the Thursday and Friday workshops, the ideas shared, opinions expressed, and concerns identified during the listening sessions will be presented. Information about the state statutory requirements for BIDs, the city’s BID ordinance, and composition of current BID membership and fees will also be shared.

Workshop participants will be asked to consider all of these inputs in a facilitated deliberation about the full range of BID alternatives. The options for consideration will range from termination to replacement, or continuation as-is or with significant revisions. The findings and recommendations developed during the workshops will be summarized and circulated for review prior to finalizing a report to City Council. The council intends to make its decision regarding the fate of the BID in late July or August. In the meantime, the city has assumed temporary administration of the BID. The flower basket program is the only active BID activity until a council decision is made.

“I strongly urge the business owners within the BID boundaries to attend one of the workshops. We value your thoughts and opinions and our council wants to reach a conclusion that is responsive to the desires of our local business owners and promotes a vibrant downtown,” said Jennifer Stapleton, Sandpoint city administrator.

Space is limited to 40 participants per session due to space limitations and meal planning. Lunch or dinner will be served. Ensure your voice is heard and RSVP by calling the city at 253-3317 or email clerksoffice@sandpointidaho.gov. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Information: Jennifer Stapleton, city administrator; jstapleton@sandpointidaho.gov or 208-265-1483