Strategic Plan

Downtown Hastings

Understanding the Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

Your resource hub for learning, engaging, and staying informed about Downtown Hastings.

Our Commitment to the Community

The Hastings Downtown Development Authority is entering a new chapter. As it updates its Strategic Plan, the DDA is prioritizing transparency, collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. This page is your go-to source for updates, key milestones, and opportunities to get involved.

Whether you’re a resident, downtown business owner, or visitor who loves Hastings, we want to make it easy to understand what the DDA does, and how you can participate in shaping its future.

What is the DDA?

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a public board formed under Michigan law to strengthen the City’s downtown area. It focuses on revitalization through economic development, public improvements, and historic preservation within the downtown district.

The goal is to support a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming downtown that reflects the values and character of the Hastings community.

Why Now?

This is a natural next step for the DDA. The Strategic Plan will help clarify priorities and guide future work. The DDA is taking time to listen, align, and ensure its approach reflects what the community wants to see in the years ahead.

The questions at the heart of this process include:

What kind of downtown experience do we want for residents, businesses, and visitors?
How do we maintain the charm and identity that make Hastings special?
Where should future investment and improvements take place?

What Tools Does the DDA Use?

One of the DDA’s primary tools is called Tax Increment Financing (TIF). This allows the DDA to capture a portion of local property taxes generated within the downtown district. These funds can then be reinvested directly into that area for public improvements, programs, and services.

With TIF and other partnerships, the DDA can:

Improve public infrastructure, lighting, and streetscapes
Support small businesses and local entrepreneurship
Attract new development aligned with community needs
Promote placemaking, arts, and culture
Enhance walkability and accessibility
Preserve and celebrate historic buildings and community landmarks

The DDA cannot raise taxes on its own and does not fund projects outside of its designated district. It is governed by a volunteer board appointed by the City Council and operates with financial oversight and public accountability.

Strategic Planning in Progress

The DDA is working with Double Haul Solutions (DHS) to lead a Strategic Planning process through early 2026. This effort includes:

Reviewing past goals and current priorities
Gathering community input through surveys and public events
Updating the DDA’s vision, values, and strategies
Outlining clear actions for communication, investment, and programming

The final plan will serve as a roadmap for how the DDA can be most effective and responsive to the downtown community in the years ahead.

Resources & Updates

Strategic Plan Overview
Meeting Summaries and Presentations
Community Survey (Launching November 2025)
“What We Heard” Engagement Summary (Coming Soon)
Final Strategic Plan and “What’s Next” Guide (Coming Early 2026)

Stay Connected

We believe the future of Downtown Hastings should be shaped by the people who care about it most. Whether you live here, work downtown, or simply enjoy the community, your voice matters.

Contact Information:
Dan King, Hastings Community Development Director/Zoning Administrator
Phone: 269-945-2468
Email: dking@hastingsmi.gov

Upcoming Meetings

Stay informed by attending a public meeting or reviewing past agendas and summaries.

Link to DDA meeting schedule and agendas
[Link to livestream or recordings, if available]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DDA and what does it do?
How does the DDA fund itself?

The DDA primarily funds its work through its Tax Increment Financing (TIF). When property values within the downtown district increase due to new development or improvements, a portion of that new tax revenue is set aside for the DDA instead of going into the City’s general fund.

Those captured funds can only be used for projects and programs that benefit the downtown district—such as infrastructure upgrades, façade improvements, public art, or business development initiatives.

In addition to TIF revenue, the DDA may also receive grant funding, sponsorships, or special project support from state programs, local partners, and other sources that align with its goals.
What is Tax Increment Financing (TIF)?
Who implements the TIF plan?

The Downtown Development Authority Board oversees the implementation of the TIF plan. The plan itself is adopted by both the DDA and the City Council, ensuring transparency and alignment with broader city goals.

Once approved, the DDA manages how TIF funds are spent in accordance with the plan, while the City’s finance department administers the collection and tracking of tax increment revenues. This shared oversight ensures accountability, fiscal transparency, and compliance with Michigan’s DDA Act.
Does the DDA raise my taxes?
Is the DDA different from the City?
What area does the DDA cover?
Who serves on the DDA Board?

The DDA Board is made up of volunteers appointed by the City Council. Members typically include downtown business owners, property owners, residents, and community representatives who are invested in the success of the district. Board meetings are open to the public, and meeting materials are posted in advance.
What is the purpose of the Strategic Plan?

The Strategic Plan is designed to set clear priorities for the DDA’s work over the next several years. It will guide decisions around investment, programming, communication, and partnerships — ensuring all efforts align with community goals and available resources.
When will the Strategic Plan be completed?
How will we know if the DDA’s work is successful?
How can the community get involved in the Strategic Plan?
How can I share my feedback or ideas?
Why is downtown revitalization important?

A strong downtown helps attract visitors, retain businesses, and create a sense of place that benefits the entire community. Investment in the downtown district often leads to increased property values, more events and activity, and stronger connections among residents and business owners.