“There is a lot of stuff going on. Creates a lot of excitement,” DMI Executive Director Jeff Payne said. “Benefit is to the city, people spending money here.”
Funding for the organization comes from the city, events, corporations and businesses donations and a donation from the city Main Street American designation, Payne said.
Since 2013, council has annually given DMI $25,000, but the amount was increased to $50,000 in 2025, following city council’s approval at its Dec. 17 meeting.
Council also agreed to in-kind help, including not billing DMI for the closure of streets during large events and repurposing Duke Energy grants awarded to the city.
The remaining grant money of $24,100 will be used to pay for existing and future design services fees at the Sorg Opera House on Main Street.
Payne said the Sorg’s goal is to activate a 3,000-square-feet area on the northeast side of the building, expand the lobby area, add a bar, bathrooms and use the remaining arear as tenant space for a cafe with a kitchen.
“The Sorg is a great success story. It is a beautiful place,” said Councilman Steven Ward II.
Mayor Elizabeth Slamka said further discussions by council are needed about city contributions to philanthropic causes.
Some DMI programs and events throughout the year include: Takin it to the Streets Mural beautification in partnership with the Art Central Foundation, DORA, Grow with Google, new business onboarding and First Fridays, Women’s Wine and Chocolate Walk, Small Business Saturday, Dog Days, Hocus Pocus Halloween, and Thunderfest.
To learn more go to: https://www.downtownmiddletown.org/
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